tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-56453404837510074742024-02-06T18:15:23.872-08:00Our Lovely LifeAprilhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06203450298057277375noreply@blogger.comBlogger163125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5645340483751007474.post-27589132202601033772012-11-13T00:05:00.000-08:002012-11-13T00:05:48.517-08:00hang on, little tomato<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Have you ever had one of those moments while watching a movie,where you're starting to get all weepy and you're really feeling for those actors, because they're doing such a darn good job acting, and all of a sudden you're crying and they're crying and everybody's crying even though it's <i>just </i>a movie?<br />
<br />
No?<br />
<br />
Well let me tell ya it's like the cosmic forces have just adjourned their meeting and they know where you live.<br />
<br />
It's not a bad thing. Necessarily.<br />
<br />
But when you're watching a movie called "Everybody's fine" and you're thinking "wow this is my life" only it's not really, because you are not an old man who is traveling across the country to track down his kids who don't have time to visit only to learn they are hiding a secret, blah blah blah.<br />
<br />
Relative to my own experiences, the movie made sense and it kind of hurt a little. In a world where "everybody's fine" someday's we just don't feel fine at all.<br />
<br />
People can be so mean.<br />
<br />
Life is confusing and sometimes sad.<br />
<br />
Things don't turn out like we hope or plan.<br />
<br />
My latest doctor/patient discussion resulted in me being on a strict gluten free diet. But I swear my doctor is confused, because "strict" is not in my vocabulary.<br />
<br />
So what do you do when habits like eating toast and baking bread are now the devil and along with every other thing you were trying to deal with, you have to relearn how to eat.<br />
<br />
It's ridiculous and maddening and needless to say headache-inducing.<br />
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And the answer is that I don't know. I really don't. I'm just doing it and today I'm hating it and tomorrow I hope will be better than today. <br />
<br />
And the truth is I haven't written for awhile because things have been really hard. But I've decided that shouldn't stop me from writing.<br />
<br />
We are all going through hard battles. Gluten is the least of my worries..it's just made things a whole lot more complicated.<br />
<br />
A friend recently asked me, "April didn't you just go on a Raw diet <b><i>voluntarily</i></b>? What's the big deal?"<br />
<br />
The simple answer to that is that when it's not something we choose, we tend to not favor it so much.<br />
<br />
Sometimes the battle is a consequence of our choices, but does that make it easier to face?<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><a href="http://millathenightbaker.blogspot.com/" style="color: #b45f06;">This</a></b></span> blog really inspired me to stop thinking so much about myself and start thinking about who I can help. What an incredible thing it is to see someone standing up to their fears.<br />
<br />
Are you "fine"? If not, consider..<br />
<br />
If I'm hurting that's <i>awesome, </i>because there are a lot of hurt people in the world and I can relate with them and help them through it.<br />
<br />
If I'm lonely, that really sucks, but <b><i>also</i></b> it's a good reminder that there are other people that are lonely too and since I know how lame it is I can show them I care and that they aren't alone.<br />
<br />
If I need to feel loved, that's the perfect time to look for ways to help other people be happy. A hug, a plate of cookies (gluten free of course), or maybe just working on those listening skills.<br />
<br />
And I think that if I'm seeking ways to love others, God will help me feel better, therefore solving problems 1, 2, & 3.<br />
<br />
BOOM.<br />
<br />
Hang in there peeps. I'm fighting with you.<br />
<br />
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And now a word from Pink Martini:<br />
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<br />Aprilhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06203450298057277375noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5645340483751007474.post-612359153275844932012-09-23T22:26:00.001-07:002012-09-23T22:26:37.686-07:00sunday best<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<b>This week has been filled with an abundance of:</b><br />
<br />
*Downton Abbey...why can't I ever get enough of this?!<br />
*Green Smoothies<br />
*Time with my little babe thanks to being sick. Never have I appreciated sickness so much before.<br />
*Joy-from finding the most incredible pair of jeans I could ever dream of<br />
*Reminders that in 6 months I will be saying farewell to Utah forever<br />
*Avocados<br />
*Great flicks- "Trouble with the curve" "Katy Perry: Part of me"...I joke. I kid. No actually I loved it. <br />
*Beautiful changing colors every time I walk outside<br />
*Fall bike rides<br />
<br />
<b>There's been an absence of these over the last week as well:</b><br />
<br />
*Sugar, Fast Food, and really anything that doesn't belong in that vegetable marked drawer in my fridge<br />
*Frustration because I'm still doing the same old dumb thing while hoping for different results<br />
*Football...major bonus of not having tv<br />
*Cleaning...hey I tried.<br />
<br />
Things are as hectic as ever and I know it seems strange to add more stress (like what the heck will I eat because I can't handle anymore spinach..), but actually that kind of stress is irrelevant compared to the constant nagging I did to myself before beginning all of this.<i> </i> <br />
<br />
Tonight was a family dinner and I wasn't even slightly tempted by those homemade brownies and lasagna. No really. I could have those anytime in my life. In fact I've probably had them more times than I can count. So what's the big deal anyway?<br />
<br />
I just told myself that I <i>could </i>eat that lasagna instead of my sprouted wheat bread with almond butter, (by the way my entire family thought I had lost my mind) but that I just didn't <i><b>want </b></i>to. Somehow, because it made it sound like I was more in control of the situation, I believed myself and did not partake of said unhealthy-not raw in any way-kind of gross when you think about it- food.<br />
<br />
It was worth it. I feel awesome.<br />
<br />
-My nausea is minimal compared to everyday of the last 3 1/2 years<br />
-I'm tired, but seem to have a lot of energy still<br />
-Feeling great in the mornings (miracle)<br />
<br />
P.S- <br />
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<br />Aprilhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06203450298057277375noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5645340483751007474.post-58247707613018996832012-09-20T22:56:00.000-07:002012-09-20T22:56:52.659-07:00inches<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />
Well it happened.<br />
<br />
I went about my biz-nas today and inevidably it came up how I'm doing this whole raw thing and people looked at me like I had lost my mind. Or like my hand just fell off or something.<br />
<br />
And then they offered me tamales and cupcakes.<br />
<br />
Although it was <i>slightly </i>tempting, what occurred to me was just how tough it is to change.<br />
<br />
I think we all want it. I do. I talk about it all the time. Change this, do that..we all do it.<br />
<br />
But when we do actually summon the courage to make a change and we give it all we've got, there are still those few people that turn into cheerleaders. But not the good kind of cheerleaders (is there actually a good kind?) The kind that start cheering for all the things you're trying to avoid or stop doing, or change. And they question you like you've just committed a crime or something.<br />
<br />
And it's just really so <i><b>unhelpful </b></i>to say the least.<br />
<br />
Fortunately, I came prepared. I had already considered those types of conversations and really there's just something in me right now that says, "do or die April" and it's pretty remarkable, because I'm not really a do or die sort of person. I'm more like "do and if it doesn't work out then oh what a shame".<br />
<br />
But that kind of thinking gets me nowhere. Literally. NOWHERE.<br />
<br />
If I don't at least begin trying to change these things about myself now, then in ten years I could very well be the same girl I am now. So then what's the point of life <i>if not for change</i>?<br />
<br />
So regardless of what it is that you or I are trying to change I think first and foremost it must be decided that it's the right thing to do.<br />
<br />
<br />
I mean, is it?<br />
<br />
For your future? For your happiness? For the happiness of those around you? For xyz...<br />
<br />
Going on a raw/whole foods diet is something I've wanted to do for a long, long time. For me. Because it sounded right to me. It sounded good in a way that you just nod your head thinking, "yeah I should do that". And because it sounds right to me and because it's my life, I'm going to do what feels right for me. It's absolutely going to be hard and at moments I may truly loathe this change I brought upon myself.<br />
<br />
BUT can I just say how great it feels to be in a world where everyone <i>wants </i>to change and to know that I'm actually <b>doing </b>it.<br />
<br />
It feels so incredibly good. <br />
<br />
I'm changing. Inching along. It feels awesome, it really does.<br />
<br />
Rediscovering yourself is such a challenge. Partly, because you have to talk yourself into it and mostly, because I think at times we may find ourselves with people who are afraid of change. Or think it's ridiculous or unnecessary. And they're not afraid to tell you. Oh no, they will make themselves loud and clear how they feel about it. But they're speaking from what they want or need, usually not considering the most important part, which is want YOU want or need.<br />
<br />
I confess that the last four days have been really difficult, but I'm honestly happier than I've been in a long time.<br />
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I feel:<br />
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empowered<br />
happy<br />
free<br />
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Aprilhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06203450298057277375noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5645340483751007474.post-75782275536761563382012-09-19T20:05:00.000-07:002012-09-19T20:05:02.045-07:00too much driving, not enough chocolate<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<b style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #b45f06;">My day:</span></b><br />
<br />
I woke up so tired this morning I literally didn't even open my eyes until I reached the bathroom to brush my teeth.<br />
<br />
I drove Elle up to Salt Lake to meet my aunt who takes her for a few days so I can be at school like a madwoman and still have most of the week with my little babe. It is exhausting for all us.<br />
<br />
I then stopped by the market to get some more produce, came home and made a green smoothie, showered and went to school.<br />
<br />
I was at school for less than an hour when it was discovered that Elle has that hand-foot-mouth-disgusting-thing that apparently can be caught from dirty church floors and other small children. So I left class to drive back up to North SLC to get her and then drove home..still drinking my now warm green smoothie. Poor girl slept the whole way home.<br />
<br />
When your baby is sick it really throws you off I tell ya. I couldn't focus on anything..mostly because I was busy fussing over her and mostly because she has been glued to my side and cries when I move without her. It really is so wonderful being a mother. But it's heartbreaking to see them hurting with not much for you to do about it.<br />
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So I took her on a walk. She played with the leaves and we both enjoyed the sun for awhile. It was warm and comforting and made us both happy.<br />
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This "raw" thing is still going great. Okay it sucks, but I haven't cheated once and I'm determined to stay with it. It only sucks, because today every craving I've ever had in my life came back to me.<br />
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Enchiladas. Tortellini. Tortilla chips.<br />
<br />
Tomorrow my school is doing a fundraiser for Juvenile Diabetes and I'm supposed to make something for the bake sale. I volunteered my services long before I knew I wouldn't be able to have even a single bite. It still counts if someone else bakes it, true? Like Lofthouse or Great Harvest?<br />
<br />
Because the smell of cookies or something in my house would mean complete torture and I prefer to not use torture methods in this little apartment of mine. Could I really not even try the batter? Pssh. Nope. Let's get real <i>here.</i> It's only day 3 not day 30 and I am lacking willpower today.<br />
<br />
I did find a way to cure my sweet tooth for like a <i>second.</i> Shout out to Pinterest.<br />
<br />
These are really, really, ridiculously tasty (only better with chocolate, but anyway..)<br />
<br />
<u><b><span style="color: #b45f06;"><span style="font-size: large;">Raw Sugar Cookies:</span></span></b></u><br />
<br />
1 C. Almonds<br />
1 C. Dates<br />
<br />
Blend together in food processor or high powered blender until sticky. Roll out with rolling pin until 1/2 inch thick. Use your fav cookie cutters to make them all cute and stuff.<br />
<br />
I feel decent. I'm soo tired, but I'm not sure if that's from needing more energy (From what I'm eating) or because I woke up at 5 a.m.<br />
<br />
In a little while I'll go for a run and then welcome bedtime with my fav Sleepytime Vanilla Herbal Tea.<br />
<br />
Here's to tomorrow...<br />
<br />Aprilhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06203450298057277375noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5645340483751007474.post-34037239498557520552012-09-18T09:52:00.000-07:002012-09-18T09:52:29.042-07:00Day 2: Breakfast for this champion!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I woke up this morning feeling..oh I don't know...BOMB DIGGITY AWESOME!</div>
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Seriously I woke up just feeling <i>good.</i> I think my body is pretty happy with me.</div>
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And guess what? I feel pretty happy with myself. I finally stopped <b><i>talking </i></b>and started <i><b>DOING.</b></i> </div>
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Who knew it really would be so fantastic? </div>
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This ain't no fluff. I wouldn't lie to you. Try it and see for yourself!</div>
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Some of you have been asking what book I've been referring to as I go about this Whole/Raw Food adventure. </div>
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I found <b style="color: #b45f06;"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Food-Life-Force-Energy-ebook/dp/B000N2HD28/ref=tmm_kin_title_0?ie=UTF8&qid=1305769537&sr=8-1">this treasure</a></b> and have really been in love with it. There are recipes and a whole plan laid out if you want to go the Raw Food route. I've decided I'm doing a combination of both a Raw and a Whole Food diet. </div>
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My real goal is to completely free my body of all the crap I've been eating for years so I think the Raw diet is really effective in helping me do that. Then I plan to move forward in about three to four weeks with a Whole Food lifestyle. I'm not limiting myself to just one way, but I will also tell you I don't feel limited anyway.</div>
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A blog I've also been referring to is <b><a href="http://www.100daysofrealfood.com/" style="color: #b45f06;">100 days of real food</a></b> which I have been reading for awhile now. There's a lot of great information, recipes, and the how to begin taking yourself and your family off processed foods. I love it!</div>
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<b style="color: #b45f06;"><a href="http://www.wholefoodsonabudget.com/p/our-diet.html">Whole foods on a budget </a></b>is a really helpful blog too. I'm sure I'll continue to find them and I'll let you know about the good ones!</div>
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For this morning..</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpyxFTCU0n1iOMcW-WFZOo7mXQV7Z1NY7_XXj4YYE7pIOVW7lQysOf95-5y5A1YfdtY4oHeBW0eVLizk658d9GD-wEjdfuuP6Hs_yLsPZCNhVHp6Op1JU4Dnn4Bm9tJX4B8cUPtLlYxtA/s1600/pancake1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpyxFTCU0n1iOMcW-WFZOo7mXQV7Z1NY7_XXj4YYE7pIOVW7lQysOf95-5y5A1YfdtY4oHeBW0eVLizk658d9GD-wEjdfuuP6Hs_yLsPZCNhVHp6Op1JU4Dnn4Bm9tJX4B8cUPtLlYxtA/s400/pancake1.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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Usually I'd probably eat maybe a bowl of Reeses Puffs or Kashi Cinnamon Harvest. But I often would just skip breakfast.</div>
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What do you normally eat for breakfast? I found that if I stopped to think about what I'm actually putting in my body, it's not shocking why it doesn't feel great or work the way I want it to.</div>
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So I made Pancakes!</div>
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But not just any pancakes..Sweet Potato Spelt Pancakes. </div>
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<u><span style="color: #b45f06;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">Sweet Potato Spelt Pancakes: </span></b></span></u><span style="color: #b45f06;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: small;">(Adapted from Life Force Energy)</span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>1 C. spelt flour </b></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>1 organic egg</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>1 C. unsweetened almond milk</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>1 tsp. cinnamon</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>1 tsp. vanilla extract</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>1/2 tbs. organic butter</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>fresh fruit</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b> raw almond butter</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Whisk all ingredients together (Except butter and fruit) until perfectly smooth. Heat butter in skillet on high heat. Using about 1/4 cup at a time, place medium sized disks of batter on skillet. Cook for about 3 minutes on each side. Top with almond butter and berries. Share with someone you love!</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b> </b></span></span><u><span style="color: #b45f06;"><b><span style="font-size: large;"></span></b></span></u>and I had never actually had a green smoothie before so I tried it out..SO delicious.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgO2LE60G-ipZObxqB0IYDp-iOYS9K176qb0Dy6Ueg3ahLxQ76s3iBU4CzpmIkg0AkolTbcoa3aGokQjqIWJgRUdX3MKjnpqI_xrxQpRcpFLE1tKTso9ekSVYPz0rakeKvR-6WtNFtD0Kc/s1600/smoothie1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgO2LE60G-ipZObxqB0IYDp-iOYS9K176qb0Dy6Ueg3ahLxQ76s3iBU4CzpmIkg0AkolTbcoa3aGokQjqIWJgRUdX3MKjnpqI_xrxQpRcpFLE1tKTso9ekSVYPz0rakeKvR-6WtNFtD0Kc/s400/smoothie1.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #b45f06;"><span style="font-size: large;"><u><b>Pineapple Peach Green Smoothie: </b></u><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: black;">(Adapted from Fresh Blends)</span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #b45f06;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: small;">1 C. unsweetened almond milk</span></span></b></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #b45f06;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: small;">1 medium banana</span></span></b></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #b45f06;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: small;">2 C. spinach</span></span></b></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #b45f06;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: small;">1 large ripe peach (pitted and sliced)</span></span></b></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #b45f06;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: small;">1 C. fresh pineapple sliced</span></span></b></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #b45f06;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: small;">1/2 C. fresh squeezed pineapple juice</span></span></b></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #b45f06;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: small;">1 C. ice</span></span></b></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #b45f06;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></span></b><u><b> </b></u></span></span></div>
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Put all ingredients in blender with liquid first. Blend until smooth. Fall in love.</div>
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I had NO idea that green smoothies tasted like this. I think the freshness of the fruit made a huge difference. You can use frozen fruit, but I think you'd be compromising on taste. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKfTA46tFodHeVR4R28P_lFybs_b_QTjENnM38TY2DZR4nXSqm-Vwtwup7Y-n0vJQs3Lc7k0iZESQkSkUoMnJVddGzwXWHmSfvbmWpd3JecbYNHgTuJqYfOq_ka72iI6Oq2E7H-cEv77M/s1600/breakfast1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKfTA46tFodHeVR4R28P_lFybs_b_QTjENnM38TY2DZR4nXSqm-Vwtwup7Y-n0vJQs3Lc7k0iZESQkSkUoMnJVddGzwXWHmSfvbmWpd3JecbYNHgTuJqYfOq_ka72iI6Oq2E7H-cEv77M/s400/breakfast1.JPG" width="400" /> </a></div>
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Winning! </div>
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<br />Aprilhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06203450298057277375noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5645340483751007474.post-65463432037259882302012-09-17T19:50:00.001-07:002012-09-17T19:50:42.920-07:00Day 1: easy peasy light and breezy<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj9mjcy1ndXr-dve5-4mNpnW0-g5j3YUhedRhNtHfafjOEeU7dTvYKQ_VikgNdVMK6yMHwxMte8C_t3y01b3iENzlxzZEkCMfg6hafcUIEDdJfERdp5K25-reonG7KMvTuzZOLpgo1YFc/s1600/icecream.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj9mjcy1ndXr-dve5-4mNpnW0-g5j3YUhedRhNtHfafjOEeU7dTvYKQ_VikgNdVMK6yMHwxMte8C_t3y01b3iENzlxzZEkCMfg6hafcUIEDdJfERdp5K25-reonG7KMvTuzZOLpgo1YFc/s400/icecream.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Homemade Pumpkin Ice Cream</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<br />
You guys.<br />
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On a scale of 1 to awesomeness...today was so so good.<br />
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I don't think I've ever been so excited to make such a significant change in my life.<br />
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Minus Andrew and Elle because that was easy...somehow Love just makes new things a breeze.<br />
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So when I tell you how much I love chips and salsa or Tillamook ice cream, you should know that when I thought about beginning this journey I imagined myself crying outside of Kneaders or something.<br />
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And although I don't "love" the idea of shunning a few of my favorite things, the idea of feeling really, really great for the rest of my life just seemed too good to pass up. This is me learning to sacrifice good things for great things.<br />
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I'm ready.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigs_7wOr7GCtpoAkkja1h826IkgBt91vtb4AN8X2cekl54bO6HS1zfSg1wWhn4zsGSAX5bPkk5wGWdfRZ1UA2qsBcaCj1pkAhfuZw2WA-n4vZLJTgm5cTW5h3z8Koovo_zuoBEGABpxAM/s1600/shopping1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigs_7wOr7GCtpoAkkja1h826IkgBt91vtb4AN8X2cekl54bO6HS1zfSg1wWhn4zsGSAX5bPkk5wGWdfRZ1UA2qsBcaCj1pkAhfuZw2WA-n4vZLJTgm5cTW5h3z8Koovo_zuoBEGABpxAM/s400/shopping1.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
I went to Sprouts (formerly Sunflower Market) to pick up the essentials.<br />
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They always have great produce and it's better than a bigger chain and cheaper than a smaller grocery store. I heart that place.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirwhJkT4GNe_mAXCj2IKk2PTw_1aJCTxuvs5EfWnsSzcQrvgogFRcUBncAOVzyVuXFLVjZn5DC0h-kmFaqjMctfnrsdrutjxiU44ZooJVxEGnH7Ut59GlYQzUkghsy0p2x99SemvXr2EQ/s1600/shopping2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirwhJkT4GNe_mAXCj2IKk2PTw_1aJCTxuvs5EfWnsSzcQrvgogFRcUBncAOVzyVuXFLVjZn5DC0h-kmFaqjMctfnrsdrutjxiU44ZooJVxEGnH7Ut59GlYQzUkghsy0p2x99SemvXr2EQ/s400/shopping2.JPG" width="298" /></a></div>
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If you were to take a gander at my cart this is what you'd find..<br />
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-Berries<br />
-Tomatoes<br />
-Alfalfa Sprouts<br />
-Raw Almond Butter<br />
-lots of veggies<br />
-Organic Butter<br />
-Almond Milk<br />
-Peaches<br />
-Agave Nectar<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSC60PFkHbXowClnQXDq0fNC-ZnUp-v7_pWsqcjEg1kc74Gr7hxrd-kRku7iZybmh-sXy-CGGjhjDqySC9_wyBBiYkJ8X8VgJAzc4WQawfB850Zy_kE4UjlbxXg1AIxskys_-jlbxcnKQ/s1600/shopping3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSC60PFkHbXowClnQXDq0fNC-ZnUp-v7_pWsqcjEg1kc74Gr7hxrd-kRku7iZybmh-sXy-CGGjhjDqySC9_wyBBiYkJ8X8VgJAzc4WQawfB850Zy_kE4UjlbxXg1AIxskys_-jlbxcnKQ/s400/shopping3.JPG" width="298" /></a></div>
<br />
-Sprouted Wheat bread<br />
-Almonds<br />
-this and that<br />
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Lucky for me, I have the kind of husband who knows that support is crucial to being successful with such a big change in lifestyle.<br />
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So he bought me this!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizzHUkI980hqHsx1Tq5CvML1j3T0cDIozt2PCZbb2mXuc2Ecbpl9iWjsQgdlTflIz562T15KgevhPCcAkG3NE3ciGqWuvPU3xkBzlMSSdHYPo_6LdUygiDLLRGD2HJvYOsmI480pnsGj8/s1600/blend1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizzHUkI980hqHsx1Tq5CvML1j3T0cDIozt2PCZbb2mXuc2Ecbpl9iWjsQgdlTflIz562T15KgevhPCcAkG3NE3ciGqWuvPU3xkBzlMSSdHYPo_6LdUygiDLLRGD2HJvYOsmI480pnsGj8/s400/blend1.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
And I can't even begin to tell you how awesome this has made my life. Within the last five hours at least..<br />
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It's a dream come true.<br />
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All I had to eat this morning was an apple..mostly because I wasn't really hungry and also I wasn't a hundred percent sure what I could eat other than fruits and veggies. <br />
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So I made myself a snack of toast with raw almond butter and fresh peaches with cinnamon.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDkOtmDXRhV3zx5E1N8MIm3guHqdlxhfOcr5lgXU6bQlpBHKPWAmF95197zPGZFigDzADWTU1UbFOuZd_w4ZTUL91jP4e3AsHox8BenqaJwk8F-hTAlGI3eKE9YNLTR4GWbw5jNhsGOhw/s1600/toast1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDkOtmDXRhV3zx5E1N8MIm3guHqdlxhfOcr5lgXU6bQlpBHKPWAmF95197zPGZFigDzADWTU1UbFOuZd_w4ZTUL91jP4e3AsHox8BenqaJwk8F-hTAlGI3eKE9YNLTR4GWbw5jNhsGOhw/s400/toast1.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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It was even better than I imagined. The peach was perfection.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-YKQeT7i1PcY_6FDCou_nxEjt7F1HAgPkfh8fExN5EVrd1shvyLbRChUWw1aQjp3hzwgTCS25Hlg_N7BRn4sjqSm8ZOIR9NkPpKaW4-RAwS9L5yPl2mdPwDOLRU4s1lQDt_ninI9VbH8/s1600/toast3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-YKQeT7i1PcY_6FDCou_nxEjt7F1HAgPkfh8fExN5EVrd1shvyLbRChUWw1aQjp3hzwgTCS25Hlg_N7BRn4sjqSm8ZOIR9NkPpKaW4-RAwS9L5yPl2mdPwDOLRU4s1lQDt_ninI9VbH8/s400/toast3.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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Seriously it was bomb.</div>
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For dinner I made Tortilla Soup..minus the tortilla. Maybe you're just supposed to imagine the tortilla is there. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivVA2SsWMPD9utjTGwmlSxrxFFwbsCEPQzh7afmIc1VpYwqs_wrVlH2yQybg5KKe-H8gH2r2fYiFfoOoo5e3jFqAF5UFXP207Pu8HkHxm-VggQjfigGd4UTHbikQCrAADOEN1j1TR6Lws/s1600/soup1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivVA2SsWMPD9utjTGwmlSxrxFFwbsCEPQzh7afmIc1VpYwqs_wrVlH2yQybg5KKe-H8gH2r2fYiFfoOoo5e3jFqAF5UFXP207Pu8HkHxm-VggQjfigGd4UTHbikQCrAADOEN1j1TR6Lws/s400/soup1.JPG" width="298" /></a></div>
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<u><span style="font-size: large;">Tortilla Soup:</span></u></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: small;">2 C. warm water</span></span></span></div>
<div style="color: #b45f06;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: small;">2 roma tomatoes</span></span></span></div>
<div style="color: #b45f06;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: small;">1/2 large carrot (I used four snack size carrots)</span></span></span></div>
<div style="color: #b45f06;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: small;">3 mini red pepper or 1/4 slice of a regular size pepper</span></span></span></div>
<div style="color: #b45f06;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: small;">1/4 avocado</span></span></span></div>
<div style="color: #b45f06;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: small;">1 onion wedge</span></span></span></div>
<div style="color: #b45f06;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: small;">3/4 tsp. sea salt</span></span></span></div>
<div style="color: #b45f06;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: small;">3/4 tsp. garlic powder</span></span></span></div>
<div style="color: #b45f06;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: small;">3/4 tsp. onion powder</span></span></span></div>
<div style="color: #b45f06;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: small;">1/2 tsp. cumin</span></span></span></div>
<div style="color: #b45f06;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: small;">1/2 tsp. chili powder</span></span></span></div>
<div style="color: #b45f06;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: small;">1/4 tsp. garlic salt</span></span></span></div>
<div style="color: #b45f06;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></span></div>
<div style="color: #b45f06;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: small;">Blend together! Add lime juice to taste. Add corn and slices of avocado if desired.</span></span></span></div>
<div style="color: #b45f06;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBAT9z_4eHuVnfF4cC4B51yq2Qx39jH-JUSx1_R6bhZiJL5fD9gGDTIU81Ry9by3yUEWDoHG8cU7mTMj1s_pWI2JG7VlQVfCgVwV5SbF5jIcTvY1sD6iCyuSGeITsPPWgOIV3Sk2PjStM/s1600/soup3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBAT9z_4eHuVnfF4cC4B51yq2Qx39jH-JUSx1_R6bhZiJL5fD9gGDTIU81Ry9by3yUEWDoHG8cU7mTMj1s_pWI2JG7VlQVfCgVwV5SbF5jIcTvY1sD6iCyuSGeITsPPWgOIV3Sk2PjStM/s400/soup3.JPG" width="400" /> </a></div>
<div style="color: #b45f06;">
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div>
<div style="color: #b45f06;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;">Delicious and sooo easy. Ellie loved it. Seriously she kept asking for more.</span></span></span></span></div>
<div style="color: #b45f06;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #b45f06;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;">And finally, because Fall is the most wonderful time of the year, I decided to make some Pumpkin ice cream.</span></span></span></span></div>
<div style="color: #b45f06;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #b45f06;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;">It was literally the best ice cream I've had in a long time. No refined sugars. No fillers. Nothing but pumpkin-y goodness!</span></span></span></span></div>
<div style="color: #b45f06;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #b45f06;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: small;"><u><span style="color: #b45f06;"><span style="font-size: large;">Pumpkin Ice Cream:</span></span></u> </span></span></span></div>
<div style="color: #b45f06;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;">3/4 C. unsweetened chocolate almond milk</span> </span></span> </span></div>
1/8-1/4 C. raw agave nectar<br />
1 med. banana<br />
1 1/2 tbs. vanilla extract<br />
3 C. ice<br />
1/2 C. pure pumpkin puree<br />
1/2 tsp. pumpkin pie spice<br />
<br />
Blend together (any blender will do) and then try not to eat the whole thing in one day. Ellie and I shared some and it made so much that I put the rest in the freezer for another day when I'm craving something sweet.<br />
<br />
<span style="color: #b45f06;"><span style="font-size: large;">I feel:</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: large;"><span style="color: black;">Pretty great. No really I do. Surprisingly I've had a lot of energy today and I don't feel hungry or deprived. One friend who just went Vegan reminded me the other day to focus on what I'm "adding" to my diet and my life instead of what I'm taking away. Brilliant advice. </span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: large;"><span style="color: black;">There is a lot of satisfaction that comes from finally doing something that you know is good for you. Deciding to do it was actually much harder than the actual process. </span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: large;"><span style="color: black;">Tomorrow should be challenging though..I'm at school for 12 hours and I'm definitely a social eater. Mind over matter mind over matter mind over matter. My plan is to be prepared, have back up plans, and stay positive when people find out what I'm doing and make discouraging remarks. </span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: large;"><span style="color: black;">It's cool. I got this. </span> </span><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Aprilhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06203450298057277375noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5645340483751007474.post-16378726727469991432012-09-17T11:04:00.000-07:002012-09-17T11:04:56.149-07:00Jump then fall..whole foods here I come!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikQsdx49Esw1qa7tpDCo55GzT3dtEdKeDdp-S1p5JEy-RK-ZEtxYMGwkcioxgKfDhmEL-ISKONkEkS67vD56brXWFBfJqovVWkrNbDS3YIm-M8_Pemh2rHHwtC3XzLxu2XPLLvhZ79u60/s1600/stumble" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikQsdx49Esw1qa7tpDCo55GzT3dtEdKeDdp-S1p5JEy-RK-ZEtxYMGwkcioxgKfDhmEL-ISKONkEkS67vD56brXWFBfJqovVWkrNbDS3YIm-M8_Pemh2rHHwtC3XzLxu2XPLLvhZ79u60/s320/stumble" width="213" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Yesterday I almost died.<br />
<br />
And
by that I mean I suffered from a certain amount of pain that should
only occur if one is dying, because there really is no other good reason
to writhe in agony as I did.<br />
<br />
This is getting out of hand, really.<br />
<br />
<br />
If you'll take just a <b><i>sec </i></b>to reminisce with me upon days of old, you will find <b style="color: #b45f06;"><a href="http://aamcquay.blogspot.com/2011/06/trauma-in-surgical-unit.html">THIS</a></b> will give you a glimpse into my life. Unfortunately, not much has improved since that time.<br />
<br />
<br />
Surgery: Waste of a lot of $$ that would've been better spent at H&M.<br />
<br />
<br />
Since then..giving my life savings, current paycheck, and our retirement fund to doctors who seem to be <i>guessing </i>at this point is no longer in the plan.<br />
<br />
<br />
So after much deliberation I've decided to embark on something new.<br />
<br />
<br />
Improve my health by going on a <b>Whole Foods Diet.</b><br />
<br />
<br />
I am a little frightened. If I was going to lie about this
process I would just tell you it's totally awesome and I love it and I'm
so pumped.<br />
<br />
<br />
My goal is to be able to say those things in about 3
weeks..that's when apparently your body starts feeling really good and
it's adjusted to the absence of foods that you (think you) love.<br />
<br />
<br />
After watching <b style="color: purple;"><a href="http://www.forksoverknives.com/">Forks Over Knives</a></b> last year on Netflix, I've contemplated off and on if a whole foods diet was not only something I <i>should </i>do, but also if it was something I actually <b><i>could </i></b>do.<br />
<br />
<br />
Who has that much self discipline?!<br />
<br />
<br />
But then I see things like this<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_OgAzZlZGehGzHHCs3uEVCjzUE1qcMABwS3BSFiW0lGkIGG8duM_7dfXj5Bmm-N2NaV97ahyphenhyphenqSvnZ9l2QiMWT4ZME2-3CFPnI6PBPz0-FhGshH683ys9R9vWVYBVCKIxj2-4Jba9yNw8/s1600/pink-slime.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_OgAzZlZGehGzHHCs3uEVCjzUE1qcMABwS3BSFiW0lGkIGG8duM_7dfXj5Bmm-N2NaV97ahyphenhyphenqSvnZ9l2QiMWT4ZME2-3CFPnI6PBPz0-FhGshH683ys9R9vWVYBVCKIxj2-4Jba9yNw8/s400/pink-slime.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Pink Slime.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Not sure what it is? Watch this:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/twOj0XNCyaY?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
You
should have some sort of container next to you, because you will
probably want to throw up. I actually had to FORCE myself to watch this.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Even Ellen has something to say about it..<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/8MjNOCccz9w?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<br />
<br />
The actual point of a Whole Foods diet is just a healthier way of
living and eating. Oh and you know exactly what's in your food. And
you have increased energy, feel better, and on and on the list goes.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
My problem I think lies in the detoxing. Because that always
sucks. I've done it from sugar before and the first few weeks were
miserable. Just plain miserable.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
But after a few weeks you begin to see those foods you "love" for
what they really are. Unhealthy, refined, and truthfully the thought of
eating processed foods is unappealing to say the least.<br />
<br />
The BEST part is that I felt so good. SO so good. <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Unfortunately, bad habits creep in and slowly here and there you
find yourself eating those foods that you eliminated from your diet and
before you know it you're back to where you started.<br />
<br />
<br />
A lot of my health issues come from my body producing too much
acid. The Whole Foods diet is a plant based diet which is naturally
alkaline producing and known to balance out the ph levels in your body
along with give you more energy and better sleep among other things.<br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="color: purple;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">What I feel like now:</span></span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: purple;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">a.) severe heart and chest burn</span></span> </span></span></span>daily and sometimes hourly<br />
b.) trouble sleeping<br />
c.) daily headaches<br />
d.) nausea (no I'm not pregnant)<br />
<br />
e.) low energy and sluggishness<br />
f.) sick to my stomach after eating<br />
g.) strong food cravings<br />
h.) late night hunger<br />
i.) trouble breathing and swallowing<br />
*It's rare when I actually feel good..sometimes I struggle with most of this list on a daily basis all at the same time.<br />
j.) sugar is my drug of choice<br />
<br />
I
obviously don't want to feel this way anymore. I'm confident that by
changing my eating habits drastically I will feel better, look better,
and help others do it too.<br />
<br />
Everyday I will be posting my
progress and meals! I expect this first week to be pretty rough, but I
feel as though this is inspired and I think the only way to do it is to
take it one day at a time.<br />
<br />
Want to do it with me?! Email me at abrisun@live.com<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Aprilhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06203450298057277375noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5645340483751007474.post-50959864440450233322012-09-09T23:08:00.001-07:002012-09-09T23:12:51.440-07:00So Long, Sweet Summer<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQIiTrRThtQ47dpFwO2ViMdOPzSNo4GiyWt1G_pfGznhgdN1WDdLJb5cq1K7mFUbul6iYFephYuTQbsC9zZLGJpE1tplQPn7P2vcf3SC8a_QWHsbYxqgUbJzGZNOblBkLjdOd6PjgUWdI/s1600/378646_3525902117332_1278422982_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQIiTrRThtQ47dpFwO2ViMdOPzSNo4GiyWt1G_pfGznhgdN1WDdLJb5cq1K7mFUbul6iYFephYuTQbsC9zZLGJpE1tplQPn7P2vcf3SC8a_QWHsbYxqgUbJzGZNOblBkLjdOd6PjgUWdI/s400/378646_3525902117332_1278422982_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
I'm getting old.<br />
<br />
In fact I may be a complete embarrassment to 29 year olds everywhere.<br />
<br />
You know you've stepped into the next part of your life..the older-I think I'm wiser-I should probably stop shopping at Forever 21-part of your life when you catch yourself saying this phrase:<br />
<br />
"<b><i>Kids these days</i></b>..."while shaking your head in disgust after talking to your grandma about someone you know that's younger than you that's making the kind of choices that you just don't understand.<br />
<br />
And I said that. To. my. GRANDMA.<br />
<br />
What in the...<br />
<br />
Also.<br />
<br />
The other day a friend starting talking about a situation that I, for the life of me, couldn't remember ever hearing about even though they swore they had mentioned it many times before.<br />
<br />
Alzheimers. I'm sure of it.<br />
<br />
My closet is no better. The signs of aging are everywhere. Loafers. Collared blouses. High waisted pants. I completely skipped the "mom jeans" phase and went straight for grandma. No offense to all the grandma's out there though..I love you so much I'm morphing into you.<br />
<br />
I'm lucky to have really amazing grandma's. One makes the best homemade chili and bread and the other takes me to movies complete with popcorn and candy. Can't beat that. <br />
<br />
Alas another summer has come and gone. The very last one in my twenties. And like any person who apparently lives in the <i>future,</i> I've been just waiting for cool weather to come along so I can welcome my favorite season in with a delicious bowl of hot soup and fresh bread while watching Wheel of Fortune and Jeopardy.<br />
<br />
This time of year reminds me of when I was young. New pencils. New books. Walking to school both ways. In snow. Barefoot.<br />
<br />
I may be well on my way to Golden Girl status, but I shall hold my head high with hopes that being "young at heart" hits you at 30. Until then..I'll be watching I Love Lucy reruns.<br />
<br />
Enjoy my most fav recipe for Fall...It's easy and will make you feel all warm and cozy just like a hug from your grandma.<br />
<br />
An Adapted version..(because it's the best this way)<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: medium;"><b>Creamy Corn Chowder</b></span><br />
<i>Recipe by Our Best Bites</i><br />
2 Tbsp. butter<br />
1/4 c. all-purpose flour<br />
1 c. water<br />
2 1/2 c. milk (skim or 1% work just fine and lighten it up considerably)<br />
2 regular-sized chicken bouillon cubes, 1 Knorr chicken bouillon cube, or<b> </b>2 tsp. chicken base<br />
1/2 lb. bacon<br />
1 small sweet onion, minced<br />
2 red potatoes, diced into small cubes<br />
2-3 cloves garlic, minced<br />
1 cup diced ham<br />
1 can corn, drained or about 1 1/2 C frozen fresh corn<br />
1 can creamed corn<br />
Salt and pepper to taste<br />
1 t. onion powder<br />
1 can green chiles <br />
<br />
<br />
Fry bacon until crisp. In the meantime, melt butter over low heat in a
soup pot. When melted, add flour to make a roux and whisk until it
comes together in a little ball. Add water and whisk until completely
combined and there are no lumps. Add milk and chicken base or bouillon
and bring to a simmer. Add potatoes, onions, and garlic, and simmer (but
don’t boil!), stirring very frequently, for about 20 minutes or until
potatoes are tender. Add crumbled bacon and corn and heat through. Salt to taste. The reason why I don’t
have an exact measurement is that while the soup REALLY needs salt,
bacon also really differs in its saltiness, so it can be super easy to
make this soup way too salty. Start with about 1/4 tsp., give it a
few minutes, and then add more if you need it.<br />
<br />
Serve with cornbread or french bread!<br />
<br />
<br />Need a good recipe for rolls? These are the <b style="color: #b45f06;"><a href="http://www.food.com/recipe/buttery-yeast-rolls-40983">BEST!</a></b><br />
<br />Aprilhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06203450298057277375noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5645340483751007474.post-73185779202417378012012-08-08T23:58:00.000-07:002012-08-08T23:58:02.049-07:00how i spent my summer vacation<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihpWAdhmsU6hSFmccby1DVm-nXtwpgJc2d138jlwe_hql5YCHQLqS0tCvF8iGMlp9nJM7ndKxzO1as6RRqUDjRznoJkPqSCZfgQ0yMQvxsBnB2GhTrZJVyaYuKv10GI5uguc8hZgBCOrg/s1600/IMG_1160.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihpWAdhmsU6hSFmccby1DVm-nXtwpgJc2d138jlwe_hql5YCHQLqS0tCvF8iGMlp9nJM7ndKxzO1as6RRqUDjRznoJkPqSCZfgQ0yMQvxsBnB2GhTrZJVyaYuKv10GI5uguc8hZgBCOrg/s320/IMG_1160.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
It's no secret that me and good luck don't really go together.<br />
<br />
We're not bff''s. It's not a peanut butter and jelly, ross and rachel, biggest loser and ice cream sorta thing.<br />
<br />
It's alright. Long ago, in a far away land (although I still live there...) I was bitten by a black widow spider, diagnosed with an incurable disease (I'm not dying), and somehow managed to completely delete the entire hard drive on my uncle's computer by pressing a button that in my opinion shouldn't exist in the first place. It only leads to heartache, I assure you.<br />
<br />
But sometimes on a rare occasion something brilliant happens. And it cancels out all that unluckiness in one fell swoop. <br />
<br />
It is grand. It is momentous. And it happened to me last weekend. Or as K.P would say.."last friday night.."<br />
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGtCO-eBrphcA0_XrKNNyrAscYvtMgu9as_jHwfkSQvadD3QbkkuKPHJ1cNwInproLb-r6uN-Em9H6LGSFsH3S-yNjiIMRFBsKDwxKhfnLaJIPR7S_xXfenZ2PdXAO0HEwCXi_Og8w6-o/s1600/IMG_1141.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGtCO-eBrphcA0_XrKNNyrAscYvtMgu9as_jHwfkSQvadD3QbkkuKPHJ1cNwInproLb-r6uN-Em9H6LGSFsH3S-yNjiIMRFBsKDwxKhfnLaJIPR7S_xXfenZ2PdXAO0HEwCXi_Og8w6-o/s400/IMG_1141.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
That's right it's these gals I'm talking about. <br />
<br />
The epitome of awesome.<br />
<br />
We've been through it all. From the time that one guy read us his journal explaining how he had soiled not one, but TWO pairs of underwear to the day Melody was so mad she threw cupcakes into 60mph winds and I was forced to give her a look of shame and bewilderment.<br />
<br />
Whoopie cushions. Frostbite. Chinese buffet. Hot cinnamon. You name it. It's been done.<br />
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIt1OwUVT0lZGAcxam-AUaf00cFyQktwGCRADy1g48HZ8xOuHlZxm0CaGQxXk2ycdchDlWBAQUtV8jKv1Ny38ryw5tzJMa_J4kt9jwRAglwhqHXy8rsG9EZJ2jhxFaHJr3UT4AEJ8No84/s1600/2681_1033694053688_7736178_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIt1OwUVT0lZGAcxam-AUaf00cFyQktwGCRADy1g48HZ8xOuHlZxm0CaGQxXk2ycdchDlWBAQUtV8jKv1Ny38ryw5tzJMa_J4kt9jwRAglwhqHXy8rsG9EZJ2jhxFaHJr3UT4AEJ8No84/s400/2681_1033694053688_7736178_n.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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This is Celia. Who I lovingly refer to as my favorite Aussie that I wish lived in the same country as me so we could eat Tim Tam Slams and cereal and listen to Jack Johnson every day. Or at the very least, every other day.</div>
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Melody. How can I ever repay you for introducing me to Miranda?</div>
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Alas, I cannot. This I know is true.</div>
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If you don't know who Miranda is by now...you need better friends. Your welcome.</div>
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Anyway.</div>
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Celia decided it was time to have a little holiday in America so she hopped on a plane to see some of her favorite peeps. </div>
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And a weekend of greatness was had!</div>
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I think at one point our husbands suggested that we were worse than a group of teenage boys. You know you're onto something good when words like that are thrown around. </div>
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Food for the masses. Ahem. I mean the three of us.</div>
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We even found motivation to exercise! Just kidding..we didn't do any of that.</div>
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It's a blacktop blur people. But I'm pretty sure it ruled. Yeah.</div>
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Even Ellie had the time of her life.</div>
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Summer = Made.</div>
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<br /></div>Aprilhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06203450298057277375noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5645340483751007474.post-32008336589171026352012-07-30T23:54:00.000-07:002012-07-30T23:54:09.985-07:00FireworkGood news!<br />
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I am alive.<br />
<br />
So alive.<br />
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In fact I'm better than ever. Sorry I haven't been around much..but absence makes the heart grow fonder, eh?<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmItA13LV6JFAb0g8x_xK2yV2RPVum2ze245BmtoE2dyaZol6QkK7m5k7fkzFzBD0tJxnpCKMghSYonkzo4afCWCfHnS3HfwpGstujw7ZK7tpvzlsjXEYu6OBbtEL6H36iJ3qnUbZXHyU/s1600/yup" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="318" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmItA13LV6JFAb0g8x_xK2yV2RPVum2ze245BmtoE2dyaZol6QkK7m5k7fkzFzBD0tJxnpCKMghSYonkzo4afCWCfHnS3HfwpGstujw7ZK7tpvzlsjXEYu6OBbtEL6H36iJ3qnUbZXHyU/s400/yup" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
It's been a rough summer.<br />
<br />
But I just want to take a sec to say "thanks" to the people in my life that have made it difficult.<br />
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Sincerely.<br />
<br />
Because I've really learned a lot from each of you.<br />
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Thanks for reminding me how important it is to follow my heart and my ambitions. Your attitude about those things hurt for a bit. <br />
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Just a teensy, tiny, little bit.<br />
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Your opinions on those things has actually made me realize how important those things are to me. And I think it's better to be true to myself then try to fit in your mold. <br />
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Because I have my own mold. And you may not like it. But I am happy. <br />
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And isn't that the end goal in life? To be happy?<br />
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I'm not at the end, but I like where I'm going. <br />
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Also, what is happiness good for if we can't help others be happy too?<br />
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Either we go through life pretending to be someone we're not, or we embrace who we are (the good and the bad) and we love others for doing the same.<br />
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So instead of being sad about some painful rejections, I'm happy to say that I am more motivated then ever to just be myself.<br />
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It's such a liberating thing.<br />
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And I feel the need to say that it's time we all stop worrying about everyone else. I know it's hard to just love who we really are, because we're afraid of the critics and those that would hurt us.<br />
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But I believe God wants us to be happy. We are unique and different because of Him. That's how we were made and that's how we're supposed to be. Isn't it awesome?! <br />
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The truth is life is different for all of us. So trying to fit into someone elses idea of who we should be can never actually work. Our struggles, our strengths, are individual and personal.<br />
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Some of us don't get married.<br />
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Some do and it doesn't work out.<br />
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Some of us don't realize our dreams until later in life.<br />
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Everyone is at a different place on the path. <br />
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Stop dreaming someone elses dream. Find your own dream. Don't fear your critics. They just can't see what you see. <br />
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Embrace who you are. Be happy with what you see when you look in the mirror. Challenge others to do the same.<br />
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And I think we will all be a little happier.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_1FF6ENPodZesWCSQNSy5VbziTshLjCMAJoukdbL_ACZN4Wald-GNIgGCpDP3NVj_Vce85rlnD7pl5Fn7YgUBnIkXYGtZKOdYJdyYgT72r9aEFVpPJCJ3SE_Cg7L6M3f11wygOBrIdKE/s1600/why" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_1FF6ENPodZesWCSQNSy5VbziTshLjCMAJoukdbL_ACZN4Wald-GNIgGCpDP3NVj_Vce85rlnD7pl5Fn7YgUBnIkXYGtZKOdYJdyYgT72r9aEFVpPJCJ3SE_Cg7L6M3f11wygOBrIdKE/s400/why" width="400" /></a></div>
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<br />Aprilhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06203450298057277375noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5645340483751007474.post-23201810586826698862012-06-02T19:23:00.001-07:002012-06-02T19:23:10.036-07:00how we spend our days..<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFr7c1k9dXJhLNGLUq127Upd5__wFG_R3Dx5rDcdfdtlqBsYq_VAggze3ZDgImgI9S6pfJ1PdssvGD8tcPJE_JEXCgf_dJk4gv2M9ypl3hSC2su4N3Dwo0kvQ9ytycldFunJjbpRrkdHI/s1600/IMG_0622.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFr7c1k9dXJhLNGLUq127Upd5__wFG_R3Dx5rDcdfdtlqBsYq_VAggze3ZDgImgI9S6pfJ1PdssvGD8tcPJE_JEXCgf_dJk4gv2M9ypl3hSC2su4N3Dwo0kvQ9ytycldFunJjbpRrkdHI/s320/IMG_0622.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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We are ready for summer.<br />
<br />
This week has been non-stop. I walked in the door last night from school and fell asleep approximately 3 minutes later.<br />
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But it's the weekend! We have plans..big plans. Movie, pizza, swimming, snuggling..ahh.<br />
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We spent the first part of this week enjoying the sun, a campfire, and the loveliness that is the beginning of summer.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlLeqrKDJqj_h0eErT9rub3hqJYVJoX4GotgZDHKHQY_gb-7jS5ti-2Ih-STSR_VD3pRnOkWmtRNarEsBlYMTUo1t2x7rMOsBc8xck6HkzMW7TpjnRhyphenhyphenKpri8HijisoABOZhCU7gB_jiE/s1600/men.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="250" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlLeqrKDJqj_h0eErT9rub3hqJYVJoX4GotgZDHKHQY_gb-7jS5ti-2Ih-STSR_VD3pRnOkWmtRNarEsBlYMTUo1t2x7rMOsBc8xck6HkzMW7TpjnRhyphenhyphenKpri8HijisoABOZhCU7gB_jiE/s400/men.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
The Men.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHmnGwgcP9FyrqR8h0gmyqucX8_7ggOdIqNQanZI5IJQKiEeEsp04HG93F-0rgrIKQ3tb2BUPvZei-gEYooTrrH2WP4v3WmB-IKVlRrbA17iNcNo-BR0hbLWTf4eW5gMHb9ElbwIGmovY/s1600/food.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="250" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHmnGwgcP9FyrqR8h0gmyqucX8_7ggOdIqNQanZI5IJQKiEeEsp04HG93F-0rgrIKQ3tb2BUPvZei-gEYooTrrH2WP4v3WmB-IKVlRrbA17iNcNo-BR0hbLWTf4eW5gMHb9ElbwIGmovY/s400/food.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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What's camping without snacks? Elle was loving the mallows.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5cT25HM97W6JsXWAumeBLocvv9MIuI6NHxXwG1dfXdtTixwhgWPckVyeP0Bnr3wTsC5OPPWZ1N-a35Xh1HEaEO7fn_WxpvV7pvO0mFse05ALTNyKA8zJm41A_ctOQLKZopyOCdrjcUmA/s1600/shoes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="250" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5cT25HM97W6JsXWAumeBLocvv9MIuI6NHxXwG1dfXdtTixwhgWPckVyeP0Bnr3wTsC5OPPWZ1N-a35Xh1HEaEO7fn_WxpvV7pvO0mFse05ALTNyKA8zJm41A_ctOQLKZopyOCdrjcUmA/s400/shoes.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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We played games and chased Elle around until she was banned to her Dora chair so we could eat.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUGjODBWqkKCoJYGmIfXQBhDg0KOZP6mAKzk7iJrge3AR-J3Zb8eZEsFcMl71zg5TootmzeM05eAJFiYaUGmBE1_ZHkPeEwxvypWmORf4OL034C82VsO4-X-pllbNuNz-tOBIKj26r0b8/s1600/e.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="250" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUGjODBWqkKCoJYGmIfXQBhDg0KOZP6mAKzk7iJrge3AR-J3Zb8eZEsFcMl71zg5TootmzeM05eAJFiYaUGmBE1_ZHkPeEwxvypWmORf4OL034C82VsO4-X-pllbNuNz-tOBIKj26r0b8/s400/e.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Tired eyes quickly turned into "why is everyone eating MY marshmallows??"<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgqoFPtBzQv0jqjK6wNLtVkyPLmLsMHdf70KKPfMHl51qZf_h6xRsOk_O8Hl7KYCVI1PFAQCMqwWtKQ6AZL8FWzija4O3hWem36XjC9jb4RMHp5iltdkkOgS-NzSvu1g7q6-Qxxspr23Q/s1600/me.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgqoFPtBzQv0jqjK6wNLtVkyPLmLsMHdf70KKPfMHl51qZf_h6xRsOk_O8Hl7KYCVI1PFAQCMqwWtKQ6AZL8FWzija4O3hWem36XjC9jb4RMHp5iltdkkOgS-NzSvu1g7q6-Qxxspr23Q/s400/me.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyslcCcX2Zz5IZdyGWR2DmvR0EXlpD0O9MjNJA2oeEjPnDlRinj3iSghugSIVD56GUckWMFgm-SmMv18mfdYRPt_HGB_DCUQmkFb69dWB9bQxRosW6ZZ4wHkZ0hkB5-nlh43-9-Nkj5hM/s1600/littlemen.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyslcCcX2Zz5IZdyGWR2DmvR0EXlpD0O9MjNJA2oeEjPnDlRinj3iSghugSIVD56GUckWMFgm-SmMv18mfdYRPt_HGB_DCUQmkFb69dWB9bQxRosW6ZZ4wHkZ0hkB5-nlh43-9-Nkj5hM/s400/littlemen.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
My personal favorite. This reminds me of a picture from the book "Little Women"...<br />
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<span id="goog_1242347103"></span><span id="goog_1242347104"></span>Aprilhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06203450298057277375noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5645340483751007474.post-75232116258397559912012-05-28T09:34:00.000-07:002012-05-28T09:34:28.984-07:00why I love petiteBox!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDkGMBjuGrcy-Paz8t3IRMlNe8F1dHcu73P2WMAQUOoe_VO61dANEwSbKlx90RzD0iBGyHEDVP_U1ZLiA0q4fgIen-IkPwJVMUAJqwytsgNjg8wPGPxToAc7oWsSvpOUYVfkDin38Qlns/s1600/IMG_0551.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDkGMBjuGrcy-Paz8t3IRMlNe8F1dHcu73P2WMAQUOoe_VO61dANEwSbKlx90RzD0iBGyHEDVP_U1ZLiA0q4fgIen-IkPwJVMUAJqwytsgNjg8wPGPxToAc7oWsSvpOUYVfkDin38Qlns/s400/IMG_0551.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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I received this gem on my doorstep a few weeks ago from the lovely company <b><a href="http://www.petitebox.us/" style="color: #a64d79;">petiteBox</a><span style="color: #a64d79;">!</span></b><br />
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Have you heard of <b><a href="http://www.petitebox.us/" style="color: #a64d79;">petiteBox</a></b><span style="color: #a64d79;"> </span>yet?<br />
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If you're a new mama, a soon to be mama, or you know someone who is, this is pretty much the coolest gift you could give yourself or someone else.<br />
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Created for new mom's who appreciate the finer things in life, petiteBox sends out a box every month with new high-end, natural products for both mama and her babe to test at home. They work with mama's who are in their 4th month of pregnancy until their baby's first birthday.<br />
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petiteBox delivers a different box every month that coordinates with the stage of pregnancy or the age of the little babe. I LOVE this idea. <br />
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Inside the box I found so many things to love. When you're a new or expecting mama you want the nicest things for your little one and because petiteBox is so awesome, they throw in some great stuff for you too.<br />
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Elle loves that monkey. She carries him around everywhere and snuggles with him, because he is soo soft.<br />
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The Lotus Infinite Love Mist smells divine and what woman doesn't want high quality stretch mark butter? Riddle me that!<br />
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I don't know about you, but my brain partially stopped functioning when I had Elle. I can't remember things, I feel like it's always going in a million different directions. Being a mom is hard! So I love that this little box arrives at my home to help me keep on top of things I should probably have on hand for myself and my babe.<br />
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They even send out these helpful how-to's that include how to pick out a diaper bag and what to expect at the age and stage my baby or pregnancy is at. Loooove.<br />
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Until recently, PetiteBox has only been available outside the U.S. Lucky for us (those that live in the United States) they just launched in NYC so now we can have the very best for our little ones delivered right to our door!<br />
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I've been working with this company for a few months now and honestly, they are fabulous. I've been really impressed with them and I think great customer service is always the best indicator for an awesome company. <br />
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Go <span style="color: purple; font-size: large;"><b><a href="http://www.petitebox.us/">here</a></b></span><span style="color: purple;"> t</span>o learn more about<span style="color: #a64d79;"> </span><b><a href="http://www.petitebox.us/" style="color: #a64d79;">petiteBox</a>.</b><br />
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So if you're stumped about what to get a new mama for a gift or if you want to pamper yourself a little bit, because you've got a little one, head over to their <a href="http://www.petitebox.us/" style="color: #a64d79;">website</a> and become a petiteBox member!Aprilhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06203450298057277375noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5645340483751007474.post-57152082224541733562012-05-26T20:15:00.000-07:002012-05-26T20:15:45.348-07:00thrifting and other lovely finds<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I don't know what thrift stores are like where you are, but in Utah they are kind of a big deal.<br />
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No this photo wasn't taken on Black Friday.<br />
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It was in fact a Wednesday. Just a regular old middle of the week day. Nothing special.<br />
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So it makes sense that when I stopped by for a quick trip I was shocked to find people <i><b>lined up</b></i> outside waiting for the store to open. <br />
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Was some sort of announcement made that included needing jeans from 1992 or used tupperware in a hurry?<br />
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Yeah I didn't think so.<br />
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Battling the mobs of people proved to be worth my time as I was quite successful in my venture.<br />
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Yes yes I had some lovely finds this week. But it didn''t stop with thrifting.<br />
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These boots are my personal favorite. I wear them with everything. I even slept in them. But not on purpose.<br />
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I discovered the best salsa recipe too. You should try it. Be sure to add Avocado..that takes it from awesome to bombdiggity. Trust me on this. Find the recipe <b><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/guy-fieri/black-bean-salad-recipe/index.html" style="color: #b45f06;">here!</a></b><br />
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And finally..Thanks Wendy's for this inspirational reminder. I guess not all fast food places are shady.<br />
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Have a great weekend!<br />
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<span id="goog_1996424029"></span><span id="goog_1996424030"></span>Aprilhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06203450298057277375noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5645340483751007474.post-82980445402208054182012-05-24T08:06:00.001-07:002012-05-24T08:09:43.294-07:00tell me, tell me<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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My little gal is spending time with my aunt today and I already miss her. Lucky for me she left a trail of Chocolate Cheerios in my room before she went off to play. At least I won't be hungry while she's away.<br />
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Who are you missing today?Aprilhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06203450298057277375noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5645340483751007474.post-15381874331366523502012-05-21T23:01:00.000-07:002012-05-20T23:02:27.954-07:00think happy, be happy<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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It's Monday.<br />
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This weekend Andrew hurt his knee on a run. He can't even walk really. He's in pretty bad shape.<br />
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Certain future plans now lie in uncertainty because it is kind of a big deal.<br />
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Surprisingly enough he has been as pleasant as ever. Minus the broken wooden spoon which he snapped in half while in pain like it was a toothpick. Oh and all those swear words..<br />
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And today he asked me for a bucket or an empty water bottle, because getting up to go to the bathroom was just asking for too much.<br />
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His brother bought him a cane. Andrew is mortified. I am excited. <br />
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Ellie is into this really fun phase where she not only spits out all of her food, but then hurls it across the room as if she's going for an Olympic medal.<br />
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And I witnessed her first real tantrum this weekend that left me in shock. I just stood there staring at her flailing herself across our living room rug, because I could not believe what I was seeing.<br />
<br />
She also drank out of a mud puddle when I wasn't looking and has somehow mastered the ability to go lifeless when I'm trying to get her to do something she doesn't want to do. Her 25 pound body feels much heavier when I'm trying to carry her inside before the neighbors think she has some sort of medical condition.<br />
<br />
I love these two.<br />
<br />
Really I do.<br />
<br />
Ellie has learned a new word. "April". No more "Mama" or "Dada". Her face lights up with joy when she yells "opppruulll" down the hallway. Along with "It's okay" and "Aw man".<br />
<br />
She has the sweetest little smile and I am so happy to be able to spend my life with her.<br />
<br />
Andrew is the most positive person I've ever met. He's always happy. And he loves me.<br />
<br />
I am one lucky gal.<br />
<br />
This could have been considered a disastrous weekend. But I reallly didn't want it to be.<br />
<br />
Happiness. Gratitude. Love.<br />
<br />
Decisions we make everyday.<br />
<br />
So I say look for the good! Choose to be happy! Find things in your life to be grateful for! Someone needs YOU to love them, figure out who they are and love with all your might!<br />
<br />
This is a perfect day to start over. Be brand new. Your life is good. You just need to tell yourself so and stop stressing about all the things that are not so wonderful.<br />
<br />
Did you do it? Isn't everything wonderful now?<br />
<br />
Okay..let's get real ya'll. Life can be hard and it can be crappy. But there <i><b>are </b></i>good things happening in your life. No matter how small. Focus on those things. <br />
<br />
It's hard. But so is everything else worth doing.<br />
<br />
So decide to be happy.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
There is only one "today" so enjoy it. Seriously.<br />
<br />
Love! <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Aprilhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06203450298057277375noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5645340483751007474.post-67113572553039032142012-05-18T19:24:00.001-07:002012-05-18T19:24:11.193-07:00let's play the name game...You didn't think I'd skip over these gems did you?<br />
<br />
My husband is totally right. I am guilty of<i> </i>association. As in I have this <i>slight </i>tendency to associate people with other people. Or things. Or places. Or nouns. Whatev.<br />
<br />
Now I can see why that would be annoying, but c'mon people! These guys just make it sooo easy.<br />
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This is helicopter man. Or Kalon. He likes to act cool and fly his own helicopter to impress all the other guys. Oh did Emily happen to see the action too? Win win. <br />
<br />
Best line? "Hey guys, I saw you were having a little party from up there. Looks like you're having fun!"<br />
<br />
Cricket chirp. Men growling. The pretty boy "villian" has made his subtle entrance.<br />
<br />
Booooo.<br />
<br />
Reminds me of another pretty boy villian..<br />
<br />
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I'm guessing they buy their lip gloss at the same high end stores. After all, Kalon IS a Luxury Brand Consultant (Whatever that means..)<br />
<br />
Then there's Stevie. <br />
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No this is not a scene from a horror flick. It is in fact just the world's creepiest man carrying a boombox while he shimmies over to the lady of the hour. <br />
<br />
I will say this once and only once. Used car salesman and dating shows should never ever be related. In any way. But in this case they are. <br />
<br />
McStevie is a pioneer..paving the way for other creepers to find love via reality tv. Maybe he drives a really sweet Dodge Neon. Who knows.<br />
<br />
So while he was bidding Emily hello guess who came to mind?<br />
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<br />
Yes I also think it's weird that the terms "creepster" and "used car salesman" cause my brain to reference Disney films. Or Professor Ratigan, the Rat King, to be more accurate.<br />
<br />
Unfortunately, he's holding a bell instead of a boombox. Shame shame.<br />
<br />
Next we have Alessandro. Oh Alessandro.<br />
<br />
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I don't know how to break this to you..but you're not really from Brazil. I know, I know. That's what your parents told you, but they lied to you. Straight up lied man. Oh and they're not your real parents. I know this, because you are really the son of that guy from Three's Company. <br />
<br />
C'mon "Alessandro"...tell us your real name and ditch that fake accent.<br />
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<br />
Alright. I'll do it for you. Jason Ritter come on dowwwwnn.<br />
<br />
And then there's Charlie.<br />
<br />
Who doesn't love this guy?<br />
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<br />
Wasn't he the one who fell off his friend's deck and had a lot of surgeries? Maybe someone should let him know that he looks like every guy from 98 degrees rolled into one.<br />
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<br />
Okay, you are 98% Lachey I just know it. You should thank your friend. And his deck.<br />
<br />
Finally,<br />
<br />
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Chris. He fashioned some bobbleheads of himself and Emily so she'd be impressed with his carpenter skills. It was an awkward moment when he started talking to her via bobblehead. She managed to respond with her mini Emily and then they lived happily ever after. <br />
<br />
But does anyone else think he resembles a certain..<br />
<br />
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Butler. Gerard Butler. I'm about to get real here for a minute though...G.B is waaayyyy cuter than his above look-alike.<br />
<br />
Can I get an Amen?<br />
<br />
<b>Also.</b><br />
<br />
I cannot for the life of me figure out who Doug reminds me of...<br />
<b> </b><br />
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<b> </b><br />
Help a girl out!<br />
<br />
Tim Allen? Ryan Reynolds?<br />
<br />
Anyone, Anyone?Aprilhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06203450298057277375noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5645340483751007474.post-83464785644676125762012-05-16T07:50:00.000-07:002012-05-16T07:50:17.114-07:00bachelorette = bad news bearsThe other night I hosted a little bachelorette shindig at my house.<br />
<br />
And by bachelorette I mean Emily.<br />
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<br />
Ah yes. Beautiful girl she is.<br />
<br />
What is that bewildered look on her face? I can explain...<br />
<br />
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Did this guy just show up to the mansion on a skateboard and then proceed to toss it into the bushes so he could strut up those stairs to say hello? <br />
<br />
Barf. If his hair wasn't enough indication of his wannabe-ness then I don't know what is. And by wanna-be I am most definitely referring to the one and only..<br />
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David Silver. 90210.<br />
<br />
Don't fall for this guy Emily!<br />
<br />
Next on the list<br />
<br />
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<br />Travis. Of course, no self-respecting bachelor would show up empty handed and he was definitely not going to be made a fool.<br />
<br />
So he brought an egg. An egg that apparently was meant to symbolize his commitment and devotion. <br />
<br />
Unfortunately I couldn't find a picture of him sitting on the porch swing. Alone with only an egg for company.<br />
<br />
I guess that's what happens when you bring a "Pre-Bird" (as Tom Haverford would say) to a fancy party.<br />
<br />
P.S- Rascall Flats called and want their hair back.<br />
<br />
And then there's..<br />
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Michael. The musician with his very own Youtube channel. Impressive. <br />
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The only problem is that when I look at him another image comes to mind..<br />
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He just seemed a little too My So-Called Life-ish if you know what I'm saying. Depressed. Aspiring musician. Breaking innocent girls hearts with his secret drug addiction. You know the story.<br />
<br />
Poor Emily.<br />
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She's headed for heartbreak city. I saw the clip where one of the guys refers to her daughter as "baggage".<br />
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That southern charm disappeared faster than the guy who dressed up granny-style.<br />
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Up next! Bobbleheads, helicopters, and the guy who resembled a creepy used car salesman.<br />
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Stay tuned..Aprilhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06203450298057277375noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5645340483751007474.post-88574777258387841082012-05-14T09:27:00.000-07:002012-05-14T09:27:11.995-07:00mama's weekend<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC8Jpk9uljmQimpF_6uGQRzPxjilpqtbcUf2fj1Bs2lbuZKl6B4SMgzJ-RH__rFAChKNTDtU9EhqbpwB1rRwJ7rVyKq78qwfVhIdCOe5HWAVoWwdDYoBgpM8J4H5WMrFToYQTPXnaa-48/s1600/IMG_0455.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC8Jpk9uljmQimpF_6uGQRzPxjilpqtbcUf2fj1Bs2lbuZKl6B4SMgzJ-RH__rFAChKNTDtU9EhqbpwB1rRwJ7rVyKq78qwfVhIdCOe5HWAVoWwdDYoBgpM8J4H5WMrFToYQTPXnaa-48/s400/IMG_0455.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />For Mother's Day all I wanted was a vacation.<br />
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You know...it's a been a rough few weeks. <br />
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Andrew came home Friday afternoon and said to me, "Honey, you need to pack a swimsuit and an overnight bag, because we are going on a little trip."<br />
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Sweeter words had never been spoken!<br />
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So we packed our bags and headed north to the glamorous city of Salt Lake.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoCRfzHONa9XtD77mLUrWpJ_BBUNoHxLEuDDqrD0JNbpuAaOPv0KgwZF9420LCpnVe9wRa3vrk1ETLBEgQJHDMpsVozokd4mYjgEroZkQ6M0YjzQ4KbrU4yhadVVjwRNPgwAm9HcGJBfM/s1600/IMG_0456.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoCRfzHONa9XtD77mLUrWpJ_BBUNoHxLEuDDqrD0JNbpuAaOPv0KgwZF9420LCpnVe9wRa3vrk1ETLBEgQJHDMpsVozokd4mYjgEroZkQ6M0YjzQ4KbrU4yhadVVjwRNPgwAm9HcGJBfM/s400/IMG_0456.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">the hotel lobby</span></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></td></tr>
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We checked in and then headed off to dinner at my fav restaurant in Utah:<br />
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Have you been here? We discovered it on a trip to SLC last year and it's become a staple for all future vacations.<br />
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We sat at the counter and pretended we were judges on "Chopped".<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Fish and Chips</span></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimQQ1r_3ReB6btBWbGG0lx_py1LRm3RkJ10BXri5hVT60fjKILNsvs8ncA99YC35OS7bGMuaNH97Iea_sDkircEanh9XZo_eRajRm4HQnerLRFHv2knT9pGmWDgXezGlcq7ICDzTqt7cY/s1600/IMG_0459.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimQQ1r_3ReB6btBWbGG0lx_py1LRm3RkJ10BXri5hVT60fjKILNsvs8ncA99YC35OS7bGMuaNH97Iea_sDkircEanh9XZo_eRajRm4HQnerLRFHv2knT9pGmWDgXezGlcq7ICDzTqt7cY/s400/IMG_0459.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">The Copper Onion burger complete with housemade pickles!</span></td></tr>
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We stopped by City Creek after dinner for some casual shopping. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5VONd_fIioT3Z2_bK3ICOm-Len6NcllzLpqwyL_4gjZ1XyT5vm0D3WMb-OmkBPFfsUYywD1FdMGn25Fi51pUKa9-CJrPo3LDQYFdSV1wH2OkayrS1sbly3b6hbF2k0PbStMIR_s-eEZw/s1600/IMG_0461.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5VONd_fIioT3Z2_bK3ICOm-Len6NcllzLpqwyL_4gjZ1XyT5vm0D3WMb-OmkBPFfsUYywD1FdMGn25Fi51pUKa9-CJrPo3LDQYFdSV1wH2OkayrS1sbly3b6hbF2k0PbStMIR_s-eEZw/s400/IMG_0461.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">I found a few things that belonged in my closet</span></td></tr>
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<br />
Since our trip to Belgium last December we crave real french fries and only the best waffles.<br />
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Naturally this meant Andrew running over to Bruges Waffles and Frites for some dessert.<br />
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We were <i>not </i>disappointed!<br />
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Don't be fooled by how simple this looks...it is Divine.<br />
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<br />
Oh so good.<br />
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Our last stop was Les Madeleines, a Patisserie I've been begging to go to for months.<br />
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It was a little shop hidden in a corner and everything was delicious.</div>
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Andrew ordered the Turkey Club</div>
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Have you ever had <b><i>real </i></b>french fries? Pomme Frites at Les Madeleines are perfection.<br />
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I got the Sesame Chicken Salad in an egg roll wrap with Edamame. <br />
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I could eat this every day. It was so, so good.<br />
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Finally we ordered the Kouing-Aman Bread Pudding...<br />
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"The Best Thing I ever ate" show on Food Network came here to feature this dessert. No wonder. <br />
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Shout out to my sweet husband who made the weekend soooo nice. I feel rejuvenated and rested.<br />
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Being a mom is awesome. Especially when I get to come home to this cute little thing<br />
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<br />Aprilhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06203450298057277375noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5645340483751007474.post-33297586478943681902012-05-13T08:07:00.001-07:002012-05-13T08:07:45.487-07:00Mama love<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Happy Mother's Day!Aprilhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06203450298057277375noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5645340483751007474.post-57533926762041873862012-05-08T08:17:00.000-07:002012-05-08T09:19:05.097-07:00if you give a girl a remodel..She'll probably choose to sleep for a year afterwards.<br />
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Yes, people, I'm <i>exhausted.</i><br />
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<i> </i>I'm not positive, but I have a hunch that it may have something to do with sleeping on the couch for a week, Ellie refusing naps amidst loud banging on the other side of her bedroom wall, and spending the last day and half assuming damage control to get my house back into some sort of liveable state.<br />
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And we did see Avengers late last night, but that was <i><b>completely necessary.</b></i><br />
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Everytime we remodel something I remember, "oh yeah this sucks" because it is always more work than you planned, the unexpected becomes the expected, and you really can't eat enough pizza to get you through the endless hours.<br />
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Our bathroom/laundry room was one disgusting place.<br />
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The flooring was ripped out months ago thanks to the worst sewage problem known to man. The bathtub was a mauve-ish delight and the sink stopped working before Christmas.<br />
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Let's all chant "gross gross gross! " fo reals.<br />
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It was decided that gutting the entire bathroom was really the only way to go. Thus, this was the side of my house for several days. Nothing like opening those french doors on a pretty day to find a toilet, plastic shelving from the 70's, and an old washer.<br />
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Both sides of the coin..Left is Andrew and his bro drywalling the new bathroom. Right is the laundry room side complete with drywall and new paint.<br />
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We had a little trouble getting our new washer and dryer set up. Jon volunteered to be the man of the hour. Andrew assisted by holding everything steady.<br />
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My job was to paint the walls and hold the light fixtures. I learned right then and there that if I were to ever go on Survivor I would win every challenge thanks to my incredible arm strength. Good thing it only took 5 minutes though. Seriously.<br />
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Friday: To avoid post traumatic stress disorder we went to Cafe Rio.<br />
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Tis the coziest laundry room in all the land. I heart it.<br />
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Isn't it pretty?<br />
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Even the toilet looks lovely.<br />
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Elle loves the bathroom so much that she has pooped in the tub twice already while taking a bath and when I pulled her out of the tub she peed all over the floor. <br />
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She really teaches me a lot about what it means to celebrate.<br />
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Now this girl is off to bed for a nice long nap..Aprilhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06203450298057277375noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5645340483751007474.post-56796769934482554932012-05-05T12:55:00.000-07:002012-05-05T12:55:51.152-07:00Pocket dreams<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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This morning I was pleasantly surprised to find a Euro, tickets to the metro in France, and a shopping list in my coat pocket.<br />
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I carefully put each item back inside the safety of my pocket. Then the next time I wear my coat I'll find them and relive Paris all over again. <br />
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Angelina's hot chocolate, the Roue de Paris, quaint little shops offering me pictures of the Mona Lisa and handmade soaps.<br />
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It was so lovely. Yes it was. What a dream.<br />
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Have you checked your pockets lately?<br />
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<br />Aprilhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06203450298057277375noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5645340483751007474.post-81966421577613189152012-05-04T08:55:00.000-07:002012-05-04T08:55:16.781-07:00Ellie's room..a "b.p" classicBefore Pinterest I had to think of all my own ideas.<br />
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C'mon now.<br />
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I don't know who has <i>that </i>kind of time.<br />
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Isn't that really the beauty of pinterest? You don't even have to think anymore. People have already thought of it for you, figured out the fastest and easiest way to do it, and they've conveniently fashioned a tutorial to quickly make that idea a real life dream come true.<br />
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Ellie's room is a BP room. That "Before Pinterest" time was a glorious one. Who knew I could be so creative all by myself? Although I can't imagine going back to the days of "thinking", I am happy for what they taught me.<br />
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I feel like this tree is kind of spooky and whimsical. I made the leaves from scrapbook paper and after trial and error, finally found a way to keep them on the wall. Glue dots!<br />
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These bookshelves are made from spice racks I thrifted for about 75 cents. Score.<br />
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What kind of mom would I be if I didn't paint a quote on Elle's wall...I shudder at the thought.<br />
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You will always hold a special place in my heart. Now if you'll excuse me, I need to go pin someone else's ideas.</div>
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Love, Me</div>
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* We're remodeling our guest bathroom this week. My house looks like a junkyard and one bathroom for 8 people is not as glamorous as it sounds... </div>
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<br />Aprilhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06203450298057277375noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5645340483751007474.post-41276218884070401572012-05-02T21:47:00.000-07:002012-05-02T21:47:15.748-07:00in living color<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />
I feel ya Lucy.<br />
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<br />When I was ten my parents gave me a black and white television for Christmas. It was a real work of art.<br />
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I watched I Love Lucy more than any other show (until Zach Morris came into my life that is). I would sneak into the game room where we kept our tv's and I remember smirking to myself, thinking I was so clever to outsmart my own parents.<br />
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Because they gave me a black and white t.v and usually that's a shame. Didn't they know that life is in color?<br />
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But I Love Lucy wasn't in color anyway so I wasn't even missing out on anything!<br />
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She had spunk. She was hilarious. And she was brave.<br />
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Today I decided it's about time I channeled my inner Lucy.<br />
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I should've known where this would end when I bought these shades a few weeks ago.</div>
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Just a girl, two willing stylists, and a lonely shampoo bowl.</div>
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My hair was so dark that we needed to lighten it up a bit before adding some color. Perfect time for some light reading.<br />
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That's my hair school bff Kelcie. Isn't she the cutest?<br />
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P.S..this is my hair after the bleach bath before the color. Interesting shade it was.<br />
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If you combined a yellow starburst with an orange starburst you would successfully achieve this haircolor. Or at least be able to better imagine how awesome it actually looked in person.<br />
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Let's get that color on...make Lucy proud!<br />
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Okay so I'm not in black and white.<br />
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This is me.<br />
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In living color. <br />
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I never tell Andrew when I'm changing my hair. I prefer that look of surprise I see on his face and I anticipate hearing those sweet words, "Whoa honey! What..you...different. Nice. You look awesome!" <br />
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It's quite fun. You should try this with your spouse sometime.<br />
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I'm not very funny and I don't think I'm very brave.<br />
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But on rare occasions I find myself having the guts to do something I'd normally never do.<br />
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Thanks Lucy.<br />
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I still heart you.Aprilhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06203450298057277375noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5645340483751007474.post-29939103022183683802012-04-27T10:13:00.001-07:002012-04-27T10:13:59.963-07:00so it has come to this<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I don't know about you, but I'm having one "h" of a week.<br />
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So let's have ourselves a good laugh while we move on to the weekend, shall we?<br />
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Let the Sexy Sax man Sergio serenade you on your hot date tonight..or if you're lonely he will surely make good company.<br />
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Who can deny this Little Lad?! I don't know why he wasn't asked to perform at the Royal wedding. Or at the very least, Edward and Bella's. <br />
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<br />
Oh Ellen. You just keep getting funnier.<br />
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<span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: large;"><b><i>Happy Friday!</i></b></span><br />
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<br />Aprilhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06203450298057277375noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5645340483751007474.post-14631579528020688792012-04-25T22:44:00.003-07:002012-04-25T23:39:34.219-07:00sheila's life lessonsYesterday, while floating along on my cloud of a bike, I pondered life and it's wonders.<br />
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It's quite unfortunate how little time I spend doing this. Pondering life I mean.<br />
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It really is so great. Isn't it?<br />
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I particularly love how something so simple in life can bring us so much joy. And can make us better people.<br />
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Something as small and insignificant as a bike. A bike named Sheila.<br />
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If you don't remember or have <i>somehow </i>forgotten what Sheila looks like, here she is. In all her glory.<br />
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She is purple. The color of royalty. <br />
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And that's a good thing, because she is actually considered royalty around here.<br />
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She does have a basket now too that makes her oh so pretty. I am the owner of the sweetest bike on the street! <br />
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Stop drooling.<br />
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Sheila's been a real standup gal. She's been with me through it all. "All" of this last month and a half that is.<br />
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I've learned some life lessons during this time. Some I hope to pass on to others. Some I hope to never relive again.<br />
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<span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: x-large;"><b>1. Taking your shirt off during high traffic times is a no.</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">On my way to school a few weeks ago it was a bit chilly so I had a sweatshirt on. Dumb idea, because I always get hot in like the first 30 seconds, but anyway after about 10 minutes I was basically sweating. So as cars drove by, I stopped to remove my sweatshirt. I was fortunate enough to pull off my shirt in the process as well. Which I didn't realize until it was off completely. So I struggled to put it back on quickly, but it was too late. The damage had been done. Now my whole neighborhood thinks I'm a floosy. And they know I'm into lace. I am ashamed. Lesson learned.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b><span style="color: #b45f06;">2. There are signs everywhere.</span></b></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I tend to ignore advertising while I'm driving, mostly because it's annoying. But when you're biking it can't be avoided. And really..there's some gems out there that just shouldn't go without recognition.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Thanks local carwash. I really needed this inspirational message today. I feel so motivated to clean my car and kneel down in prayer all at the same time. Weird. </span> <br />
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<span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: x-large;"><b>3. Fashion shows are even better on a bike.</b></span><br />
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<span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: large;"><span style="color: black;">You can't wear just anything on a bike these days. It's important to consider fashion when riding your bike to the store, school, or even just a nice stroll down the block. This essential rule has caused me to seriously reflect on my biking attire. I give all credit to Saved By The Bell, because the show's really been my inspiration for my latest fashion finds. I want those peeps driving by in cars to know that I heart the 80's! </span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #b45f06;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></span><b> </b></span></span><span style="font-size: large;">My pumped up kicks. Bring on the neon!</span><br />
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<span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: x-large;"><b>4. "Hey girl, I love the way you look like a maniac after riding your bike for an hour."</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"> I'm confident that Ryan Gosling should have a "hey girl" caption that goes a little something like this. Because he always says the things that girls love most. And the truth is you and hotness do not go together after cruising on your bike. In fact, you probably look like a crazy person. But that's alright, because if you're like me, you've got an awesome husband who sees you and says,</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEis_EMEu_lCcKySEU-eO10HPBmJL8_YoXIWhxJpqtPNkYEdX5GleWX6qxclsP8bxebCtISu5P40Z1ZoWyuq1kDUrdYrThvKXGWeTkO8fjlZgnjdVotJEND3LzHNPzG64SowOxbWEuHOmgo/s1600/IMG_0274.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEis_EMEu_lCcKySEU-eO10HPBmJL8_YoXIWhxJpqtPNkYEdX5GleWX6qxclsP8bxebCtISu5P40Z1ZoWyuq1kDUrdYrThvKXGWeTkO8fjlZgnjdVotJEND3LzHNPzG64SowOxbWEuHOmgo/s400/IMG_0274.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">"Baby your hair looks AWESOME!" with the most amount of sincerity and sweetness that you could ever dream of. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">And that's when you know.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Life is soooo much better with the beach cruiser of your dreams.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">And little moments of undressing in public, sweating like a wild animal, and ridiculous hair become so worth it when you realize that your life would not really have been complete without the lovely bike that brings so much happiness and the man who let you buy it.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Life is GOOD. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Lessons learned.</span><br />
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<br />Aprilhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06203450298057277375noreply@blogger.com5