tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34494515061694205842024-03-13T07:49:29.808-07:00The Gilded GirlA twenty-something living in the big city who loves food, fashion and fun.Unknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger25125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3449451506169420584.post-19243123157693418322020-07-02T08:29:00.000-07:002020-07-02T08:29:14.864-07:00DIY flower WreathSo this summer I was inspired to make my own flower wreath. There are a lot on Etsy but they are rather pricey, so I thought why not try it myself?<br />
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I was inspired by this one...<a href="https://www.thehowtomom.com/diy-tulip-wreath" target="_blank">https://www.thehowtomom.com/diy-tulip-wreath</a><br />
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I purchased a green rim from the dollar Tree<br />
Then I purchased fake peonies and roses in the same hues - I couldn’t find the tulips anywhere!<br />
I wove the flowers together and used a glue gun.<br />
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Here is my finished product!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhG1LFt_On4qrFRTT_RDXnK9vBkRxSXe1dKk7CIPeNmRJiJaDoLufkKCybxP_FvF4CPMFNBGTb7Atx2bLotmpDPw-_Yj_S0ohvKODL23oxunUUnmtQ1qT3VsaQNcB7cITQXDVTiuEGJ0Q/s1600/IMG_7895.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1217" data-original-width="1242" height="313" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhG1LFt_On4qrFRTT_RDXnK9vBkRxSXe1dKk7CIPeNmRJiJaDoLufkKCybxP_FvF4CPMFNBGTb7Atx2bLotmpDPw-_Yj_S0ohvKODL23oxunUUnmtQ1qT3VsaQNcB7cITQXDVTiuEGJ0Q/s320/IMG_7895.PNG" width="320" /></a></div>
I liked it on our front door but it was a little too small so I’m going to give it to my grandma who is just getting home from the hospital!<br />
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Let me know if you try this fun project!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3449451506169420584.post-23829127992745526312014-08-14T16:25:00.000-07:002014-08-14T16:25:15.252-07:00Shooting RangeSo I have shot a gun one other time I life and that was a shotgun. This was a little different. We recently headed out to the 'burbs to <a href="http://www.maxonshooters.com/" target="_blank">Maxon shooting range</a>. My husband got his Grandfathers old gun for Christmas and wanted to try it out. Armed with a Foid card, we went to the range. Unfortunately, there were no cameras allowed at all inside of the shop and range. But I did get to wear a pretty cool pair of hot pink ear guards and snazzy glasses. Here is a pick of my target!<br />
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Not too bad. I was the only woman there and I felt like a bada**. Will I do it again? Maybe. Was it a cool experience? Absolutely<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Have you ever gone to a shooting range before? What did you think? </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">GG</span></div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3449451506169420584.post-54227427591401271932014-08-06T20:18:00.001-07:002014-08-06T20:18:38.540-07:00New School year, new decorSo I haven't posted in forever and I apologize! I am starting a new school year in a couple weeks and I'm trying to get excited about it. I think I'm going to try a few new things to spruce up my work environment. I share my classroom with 4 other adults so it can be difficult to have our own space. <br />
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Here are some ideas I had..<br />
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1. New schnazzy desk items.<br />
I saw this picture on Pinterest and there was no link to anything but I think it is totally my style. I found the gold stapler <a href="http://www.target.com/p/nate-berkus-stapler/-/A-15023970" target="_blank">here</a>. And the Diptyque <a href="http://www.diptyqueparis.com/?gclid=CjwKEAjwpIefBRCuir7wy-f1kCwSJADXBi2ac6jFso6xEZP5Jpe4GRW0GTFATL-P_Thc-BSC20T-8BoCtpTw_wcB" target="_blank">here</a>. I think I can find the rest at one of my favorite stores, Homegoods.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitG5VH-FBAXIR00l75utN2YOBO_XHs3DwusQ85fXUQNFYG7Bd3iplmZidOSUbDGlkx_u8YLGU4jd8W3N5Ks9aCdJG7ea-j5SbqsvbavktJFUvp0BghkCrNcxTvYlLh3P9PI5fZIPjsB6M/s1600/Screen+shot+2014-08-06+at+5.12.02+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitG5VH-FBAXIR00l75utN2YOBO_XHs3DwusQ85fXUQNFYG7Bd3iplmZidOSUbDGlkx_u8YLGU4jd8W3N5Ks9aCdJG7ea-j5SbqsvbavktJFUvp0BghkCrNcxTvYlLh3P9PI5fZIPjsB6M/s1600/Screen+shot+2014-08-06+at+5.12.02+PM.png" height="320" width="252" /></a></div>
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2. Flowers. </div>
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Peonies are my favorite and I know I can't have those all the time but they make me happy and why not bring some fresh ones to work every Monday? </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4CVwkl78jKNEKsIvqDaWOY6IJgWvoXREz2fxgYmKpNCZQm3zz4tz4bLSKEEGe6ESVX-Zs_1qMk1UmCnHgLN7Y6a26Ar2RXHqCXwyYrg3-cUVNdtbDlZ7BfCKW0iSb1ip_BQOvQ5LTA3Q/s1600/Screen+shot+2014-08-06+at+10.07.08+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4CVwkl78jKNEKsIvqDaWOY6IJgWvoXREz2fxgYmKpNCZQm3zz4tz4bLSKEEGe6ESVX-Zs_1qMk1UmCnHgLN7Y6a26Ar2RXHqCXwyYrg3-cUVNdtbDlZ7BfCKW0iSb1ip_BQOvQ5LTA3Q/s1600/Screen+shot+2014-08-06+at+10.07.08+PM.png" height="320" width="265" /></a></div>
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3. Contact Paper around my Desk.</div>
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This might be my biggest adventure yet, my desk at school is metal, old and boring so I had an idea to cover it in Contact paper like this, or wrapping paper? We'll see how it goes! ( source <a href="http://mspowers1.blogspot.com/p/pictures.html" target="_blank">here</a>) </div>
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What have you done to jazz up your work environment? </div>
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XO,</div>
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GG</div>
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3449451506169420584.post-75378724798358503482014-04-13T11:33:00.004-07:002014-04-13T11:33:49.787-07:00Euro-Trip 2014My Christmas present from my husband was a trip to Europe! We decided to go over spring break and are going to London and Paris. We are going for 10 days and I could not be <u>more excited</u>. I have been planning for weeks and created an itinerary planned and a packing list. ( The two things I am most concerned about :)) I did a ton of research, read a lot on trip advisor and bought 3 travel books. I also couldn't find very much out there about what to pack!<br />
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Here is our itinerary and what I decided to pack. I will keep you posted on how the packing and itinerary turns out! <br />
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Itinerary<br />
<i><b>London- We are staying in the Kensington Area</b></i><br />
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Arrive at Heathrow around 10:30am, Travel to hotel, check in, freshen up, Tower of London, Westminister Abbey, Dinner somewhere in the West End</div>
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<b>Sunday</b></div>
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slept in, wake up and grab the bus tour, Cabinet war room, Churchill museum</div>
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<b>Monday</b></div>
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- National Gallery, Nottinghill, Leicester square for theatre tickets, Dinner in SoHo</div>
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<b>Tuesday</b></div>
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- Changing of the Guard- Buckingham palace @ 11:30, High tea at the Dorchester, Tate Modern Museum, Theatre, Dinner at Sampson's </div>
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<b>Wednesday</b></div>
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Check out west end, Covenant Garden, Trafalgar square: walking tour, Eurrail leaves at 5:30, arrive in Paris </div>
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<i><b>Paris- We are staying in the Champs de Mars area near the Eiffel Tower</b></i></div>
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<b>Thursday</b></div>
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- Historic Paris walk ( AM ),Louvre ( allow 3 hours), Dinner reservation</div>
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<b>Friday</b></div>
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Versailles, casual dinner out, could stay out there or come back and wander</div>
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<b>Saturday</b></div>
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Notre Dame, Arc de Triumph, Explore, shopping, Muse de Orsay , River Cruise </div>
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<b>Sunday </b></div>
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Flea Market in the AM ( have map and directions), Rue de Clare walk ( grab supplies for lunch, Take it to picnic on the Eiffel lawn) Go up to the eiffel tower, watch the sunset, glass of champagne, late dinner, drinks in Place du Trocadero or Rue de Clare</div>
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<b>Monday</b></div>
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- Left Bank, any other areas we want to go back to, Airport and go home @ 2</div>
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<b>Packing List</b></div>
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- 3 pairs of pants; jeans, black pants, leggings</div>
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- 2 sweaters, black and gray</div>
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- 1 cotton midi dress, black</div>
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- 1 vest, 1 trench coat</div>
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- 3 scarves; to add some color to some outfits</div>
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-3 tops, black long sleeve, 2 diff. striped tops </div>
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- 1 skirt ( black) and pair of tights</div>
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-3 pairs of shoes, Toms, Low heeled boots and tennis shoes</div>
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Have you ever done this trip? What did you do and what did you pack?? </div>
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XO,</div>
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GG</div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3449451506169420584.post-66090619173834949222014-02-22T14:40:00.001-08:002014-02-22T14:40:03.057-08:00Chicago Restaurant WeekEarlier this month, we had Chicago restaurant week in the city that loves food. <br />
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I usually look forward to this week. It's a chance to go to my favorite restaurants and try some of their newest creations or try somewhere new! </div>
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This year we did...</div>
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<a href="http://www.ruthschris.com/Restaurant-Locations/chicago" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Ruth Chris:</a> I love their filets cooked in butter. I know this is a chain and some people ( including my husband) might snub their noses but I really like it! Everything was delicious ( unfortunately I forgot to take pictures! ) Downside; tons of people, it was very crowded and it felt like our server was on autopilot. </div>
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<a href="http://rpmitalian.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">RPM:</a> I had been here once and it was fantastic. I was looking forward to trying it again. We went with a big group and I was the only one that did the prix fix. It worked out because we wound up ordering a lot of different things. The lobster bruschetta was by far my favorite. Their pasta is fantastic and if you ever in doubt, I would give that a try. Downside; we had to wait for over 25 minutes for our table with a reservation and I also had a pork dish which had more fat than meat. </div>
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<a href="http://tortoiseclub.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Tortoise Club</a>: This was our first visit. I had only heard a few snippets about it and sometimes that is the best way to go into a new experience. It was very cool location with traditional decor. They had a live jazz band playing which really added to the experience. We did one prix fix menu and then the rest of us ordered off the menu. Our friends had sea bass and trout and they liked their dishes. We also had a salted carmel dessert, very good. I had a shrimp polenta gumbo and that was excellent. Very spicy but good. Downside; a little pricey for what you get. <br />
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Pictured: salted carmel, shrimp gumbo.<br />
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Overall a great experience and a great excuse to get out in this freezing weather and enjoy good food with friends. </div>
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Did you try any new restaurants for Restaurant Week? </div>
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XO,</div>
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GG</div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3449451506169420584.post-56552837119523758112014-02-16T14:12:00.000-08:002014-03-14T14:29:51.321-07:00Crock Pot Pulled Pork<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">So I have made many meals in the crock pot, especially with this cold weather we are having! We were hosting friends for dinner and I wanted to do a Southern pulled pork recipe. My Dad makes an amazing pulled pork in the crock pot so I asked him for the recipe. He walked me through it over the phone. It turned out fantastic!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Here's the recipe and my step by step, Enjoy!</span><br>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Dad's Spicy Carolina Pulled Pork Recipe</span></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">1 bottle of Pork Rub ( I used Stubbs, only enough to coat the meat) </span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">1 cup of red wine vinegar</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">2 tablespoons of Worschesthire Sauce</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">1 tablespoon spicy brown mustard</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">2 teaspoons of cracked red pepper</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">1 tablespoon of brown sugar</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">1/2 teaspoon powdered cayenne pepper ( can leave out if you don't like it to have a little spice) </span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">2 red onions, quartered</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">1 bottle of dark beer ( I used a porter) </span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">5 lb. pork shoulder ( I used boneless) </span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">1. Rub the pork with the pork rub, then wrap it tightly in saran wrap and refrigerate for 3-4 hours. ( I did it overnight) </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">2. Place the quartered onions in the bottom of the crock pot. Unwrap the roast and place on top of onions.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">3. Drizzle the red wine vinegar over the roast, and the bottle of beer. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">4. Combine brown sugar, worsteshire, cracked rd pepper, cayenne pepper and mustard. Distribute evenly in the crock pot and over meat.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">5. Cook on low for 7-8 hours</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">6. Remove the meat and onions to a cutting board. Remove any skin. Using 2 forks, pull and shred the pork. Strain out or pour out most of the liquid in the pot. Chop the onions and mix into the shredded meat. Place it back into the pot and leave on warm until ready to serve. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">7. Serve on warm buns ( I used Pretzel rolls) and top with your favorite sauce. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Our favorite is Montgomery Inn, my husband is from Cincinnati and that stuff is amazing! However, my Dad recommended the Carolina gold BBQ sauce from Trader Joes so I put out both for people to choose from. Normally I am 100% the Montgomery Inn but the other sauce was DELICIOUS!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I served it with <a href="http://lemon-sugar.com/2011/08/jalapeno-cheddar-cornbread.html/" target="_blank">Jalepeno cheddar corn bread</a> from Lemon Sugar and <a href="http://zumfressen.blogspot.de/2008/11/creamy-macaroni-and-cheese-with-ham.html" target="_blank">Baked Mac and Cheese</a> from Delectable Edibles. For dessert, a homemade trifle. ( The picture below was stolen from the internet, I forgot to take a picture of mine). </span><br>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9em4fy8yrStxEo8tycAdSnzPd2-w51TpuUwyH4wVifocw7HmXaTLcjxBYN8bZJdw82Xwclca4kr7kf-4I4VKtKqQC606V_3QMS3Z-c7MdEJ2lgVndtPS1C-KXUe11T0CI7OddRN15JkY/s1600/Screen+shot+2014-02-16+at+4.00.31+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9em4fy8yrStxEo8tycAdSnzPd2-w51TpuUwyH4wVifocw7HmXaTLcjxBYN8bZJdw82Xwclca4kr7kf-4I4VKtKqQC606V_3QMS3Z-c7MdEJ2lgVndtPS1C-KXUe11T0CI7OddRN15JkY/s1600/Screen+shot+2014-02-16+at+4.00.31+PM.png"></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><u>Mom's Trifle Recipe</u></span><br>
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">1 angel food cake</span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">2 bananas (sliced) </span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">1 pckg of cool whip ( I used fat free) </span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">2 pkgs. of cheesecake pudding ( I made it with skim milk)</span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">1 can of condensed milk ( her recipe called for making the pudding with that but I felt like it was too fatty so I didn't use it.) </span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">1 package of strawberries ( sliced)</span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">1 package of blueberries</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Make the pudding first and let it sit. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Layer ingredients in the trifle bowl. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Rip or quarter pieces of Angel food cake to coat the bottom. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Cover that with the pudding </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Then an even amt. of strawberries, blueberries and banana slices</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Top with a layer of cool whip. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Repeat! Twice :) </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">What's your favorite BBQ sauce? Do you have a favorite southern speciality?</span><br>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">XO,</span><br>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">GG</span><br>
<br>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3449451506169420584.post-70911761156862585582014-02-08T13:25:00.002-08:002014-02-08T13:25:53.257-08:00Eataly Review<div style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwXLfnKNgzHfvgA4e6dnp430hqfx4VkNp5aI-A-AuOunVmh9s-ZDIUspPcOaRzXurWLOircKGajYjISnSapXl0hJLFCAc_lXTTUKVFM1cxjU4-IgvqgLUEdraDzA1EP0XUVAn-j_qLURQ/s640/blogger-image-605368980.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><span style="text-align: start;">First off, let me begin by saying if you haven't visited Eataly yet you need to. I went twice over the holiday. We ate a million different types of cheese, meats and wine, my idea of Heaven.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAHfOeCa9yYMyH3WhyphenhyphenMLJWwnSdKiE1WOg9PUPP9HeUrebTKF7t8xn37phnpwfihH1Hp08EUa_1A2oRxBVqrUyZyI9lzFPQihV4Y2mg18LdJY-idVY89ShkDRZ2bJDsa4ZZy1-LE4l0bw0/s640/blogger-image-1992433697.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAHfOeCa9yYMyH3WhyphenhyphenMLJWwnSdKiE1WOg9PUPP9HeUrebTKF7t8xn37phnpwfihH1Hp08EUa_1A2oRxBVqrUyZyI9lzFPQihV4Y2mg18LdJY-idVY89ShkDRZ2bJDsa4ZZy1-LE4l0bw0/s320/blogger-image-1992433697.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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We ate at the Piazza, and had the risotto balls, oysters, giant cheese and meat platter and 2 different types of red wine.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX6WKhlY2_ylURETXlYt4qnuQYfFRwtU6sN0GnAwiKjuLUH2Xkm0I-rsyFzCVmLkqeuz7m58CN9Lj5iFiTiqoe1YyscRLUKGcpItW68DhFQ8_whOpm7bk2H79ZK-HdFGOIkUAHxsiZVN4/s640/blogger-image-314200777.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX6WKhlY2_ylURETXlYt4qnuQYfFRwtU6sN0GnAwiKjuLUH2Xkm0I-rsyFzCVmLkqeuz7m58CN9Lj5iFiTiqoe1YyscRLUKGcpItW68DhFQ8_whOpm7bk2H79ZK-HdFGOIkUAHxsiZVN4/s320/blogger-image-314200777.jpg" width="240" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnAR5iY1pYzKKQYuHlvO9rHPu4P3JfNvnPaOs5NmtgLM1G1CSfiepzNFrG9k40lF37Y9aSyGCtxd4KBZRLvtEmbCH5H3GrnC2Q0elg6JCtOkotuuePkM359qC2sDfG73E1Gado7KfGwoY/s640/blogger-image-1100132985.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnAR5iY1pYzKKQYuHlvO9rHPu4P3JfNvnPaOs5NmtgLM1G1CSfiepzNFrG9k40lF37Y9aSyGCtxd4KBZRLvtEmbCH5H3GrnC2Q0elg6JCtOkotuuePkM359qC2sDfG73E1Gado7KfGwoY/s320/blogger-image-1100132985.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Hand rolled pasta. If you don't believe it is hand rolled, you can just watch the person rolling it, amazing! At first I was a little skeptical of the price, but after tasting it I really felt like I could taste the difference. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKR_hJQVUhB2jjnSNEM__HeEo3Fl86HFo2ubdYBgczD0qf4qxeNv7SpzSXkFyCqaLawW6WzrkdkbUVLgBo2CwABqV4LQaPg_3kigLGQrTfI8KsXp-UnkvSUpoKwbWYFJCQwU6mmZAnynM/s640/blogger-image--169533107.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKR_hJQVUhB2jjnSNEM__HeEo3Fl86HFo2ubdYBgczD0qf4qxeNv7SpzSXkFyCqaLawW6WzrkdkbUVLgBo2CwABqV4LQaPg_3kigLGQrTfI8KsXp-UnkvSUpoKwbWYFJCQwU6mmZAnynM/s400/blogger-image--169533107.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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We even purchased our meal ingredients here. Fresh Atlantic salmon, olive bread, olive oil and pasta. Everything tasted fresh and delicious. </div>
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I will be returning here again for a unique grocery and eating experience! Check it out! </div>
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Have you been here yet? What's your favorite Italian dish? </div>
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XO,</div>
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GG</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3449451506169420584.post-14654119092367057932014-01-25T19:46:00.001-08:002014-01-28T06:44:49.882-08:00Alex and Ani<div style="text-align: center;">
I first heard about Alex and Ani when visiting one of my very good friends in Boston. She was wearing these really pretty bracelets and I asked her what they were. She was shocked that living in Chicago,I had never heard of them. The first chance we got, we went to their store on Newberry St. and explored. They had a huge selection of bracelets with many different charms and stones. See their stuff here<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"> </span><a href="http://www.alexandani.com/" target="_blank" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Alex and Ani</a><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"> </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Started on the East Coast their</span> mantra is:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/proxy/AVvXsEjd9SdODvLuXb1oEqP2B1yJ-odj_VDlO9s9d_38GsbzfOZrRLHYjgayP3oZVz5pw0l93Q0sDppS_9C1s_i3WAW_JFJJoq8g3smefOyfKkzyXLbO5ABExiEOqipPEHCdPVWFhxWNrXpXvMGzLztRLULBe2cu9uV3ckfI2nLTOCnwgVsMhg=" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="collections" border="0" src="http://cdn.alexandani.com/media/catalog/category/collections_87.png" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; height: auto; max-width: 100%; text-align: center; vertical-align: middle;" title="collections"></a></div>
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Enlighten • Enchant • Empower</span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Beautiful pieces for every occasion that are truly personal and made with positive energy.</span></div>
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Each bracelet is handmade in the U. S. And each charm means something. I have since bought many "stacks" ( 3 or more bangles) and I love wearing them. My favorite are the charms and their meanings. </div>
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;">Here are a few selections of how I usually wear mine.<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjueT6HSCIURnBVsxuiX6aK3jAQk1kuAm_rs8xR9VUDocWeM7icx8yR3apyybPcDP7zBAEFHMn4ZU_2H5Rf-HwV1tv_uk8gVHdwBsJoNDrFyzP-GHvd0Sg7wBaCOXW5KTFOiO-VB8kQ0gE/s640/blogger-image--796662608.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjueT6HSCIURnBVsxuiX6aK3jAQk1kuAm_rs8xR9VUDocWeM7icx8yR3apyybPcDP7zBAEFHMn4ZU_2H5Rf-HwV1tv_uk8gVHdwBsJoNDrFyzP-GHvd0Sg7wBaCOXW5KTFOiO-VB8kQ0gE/s640/blogger-image--796662608.jpg"></a></div></span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;">If you are local to Chicago you can purchase them here at <a href="http://shop.nordstrom.com/c/alex-and-ani?mow=http://m.nordstrom.com/c/alex-and-ani?keyword=alex+and+ani" target="_blank">Nordstrom</a> or here at <a href="http://www1.bloomingdales.com/shop/search?keyword=alex+and+ani&x=-1088&y=-70&cm_kws_ac=alex" target="_blank">Bloomingdales. </a></span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;">What do you think?? Do you have you a favorite? </span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;">XO,</span></div>
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GG</div>
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1. Uggs<br />
The old staple. I've had this particular pair since 2003 and they're still going strong! I recommend the <a href="http://www.uggaustralia.com/women-boots/ultimate-short/5275.html?dwvar_5275_color=BLK#start=43&cgid=women-boots" target="_blank">"Ultimate"</a> since they have lasted way longer than any other Ugg boot I have owned.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCoSYjymPZjiupMUyzaTrsKiPMCJJ9xsZM_AjeFm1tjZ5jU15bxVoheB2T7vx2wy7ZNb98RJRHVb-JpMXniZVsOxxtUv_pXcSIS7AnMkosZptxN77HrZe6UTjEm9BasBUWjnRwVZCcAKc/s640/blogger-image--523382572.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCoSYjymPZjiupMUyzaTrsKiPMCJJ9xsZM_AjeFm1tjZ5jU15bxVoheB2T7vx2wy7ZNb98RJRHVb-JpMXniZVsOxxtUv_pXcSIS7AnMkosZptxN77HrZe6UTjEm9BasBUWjnRwVZCcAKc/s640/blogger-image--523382572.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyYn7OyNoH46IgJU-YuZFFnKtYW6UGPUgI7VE0dTM7pWBMejqrkisJfZokyWs1j8Bj2bqSxEistiGbyXn0UstM7d5irtWTcvjx9lP07OGLJfqBIxZnKzImX_6D00lb9CRWmPCMcrZYL-0/s640/blogger-image--1944542489.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyYn7OyNoH46IgJU-YuZFFnKtYW6UGPUgI7VE0dTM7pWBMejqrkisJfZokyWs1j8Bj2bqSxEistiGbyXn0UstM7d5irtWTcvjx9lP07OGLJfqBIxZnKzImX_6D00lb9CRWmPCMcrZYL-0/s640/blogger-image--1944542489.jpg" /></a></div>
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2. Bogs<br />
Found these through the kids that I teach. I noticed that a lot of them had these funky looking boots, and none of their toes were cold after recess. Win! So I checked out the brand name and bought myself a <a href="http://www.zappos.com/bogs-rider-emboss-black" target="_blank">pair!</a> I love them, they're sort of stylish and keep me warm and waterproof in up to -18 degrees! <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtNE68UiBPt7f5P3ijidimf9iJQjpS4yMZ-3UHIz9KN7W7rFP3XJDqabpJzIAM5p_5B1FZHDbb7uvvfu_7jm_eH0N2F4Q-x4HtkIxLU2bU9GZOS8J7oeDDtPyBdvZyzaUY0-KC-67UxEI/s640/blogger-image--1584582880.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtNE68UiBPt7f5P3ijidimf9iJQjpS4yMZ-3UHIz9KN7W7rFP3XJDqabpJzIAM5p_5B1FZHDbb7uvvfu_7jm_eH0N2F4Q-x4HtkIxLU2bU9GZOS8J7oeDDtPyBdvZyzaUY0-KC-67UxEI/s640/blogger-image--1584582880.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtNE68UiBPt7f5P3ijidimf9iJQjpS4yMZ-3UHIz9KN7W7rFP3XJDqabpJzIAM5p_5B1FZHDbb7uvvfu_7jm_eH0N2F4Q-x4HtkIxLU2bU9GZOS8J7oeDDtPyBdvZyzaUY0-KC-67UxEI/s640/blogger-image--1584582880.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4cja5mkLnNKdygnbr92ifTED3xQ0fks3PdtgrxsnfWHF7UDjFyrGeSmrpWiMDgJD_Y4KojU6c6oBDZ7RcAxs3JNhjSFg9ZkrOk_fimWptxSU_l4zCKbuQRznXcj-7XgQPuJ1hD64MsM4/s640/blogger-image--2024892602.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4cja5mkLnNKdygnbr92ifTED3xQ0fks3PdtgrxsnfWHF7UDjFyrGeSmrpWiMDgJD_Y4KojU6c6oBDZ7RcAxs3JNhjSFg9ZkrOk_fimWptxSU_l4zCKbuQRznXcj-7XgQPuJ1hD64MsM4/s640/blogger-image--2024892602.jpg" /></a></div>
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3. Sorel's<br />
As if I needed another pair...I could justify these because we were going to CO and the Bears game. Good excuse right? These <a href="http://www.rei.com/product/771940/sorel-joan-of-arctic-winter-boots-womens,-tobacco/sudan-brown?preferredSku=7719400019&cm_mmc=cse_PLA-_-pla-_-product-_-7719400019&mr:trackingCode=C26D1EE3-8228-E311-A755-BC305BF82162&mr:referralID=NA&mr:device=c&mr:adType=pla&mr:ad=36518448760&mr:keyword=&mr:match=&mr:filter=39033357280&msid=WyWNCTex_dc|pcrid|36518448760|&{copy:s_kwcid}" target="_blank">Joan of Arctic</a> boots are really cute. Everyone I saw in Breckinridge had a pair and I think they're the grown up version of snow boots. I love the fur, <span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">they keep you warm</span> and they're wide enough for your thickest socks.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhihzWRXeETClvX_PUCZdZQPOFD7e9aDBZeAHdg_QkgxcTXR7XJ_qMXXt2GjmOdfG5cqVTnyD90BBOjDB75z_JBHX9pS05WPcF-gTtiBiFa2UWIkiY2jFREJ7_k2WRBj0vvREhxBuVmMsk/s640/blogger-image-1040222270.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhihzWRXeETClvX_PUCZdZQPOFD7e9aDBZeAHdg_QkgxcTXR7XJ_qMXXt2GjmOdfG5cqVTnyD90BBOjDB75z_JBHX9pS05WPcF-gTtiBiFa2UWIkiY2jFREJ7_k2WRBj0vvREhxBuVmMsk/s640/blogger-image-1040222270.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhihzWRXeETClvX_PUCZdZQPOFD7e9aDBZeAHdg_QkgxcTXR7XJ_qMXXt2GjmOdfG5cqVTnyD90BBOjDB75z_JBHX9pS05WPcF-gTtiBiFa2UWIkiY2jFREJ7_k2WRBj0vvREhxBuVmMsk/s640/blogger-image-1040222270.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzvfMyew6OK02r6-7rYlwMCQlQ1brAVcoXRiPWT36B-f4Na1vdVSo3lVVZ6-wvz-QOAlEebKO8ACL3Jzz57w-PO4UvxBeJzKA4kTQvV3nPQ-JGKHp-bO3-d-HuLRnVlXP3LxPGF5GnjwU/s640/blogger-image-2019290849.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzvfMyew6OK02r6-7rYlwMCQlQ1brAVcoXRiPWT36B-f4Na1vdVSo3lVVZ6-wvz-QOAlEebKO8ACL3Jzz57w-PO4UvxBeJzKA4kTQvV3nPQ-JGKHp-bO3-d-HuLRnVlXP3LxPGF5GnjwU/s640/blogger-image-2019290849.jpg" /></a></div>
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4. Duck Boots<br />
These are throwbacks to an old<a href="http://www.llbean.com/llb/shop/43281?feat=506700-GN3&page=women-s-bean-boots-by-l-l-bean-reg-10-quot-shearling-lined" target="_blank"> classic.</a> This link is to a boot with a bit of a different style than I have, probably because mine are older, but you get the idea. They are toasty in the winter, but I like wearing them in the rain too. Perfect for that slushy Spring day when it's still cold enough to need boots.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgP57T1oUY7doUrlzSiqhEw-wAPzfjQ5Npcy55piPWvarQHK6t0NNNuh0Aw0xV8g9l6L2WeBqi1tMf1lm0O-L_7pKys_LGr15n0bd45eybTu0RdzTUiAzXeDV2vqLPXErwtnRyH0eGsRCM/s640/blogger-image-1823159531.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgP57T1oUY7doUrlzSiqhEw-wAPzfjQ5Npcy55piPWvarQHK6t0NNNuh0Aw0xV8g9l6L2WeBqi1tMf1lm0O-L_7pKys_LGr15n0bd45eybTu0RdzTUiAzXeDV2vqLPXErwtnRyH0eGsRCM/s640/blogger-image-1823159531.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdnF04AVffjq-JQpkk1e6EsieEq9Xs9QxNI9ZcLXa8ikrnZcKxMQZVDwk7f7_e-8sUcDWQLTAMQGxF-iUWJjUJtf-YkqWi0a2DsN2qhRJp9dQs96nmyWsv2vnVWnx7xoTXUh-O9lEeKQ4/s640/blogger-image-1610421292.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdnF04AVffjq-JQpkk1e6EsieEq9Xs9QxNI9ZcLXa8ikrnZcKxMQZVDwk7f7_e-8sUcDWQLTAMQGxF-iUWJjUJtf-YkqWi0a2DsN2qhRJp9dQs96nmyWsv2vnVWnx7xoTXUh-O9lEeKQ4/s640/blogger-image-1610421292.jpg" /></a></div>
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Which are your favorite? What do you like to wear when its cold out? </div>
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XO,</div>
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GG</div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3449451506169420584.post-58573563159482135522013-12-30T07:52:00.002-08:002013-12-30T14:46:16.139-08:00Christmas Festivities<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">So now that Christmas is over I wanted to share a few items that I made for my family. I hosted my and my husbands family and since this was our second year doing this I felt like I had to outdo myself and make it different than last year. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Over the course of 5 days we made quite a few meals, breakfast, lunch and dinner. However Christmas day was truly an extravaganza!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Our breakfast was a cinnamon crumb cake, <a href="http://www.nowitakeflight.com/2010/03/paula-deens-french-toast-casserole.html" target="_blank">Paula Deen's french toast casserole</a>, yum, fruit salad with vanilla pudding, fresh bagels and pomegranate mimosas. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4T6hKsXKCsbjQJxrlJ57ya1pGWcVdmjrQkNm8wvvM4XN2vq8yAXdf0XYnyDFoi4Jd3c9eLFpcnXeoT-D_ehzVAOgHPskstTieKuXMfG0ucUo-fBgmrRBY5kBYP1HSCgMG7rK0iMIdx4c/s640/blogger-image-702752476.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4T6hKsXKCsbjQJxrlJ57ya1pGWcVdmjrQkNm8wvvM4XN2vq8yAXdf0XYnyDFoi4Jd3c9eLFpcnXeoT-D_ehzVAOgHPskstTieKuXMfG0ucUo-fBgmrRBY5kBYP1HSCgMG7rK0iMIdx4c/s640/blogger-image-702752476.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijvAwZF7V7sUxsSXII4oPs5UeWpNGJFeallIbG7BIPl0i4TADDyNFpc1YLfGBy42i5MWJA6BQ-LxBJ62SvX3DKz9VZBZMW6FegNnwzRz0K54Y_KoiNcL82ccN6K4HlRX3AqvWwsZ5kEcU/s640/blogger-image-1836406840.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijvAwZF7V7sUxsSXII4oPs5UeWpNGJFeallIbG7BIPl0i4TADDyNFpc1YLfGBy42i5MWJA6BQ-LxBJ62SvX3DKz9VZBZMW6FegNnwzRz0K54Y_KoiNcL82ccN6K4HlRX3AqvWwsZ5kEcU/s640/blogger-image-1836406840.jpg" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I made quite a few appetizers in between breakfast and dinner to keep everyone from getting too hungry. I made a baked spinach, artichoke and feta dip with pita chips, roasted tomatoes with fresh basil, mozzarella, basically caprese on a stick. I also made a <a href="http://www.whatscookingwithruthie.com/2012/11/01/virtual-progressive-thanksgiving-dinner/" target="_blank">roasted cranberry crostini </a>which was to die for. I forgot to take a picture of my <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/233694668137893811/" target="_blank">Cheese Ball</a>. It was awesome and I made it twice during the holiday season. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4T6hKsXKCsbjQJxrlJ57ya1pGWcVdmjrQkNm8wvvM4XN2vq8yAXdf0XYnyDFoi4Jd3c9eLFpcnXeoT-D_ehzVAOgHPskstTieKuXMfG0ucUo-fBgmrRBY5kBYP1HSCgMG7rK0iMIdx4c/s640/blogger-image-702752476.jpg" /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">For dinner my brother-in-law helped me set the table. He is beyond talented. We used floating candles with fresh pine, cranberries and cinnamon sticks. I used a plaid tablecloth and a burlap runner. ( If you read my last post you would see I used burlap with everything :)) We used our Kate Spade China plates, 2 different patterns, and then 2 different napkins. We folded the napkins with bakers twine, candy canes and cinnamon sticks. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeJTxRXWEUYCbT4qL8yQE5ntbeAWsqAfzHUQjMDpFnby9Z3bWFTtisH9MLp-ZYn6gU-6cTwOdKCQNbpyhLh98BPDw4TW74LIYH4OH6FcWZDaV-6RZn4J-r_n_UGq8927sVQzP2VyFGxCs/s640/blogger-image--1014330966.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeJTxRXWEUYCbT4qL8yQE5ntbeAWsqAfzHUQjMDpFnby9Z3bWFTtisH9MLp-ZYn6gU-6cTwOdKCQNbpyhLh98BPDw4TW74LIYH4OH6FcWZDaV-6RZn4J-r_n_UGq8927sVQzP2VyFGxCs/s640/blogger-image--1014330966.jpg" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">For the dishes, I forgot to take a picture of the delicious honey baked ham. We also made <a href="http://onmysideoftheroom.blogspot.com/2011/06/no-bake-cheesecake-fit-for-worlds.html?m=1" target="_blank">roasted brussel sprouts, crushed walnuts, blue cheese and olive oil</a>. Then a <a href="http://onmysideoftheroom.blogspot.com/2011/06/no-bake-cheesecake-fit-for-worlds.html?m=1" target="_blank">quinoa salad with pomegranate, fresh mint, cucumber, and feta</a>. Then the classic mashed potatoes. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6_y4v2_N8sA7Y-1tbsbKl91j6kD-yzTJTHCK09gC9TkuPzkfgjZfcy0JWj8NPzfERFYPgPIxy3Ocas0QRXd2LE04B9hE1yoS6GXED8D8EZN7MZoOj9wCeYMiGpLo6UN8iBSs5rYbO4aY/s640/blogger-image-1472147219.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6_y4v2_N8sA7Y-1tbsbKl91j6kD-yzTJTHCK09gC9TkuPzkfgjZfcy0JWj8NPzfERFYPgPIxy3Ocas0QRXd2LE04B9hE1yoS6GXED8D8EZN7MZoOj9wCeYMiGpLo6UN8iBSs5rYbO4aY/s640/blogger-image-1472147219.jpg" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Lastly for dessert, again, forgot to take a picture, Ooops. I made amazing peppermint brownies, peanut butter cookies and a <a href="http://onmysideoftheroom.blogspot.com/2011/06/no-bake-cheesecake-fit-for-worlds.html?m=1" target="_blank">no bake cheesecake</a>. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">That's all I've got for Christmas. Did you make anything wonderful for your holiday? I hope everyone had an amazing holiday and all the best for a happy, healthy, new year!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">XO,</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">GG </span></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3449451506169420584.post-52347824600879264792013-12-16T12:46:00.000-08:002013-12-30T14:46:31.992-08:00Christmas Decorations<br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I love the Christmas Season and decorating for my family is one of my favorite things to do. Our tree was inspired by the Pottery Barn Catalog. We got the catalog in October, ridiculous, and I thought, "this is what I want our tree to look like this year, but I can make it my way". </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> I used burlap that I had purchased and cut it into 5 inch strips. Then wrapped it around the tree. It actually doesn't go all the way around but I don't think you can tell. Then I used the leftover strip to make a bow for the top. I really like how it turned out. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6f6PHCjx4XGyFfvF_pwrha1fyjKgubFIvZPV36q7VQ-8f3_cvspuIHbRC6Ip02WqhNFM0T3v8WlBY7ftpO0AXYtoIn_YPU0862ELmuIc2K7Hq7ZP0zRzKqx36JsJUgVZ40GLuqayFgkI/s640/blogger-image-1505023029.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6f6PHCjx4XGyFfvF_pwrha1fyjKgubFIvZPV36q7VQ-8f3_cvspuIHbRC6Ip02WqhNFM0T3v8WlBY7ftpO0AXYtoIn_YPU0862ELmuIc2K7Hq7ZP0zRzKqx36JsJUgVZ40GLuqayFgkI/s640/blogger-image-1505023029.jpg" /></span></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeKt4c1fwjT87800twTrkz2ALgMMqZXbB1Qu2wPX_XoXX5_8B7opyfxCj3uJ3HkZY5G-7z21tKY33quc7PQbKHZ-G9E5m-LQPHUyErkxudXxACugaJx5CGuTqW_pKP23rIy00PuRRyBc0/s640/blogger-image--443429356.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeKt4c1fwjT87800twTrkz2ALgMMqZXbB1Qu2wPX_XoXX5_8B7opyfxCj3uJ3HkZY5G-7z21tKY33quc7PQbKHZ-G9E5m-LQPHUyErkxudXxACugaJx5CGuTqW_pKP23rIy00PuRRyBc0/s640/blogger-image--443429356.jpg" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I was going to stop there but I had some extra burlap..... So I decided I wanted to make a banner and a table runner. I went on Etsy and saw some ideas for different banners. I decided to do a hybrid of two different ones. Here was my inspiration</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJKg6uiseAR7gj3UFRL9inpd80tWxIoi1umtsSJ0rv6FvHys8MwRzDJ8jRq3dLbRCNoPlcXAlmspQWuxPeuPwPBHVO929WOi8OgyUqPC5-BJ_nD6wxJqCmht6drp-Wl2zsfxPN8oRqh40/s1600/Screen+shot+2013-12-16+at+2.44.02+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJKg6uiseAR7gj3UFRL9inpd80tWxIoi1umtsSJ0rv6FvHys8MwRzDJ8jRq3dLbRCNoPlcXAlmspQWuxPeuPwPBHVO929WOi8OgyUqPC5-BJ_nD6wxJqCmht6drp-Wl2zsfxPN8oRqh40/s320/Screen+shot+2013-12-16+at+2.44.02+PM.png" width="284" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I cut out the burlap using a pattern made from cardboard. Then I made the stencils for the letters of "Be Merry". I used Martha Stewart fabric paint for the letters and polka dots and then used spray tacky glue to stick it on the ribbon. I kind of like how mine turned out better! </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMgqrYcJ6xybtvcOgEf__gqJvHddnQZXZLg7xdCHAN5aU8Eonfset0pchxRYxwpcybhLLJ0U7XfOry4g79MWnDIKRXWyVIbR3TlDBGQcoVzR9os2qyqwwL-womcWWsBbiswNF1atBj-tA/s640/blogger-image-243231687.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMgqrYcJ6xybtvcOgEf__gqJvHddnQZXZLg7xdCHAN5aU8Eonfset0pchxRYxwpcybhLLJ0U7XfOry4g79MWnDIKRXWyVIbR3TlDBGQcoVzR9os2qyqwwL-womcWWsBbiswNF1atBj-tA/s640/blogger-image-243231687.jpg" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">What do you think?? What do your Christmas decorations look like??</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> XO,</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> GG </span></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3449451506169420584.post-81238178922826909532013-12-07T11:02:00.005-08:002013-12-07T11:02:50.481-08:00Seasonal Recipes<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">We have been hosting guests a lot this season and it has given me a chance to perfect some new fall recipes. I thought I would share them with you. They all turned out really well!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>Pumpkin pancakes</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><i>Ingredients</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">1 Container of multi-grain pancake mix from trader joes</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">1 can of organic pumpkin</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">1/2 tbsp. of nutmeg</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">1/2 tbsp. of cinnamon</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Add in the ingredients from the box ( 1 egg for waffles and 2 eggs for pancakes) as well as oil ( I used coconut oil instead.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Combine all ingredients in a bowl</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Pour them out as pancakes or waffles</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>Glazed sweet potatoes</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">http://www.reynoldskitchens.com/easy-recipes/recipe-items/honey-roasted-sweet-potatoes/</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Above is the link to the recipe, they were so good, almost a dessert rather than a side.</span><br />
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<li style="outline: none;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">4 sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces</span></li>
<li style="outline: none;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">1/4 cup of extra-virgin olive oil</span></li>
<li style="outline: none;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">1/4 cup of honey</span></li>
<li style="outline: none;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">2 teaspoons ground cinnamon</span></li>
<li style="outline: none;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">salt and pepper to taste</span></li>
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<li style="margin: 0px 0px 10px; outline: none;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Preheat the oven to 375 degrees. </span></li>
<li style="margin: 0px 0px 10px; outline: none;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Spread the potatoes out on a cookie sheet lined with Reynolds<span style="line-height: 0; outline: none; position: relative; top: -0.5em; vertical-align: baseline;">®</span> Parchment Paper. </span></li>
<li style="margin: 0px 0px 10px; outline: none;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Sprinkle the oil, honey, cinnamon, salt and pepper over the potatoes and cook for 30 minutes.</span></li>
<li style="margin: 0px 0px 10px; outline: none;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Once they are cooled scoop them onto a serving dish and devour! </span></li>
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<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Fall apple medley </span></b><br />
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<i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Ingredients</span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">4 apples ( I used red delicious) chopped with skin on </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">1 tbsp. of cinnamon</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">1 tbsp. of nutmeg</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">1 tsp. of vanilla </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Combine all apples, nutmeg and cinnamon in a skillet. Cook on medium heat until the apples are to your liking. ( I like mine well done) and then add the vanilla. Toss apples around until they are coated in vanilla.</span><br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Enjoy! </span></b></div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3449451506169420584.post-60261269684502555352013-11-18T15:44:00.002-08:002013-12-30T14:45:28.602-08:00Hot Chocolate RaceSo I ran my very first half-marathon last year....the Chicago Spring Half Marathon. I am NOT a runner, and even after running it I still don't really consider myself a runner. I decided to run initially to challenge myself to do something I have never done before and wanted to do something physically exhausting. Since that race, I have not done a lot of running. So the Hot Chocolate 5k/15k was coming up and I thought, why not do another race? I decided to do the 5k only, and the decision was 2-fold. My friends were doing it who don't generally run, and my husband was doing who NEVER runs. In anticipation I did run the 3.1 miles twice two weeks before, and then the week before. I was surprised to find that my body was able to get back in the groove of running with relative ease. It was not very challenging to discover my rhythm again. The day of the race was a beautiful, clear day. Chilly, but no rain or snow to be seen. <br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqFDsSeCtqkV-CNqj6YaFPeCaf_qftE4E8GRObLeXw_PofGGcn9IKEYfhEQpar3A-RnButorlWCK0EUFhYaCn_9YEBLTfNBf4qW_UDNS2YFtFhyphenhyphen79JIfEOlZ0MO9Y0lmRi1HAVCu3Hqeo/s640/blogger-image-619514425.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqFDsSeCtqkV-CNqj6YaFPeCaf_qftE4E8GRObLeXw_PofGGcn9IKEYfhEQpar3A-RnButorlWCK0EUFhYaCn_9YEBLTfNBf4qW_UDNS2YFtFhyphenhyphen79JIfEOlZ0MO9Y0lmRi1HAVCu3Hqeo/s640/blogger-image-619514425.jpg" /></a><br />
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I have to say it turned out really well! I am pleased with the experience overall and excited to have run my first ever race with my husband. It didn't hurt that the end of the race had a delicious chocolate fondue and fun things to dip into it. It was the best end of a race I've ever seen and the smell was amazing!<br />
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Have you ever done anything as a team with your spouse or significant other? </div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3449451506169420584.post-37836629577559889432013-10-30T17:31:00.001-07:002013-10-30T17:41:14.645-07:00Follow me on BloglovinBloglovin is a new tool to follow your favorite blogs. I am just beginning to use it and understand it. Here is a <a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/bloglovin/id421818340?mt=8" target="_blank">link</a> to try and download the mobile app. Have you tried it out yet?<br />
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<a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/blog/11163851/?claim=hprud7zpk8p">Follow my blog with Bloglovin</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3449451506169420584.post-58761078680648605962013-10-21T15:33:00.002-07:002013-10-21T15:33:59.390-07:00Dancing like nobody is watchingI am a dancer, correction, I <b>was</b> a dancer. I have danced my entire life....until I graduated from college and stopped. When I moved back to Chicago I started doing all sorts of things and dancing just wasn't one of them. I have tried over the last 5 years half-heartedly, to get back into it but I hadn't found anywhere that I really loved. I took several classes; some that I could have done in my sleep, and several advanced classes that I was way too embarrassed to ever go back to. Cue, <a href="http://www.allaboutdance.org/home.php" target="_blank">All About Dance </a>in Old Town.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZaQq83zW3ozHB33YQCn9lmM_2ZpN1uQFC4_4yav741VNjCz4oIvnYRpPzO11yVS3_F7plzjMeTCoOV7PIgyJ3xFgxD_lW2apxaT6GGdwlrmcFW_no1QqRBW8_He5Cj7KgGDMmy-wdH3I/s640/blogger-image-343115012.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZaQq83zW3ozHB33YQCn9lmM_2ZpN1uQFC4_4yav741VNjCz4oIvnYRpPzO11yVS3_F7plzjMeTCoOV7PIgyJ3xFgxD_lW2apxaT6GGdwlrmcFW_no1QqRBW8_He5Cj7KgGDMmy-wdH3I/s640/blogger-image-343115012.jpg" /></a></div>
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This was one place I had never tried but had heard awesome things. Friends of mine who were on dance team with me in high school and college had recommended it to me many times but I never got around to trying it, until last night. I'll admit I was nervous, I was wondering if I had lost all my skills. Deep breath...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ7Q1f2hP977a06IC-3DclLIF0Hdpv-Y-xLbRzX4l6Si-WWX3IyL95Cb6IEHSENO1zalqTFfFGqDGzy96Zw-j0cdjDu83_-n5Qu2mowX68qt6zuQin9kF-fwGLZQ3WWIuWgM1Trvwxz0o/s640/blogger-image--1269798068.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ7Q1f2hP977a06IC-3DclLIF0Hdpv-Y-xLbRzX4l6Si-WWX3IyL95Cb6IEHSENO1zalqTFfFGqDGzy96Zw-j0cdjDu83_-n5Qu2mowX68qt6zuQin9kF-fwGLZQ3WWIuWgM1Trvwxz0o/s640/blogger-image--1269798068.jpg" /></a></div>
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I took the adult cardio class. This was a combination of excersice with abs, arms and stretching. Then we learned a dance routine quickly and practiced it over and over to different tempos and new hit songs. I had a blast! And bonus, I am sore today! Not only am I excited to be back at dancing but I got an awesome workout in the process. It has inspired me not to put off something I love doing again. Wednesday is a ballet class, one of my all time favorite types of dance, and I think I'm going to try it next! <br />
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Have you ever re-ignited your passion for something?? </div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3449451506169420584.post-35012633080916297072013-10-05T17:25:00.000-07:002013-10-05T17:25:00.527-07:00Fall into fashion findsSo if you're like me, you absolutely love summer but are looking forward to Fall fashions. I had the opportunity to visit the new Fashion Outlets of Chicago to score some new items for Fall. Overall I was really impressed with the mall. It is clean, well organized and parking couldn't be easier. Some of my favorite stores were All saints, Last call Nieman Marcus, Tory Burch, J. Crew Factory and Bloomingdales the outlet. Most of the stores had a good selection but only a few felt like you we're really getting a deal. All Saints was one if those. Not only did they have a huge selection of clothes but they were actually reasonable! A fully beaded sequin top, $98. A distressed leather jacket, $495. I didn't buy anything but I plan on purchasing next time.<br />
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Tory Burch was my next stop, they had a great selection of shoes and clothes. I wound up scoring two pairs of flats, and a headband. The flats were about 30% cheaper than I've seen anywhere else! Around $165 for the Reva flats and $100 for the Eddie folding flats. The black patent ones are currently being sold at Nordstrom! The headband I wound up taking back because it didn't fit my head but it was $45. </div>
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The last stop was the Bloomingdales outlet store. A great selection of dresses, shoes and accessories. All at a fraction of the regular price. I wound up with a new pair of Rachel Roy booties for $170 and a L. K. Bennett dress for $200. Amazing!!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfn7n-koNlh5MzlCVW2UimXNdelWS93dRYgytLyIE_amTSyWPLFar9D9j9yUsjFCNQV_wWViKhrNbUiJjQM3v3_gPLn9P3vw-5Cx7lSyMc4RISBPlwvLujLm4wUAmLBNtBtmrlJu-GDYM/s640/blogger-image-1011397857.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfn7n-koNlh5MzlCVW2UimXNdelWS93dRYgytLyIE_amTSyWPLFar9D9j9yUsjFCNQV_wWViKhrNbUiJjQM3v3_gPLn9P3vw-5Cx7lSyMc4RISBPlwvLujLm4wUAmLBNtBtmrlJu-GDYM/s640/blogger-image-1011397857.jpg" /></a></div>
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Hooray for great deals! Have you guys visited the outlets recently? Found anything good??</div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3449451506169420584.post-4780893964301513682013-09-30T15:21:00.001-07:002013-10-05T17:23:11.431-07:00Showers of Happiness!<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">One of my very best friends is having a second child and this time, it is a girl! She already has a sweet little boy, who is adorable and was also my ring bearer. :) I was so thrilled to help host a "Sprinkle" in her honor. We held it in a wonderful room at<a href="http://www.bravoitalian.com/index.html" target="_blank"> Bravo!</a> We decided to go with the Mommy-to-be's favorite style; shabby chic.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">We used burlap runners, ribbon and handmade floral centerpieces. There were also handmade place cards with vintage fabric and buttons. We also used pink straws which made the table fun and whimsical. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1lTswVzT20AyTiHYa0S-LJIj_2aX6YGBbfrM-J49kF6rCo_zw81V0tLvpFDq8XrF6ZvbCJg3AraDceWvOPk4xcWd7HKZqIjAZNP3QIxxsw1Zdi106Y_8WiJYPxIuXISELxBVEfdYPegI/s640/blogger-image--998616111.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1lTswVzT20AyTiHYa0S-LJIj_2aX6YGBbfrM-J49kF6rCo_zw81V0tLvpFDq8XrF6ZvbCJg3AraDceWvOPk4xcWd7HKZqIjAZNP3QIxxsw1Zdi106Y_8WiJYPxIuXISELxBVEfdYPegI/s640/blogger-image--998616111.jpg" /></span></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxem9HO5-6xwFsSyUjiyNIlT2Qj4OZ8dFaBkOn_DKDhTGx-b4QSEPZm56GmMFxYJTkyZa0tc4tnueDiBig3VqZXRATDFHGdwhFfkke3rjBGylidF2xbEfbPwHUJSPiO0uoFGCZXz0jytM/s640/blogger-image-1920186086.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxem9HO5-6xwFsSyUjiyNIlT2Qj4OZ8dFaBkOn_DKDhTGx-b4QSEPZm56GmMFxYJTkyZa0tc4tnueDiBig3VqZXRATDFHGdwhFfkke3rjBGylidF2xbEfbPwHUJSPiO0uoFGCZXz0jytM/s640/blogger-image-1920186086.jpg" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">For the prizes, I handmade chocolate chip cookie jars using ball jars, ribbon, and fabric. I included all the dry ingredients and all the winners had to do was add the refrigerated ingredients. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDfoJxNmVXJwRZym2vImtwejvVj6wz0al0q1l2I8TKXUXi0BoxbAm8WDY719wZ0rUUqMFI58k__C2TNXoA64X4bLtEmTBc6nH1ceq1ZxurlGqeByyaVO66Q89V8oSUUNOwPN9GWIARM_s/s640/blogger-image-785005045.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikfCxZFRO1fcAy4iYPSdpguunhRTu7hmPBV2wxzIxTq5-P4Dn7hrmeIVnNjuEhQV0-U0Zz88aVkTTg0791ibKG155by2erHQe10FRWn0Aga0mX0tpAmIS7r83cswdWVMnuWKSdng-TW6Q/s640/blogger-image--527930902.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikfCxZFRO1fcAy4iYPSdpguunhRTu7hmPBV2wxzIxTq5-P4Dn7hrmeIVnNjuEhQV0-U0Zz88aVkTTg0791ibKG155by2erHQe10FRWn0Aga0mX0tpAmIS7r83cswdWVMnuWKSdng-TW6Q/s640/blogger-image--527930902.jpg" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">I created a handmade burlap "It's a girl" pennant, as well as the tissue pom poms to use as decoration. She is going to hang the pennant again at their home when the baby arrives. :)</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM-n63o9S48y7pSy7r4SE5bqfbzFMQ4B53AjWBrdUAC6Xec-R3ELBNrUfPsVZemp7xFfcu4XPMLFmhjoaVcygbdZuAjp-kMZEMsQByLZuALNnRceH5wikACqQgtElJtL9STQzgX83yzfE/s640/blogger-image-1753952998.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM-n63o9S48y7pSy7r4SE5bqfbzFMQ4B53AjWBrdUAC6Xec-R3ELBNrUfPsVZemp7xFfcu4XPMLFmhjoaVcygbdZuAjp-kMZEMsQByLZuALNnRceH5wikACqQgtElJtL9STQzgX83yzfE/s640/blogger-image-1753952998.jpg" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">We had a gorgeous ruffle cake handmade by the Mommy-to-be's friend. I also created a calendar with her due date where people could stamp when they thought the baby would be born and sign their names. This served as the guest book and decor for the future nursery. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">We also used the Mommy-to-be's old baby clothes as decor for the gift table. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">It was truly a beautiful shower and everything turned out really well! I had a lot of fun creating the handmade elements. I think it made it really special and the Mommy-to-be to be absolutely loved it, which is what really counts. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Have you ever thrown an event you were really proud of?? </span></div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3449451506169420584.post-22816676499357203912013-09-12T16:04:00.001-07:002013-09-16T06:58:09.609-07:00Hair Trial how-to<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); ">Hi there! So as I was getting ready for work this morning I was attempting to do my hair and it was not cooperating with me. Then inspiration hit me, why not try a braid? I have always been relatively handy with doing my own hair and I wear a braid every once and awhile. But I decided to step out of my relative braid comfort zone and attempt a braid wreath. Apparently this is a big trend for fall and I wanted to see if I could replicate it. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); "><br></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); "><i>Inspiration is Scar Jo. </i></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8jwXsLbEGo7k5II3GsPIeQPqgS2QdQUdjfwLQfEV_prvFXjv_zTUAF4kN8JJgqk1I0pVMd_c4Agdaf1KOgWsa8pz7PAzXR_TpoNQVqVf9zeKpILi2WjAmas0CxPWcbMvy8AlChHhyphenhyphenZP0/s640/blogger-image-894482142.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8jwXsLbEGo7k5II3GsPIeQPqgS2QdQUdjfwLQfEV_prvFXjv_zTUAF4kN8JJgqk1I0pVMd_c4Agdaf1KOgWsa8pz7PAzXR_TpoNQVqVf9zeKpILi2WjAmas0CxPWcbMvy8AlChHhyphenhyphenZP0/s640/blogger-image-894482142.jpg"></a></div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div>I think it actually turned out really cute and I got a TON of compliments on it. We are having dinner with friends this evening and I think I'm going to continue to rock it then! I attached a little tutorial for those of you who want to brave it also.<div><br></div><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfehdpO6xQ7zYEjQBdCEgjSnSTvHTaBN6TKbzQ9wI8t8Vmbj-kV2ldKXXAazTk1PSMytJm_dxe98RrG76E22vGnhiN8WTiNoBvVbhEsfo0pG6piYXMAy0UZgQFUOyTtkOLs8IAyxiMRxk/s640/blogger-image--1829533898.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfehdpO6xQ7zYEjQBdCEgjSnSTvHTaBN6TKbzQ9wI8t8Vmbj-kV2ldKXXAazTk1PSMytJm_dxe98RrG76E22vGnhiN8WTiNoBvVbhEsfo0pG6piYXMAy0UZgQFUOyTtkOLs8IAyxiMRxk/s640/blogger-image--1829533898.jpg"></a></div><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">1. Do a regular French braid across the top of your head. Starting as far over as you can. </div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">2. Continue the braid down the side of your head and then all down the bottom of your head. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">3. Make a long ponytail of a braid down the opposite side of your head. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">4. Turn the braid and pin it back up to the top of your head to complete the braid. Tuck it up under the top braid and secure with bobby pins. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); "> </span><span style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); ">I'd love to hear your feedback if you try it!! Good luck! </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"> Xo,</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"> GG </div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3449451506169420584.post-48474538628226025012013-09-08T10:27:00.004-07:002013-09-08T10:29:46.954-07:00Bean Town!<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
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<span style="color: #674ea7; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I had the opportunity to visit a good friend in Boston and wanted to share a few details from our trip. We visited a lot of the historic landmarks in the city such as bunker hill, the site of the Boston massacre and Paul Reveres home. I had no idea that Boston was such a walking-friendly city, it's great! </span><br />
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<span style="color: #674ea7; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">We saw so many sites in Boston, some of my favorites included the infamous Cheers, Harvard and drinks at the <a href="http://www.libertyhotel.com/" target="_blank">Liberty Hotel</a>. The hotel is an old jail, converted into 3 different bars and as well as hotel rooms. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #674ea7; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br class="Apple-interchange-newline" />We also had some amazing seafood meals! Boston's food was delicious. We had dinner at one of the best seafood restaurants in Boston, <a href="http://www.legalseafoods.com/restaurants/boston-long-wharf" target="_blank">Legal Seafood</a>. It was right on the water and we were even treated to fire works while we were eating. </span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKxXYofzYT-lHDhXQX72FMmZCbAGMlkuK4xUL2hCrkKexKi736JgzZR62Q6wQxIPk-lJ8J6tSdWufpiYPmsLc4ZoFRH_CENO7Kxd-xNKrVQP2M_SoBY3suvhAf7xT631E1vnQcr4e_2wQ/s640/blogger-image-2135517876.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="color: #674ea7; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKxXYofzYT-lHDhXQX72FMmZCbAGMlkuK4xUL2hCrkKexKi736JgzZR62Q6wQxIPk-lJ8J6tSdWufpiYPmsLc4ZoFRH_CENO7Kxd-xNKrVQP2M_SoBY3suvhAf7xT631E1vnQcr4e_2wQ/s400/blogger-image-2135517876.jpg" width="400" /></span></a><br />
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I can't wait to visit the East Coast again soon!</div>
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<span style="color: #674ea7; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Has anyone been to Boston? What were some of your favorite things? </span></div>
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<span style="color: purple; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">This week I had the best celebration of the year, my birthday! My girlfriends and I attended the Art Institute's event of <a href="http://www.artic.edu/event/dressed-nines-sheer-and-summery" target="_blank">Impressionism, Fashion, and Modernity</a> cocktail party. We dressed in the attire of the night which was sheer and summery, then headed to <a href="http://popsforchampagne.com/" target="_blank">Pops for Champagne</a> for some bubbly and dinner. We ended the night at <a href="http://www.theundergroundchicago.com/#all" target="_blank">The Underground Club</a>. It's not normally my style but drinking a bottle of Vueve Cliquot anywhere is pretty much my cup of tea! </span><span style="color: purple; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">It was a wonderful night and it makes me so thankful for my fantastic friends. </span></div>
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<span style="color: purple; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Here is a picture of the invitation I made using <a href="http://www.paperlesspost.com/" target="_blank">Paperless Post</a>. It is such a cute site and I love to use it for a variety of things!</span></div>
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<span style="color: purple; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Some pictures from the night. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="color: purple;">On my actual birthday my husband and I went to </span><a href="http://bavetteschicago.com/" target="_blank">Bavette's</a><span style="color: purple;"> for a beautiful dinner. He always takes me somewhere special and gives the best gifts! </span><span style="color: purple;">This year was no exception.</span><span style="color: purple;"> I also got some spectacular presents from all the special people in my life. </span><span style="color: purple; text-align: start;">I even got flowers delivered to my school from my wonderful sister and husband. It was wonderful!! </span></span></div>
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<span style="color: purple; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">What do you do to celebrate your birthday?? What is your favorite gift? </span></div>
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3449451506169420584.post-39521465938834470882013-08-31T13:26:00.003-07:002013-08-31T13:30:37.739-07:00About Me<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-size: 13.333333969116211px; line-height: 18.19444465637207px;"><span style="color: #e06666; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Hi Friends!</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-size: 13.333333969116211px; line-height: 18.19444465637207px;"><span style="color: #e06666; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b> I am the Gilded Girl. This is a collection of my thoughts and interests and all around lifestyle. It is food, crafts, fashion and fun. It is ever changing, just like me! I hope you enjoy! </b></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-size: 13.333333969116211px; line-height: 18.19444465637207px;"><span style="color: #e06666; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>XO</b></span></span></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3449451506169420584.post-57223336662914811742013-08-28T09:11:00.002-07:002013-08-31T13:29:54.920-07:00A visit to the iconic Macinack Island<span style="color: blue; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Hi Everyone! I recently got back from Macinack island and wanted to share a few things that we did there. </span><br />
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<span style="color: blue; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">For those of you who have never been, Mackianck is a cute island off the coast of Northern Michigan. It is about 8 miles around and allows no vehicles on it. Visiting the island is like taking a step back in time. There are only horse and buggies, and bicycles allowed and you need to take a Ferry ride to get to the island. This is the view that greats you when they ferry pulls into the harbor.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQtO3WOcEJNd4ji-98ETuf9p1inpjqTC-ERUMfExL7NcrHty-rT9wzpcEJcq9zB5o8Mn2PBx3US8Kt99StU9SzJd7i02aP5ypcq02am2bq8hSHB5ouQsbDLfTxkVzhNZyxu1zAu9HI3DM/s1600/IMG_1315.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQtO3WOcEJNd4ji-98ETuf9p1inpjqTC-ERUMfExL7NcrHty-rT9wzpcEJcq9zB5o8Mn2PBx3US8Kt99StU9SzJd7i02aP5ypcq02am2bq8hSHB5ouQsbDLfTxkVzhNZyxu1zAu9HI3DM/s320/IMG_1315.JPG" width="240" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="color: blue; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">One of the true gems of the island is the iconic <a href="http://www.grandhotel.com/" target="_blank">Grand Hotel</a>. Established in 1887 the hotel is almost on top of the hill in Macinack and has amazing views. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqCwIr1cCrDNK06LIF5IbXFbawbvRuX4HAj0Z338oP_N6zZay1OiyO9aJ08Jg0agZqGq10VdDtHKVRyiDl9XTWz8SlXuvAAh1bgkVuXf6DX81XlC26Kig_8HqMoXdulkIGRnZ9eSk89vw/s1600/IMG_1315.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqCwIr1cCrDNK06LIF5IbXFbawbvRuX4HAj0Z338oP_N6zZay1OiyO9aJ08Jg0agZqGq10VdDtHKVRyiDl9XTWz8SlXuvAAh1bgkVuXf6DX81XlC26Kig_8HqMoXdulkIGRnZ9eSk89vw/s320/IMG_1315.JPG" width="240" /></span></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXo2Kvd5EsY7wlkJbOPSqjTADyN-XJV-9gE_6bA7dFeLiHjeiG6ZHIQE8GeIS2TK5NromGXBDzM1wrNx0P9l5zxqteowgcmFKXqr6HhiA4tZhyphenhyphenj28mSXO_KLjMv0Oj6c6PqHBdtr20IEk/s1600/Screen+shot+2013-08-22+at+3.23.18+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" height="132" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXo2Kvd5EsY7wlkJbOPSqjTADyN-XJV-9gE_6bA7dFeLiHjeiG6ZHIQE8GeIS2TK5NromGXBDzM1wrNx0P9l5zxqteowgcmFKXqr6HhiA4tZhyphenhyphenj28mSXO_KLjMv0Oj6c6PqHBdtr20IEk/s320/Screen+shot+2013-08-22+at+3.23.18+PM.png" width="320" /></span></a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqQDHG5C1UVVXE3tGkfa2p4pxaZuhGTnmvy8RJQXGWsYBaF1hgO1TeKUqUaj635yKemDau8_jEG88xbAfcvxIyoKoldXWmxatD1o4nNStbpATKthRVo7ftqQm-2qpTQY-kGBxA-YtgmiA/s1600/IMG_1315.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfHedB4uFapoFQSkR9DirNq13644b6NK0XfD9vmGplD1sPm5CT1fkFqKG9c594Ad64pmrGN5FKzbZecz5F-Vd_kOR77eX3pQZsF7IW-4Q5jsmg7bTaOA-RV0i_fy6eNY7Vt9o66seyaqM/s1600/IMG_1315.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfHedB4uFapoFQSkR9DirNq13644b6NK0XfD9vmGplD1sPm5CT1fkFqKG9c594Ad64pmrGN5FKzbZecz5F-Vd_kOR77eX3pQZsF7IW-4Q5jsmg7bTaOA-RV0i_fy6eNY7Vt9o66seyaqM/s320/IMG_1315.JPG" width="240" /></span></a><span style="color: blue; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqQDHG5C1UVVXE3tGkfa2p4pxaZuhGTnmvy8RJQXGWsYBaF1hgO1TeKUqUaj635yKemDau8_jEG88xbAfcvxIyoKoldXWmxatD1o4nNStbpATKthRVo7ftqQm-2qpTQY-kGBxA-YtgmiA/s320/IMG_1315.JPG" width="320" /></span></div>
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<span style="color: blue; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">We had some delicious dinners on this island. One of my favorites was broiled white plank fish, as well as a few cocktails!</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHIaCMl7OhvvTV1yVX4mcbd0Hy5tbd1bJE4ZX2_X-MI9N4odSMjGFnfM9gCbEKc9zTDAQS-iWLeFtN8ZCc60xAL-6MVbw8V8Z_ZZDIKAZI9MO0lfUaG8hNTw31d06QzHqxx0C3xpGdioE/s1600/IMG_1315.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHIaCMl7OhvvTV1yVX4mcbd0Hy5tbd1bJE4ZX2_X-MI9N4odSMjGFnfM9gCbEKc9zTDAQS-iWLeFtN8ZCc60xAL-6MVbw8V8Z_ZZDIKAZI9MO0lfUaG8hNTw31d06QzHqxx0C3xpGdioE/s320/IMG_1315.JPG" width="320" /></span></a></div>
<span style="color: blue; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> The beautiful bridge in Macinack, it signals that you are getting close and especially awesome to see up close from a boat. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin3voMq5axABSh2D5JHHQxAw-XmdMBI8wuAESyQADnm78HV2279hsdO5yPObTIDoScW3bT7ySJTl0ilxDaket16ApJq5c__T1RnN0hlmLOuk8uvU7UJEOoKFsyMHC_YkuiKlQ4iDwDvRE/s1600/IMG_1315.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin3voMq5axABSh2D5JHHQxAw-XmdMBI8wuAESyQADnm78HV2279hsdO5yPObTIDoScW3bT7ySJTl0ilxDaket16ApJq5c__T1RnN0hlmLOuk8uvU7UJEOoKFsyMHC_YkuiKlQ4iDwDvRE/s320/IMG_1315.JPG" width="240" /></span></a></div>
<span style="color: blue; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> This is the Macinack yacht club, very nautical and quaint.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSKrFoC2oAnO6zcytxGjS5vfoIOKhm-kdnkgCdgNLEZLZI9D2MaxRF-YjURcQ6_vxTHHTt1zFj5kpQnui-TzTWsbyxg_ZXKrPFbSm5LTjUI6MUonSLLfsdgXOgkpqabblwAGckNxzGhgw/s1600/IMG_1315.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSKrFoC2oAnO6zcytxGjS5vfoIOKhm-kdnkgCdgNLEZLZI9D2MaxRF-YjURcQ6_vxTHHTt1zFj5kpQnui-TzTWsbyxg_ZXKrPFbSm5LTjUI6MUonSLLfsdgXOgkpqabblwAGckNxzGhgw/s320/IMG_1315.JPG" width="240" /></span></a></div>
<span style="color: blue; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I chose to stay in a quaint bed and breakfast right on the island. They offered a continental breakfast in the morning that was absolutely perfect. Each room was decorated differently although all had a similar motif of paisley and a victorian-esque theme. I woke up pretty early each day I was there and had some time to reflect, read and enjoy the slow pace of the Island as everyone was waking up.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh22tbAeiTDsM-ui31O3Ffvo22pSnbUXb7JpXnC3OUH7A2gO4kGq32mVWERyslPNTzpZHzb-eoOtnk15U9XgS0zi6hEsir7TgNEfL5OHAvA6I3jmxBC46CsWv2uPrVRHEcvB5icC9p0Q4s/s1600/IMG_1315.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh22tbAeiTDsM-ui31O3Ffvo22pSnbUXb7JpXnC3OUH7A2gO4kGq32mVWERyslPNTzpZHzb-eoOtnk15U9XgS0zi6hEsir7TgNEfL5OHAvA6I3jmxBC46CsWv2uPrVRHEcvB5icC9p0Q4s/s320/IMG_1315.JPG" width="320" /></span></a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1bjmGWP5P1g-9Sk4m49rnGBRTEGl85kui-3gms-zACWfrrw_nza4B4D_9Yj8Bwf024Jds4jcN6iVIkkTlKn8k2KZE0yIuxTcYBvWJf1PsNgCsLALXnsjIPihKYFhUMZpApCMgBectb2w/s1600/IMG_1315.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1bjmGWP5P1g-9Sk4m49rnGBRTEGl85kui-3gms-zACWfrrw_nza4B4D_9Yj8Bwf024Jds4jcN6iVIkkTlKn8k2KZE0yIuxTcYBvWJf1PsNgCsLALXnsjIPihKYFhUMZpApCMgBectb2w/s1600/IMG_1315.JPG" imageanchor="1"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1bjmGWP5P1g-9Sk4m49rnGBRTEGl85kui-3gms-zACWfrrw_nza4B4D_9Yj8Bwf024Jds4jcN6iVIkkTlKn8k2KZE0yIuxTcYBvWJf1PsNgCsLALXnsjIPihKYFhUMZpApCMgBectb2w/s200/IMG_1315.JPG" width="150" /></span></a><br />
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<span style="color: blue; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">If you ever have the chance I highly suggest visiting Macinack. It islike taking a step back in time and there are a ton of things to do there. Have you ever visited Macinack or anywhere that you felt completely removed from modern ways? </span><br />
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3449451506169420584.post-74637735981069735962013-08-19T14:53:00.001-07:002013-08-31T14:06:31.130-07:00Delving into some DIY<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #a64d79; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">So the end of summer is fast approaching and I don't know about you but I had a to-do list a mile long at the beginning of summer and I realllly didn't get as much done as I wanted! This project had been on my list for awhile and I wanted to share it with you guys. </span></div>
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<span style="color: #a64d79; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">So we inherited these rod iron outdoor seats which used to look wonderful. However, after being outside for the last 3 years, they needed an overhaul. </span></div>
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<span style="color: #a64d79; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I was planning on removing the entire cushion, however the screws were rusted closed. Bummer! </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJEZpsq_hrgnewc0pY_mlHhyZ78ZsbvS1aCkJzYW_YhjFomTm1qIXs7Y8ANO7EbUGFwNhf0-sKWk7yh6ljZL9azzDd5RJ02todA95dpZYaZzx4o1-BzTZC_L9__3l_HdXyD9cF5OWFmFQ/s1600/IMG_1216.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJEZpsq_hrgnewc0pY_mlHhyZ78ZsbvS1aCkJzYW_YhjFomTm1qIXs7Y8ANO7EbUGFwNhf0-sKWk7yh6ljZL9azzDd5RJ02todA95dpZYaZzx4o1-BzTZC_L9__3l_HdXyD9cF5OWFmFQ/s200/IMG_1216.JPG" width="150" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #a64d79; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">S<span style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">o, rather than giving up, I decided to work around them and rip off the old fabric and cover it with the new. Easier said than done. I ended up having to rip off the rusted staples holding the fabric down on the base of the chair. This took awhile but it was the only way I could make it work. </span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #a64d79; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8pnqR3wJ8TrGiH7YH1KJMcmCBOQnn5-GTQt0i148q5E3-IFB-EFnteu4zyf69SrClaLsuRCdMoMNfWEjOzGx82sU5X37MxlIloLm6Tuv3YsCQYULCo2CIul_EYfnpUM3RwyJ7X950aB8/s1600/IMG_0891.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8pnqR3wJ8TrGiH7YH1KJMcmCBOQnn5-GTQt0i148q5E3-IFB-EFnteu4zyf69SrClaLsuRCdMoMNfWEjOzGx82sU5X37MxlIloLm6Tuv3YsCQYULCo2CIul_EYfnpUM3RwyJ7X950aB8/s320/IMG_0891.JPG" width="240" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="color: #a64d79; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Once those were done, I cut the fabric to fit around the base of the chair. I then proceeded to attempt to use the staple gun on the base of the chair. Again, easier said than done. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh81Q1vcO2UofaWM-zt-IjxHmlVXXkWO7NE9mzJ8Zl2oqVTec89x5TpyuLvbIPYwXai2-HyHI7hzqYaSfTTXNux74t9X62BKfSwaRMtywg39HIYaLQecS2IPU924UNDWGw-N36-Fn3WT8/s1600/IMG_1125.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh81Q1vcO2UofaWM-zt-IjxHmlVXXkWO7NE9mzJ8Zl2oqVTec89x5TpyuLvbIPYwXai2-HyHI7hzqYaSfTTXNux74t9X62BKfSwaRMtywg39HIYaLQecS2IPU924UNDWGw-N36-Fn3WT8/s200/IMG_1125.JPG" width="150" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9jBffhWrcwD_RCCHMPTAXf8ewofDRLEPNmK_FXQW2tlNdpHq6d5WjS6mGxrmPMruROrndoFCnC34arXOqcClWzUXLHVeci80VSImAHiUH1v6WzlDfiUp5un2MZpcE7r_w2D4lB3RafkE/s1600/IMG_1216.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9jBffhWrcwD_RCCHMPTAXf8ewofDRLEPNmK_FXQW2tlNdpHq6d5WjS6mGxrmPMruROrndoFCnC34arXOqcClWzUXLHVeci80VSImAHiUH1v6WzlDfiUp5un2MZpcE7r_w2D4lB3RafkE/s200/IMG_1216.JPG" width="150" /></a><br />
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<span style="color: #a64d79; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">After several failed attempts with the staple gun, I got kind of frustrated and ended up having my husband do it! He's the muscles in the family! </span><br />
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<span style="color: #a64d79; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">In the end I think they turned out really well. I was thinking about changing the color of the chair by painting them as well but I decided I liked the way they looked without it!</span><br />
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<span style="color: #a64d79; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Tonight we will be enjoying a glass of wine in our newly updated chairs! Have you done any DIY projects that you needed someone to rescue? </span><br />
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<span style="color: #a64d79; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">XO,</span></div>
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<span style="color: #a64d79; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Gilded Girl</span></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3449451506169420584.post-56450456148230473762013-08-13T13:55:00.003-07:002013-08-31T13:30:07.065-07:00Pretending I'm a California Girl: Part 2 <span style="color: #674ea7; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Phase two of my California trip. We had a lot of recommmendations of places to go and this second post is about the rest of the trip. One of the areas we explored was called Abbot Kinney. This is an area near Venice Beach filled with great art, stores and restaurants. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #674ea7; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">One of the examples of art we saw there!</span><br />
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<span style="color: #674ea7; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">There was a really neat vintage and reclaimed artifacts store called <a href="http://www.tumbleweedanddandelion.com/" target="_blank">Tumbleweed and Dandelion</a> (how adorable is that name?!) Everything in there is American made and really beautiful! </span></div>
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<span style="color: #674ea7; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">We also ate at several restaurants including the famous <a href="http://lemonadela.com/location/venice" target="_blank">Lemonade</a>! I had a mint and cucumber lemonade, fantastic! They also had a delicious sprinkle cake! </span></div>
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<span style="color: #674ea7; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">To end the day we had a delicious meal at a restaurant called <a href="http://www.thetastingkitchen.com/" target="_blank">The Tasting Kitchen</a>. The food was delicious but I loved the decor more. Amazing dishes and flatware as well a tree growing in the middle of the restaurant. Yes, a tree!! It was as much of an experience as a meal. </span></div>
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<span style="color: #674ea7; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">We did a lot of other things, and saw a lot of other places but these were some of my favorites so I wanted to share them. I love unique restaurants and shops and this area had a ton of that! Has anyone else been to this area and really enjoyed it? I can't wait to go back to CA!</span></div>
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<span style="color: #674ea7; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Gilded Girl</span></div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3449451506169420584.post-55683023106098735452013-07-29T08:47:00.003-07:002013-08-31T13:30:24.249-07:00Pretending I am a California Girl, Part 1<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Summer is here and I have been doing a lot of vacationing, eating and spending time with friends and family. Our first destination was the Los Angeles area. I hadn't been there since I was in elementary school so I was excited to explore the area. I am going to do a series of posts on some of my favorite things that we did there. </span></div>
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<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> One of the first things we did was to visit some wineries in Southern California.</span><span style="color: #999999;"> This area</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="color: #999999;">, specifically Santa Barbara and Los Olivios is not really well known yet but they are gaining more and more notoriety. The employees at the different wineries told me they are about a decade behind Napa. This winery was called </span><a href="http://www.sunstonewinery.com/" style="color: #999999;" target="_blank">Sunstone Winery</a><span style="color: #999999;">. It can be rented out for private parties, wouldn't that be fabulous? They had gorgeous grounds and some really interesting wines. One of the best things I tried there was their flavored olive oils, blood orange olive oil? Delish! </span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">The second place we went was <a href="http://www.beckmenvineyards.com/">Beckman Vineyards.</a> The views were incredible and the staff was more than friendly. They even let us try a couple of wines that were off the tasting list, BONUS. :) The best wine we had there ( and the one that I had shipped 3 bottles back home) was </span><span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">their Cuvee Le Beck. It was really good and like nothing I have ever tried. ! </span></div>
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<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> I would absolutely recommend coming here for a day trip and enjoying all these wonderful wineries, especially if you love wine as much as I do! Both wineries also offered shipping for their wines to where you live so you don't have to worry about lugging it in your bag or having to check a bag full of wine! Ever been to a winery that you really liked? </span></div>
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<span style="color: #999999; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">GildedGirl</span></div>
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0