tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32714522830854479032024-02-06T18:13:13.583-08:00All of the Abovepepperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18094580301185673656noreply@blogger.comBlogger76125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3271452283085447903.post-2996208718102416092013-03-08T17:49:00.003-08:002013-03-08T17:54:26.226-08:00Confession # 39 - Crazy Little Girl Hair<div style="text-align: center;">
Okay, I might offend some people on this soap box.</div>
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I would like to say: I warned you. </div>
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Followed by: get a grip. It's only my opinion.</div>
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Okay! HAIR! Glorious hair!</div>
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I'm going to talk about crazy little girl hair.</div>
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First, here is some 'appropriately-crazy' little girl hair:</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHx_S2xk0RwpR9147yz2B4rBGoVDH3BuPNRvC9LSpl7klZvoDcVmr74NdmbcSK_byf25gbmw-isJF3knLEji9T7PNrOm3qVJBTj_P0iA6p1y8oCkZTRFhKwjaMwKKOfjtPeUXfHn1Xk0i4/s1600/002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHx_S2xk0RwpR9147yz2B4rBGoVDH3BuPNRvC9LSpl7klZvoDcVmr74NdmbcSK_byf25gbmw-isJF3knLEji9T7PNrOm3qVJBTj_P0iA6p1y8oCkZTRFhKwjaMwKKOfjtPeUXfHn1Xk0i4/s320/002.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I love that it has just a tiny bit of crimp in it to give it texture.</td></tr>
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And how about some fun princess party hair! Check this out:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBY2yZTr5slz4uD47OJS7Lw3GxCgkMfVUKi37OAEOjBrSrBJ16GGY74CUXSRmM83ZME8X6SeWJIb17HcJVx0az_ontoI-vT245tFu-kHI47IPUk67XaU8rHyKysG4YyEw9JwVVzrgdc5Ck/s1600/011.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBY2yZTr5slz4uD47OJS7Lw3GxCgkMfVUKi37OAEOjBrSrBJ16GGY74CUXSRmM83ZME8X6SeWJIb17HcJVx0az_ontoI-vT245tFu-kHI47IPUk67XaU8rHyKysG4YyEw9JwVVzrgdc5Ck/s320/011.JPG" width="204" /></a></div>
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Even this is a cute way to do your toddler's hair on Halloween... </div>
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but personally, I think it's pushing it.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCyquiUoPYGH68CjjI9myo0rad4dp7-yv-UKIxSBvDschWoeJq5lwiIvNIZQE0Nv9aMdz8mVx0x1wWzHONEVmUL_3Vng7mbtILOrs2R1_oVfnEQwxiv-OIOD-TEtM5gKFpft_RyGx5Hnij/s1600/004.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCyquiUoPYGH68CjjI9myo0rad4dp7-yv-UKIxSBvDschWoeJq5lwiIvNIZQE0Nv9aMdz8mVx0x1wWzHONEVmUL_3Vng7mbtILOrs2R1_oVfnEQwxiv-OIOD-TEtM5gKFpft_RyGx5Hnij/s320/004.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Why? You may ask.</div>
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Because I have a little girl, and please don't get me started on my mile-high soap box about how we need to focus on teaching our girls that they are beautiful with their hair just the way it is, not that it is only pretty when it's straightened, crimped, curled, pinned, and tortured.</div>
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We're putting that on the back burner.</div>
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But my question is: who is the hair for?</div>
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First I should show you:</div>
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This, my daughter's hair here, is for me.</div>
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Why? Because I wanted to see what it looked like curled! </div>
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It was the first time ever.</div>
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It was for <i style="font-weight: bold;">me</i>.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg08xcmQ1nF2rqOZefrF4wcJp6omDPp2Vp-GtXamotD52bOi90p8VAWDwlRBDpCu2WXInMUdVpPkWfQ5xX368LaEGjSCvVCtExv7OxQVKiDJuvhVPZggivB2uWOBhdIFTt1liqH3j1e4zfw/s1600/020.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg08xcmQ1nF2rqOZefrF4wcJp6omDPp2Vp-GtXamotD52bOi90p8VAWDwlRBDpCu2WXInMUdVpPkWfQ5xX368LaEGjSCvVCtExv7OxQVKiDJuvhVPZggivB2uWOBhdIFTt1liqH3j1e4zfw/s320/020.jpg" width="257" /></a></div>
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This is how my daughter chooses to have her hair most days:</div>
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Actually, nowadays it's in two pigtail braids most days.</div>
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About 45-70% of the time, she just doesn't care what's going on with her hair.</div>
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And she's pretty opinionated, so that's saying something.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidbuJnm7IR3FIi5pM0-H04_ROHsPneVsqW_1ULgwaRXLUWycf8s_PLsmTywLcTU_0yLYsNHHTsJMMIMwPRBnJfbPY9t5VyOrAW_Ic1yu2YvRpTzLF4y3TBlT3rsAKQ5V5kW2jaZESmOuxu/s1600/019.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="297" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidbuJnm7IR3FIi5pM0-H04_ROHsPneVsqW_1ULgwaRXLUWycf8s_PLsmTywLcTU_0yLYsNHHTsJMMIMwPRBnJfbPY9t5VyOrAW_Ic1yu2YvRpTzLF4y3TBlT3rsAKQ5V5kW2jaZESmOuxu/s320/019.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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This, is a wig I bought so that she could "be Thumbelina" - this hair was for her.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0XaOfu6a9pIh8I1y0OaJ8Nlsf9KM7tH-iFV1gvfOIKThxWkTOeGy8uIpRYEursmIyUzHnHXltsiwePILxiT12R5lSYMNeIDmz7mob_PGFjjbymj7y-q-ADTeXAVVHxR-DQEunP9FSiiDb/s1600/022.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0XaOfu6a9pIh8I1y0OaJ8Nlsf9KM7tH-iFV1gvfOIKThxWkTOeGy8uIpRYEursmIyUzHnHXltsiwePILxiT12R5lSYMNeIDmz7mob_PGFjjbymj7y-q-ADTeXAVVHxR-DQEunP9FSiiDb/s320/022.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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This, the hair here, was for <i>me.</i> </div>
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I straightened her hair because I wanted to see how long it was getting, and how her ends were doing.</div>
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Adorable = her natural baby layers.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_ayH-cAnQa6oxD2d52EXllOOd8d5dnDc3gKQ4Y7fwLXRcnqgv5ceOkTu_5PgtnG9GeZFVH0DnMh6O7ZMYKdYZ55-KrOOMFHnOcKJqVSY4Yi9YbL7SYBB9DzF2UWGXGW8TTGeW3zL-S_lS/s1600/021.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_ayH-cAnQa6oxD2d52EXllOOd8d5dnDc3gKQ4Y7fwLXRcnqgv5ceOkTu_5PgtnG9GeZFVH0DnMh6O7ZMYKdYZ55-KrOOMFHnOcKJqVSY4Yi9YbL7SYBB9DzF2UWGXGW8TTGeW3zL-S_lS/s320/021.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Ok so - original question:</div>
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<i style="font-weight: bold;">WHO </i>is the hair for? </div>
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If your daughter demands crazy hair, then read no further.</div>
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But I wonder if some moms just use their kid's hair as boredom media.</div>
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When I was a kid, you could get beat up for hair like this.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGSzVmU1JKLFJwdfYEeUmUQUdTkCWEGfc0L-F_-F3n4ailaRIwpFljNVmPWzwBnQFiDdalsgQFC6RJAWFKQ8HsaJLYmvClcQ2sfJ2RU5l0pinxUy2gMgMQv1CKUnKCsHsBcqaGnX9GyIvp/s1600/001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="139" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGSzVmU1JKLFJwdfYEeUmUQUdTkCWEGfc0L-F_-F3n4ailaRIwpFljNVmPWzwBnQFiDdalsgQFC6RJAWFKQ8HsaJLYmvClcQ2sfJ2RU5l0pinxUy2gMgMQv1CKUnKCsHsBcqaGnX9GyIvp/s320/001.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHhxDeszgMEKKTxZVHI9Z6uws84HqxThNN1L-qG0yQpYPwKG60k64dqa7XTEac6aHmTiM4RM9opBJd_gzUA6VaIBdc9KnZKHtrIi6dUg8Aq9S-E3Fj4y0sbu8Ehd2v59c2NZcgM0bmntr8/s1600/003.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHhxDeszgMEKKTxZVHI9Z6uws84HqxThNN1L-qG0yQpYPwKG60k64dqa7XTEac6aHmTiM4RM9opBJd_gzUA6VaIBdc9KnZKHtrIi6dUg8Aq9S-E3Fj4y0sbu8Ehd2v59c2NZcgM0bmntr8/s320/003.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLC1Xc9SvuEiBqi53qUrNa_-WJ_YHGbMb6UtyU4BBe6L3tfkCeBNmC-UoA6GOX0YrYFv3CfR6JOmFd7-nhzNwZmrPqJK5ZE_q3X8Zm-BV0JDfRSzg-gbLrCG1JshGfTR2HOUhEnx8eybAF/s1600/005.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="259" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLC1Xc9SvuEiBqi53qUrNa_-WJ_YHGbMb6UtyU4BBe6L3tfkCeBNmC-UoA6GOX0YrYFv3CfR6JOmFd7-nhzNwZmrPqJK5ZE_q3X8Zm-BV0JDfRSzg-gbLrCG1JshGfTR2HOUhEnx8eybAF/s320/005.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">What? Seriously??</td></tr>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZVivADjz_H2sOBwYIOxa3OsA8pAl1wnVx3g59Lo0yhvcROSk8qe2g4piZEU21kRYHlFNuC1qsaKj7sUyjXr3_3SR39nffpLM5fOtk28YiuQ0z0dwss7gWex82tmgUoUYmCWLT13k-iOPQ/s1600/006.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZVivADjz_H2sOBwYIOxa3OsA8pAl1wnVx3g59Lo0yhvcROSk8qe2g4piZEU21kRYHlFNuC1qsaKj7sUyjXr3_3SR39nffpLM5fOtk28YiuQ0z0dwss7gWex82tmgUoUYmCWLT13k-iOPQ/s320/006.jpg" width="228" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"I can't get your hair to do what I want, so we're just going to stick a balloon in it. Trust me, it'll be AWESOME!"</td></tr>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMxdrzaUfNYTZWqCdXv_u-C4aEiol660sOyeBFHCeLD47HHDzgRPiAfSL6Y2PPLApyAFsSh5tzDlIjk0iCnYv_rXwhDKmHtx6AOPMNig_Noyv9ERC6uFzeXEEetgvZHqkdhxAkBL-8JuS7/s1600/007.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMxdrzaUfNYTZWqCdXv_u-C4aEiol660sOyeBFHCeLD47HHDzgRPiAfSL6Y2PPLApyAFsSh5tzDlIjk0iCnYv_rXwhDKmHtx6AOPMNig_Noyv9ERC6uFzeXEEetgvZHqkdhxAkBL-8JuS7/s320/007.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">No words.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2SdeCJhjCdR8WUb6diUx9eXJrjYcH8qBCRjEYo6boz9NzcTMHbCJbXVEi84N31muTtPxJHykWevdytdQOGow3U8NOb6ct-TFdN-jkHSBQT7bPo7zqZnk1aqqIMzFJo2zrjucfQ0E4so7E/s1600/008.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2SdeCJhjCdR8WUb6diUx9eXJrjYcH8qBCRjEYo6boz9NzcTMHbCJbXVEi84N31muTtPxJHykWevdytdQOGow3U8NOb6ct-TFdN-jkHSBQT7bPo7zqZnk1aqqIMzFJo2zrjucfQ0E4so7E/s320/008.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">What a nice scalp you have.</td></tr>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj01_lbUfP8Sfi4OivpYvCWxgUKnpKbOu6ibEnacT87Y8bGoM3te74N7bwFcC0m27pHy6rpnax8V-L7op4L7l50S716HK5rH4f8ibkXuVd602lOx4B51qbNCGSz_lSERRMOAzlOaRHjE_a8/s1600/010.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj01_lbUfP8Sfi4OivpYvCWxgUKnpKbOu6ibEnacT87Y8bGoM3te74N7bwFcC0m27pHy6rpnax8V-L7op4L7l50S716HK5rH4f8ibkXuVd602lOx4B51qbNCGSz_lSERRMOAzlOaRHjE_a8/s320/010.jpg" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I don't even know what's going on here.</td></tr>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwbMfeCrLP2Xi6ds_AVaR9UQOCc2xukT_C1TUh79zwfFICxc0hFvNJI6pFYsmjaDaM7g47jD7RVS83JFWUDiNCGKF9In5kUrQvE24B92K6d3P0YVHrv12rlUzjPC2ZZMQkoRYtZxoT1RwZ/s1600/009.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwbMfeCrLP2Xi6ds_AVaR9UQOCc2xukT_C1TUh79zwfFICxc0hFvNJI6pFYsmjaDaM7g47jD7RVS83JFWUDiNCGKF9In5kUrQvE24B92K6d3P0YVHrv12rlUzjPC2ZZMQkoRYtZxoT1RwZ/s320/009.jpg" width="239" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">What is the point of that ribbon?<br />
Why does this kid need to know what a corset is?</td></tr>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFxZg_n6uGLmVSgCRwQkvSEt1ksUhQZ6dlp-dnRrAXtbQhx8-xHO9tKdklkJOkVpFegSqcXmz4puzkcCkJGHu6lbdy4_ElN2Bz-UTY8r7Ba5r6w20uJ2Dl1bs5T07yApB07K-8NwfptQcr/s1600/015.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFxZg_n6uGLmVSgCRwQkvSEt1ksUhQZ6dlp-dnRrAXtbQhx8-xHO9tKdklkJOkVpFegSqcXmz4puzkcCkJGHu6lbdy4_ElN2Bz-UTY8r7Ba5r6w20uJ2Dl1bs5T07yApB07K-8NwfptQcr/s1600/015.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Power to the mom who spent all the time doing this.</td></tr>
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I've seen hair demos on some websites where the kids get <i style="font-weight: bold;">so</i> bored and the mom just keeps whipping their head back in the right direction, "straight!!!! <b>STRAIGHT</b>!! Look straight. Just look straight. Sit still." </div>
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UGH.</div>
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Just throw their hair in a ponytail and let them go play in the mud like a kid, lady!</div>
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Hair for the mom:</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOR9BpOryDB9404rNGHAqjAZ-CMZjopWwACDvL80nBfqt4lsiPR2PERULdjeoGjva_Ey4-KRf4ASE6sUSldprp6Cf3bvGinMsCkCg11QpINWi30nAAZmnK0sIa0G17FYeguiAYLbU3XSLS/s1600/014a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOR9BpOryDB9404rNGHAqjAZ-CMZjopWwACDvL80nBfqt4lsiPR2PERULdjeoGjva_Ey4-KRf4ASE6sUSldprp6Cf3bvGinMsCkCg11QpINWi30nAAZmnK0sIa0G17FYeguiAYLbU3XSLS/s320/014a.jpg" width="314" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">She looks REALLY excited.</td></tr>
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Hair for the kid:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg80InuLbncDZa_bwFsZ8ViKXc26jJypvfamW7yGFunwVkil1-SMkDjMlXvDlo8VFtuMTauczIn7j3IjPwuB301kboDNY_CmqvFqScSqBJd2kF_9sIorzcT2bk0zYVlWpiE6hkTODkii1S3/s1600/016.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg80InuLbncDZa_bwFsZ8ViKXc26jJypvfamW7yGFunwVkil1-SMkDjMlXvDlo8VFtuMTauczIn7j3IjPwuB301kboDNY_CmqvFqScSqBJd2kF_9sIorzcT2bk0zYVlWpiE6hkTODkii1S3/s1600/016.jpg" /></a></div>
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I'd rather see a kid with unkempt hair, who's playing, than a super primped one who I'm pretty sure is being micro-managed by their mother.</div>
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Even if it makes them look like a tiny 40-year-old smoker.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLOiVdgaKwckfedmMzqBh68_7NXnw1kyLcNd3_221TvTmk_NBLGesXVshf2nS3LXxfH4kkcavn-ql5nLzJ5vWmOebl9elTOVvAcvdT5hjzZSXzaU0Gj-zKAm5CmGKmda_DIkYCAxT2BMvw/s1600/017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLOiVdgaKwckfedmMzqBh68_7NXnw1kyLcNd3_221TvTmk_NBLGesXVshf2nS3LXxfH4kkcavn-ql5nLzJ5vWmOebl9elTOVvAcvdT5hjzZSXzaU0Gj-zKAm5CmGKmda_DIkYCAxT2BMvw/s320/017.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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There isn't enough time for me to cover all the hair accessories I loathe.</div>
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But here are some winners:</div>
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<br /></div>
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A baby wig! </div>
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Yes, you heard me!</div>
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Hate how your baby looks? Loathe it's tiny bald brand-new hairless skull with all your might?</div>
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Look no further! Have WE got a solution for YOU!</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3MztUMyb5_N7wFQZhd-E69JqrIiwhM7v3QLi1_X3yoDZw0RMeSARyLgKg209tHAqab0v1EXpYTLiVVx7mpM_uU_Ck8vGLCmzFMdLBGP8RKOskBvlyGeqcJ58wc553ZCMgViMW44NI_93H/s1600/013.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3MztUMyb5_N7wFQZhd-E69JqrIiwhM7v3QLi1_X3yoDZw0RMeSARyLgKg209tHAqab0v1EXpYTLiVVx7mpM_uU_Ck8vGLCmzFMdLBGP8RKOskBvlyGeqcJ58wc553ZCMgViMW44NI_93H/s320/013.jpg" width="212" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">These are an actual product, sold at an actual store.</td></tr>
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Or ridiculous holiday headgear. What?!</div>
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"Put this on honey, it's Christmas!"</div>
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"But I don't wanna get beat up!"</div>
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(O.#) IT'S CHRISTMAS!!!!!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEDHZLEVYqkz77jvPIaSb-PR5Ya-qxi4H6TS1tZbYGDZWwpHZWt9odxeUw56lfdEH0UfXwUpJqcRTovJ6TNRF8vgqUcbPU-h_mRgfWc1Gy6kUcdkrOatcjM9k1Pa8zGkuxP0oiN6-itaKz/s1600/012.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEDHZLEVYqkz77jvPIaSb-PR5Ya-qxi4H6TS1tZbYGDZWwpHZWt9odxeUw56lfdEH0UfXwUpJqcRTovJ6TNRF8vgqUcbPU-h_mRgfWc1Gy6kUcdkrOatcjM9k1Pa8zGkuxP0oiN6-itaKz/s320/012.jpg" width="298" /></a></div>
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"This will look really, really good in our wedding pictures." </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpO78QC7vyr3nU-jSZwoMGQV7q4B7jpiKXXkGHgA-jEboRTXcUly_KBxhyphenhyphen-Ys5ImlQ_Ier7qblk1gVoDL8Cbrrn9cgPUIVcQl2_h-ghlF7PufhZwlSXLeNqUd6zK1HyV2DZ88YbMVKdMDr/s1600/014.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpO78QC7vyr3nU-jSZwoMGQV7q4B7jpiKXXkGHgA-jEboRTXcUly_KBxhyphenhyphen-Ys5ImlQ_Ier7qblk1gVoDL8Cbrrn9cgPUIVcQl2_h-ghlF7PufhZwlSXLeNqUd6zK1HyV2DZ88YbMVKdMDr/s320/014.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Well whatever.</div>
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I'm one to talk - my son's hair most days looks like Robert Pattinson's.</div>
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On a day he hasn't showered in 8 days.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWww9ZB6icBFlXyVhHLRf79HJkuDdpxVOuLQZ-wAOHPSQd_vZzeebyQF1wDOPS1jp9hIXoZmvgdXmVspkiLkSKu5r3zvYPLG-ACvOidlje3CrKrmUWKNnAH1ZzBMABsW7gRCIg75pxWeYP/s1600/018.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWww9ZB6icBFlXyVhHLRf79HJkuDdpxVOuLQZ-wAOHPSQd_vZzeebyQF1wDOPS1jp9hIXoZmvgdXmVspkiLkSKu5r3zvYPLG-ACvOidlje3CrKrmUWKNnAH1ZzBMABsW7gRCIg75pxWeYP/s320/018.jpg" width="229" /></a></div>
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Dudes are different.</div>
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Why can't girls get away with the same?</div>
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Maybe let's focus on trying to help our daughters find ways to love their natural hair. </div>
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For it's waves, for it's quirks and for the curls. </div>
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For the straightness. </div>
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For the thin and thick. </div>
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For the super curly, and for the half-and-half. </div>
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For it all. </div>
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FOR THE LOVE OF HAIR - their <i style="font-weight: bold;">own</i>.</div>
pepperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18094580301185673656noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3271452283085447903.post-45391652932654183162012-11-14T13:31:00.005-08:002012-11-14T13:31:58.198-08:00Well, Hey There!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
WELL if you ever doubted before, it's more clear than ever - I am <b>not</b> an excellent blogger.</div>
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If you were wondering where I've been, it's best summed up with pictures.</div>
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(Of course.)</div>
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<br />I've been pretty much doing this:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh-D14whXiuK6f8yOvY2Nk6beyH4THFIRnXQGoYy83Qu2yjZNqwgOD8yEQDum2oPSYJn7Z2yvU4Ds0gimj_5nfF0qXv1L-BtERy2QEKWPU7AZXDHOtBT6bBGr3XhTMx9VzC4vi-KPBbC30/s1600/001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh-D14whXiuK6f8yOvY2Nk6beyH4THFIRnXQGoYy83Qu2yjZNqwgOD8yEQDum2oPSYJn7Z2yvU4Ds0gimj_5nfF0qXv1L-BtERy2QEKWPU7AZXDHOtBT6bBGr3XhTMx9VzC4vi-KPBbC30/s1600/001.jpg" /></a></div>
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(You know, facebooking and checking emails.)</div>
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SLOB status.</div>
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We're talking some of this:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie9MmNx1_YAexoPCuUl2SWkBz39Ojk9-kx0RXcWSWDq9h7jOKFxPz7y-J7seks2UcXY6ASaN34bIDKCNZqiH9XuHaIOP6zAP_VukH_Btu3mrA0uOjAOGhYkpyq0YbmprnGEES6iSJtyST4/s1600/003.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie9MmNx1_YAexoPCuUl2SWkBz39Ojk9-kx0RXcWSWDq9h7jOKFxPz7y-J7seks2UcXY6ASaN34bIDKCNZqiH9XuHaIOP6zAP_VukH_Btu3mrA0uOjAOGhYkpyq0YbmprnGEES6iSJtyST4/s320/003.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
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And a bag 'o these laying around.</div>
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<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9b8OPpMmEp73z3LHCWaWW1Z5tJL-Oj4JBRatqx1mTTH6h69eNYfHIpZjta5jRr1EMayf7C-rOdzalAGbE6OUt7jgE0qWwJzOM-UF5XMzXZqNSIJ8-RhyboI1AiJOG5OHFzBYK2JXiU2qa/s1600/004.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9b8OPpMmEp73z3LHCWaWW1Z5tJL-Oj4JBRatqx1mTTH6h69eNYfHIpZjta5jRr1EMayf7C-rOdzalAGbE6OUt7jgE0qWwJzOM-UF5XMzXZqNSIJ8-RhyboI1AiJOG5OHFzBYK2JXiU2qa/s320/004.jpg" width="291" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
As well as SWTOR:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEJVjy1xmt4EgDoxLNX0JRp4r4eAv-MlP_S5YbwKxIoQIwrH22s7CmcWSScuCIPcFsRwvDS8_lRBKvm0EDlfKsgyo_3TTInSM26SD2GVqP-Je1Xm8mgg36oo22d9EO1hQOpYwmRhs6RZu8/s1600/001a.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEJVjy1xmt4EgDoxLNX0JRp4r4eAv-MlP_S5YbwKxIoQIwrH22s7CmcWSScuCIPcFsRwvDS8_lRBKvm0EDlfKsgyo_3TTInSM26SD2GVqP-Je1Xm8mgg36oo22d9EO1hQOpYwmRhs6RZu8/s320/001a.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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(That'd be Star Wars The Old Republic)</div>
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Well hey, you know... I got to 50 and then I needed gear...</div>
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*shrug*</div>
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I've also been a little sick, which means I've been avoiding exercise...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9aQy92k0TISN9Eex1-33h7NbRtKA6MYxfENejLeTyJAKsPFHjsvrxTQn25R3f_SWtSqEUgFSVHUTuMIM5mqrN2FJRXFQMMS2JnFQEXDmSWjY7PzkEong_CZDvMECm24gmdRfgh31lC7uU/s1600/002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9aQy92k0TISN9Eex1-33h7NbRtKA6MYxfENejLeTyJAKsPFHjsvrxTQn25R3f_SWtSqEUgFSVHUTuMIM5mqrN2FJRXFQMMS2JnFQEXDmSWjY7PzkEong_CZDvMECm24gmdRfgh31lC7uU/s320/002.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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And sitting around....</div>
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I haven't been visiting friends, crafting, sewing, and I've barely made any cakes.</div>
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I haven't done much of anything.</div>
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And you know what?</div>
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That's ok.</div>
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<br /></div>
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It feels great to do nothing for a while.</div>
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("Nothing" being a relative term.)</div>
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<br /></div>
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But anyway, it's almost winter, so that means I need to get back to those indoor activities.</div>
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Like blogging.</div>
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And reading.</div>
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And other educational things. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiubG8MeIu9VExV2Rpq8us8KIUGH1N1FozT7ByVrYnqW9eGzuJJLZa3fkKwZGtYzHddXk6k_rPkmTozuiGt5PPyvnmPEcP3cDxgcq5PyNBOyjieWdNorXnAIs8qEduW5XfLmMYqZHISsNBv/s1600/005.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiubG8MeIu9VExV2Rpq8us8KIUGH1N1FozT7ByVrYnqW9eGzuJJLZa3fkKwZGtYzHddXk6k_rPkmTozuiGt5PPyvnmPEcP3cDxgcq5PyNBOyjieWdNorXnAIs8qEduW5XfLmMYqZHISsNBv/s1600/005.jpg" /></a></div>
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Maybe I'll even get back to that place where I'm so bored and healthy that I've kept my house in perfect cleanliness for long enough and I'll start doing pointless chores to entertain myself.</div>
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<br /></div>
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You know, the really useless ones that were just made up to keep us busy.</div>
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Or kill time.</div>
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Or avoid luncheons.</div>
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Or whatever.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Like dusting!</div>
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:oD</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpxI9Lj81pR5qKTP8y5UMm6RoZ_or5H_b7aoPmfJaBtRMQiC3GEdCXeOj4-gN_3YvStHEsn-V5tdS-sN5Ok6Of1XQ_ciA3GDRTo2qCr3f45kV8L4XjQhnTvr0BkOZC7IxOzpwWDrs1EbaP/s1600/006.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpxI9Lj81pR5qKTP8y5UMm6RoZ_or5H_b7aoPmfJaBtRMQiC3GEdCXeOj4-gN_3YvStHEsn-V5tdS-sN5Ok6Of1XQ_ciA3GDRTo2qCr3f45kV8L4XjQhnTvr0BkOZC7IxOzpwWDrs1EbaP/s320/006.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Well whatever.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I've been slobbing around my house long enough I guess it's time to shave my legs.</div>
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And do my hair.</div>
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And put some makeup on.</div>
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And visit the public.</div>
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<br /></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYZa-Yl1SSLM-WQcvsHpVWs-lQRy4ypy23CVAX_zHtppS6hr7zuYXOzZIMKKXRaSTdAfxTycAGgIkY-QGstQTDagH0ngH-946WCEmXXq-DRekU5UJ4i9jzsA9AUtscHlUvEL1Mw_FcD4bj/s1600/007.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYZa-Yl1SSLM-WQcvsHpVWs-lQRy4ypy23CVAX_zHtppS6hr7zuYXOzZIMKKXRaSTdAfxTycAGgIkY-QGstQTDagH0ngH-946WCEmXXq-DRekU5UJ4i9jzsA9AUtscHlUvEL1Mw_FcD4bj/s320/007.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
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Or maybe we'll just keep doing awesome things in our home, in our pjs.</div>
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Meh!</div>
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<br /></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipTKps-w4J4D_JIoV01I1xR8z79zYly0175bF8cTdawhL3LT_xpdOheq7Rr5a0zuxlvJtFIwQQReU908hNNXBpamwFBamtSqmvh35VQjwd6DYOVlCB4i4XAOYU28Orb1JRU4rNoj9TdOWS/s1600/008.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipTKps-w4J4D_JIoV01I1xR8z79zYly0175bF8cTdawhL3LT_xpdOheq7Rr5a0zuxlvJtFIwQQReU908hNNXBpamwFBamtSqmvh35VQjwd6DYOVlCB4i4XAOYU28Orb1JRU4rNoj9TdOWS/s320/008.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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LIVE LONG AND PROSPER</div>
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and please, do something awesome this winter.</div>
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You're going to be inside <b>anyways</b>.</div>
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<br /></div>
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:o)</div>
pepperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18094580301185673656noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3271452283085447903.post-45738866836767799962012-05-09T09:14:00.003-07:002012-05-09T09:20:09.527-07:00May 8th, 2012 - Recipe Challenge: Foil-Pack Chicken and Broccoli Dinner<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I was excited for this meal, because it seemed super easy.</div>
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I like super easy.</div>
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I'm lazy when it comes to dinner.</div>
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<br /></div>
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So of course I was going to try this.</div>
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On the menu:</div>
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<br /></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjM6K7CjGErhR4zqChsrf-MTfpalCwtspDvd7K2Wf5ZT6-5bYT2OUX0-0g0dtcyPta_jpdeNUa_5n5EgdBf18bXNQAW00EiH6nJST688vcF4yGnCpjq3s0W3wf7hoQtWHW59AbQYLMQ_gCc/s1600/IMG_0780.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjM6K7CjGErhR4zqChsrf-MTfpalCwtspDvd7K2Wf5ZT6-5bYT2OUX0-0g0dtcyPta_jpdeNUa_5n5EgdBf18bXNQAW00EiH6nJST688vcF4yGnCpjq3s0W3wf7hoQtWHW59AbQYLMQ_gCc/s320/IMG_0780.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Chicken, broccoli, stuffing foil-pack dinner.</div>
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Here is the <a href="http://www.bigoven.com/recipe/194728/Foil-Pack-Chicken-and-Broccoli-Dinner-15" target="_blank">recipe</a> I used.</div>
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<br /></div>
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<u style="font-weight: bold;">Changes I made</u>:</div>
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<br /></div>
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We accidentally used the bacon for this, for breakfast dinner the night before.</div>
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(my bad)</div>
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So I made it without bacon.</div>
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<br /></div>
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I forgot what I was making, so the chicken breasts were frozen.</div>
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Which is probably bad, but I didn't worry about it because all over the bag</div>
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(the costco bag)</div>
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it claims that you can cook the frozen chicken straightaway...</div>
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without thawing...</div>
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alas, I have yet to figure out how to do this properly it seems.</div>
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<br /></div>
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The foil... I could not possibly have "torn off a large piece" of tinfoil big enough for</div>
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everything to fit inside it and make the ends meet.</div>
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I wasn't using giant chicken, it just... was <i>not</i> going to fit.</div>
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So it put a second sheet on top, and rolled the edges closed all around.</div>
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<br /></div>
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<u style="font-weight: bold;">Thoughts</u>:</div>
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<br /></div>
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Uh... what?</div>
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No.</div>
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This recipe essentially says:</div>
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"1. Throw all ingredients into a foil sheet, and fold up.</div>
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2. Let it be in a hot oven for half an hour. Ta-da!!!"</div>
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<br /></div>
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False.</div>
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<br /></div>
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You put all the ingredients in a foil casket and then put it in the oven.</div>
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And wait.</div>
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And then when the 30 minutes are up, you check, and the chicken isn't even cooked yet.</div>
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Then you wait some more.</div>
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<br /></div>
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Yes, my chicken was frozen - but it is thin, and even when I put the frozen chicken in,</div>
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by itself, it is usually fully cooked in 25-30 minutes max.</div>
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I kept checking the chicken, and it took <b>75 MINUTES</b> for the chicken to cook.</div>
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<br /></div>
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Which is why, I assume, the broccoli was slightly over-cooked.</div>
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Insert here:</div>
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My son loved it though, and my husband had no complaints.</div>
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My daughter thought it was bad, but ate it anyways.</div>
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<br /></div>
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For ME...</div>
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<br /></div>
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Eating the stuffing was like... as if I had served this:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDSikuQ-NKHkoSzAtdA2DKWhXbLoAUIKnq1pFvofDdnKh2bjEAkBPqVMuE5Vpvy3llFG6sb2vVm9rnABLoFX78N0ZJ5zvC5XT229kQfisyhuQ2eh45FS-J8LpZe4kSJPGX-TwpI7_ukvNw/s1600/soggy+bread+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDSikuQ-NKHkoSzAtdA2DKWhXbLoAUIKnq1pFvofDdnKh2bjEAkBPqVMuE5Vpvy3llFG6sb2vVm9rnABLoFX78N0ZJ5zvC5XT229kQfisyhuQ2eh45FS-J8LpZe4kSJPGX-TwpI7_ukvNw/s320/soggy+bread+2.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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BLEH.</div>
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No.</div>
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So, so very wrong.</div>
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<br /></div>
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<u style="font-weight: bold;">Overall</u>:</div>
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<br /></div>
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Would I make this again? Probably not.</div>
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I like short cuts, but short cuts that were SO SHORTLY CUT that the food</div>
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came out like a disasterous lump from beyond the grave... makes the short cut</div>
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<i>an unnecessary risk</i>.</div>
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<br /></div>
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Like hacking through a jungle with a machete and there is a hole up ahead</div>
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and you can't see it, but you just keep hacking and walking</div>
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and then </div>
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BAM!</div>
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You're in the hole. </div>
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Stuck in the hole.</div>
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You got yourself there!</div>
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And now all you can do is try not to go hacking through the jungle again.</div>
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Maybe next time you will look at a map.</div>
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Or bring along a guide.</div>
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<br /></div>
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So for now, </div>
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we'll let bread do what it does best.</div>
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Be awesome.</div>
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<br /></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRhqzmViNIHMAmQ7RGju88J_08gvX5mWJgQD0NU8jdIZGT6bsujOR9WTkSo28pNgWctEerXMeDjkcXwZu47wAkOkwF1Spzp40wpMsvdrDlvpd8KKJbpE3hUlwITb9mTZxLWSlNc0Hc77-Q/s1600/toast.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRhqzmViNIHMAmQ7RGju88J_08gvX5mWJgQD0NU8jdIZGT6bsujOR9WTkSo28pNgWctEerXMeDjkcXwZu47wAkOkwF1Spzp40wpMsvdrDlvpd8KKJbpE3hUlwITb9mTZxLWSlNc0Hc77-Q/s320/toast.jpg" width="274" /></a></div>
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:o)</div>
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<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_873579240"><img border="0" height="140" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5G189dy4WwuppXUehdRXDicG_2LkjErSNh9Ig-WXn3m7OioUpegOnmzHkQz4oAjf-Ek5fnjQbtVfhihSb3lMnWZO6PvfhVlwJp_qJZYDUPCqzGPM2ue-rMSxhaJIgguVR64WPIcAd33YF/s320/tinymeat-mr-toast-friends-wallet-3-lg.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.theimaginaryworld.com/page3.html" target="_blank">Click here to learn more about Mr. Toast, and his friends. :o)</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>pepperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18094580301185673656noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3271452283085447903.post-13903811582484854332012-05-06T22:47:00.003-07:002012-05-09T09:19:55.357-07:00May 6th, 2012 - Recipe Challenge: Broccoli Cheddar Soup & Homemade Rolls<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
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WELP.</div>
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Looks like the "day" count down lived just <u>one</u> day.</div>
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(Hey, I warned you, I am not a cook.)</div>
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<br /></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK5qppb6J9BHLJYiUyJfzFQBvCnEzF3n4-gmboio6rXE-1RS518wbAypgpirdEj7KDT2ZkNImly8Z-ng4JKam7l3xFWRTo1y-_2HNtI4p4eq-GLybabFd81s_mkVgESwTm_dL2uZVHAED9/s1600/nixon-i-am-not-a-crook.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK5qppb6J9BHLJYiUyJfzFQBvCnEzF3n4-gmboio6rXE-1RS518wbAypgpirdEj7KDT2ZkNImly8Z-ng4JKam7l3xFWRTo1y-_2HNtI4p4eq-GLybabFd81s_mkVgESwTm_dL2uZVHAED9/s1600/nixon-i-am-not-a-crook.jpg" /></a></div>
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</div>
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I'm going to just go by recipe, instead of numbering anything.</div>
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Let's not get ahead of ourselves.</div>
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Don't want to get <i>too </i>ambitious...</div>
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<br /></div>
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So first, I have to apologize.</div>
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Because I'm going to make some of you mad, when I tell you,</div>
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I made all of this <i>after church</i> today.</div>
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<br /></div>
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(Say whaaaaaaa?)</div>
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Yep.</div>
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After church.</div>
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<br /></div>
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On the menu:</div>
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<b><u><br /></u></b></div>
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<br /></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJLYYz8_jvoxxMhfKjJZisd3LMgBwqKOfdj2Jqzmrr7onvcJFBNkuT4z-7SvEgU92QFhHAuhvzAUwaWaFEsv730DMz-HmPTgog2SdfeGoNSFBYN-ptJNME29Iuss5VXXgmfds0Lscysh4g/s1600/2012+05-06+broccoli+cheddar+soup+002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJLYYz8_jvoxxMhfKjJZisd3LMgBwqKOfdj2Jqzmrr7onvcJFBNkuT4z-7SvEgU92QFhHAuhvzAUwaWaFEsv730DMz-HmPTgog2SdfeGoNSFBYN-ptJNME29Iuss5VXXgmfds0Lscysh4g/s320/2012+05-06+broccoli+cheddar+soup+002.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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I made this broccoli cheddar soup from scratch.</div>
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Here's the <a href="http://stonegable.blogspot.com/2009/10/slow-cooker-broccoli-cheddar-soup.html" target="_blank">recipe</a> I used.</div>
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<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5USbjo_eTH6Ehg81rhlGOuZh3-mY7IJ7AUxwYMZcua7UJ5mA2n9sbETBdTBX0Pmg1a8vrKgrANxvC00jUYlA0TqbAZCBqKrzsecmwTWyqf06XUax2dkmF0Ux9epJCzR9FrOxTCavuwKvk/s1600/2012+05-06+broccoli+cheddar+soup+01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5USbjo_eTH6Ehg81rhlGOuZh3-mY7IJ7AUxwYMZcua7UJ5mA2n9sbETBdTBX0Pmg1a8vrKgrANxvC00jUYlA0TqbAZCBqKrzsecmwTWyqf06XUax2dkmF0Ux9epJCzR9FrOxTCavuwKvk/s320/2012+05-06+broccoli+cheddar+soup+01.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Isn't it so pretty in that soup bowl?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<u style="font-weight: bold;">Changes I made</u>:</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I didn't use any nutmeg.</div>
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(Seriously, fresh nutmeg? I don't have that laying around!)</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Pancetta was too fancy for me.</div>
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What <i>is</i> pancetta?</div>
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How do you even say that?</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Pan sett ah...</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
payn chetta</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
pan... pann...</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
bacon-wannabe. </div>
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Got it.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Instead of whole milk, I used heavy cream.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Instead of matchstick carrots, I <i>actually</i> shredded my carrots.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I know in this person's recipe they say "shredded carrots" but then...</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
in all of their pictures, it's the matchstick carrots.</div>
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You're not fooling anyone.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Lucky for me I had some muscle around to finely shred 1 cup of carrots.</div>
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Boo-yah.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
So much better.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I did my broccoli different.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I didn't blend it like it says to.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
While the 3 hours were cooking the broccoli, I fried up 1lb of bacon.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
And chopped it. </div>
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And at the very end, I stirred it into the soup.</div>
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Baconlicious.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I also added 1/3 cup of corn.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I used wheat flour instead of white flour.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I didn't have cheddar cheese, so I used that three-cheese blend you get in a giant bag at Costco.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I know, I'm referencing Costco again.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
We'll be eating that cheese until our kids are in college.</div>
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<br /></div>
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<u style="font-weight: bold;">Thoughts</u>:</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I was feeling really impatient, finely chopping my broccoli, </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
but it wasn't until later I realized that the recipe wants you to make small florets, not "rough cut" all of them. </div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
What the heck does "rough cut" even mean?</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Just saying. </div>
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I'm not a scientist, but I'm pretty sure that's a made-up cooker person term.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
So I finely chopped mine - one medium floret became 4-6 pieces.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Which saved me time, because this recipe wanted me to cut and cook things, then cook it, and then take the vegetables OUT of the slow cooker (what is the point of a slow cooker then??) and reserve, and add, and cook, and blend, etc. So instead, I left the veggies as they were, added the cream for 4 mins, and then added the cheese n stuff from there. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Wayyyy easier.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I'm always looking for lazy recipe short cuts when I'm running out of steam.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Or when I'm hitting a "yeeaaah.... I'm <i>so</i> sure that's ""necessary"" ... uh uh."</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<u style="font-weight: bold;">Overall</u>: </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
My shortcuts were worth it!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
It tasted amazing, and my whole family loved it.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Will I make it again?</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Maybe.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
But I will never again be fooled by the title "slow-cooker-meal"...</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
since it was more like a,</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
"kindof-complicated-meal-that-you-use-your-slow-cooker-and-a-few</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
-other-pans-instead-of-just-a-big-pot-meal"</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Also</i> on the menu:</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-GawN29n4sbKb2xYX1lhGyVEINz00BfNeSrF-vztdRkdMV8wVcHGW8nIjD1Au7yMtY_DTC8JtwPscbODvaBDjiqDk3LiDY1n1xzVwi4fek-XqjCvuE-SNnJDB-d9rwMtd8d-rg3qwjD0G/s1600/2012+05-06+gingerbread+bear+cookies+001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-GawN29n4sbKb2xYX1lhGyVEINz00BfNeSrF-vztdRkdMV8wVcHGW8nIjD1Au7yMtY_DTC8JtwPscbODvaBDjiqDk3LiDY1n1xzVwi4fek-XqjCvuE-SNnJDB-d9rwMtd8d-rg3qwjD0G/s320/2012+05-06+gingerbread+bear+cookies+001.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tiny gingerbread bears! I wanted to make these for my daughter for some time now.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I made these tiny bears using a tiny cookie cutter I bought from Hobby Lobby,</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
and a recipe for gingerbread that I got from The Gingerbread Queen, Julie Trent.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
(You'd crown her if you knew her.)</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Look how tiny they are! </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcfwUoLDzf0y1uP7UtnG0AGvi3Zskhq-m0pRDnvFZrFBdzhBr9ybnIdt_akCInXOSmuPy0SM-9jsK3ABq2NoRLj5uUAAjiT7F1ze00HwPNfk8UwU4KDSg7PtjLqlCp1ROkECYfqwfqfyGQ/s1600/2012+05-06+gingerbread+bear+cookies+002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcfwUoLDzf0y1uP7UtnG0AGvi3Zskhq-m0pRDnvFZrFBdzhBr9ybnIdt_akCInXOSmuPy0SM-9jsK3ABq2NoRLj5uUAAjiT7F1ze00HwPNfk8UwU4KDSg7PtjLqlCp1ROkECYfqwfqfyGQ/s320/2012+05-06+gingerbread+bear+cookies+002.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><u>The Recipe</u></b>:</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Ingredients</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
2 cups molasses</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1 cup brown sugar</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1 cup melted margarine (I use butter)</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1 tsp cloves</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1 tsp cinnamon</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1 tsp ginger</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1/2 tsp salt</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1 tbsp baking soda, dissolved in 1/3 cup hot water</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
7-8 cups flour</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Directions</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Mix all wet together.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Add 6 cups flour, and the spices, and stir.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Work in 1 more cup of flour and chill.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Knead in more flour if needed.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Roll 1/4" thick.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Cut out your shapes and bake on greased cookie sheet for 10-12 minutes at 375ºF.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<u style="font-weight: bold;">Advice</u>:</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Work with a small amount of dough each time, </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
and keep it chilled so it remains slightly tough.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
This also freezes amazing, </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
just wrap it in waxed paper and tuck into a gallon zippy bag for later.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
This is best used for gingerbread people shapes, </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
not for building a house.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Also</i> on the menu:</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho7QQWLDCFjnItzQE4_xKZSZut4GVVjeV8Fv015LqpGb8WCBxl95IkmLmGOMjr67pWvoVKcJ_0CTvsUHCqXlnghlMUFvdJynHbjWColcqVUHouvBFRzrBFJwvov1xKviBGpfnimU_0iMtd/s1600/2012+05-06+homemade+wheat+rolls+001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho7QQWLDCFjnItzQE4_xKZSZut4GVVjeV8Fv015LqpGb8WCBxl95IkmLmGOMjr67pWvoVKcJ_0CTvsUHCqXlnghlMUFvdJynHbjWColcqVUHouvBFRzrBFJwvov1xKviBGpfnimU_0iMtd/s320/2012+05-06+homemade+wheat+rolls+001.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Homemade rolls...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHqN4iPeuKMv7lQ7xoNLer-EZ8AcD-eJgeJFF5kn23nvpQRXhzeotxHM3jh0CcA6WFY4JyGmjeLrjOqrgT3jtI9r8j-IQZEbKb8PTHttpQ3e5-X7ceHNDpHGbrvxDUNMzqosEQ3y2rv2g4/s1600/2012+05-06+homemade+wheat+rolls+002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHqN4iPeuKMv7lQ7xoNLer-EZ8AcD-eJgeJFF5kn23nvpQRXhzeotxHM3jh0CcA6WFY4JyGmjeLrjOqrgT3jtI9r8j-IQZEbKb8PTHttpQ3e5-X7ceHNDpHGbrvxDUNMzqosEQ3y2rv2g4/s320/2012+05-06+homemade+wheat+rolls+002.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">...Mom's recipe.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
My mom's rolls are... amazing.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I wanted to make them to go along with the broccoli cheddar soup, </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
but this time I made them with half white flour and half wheat flour.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I also tweaked this for my lazy nature, </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
by including the microwave. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
:o)</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<u style="font-weight: bold;">The Recipe</u>:</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Ingredients</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1 cup water</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
2 tbsp granulated sugar</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1/4 c shortening</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1 tsp salt</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
(Place this in a mixing bowl and microwave until the shortening melts.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Stir a few times, and set aside to let it cool to lukewarm.)</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1/4 cup lukewarm water</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
3/4 tbsp yeast (or one packet)</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
pinch of granulated sugar</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
(Sprinkle the sugar and yeast in a bowl. Pour in the lukewarm water, and let sit.)</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1 beaten egg</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
3 1/2 cups flour</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Directions</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
When the shortening mixture is lukewarm, add the yeast mixture to it and stir.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Then add the egg, and 2 cups of flour, and beat until smooth.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Mix in another cup of flour.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Knead in the last 1/2 cup of flour.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
(basically, add flour and stir while it's in the bowl, until it loses it's sticky nature,</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
so that you can put it on the counter - sprinkle some flour on your surface first - and</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
knead it without it sticking.)</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Knead for a few minutes, form the dough into a ball (tuck ends under, don't bunch/smash).</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Grease your bowl with shortening, and put your dough back in it.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Lightly grease the top with shortening, lay a clean dish towel over the bowl </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
and wait 30-60 minutes for your dough to rise.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
(until it's twice as big as it was originally)</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
FUN ALERT!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
When your dough has risen, punch it. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
YES</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>punch</i> it.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
It will feel great after how angry you are at having to knead it for all that time.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Use a sharp knife and cut into 12 even pieces - I do straight through, to quarter it,</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
and then slice each quarter into three.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Not really a science, but then I don't have to eyeball it.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Form your rolls by tucking the ends up and under so there is a smooth surface on top, </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
and place in a greased 8" circle pan. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
In my pan, I get 8 around the outside and squeeze the last 4 into the middle.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Cover with your almost-totally-clean-now dish towel and wait 30-60 <i>more</i> minutes </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
for the dough to rise until it's twice as big.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Preheat your oven while you wait, to 350ºF.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Bake for 20 minutes.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The top should be golden colored, and if you tap the top it should sound hollow.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Let cool 10 minutes before removing from pan & putting on your cooling rack.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Butter the tops of the rolls by using a pastry brush.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
No need to melt the butter, the hot buns will do that.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
:o)</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Makes 1 dozen rolls.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>WELL</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I hope I haven't overwhelmed anybody.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I'm feeling pretty burnt out on baking/cookery today, if it's any consolation.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Let me know if you try any of this!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
And remember... </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
It's ok to burn stuff.</div>pepperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18094580301185673656noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3271452283085447903.post-57252922546302240022012-05-03T08:02:00.002-07:002012-05-03T08:02:18.432-07:00May 2nd, 2012 - Recipe Challenge: Enchiladas<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
DAY 1</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
of the recipe challenge </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
of <i>doom</i>!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
On the Menu:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSvds40zqtnNAqcUVIRixb38c54iUeIHpPRUcn-TV9yWJ8EvntlU41pSTmNaOZQjfQOv7ji0HcJJF65maYsAxmXzKqZQw7niFejAzhaobv0TXeUgGJt9awGpslGgXUZASVQY2UCEZTQVGo/s1600/2012+05-02+enchiladas.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="191" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSvds40zqtnNAqcUVIRixb38c54iUeIHpPRUcn-TV9yWJ8EvntlU41pSTmNaOZQjfQOv7ji0HcJJF65maYsAxmXzKqZQw7niFejAzhaobv0TXeUgGJt9awGpslGgXUZASVQY2UCEZTQVGo/s320/2012+05-02+enchiladas.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Enchiladas</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Here's the <a href="http://allrecipes.com/recipe/whits-chicken-enchiladas/detail.aspx" target="_blank">recipe</a> I used.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><u>Changes I made</u></b>:</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Instead of green chiles, since I didn't have any, I just did the 1 jalapeño.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I didn't use bone-in chicken,</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
(let's be realistic, that was never going to happen)</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
instead I used 5 boneless skinless chicken breasts.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
(Hey, Costco had a 10lb bag of frozen for like $20)</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I didn't chop the chicken into cubes, I shredded it with two forks,</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
because shredded chicken is all I've ever seen in enchiladas.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b style="text-decoration: underline;">Thoughts</b>:</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
This wasn't too hard, I loved that the top got crunchy - so there was crunch <i>and</i> moosh.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I'll probably make this with green peppers next time, </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
because one of my kids was not a huge fan of the jalapeño.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
And neither was my digestive tract.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
(I never eat spicy food.)</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
This was creamy, and delicious, and would probably be great topped with salsa!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
And sour cream! And maybe some chives!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<u style="font-weight: bold;">Overall</u>:</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I will make this again.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
With some tweaks.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="background-color: white; color: purple; font-size: x-large;">Success!</span></b></div>pepperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18094580301185673656noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3271452283085447903.post-69916118233618345482012-05-02T22:29:00.004-07:002012-05-02T22:30:37.796-07:00Cook! Who, me?!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Oh, sweet-hearted women of the world.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">You women, who compare yourselves to others </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">(and by 'others' I mean their shiny candy-coated outside)</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">and wish wish wish</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">you were better at X, Y, Z.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">I'm not sure this is a confession, so it's really just one of my posts. You know the kind.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">I feel that after a few misconceptions, I should clarify something.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">I make cakes.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Yes.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">And I would love nothing more than to have these moments with my children:</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjO8qPVjJH7-OUtKLo8ZQ5I3O2sB_ZkKJaejfh6P2-EoHPBbOBOXdrAgdlwDNxDnCirUykc-p6lnlUQumUuXw7RuHP3QnVn7cQ__mw9THu6zPv5ZL1IIEpZ4cHEYrJ1bYaTAaU9qHfOXZG/s1600/001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjO8qPVjJH7-OUtKLo8ZQ5I3O2sB_ZkKJaejfh6P2-EoHPBbOBOXdrAgdlwDNxDnCirUykc-p6lnlUQumUuXw7RuHP3QnVn7cQ__mw9THu6zPv5ZL1IIEpZ4cHEYrJ1bYaTAaU9qHfOXZG/s1600/001.jpg" /></a></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">(If it wasn't for the whining or the insane mess, </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">I would have little helpers <i>every</i> time, </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">instead of when I can have my mind in the right place.)</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">But I need to tell you I am NOT a chef.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">I am NOT Betty Crocker.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Or Martha Stewart.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Or... Betsy Ross.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">(That's for you sewers and quilters)</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">...you get the point.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">I do not cook.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">I have never been beamingly proud of my kitchen thingies.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMW9RSYEHWSEl-62Hlt4rXjcdZaX8OltdG3AVflEgg85qTp9E1_WWmoF-GNMApY7apOzUsxRjuHe99xP3PwfbcxirDcE65mOMB47iVH7t9_CqxCbOstp7mjlu0fpXgYrl5T8E7hnTuCx4j/s1600/002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" height="292" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMW9RSYEHWSEl-62Hlt4rXjcdZaX8OltdG3AVflEgg85qTp9E1_WWmoF-GNMApY7apOzUsxRjuHe99xP3PwfbcxirDcE65mOMB47iVH7t9_CqxCbOstp7mjlu0fpXgYrl5T8E7hnTuCx4j/s320/002.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"> And I am the very last person who is trying to find a new casserole recipe to whip together for her family.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiscYmYmIaj5xbR_oD4SflGLX3FICRr7cPtj-T8T7vKrKAPC22xakmK8MXkt2SHLKypDmQmksCzMes1faKUhR8aut7Nl75oEtcfry1G9wRFIBEUGTxXWECBrXbVkIRBbaZYvTcq4FkrVnDh/s1600/003.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiscYmYmIaj5xbR_oD4SflGLX3FICRr7cPtj-T8T7vKrKAPC22xakmK8MXkt2SHLKypDmQmksCzMes1faKUhR8aut7Nl75oEtcfry1G9wRFIBEUGTxXWECBrXbVkIRBbaZYvTcq4FkrVnDh/s320/003.jpg" width="281" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">This is how I want you to see me, while I make cakes...</span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">:o)</span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpmIipn-vfMuO2QDI3WtLG6bJ0dZEIyymclgkwhR7a0NSd11NnRxJM3kZoVh87jMrpc7PqiPBSPxoBEHwyFElX8_OcEv9TmCpj2rwd4SdCOPOEkariTJ_MrTU_zH1PIi6Zu0Cqkc0cm2WZ/s1600/004.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpmIipn-vfMuO2QDI3WtLG6bJ0dZEIyymclgkwhR7a0NSd11NnRxJM3kZoVh87jMrpc7PqiPBSPxoBEHwyFElX8_OcEv9TmCpj2rwd4SdCOPOEkariTJ_MrTU_zH1PIi6Zu0Cqkc0cm2WZ/s320/004.jpg" width="219" /></span></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">But in reality, it is so not pretty.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">(We're talking pjs, hair in a bun, icing sugar in said hair...)</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">I <b>hate</b> cooking.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">I <b>hate</b> thinking up meals, and spending the time preparing them.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">It makes a ton of dishes. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">I actually feel bored of food sometimes. Hey, it's all going to the same place. This recipe has chicken in it, that recipe has chicken in it, it's pretty much the same.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">My family has been thriving on veggies (fresh or canned), fruit (only fresh... come on.. canned can be so gross), chicken, potatoes (sliced/mashed/baked... what's the difference?), rice, spaghetti, mac & cheese, hamburgers, chicken nuggets, fries, ...stuff you can microwave... </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i style="font-weight: bold;">Gahhh</i> I love my microwave.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><span style="font-family: inherit;">Best. Invention. Ever.</span></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">I put it right up there with the iPad on my list of great inventions </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">that give mothers time to use the bathroom.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">ALAS,</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">while I may <i>loathe</i> preparing dinners,</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">I must.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">And I married a man who actually likes variety in meals!</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Someone creative with food!?</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">I don't even know what to do with him.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">He's way more adventurous in the kitchen than me.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">And so,</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">for the first time in my life,</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">(okay <i>not</i> the first)</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">I wished I had shadowed my mother </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">in the kitchen more often.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">(Betty Crocker'd hang up her apron permanently if she were to compete)</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">I admit, </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">over the years I have had to learn things.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Like sifting, chopping, grating... </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">what all this means, </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">how to do it <i><b>wrong</b></i>, etc.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Occasionally I would want to get all "domestic" and try a new recipe.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">I'd get all geared up and excited for it, and sometimes it would be incredible.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">And sometimes it would be bland, or boring.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Or not what I expected.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">And sometimes... it would be <i>horribly, horribly wrong</i>. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">And then I would go back to mac & cheese.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">And spaghetti.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">I have <u>many</u> people I admire for their kitchen prowess...</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">One of my friends has mastered so many recipes, </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">I actually wish I could follow her around her kitchen </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">watching <i>her</i> make her (epic!) lemon bars because then, maybe </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">- just maybe! - </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">I would know why my pressed crust miraculously floated away from the pan </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">into the filling and baked all crooked and funny. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Or why there was a weird foam on it.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Or why it never set.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">...I digress.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">I've accepted that cooking and me... are not friends.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">(I'd compare it to a visit to the dentist, but my <a href="http://www.brettblacher.com/" target="_blank">dentist</a> is amazing. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">I've honestly never had a bad visit.)</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">It's ... </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">...like...</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">well I have a terrible imagination right now.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">But you get my point.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><i><span style="font-family: inherit;">However!</span></i></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">I love my husband, and my kids...</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">...I do shrivel inside a little each time my son demands spaghetti only, </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">or requests McDonald's, or pizza.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">He swears he's Mario/Superman, and they only eat Italian food.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">(McDonalds = not Italian. Just a heads up there.)</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Okay, a little dramatic.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">SUM UP: we need to <i>branch out</i>! </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">EXPLORE NEW HORIZONS!</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">So I'm challenging myself.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">*ahem*</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-family: inherit;">I CHALLENGE YOU, PEPPER!</span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><insert here the gauntlet hitting the floor></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">(and me with a smashingly awesome twizzle mustache)</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">I'm going to make new recipes (easy ones..!) and then report here,</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">on what it was like - as someone who has never cooked before, really -</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">what my obstacles were, what I did about it,</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">and whether or not the recipe is really worth trying.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Worth a shot.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">So over the next 14 days, I will be making 10 new recipes.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Recipes that I have never made before.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">WISH ME LUCK!</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">And really, </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">you know what?</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />I challenge you too! </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Even if it's just one new recipe, in one month, or one year...</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">I'd love to hear about it.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">You know you want to.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">I know you can do it!</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">And remember, I'm pretty sure even the kitchen geniuses that we know now, </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">burned <i>something</i>, or ruined a meal, or ran out of an ingredient and substituted it with an almost similar but not quite exactly what you needed ingredient instead... </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">(No? Nobody? Just me? Okay then.)</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Nobody is perfect,</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">some are just great at hiding imperfections,</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">and some just practice, practice, practice.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Right?</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">But <i>carpe diem</i>!</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">I don't cook.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">But I will.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Go find an adventure!</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">I'm starting with enchiladas.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAgSL6I0w1j1MaqPOf22v5Q2-FGpfaJYWTj7aCiH_kFD3pPw-Qa5mnfJqCENWF2tsRqhTC0KXe6mkTZppTREBHReWYwBSZ4o4q3VlHtbOuXrXizqLBeoNWLW_KjZfh8MQ4qHjdpn5AwLE5/s1600/005.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" height="233" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAgSL6I0w1j1MaqPOf22v5Q2-FGpfaJYWTj7aCiH_kFD3pPw-Qa5mnfJqCENWF2tsRqhTC0KXe6mkTZppTREBHReWYwBSZ4o4q3VlHtbOuXrXizqLBeoNWLW_KjZfh8MQ4qHjdpn5AwLE5/s320/005.gif" width="320" /></span></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>pepperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18094580301185673656noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3271452283085447903.post-54472052122988553812012-04-19T14:11:00.000-07:002012-04-19T14:11:11.605-07:00Confession #38 - More Than A Pretty Face<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Okay, the title of this may be pretty vague.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">There are some really, really ridiculously good-looking celebrity men who are also extremely talented.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I have had the most shallow dip into the acting world,</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">(we're talking a villager in Fiddler in my high school years)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">and honestly for how deep some of them go into character, or for how far they take things, or take on their roles... some of them are crazy.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL3Cph7btLcV0qXcvRYpzfchHrS6cHFW6atprCEyiLyBwTxisMewpj20UkF28WCBuXo8CfbHFAPNJHnvAD4Km1HrPPp-NRFV1lyae0t01qTrhk3wcuICoCnFBgJQ3pF2nB1ylCQsvcbEHA/s1600/asyouwish.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL3Cph7btLcV0qXcvRYpzfchHrS6cHFW6atprCEyiLyBwTxisMewpj20UkF28WCBuXo8CfbHFAPNJHnvAD4Km1HrPPp-NRFV1lyae0t01qTrhk3wcuICoCnFBgJQ3pF2nB1ylCQsvcbEHA/s320/asyouwish.jpg" width="207" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cary Elwes<br />
Who doesn't love "The Princess Bride" </td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">...not to name names or anything.</div><div style="text-align: center;">But we all still love them! Crazy, genius - that fine line between crazy and normal - they are awesome.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">So here are some of my favorites, and some of the favorites of my friends as well. </div><div style="text-align: center;">(You know who you are!)</div><div style="text-align: center;">(o.o)</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoDIRNRiBUCqNXm6CN-N6WYiK9MJnsn0CocYPy8nPtIoSTIlYv3A9PW5fVbCcfsxOm9cd6aNoZ0WL66sKfX0qtQg-2480kziWE2qIZH0Swtb_O5uuRcsmebiO90IdPJqbuRYVTzizhfYbq/s1600/brad+pitt.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoDIRNRiBUCqNXm6CN-N6WYiK9MJnsn0CocYPy8nPtIoSTIlYv3A9PW5fVbCcfsxOm9cd6aNoZ0WL66sKfX0qtQg-2480kziWE2qIZH0Swtb_O5uuRcsmebiO90IdPJqbuRYVTzizhfYbq/s1600/brad+pitt.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Brad Pitt</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;">Playing everything from a softie, to an imaginary man, Brad Pitt's got some talent.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW8Ox-Z0I7nrCMC8YoTlwvANMxMEktjGXaaAkJec1y-IxZaOifaJ47AW6DrliwzMI5ZFjxC0Z5y-UjLzQE0Ly2qFopw-77MaV3KcTN5I9tXy2ML5FvOqq_iKEcmfOpAr6Dn6pYpUQDI3uE/s1600/chris+pine.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW8Ox-Z0I7nrCMC8YoTlwvANMxMEktjGXaaAkJec1y-IxZaOifaJ47AW6DrliwzMI5ZFjxC0Z5y-UjLzQE0Ly2qFopw-77MaV3KcTN5I9tXy2ML5FvOqq_iKEcmfOpAr6Dn6pYpUQDI3uE/s320/chris+pine.jpg" width="226" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chris Pine</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;">Putting on a performance so incredible, it did more than put William Shatner to shame, it proclaimed that Shatner should crawl in a hole and renounce his title as James Kirk.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCA4zCRCg-h-oDRoVnr8WDgNYAzj6fzCN9320r2RKqAwBoMMixGjFO7kqUjvfkmB-AmbzSw8eEZLjVX2bjG9xI8tmwoJnQRaRo0ds3d7DjGyXg1df3-rRvooIQegZ5IZNT87mC_nz1zgxm/s1600/christian+bale.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCA4zCRCg-h-oDRoVnr8WDgNYAzj6fzCN9320r2RKqAwBoMMixGjFO7kqUjvfkmB-AmbzSw8eEZLjVX2bjG9xI8tmwoJnQRaRo0ds3d7DjGyXg1df3-rRvooIQegZ5IZNT87mC_nz1zgxm/s320/christian+bale.jpg" width="259" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Christian Bale</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;">All kinds of crazy. Were you alive when they made Batman Begins? Need I say more?</div><div style="text-align: center;">Christian Bale may be nuts sometimes, but he's a genius kind of nuts. Other actors bow down to his commitment and character rounding.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDJ9hgRtg2_N4txfxDICyfsRiJ6otrcqSAExltHTEe3uBFCSEUo7W9xBlK8KWyCkvBaH-B5k9ZBeFQRgMjmEMrDFEG8VwsvuE_HpvdbgqISq8O3JyF99FYenwqUzt8LtuF8Jf61Li0fYr9/s1600/denzel+washington.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDJ9hgRtg2_N4txfxDICyfsRiJ6otrcqSAExltHTEe3uBFCSEUo7W9xBlK8KWyCkvBaH-B5k9ZBeFQRgMjmEMrDFEG8VwsvuE_HpvdbgqISq8O3JyF99FYenwqUzt8LtuF8Jf61Li0fYr9/s320/denzel+washington.jpg" width="215" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Denzel Washington</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;">I have always loved Denzel - another genius. I really loved "The Bone Collector" - I saw it when I was a teenager, and I think I shared it with so many people I could be a spokesperson. </div><div style="text-align: center;">I know it's rated "R" - I was rebellious. </div><div style="text-align: center;">What can I say. </div><div style="text-align: center;">I also loved John Q, but that is a movie I hear you either love, or hate. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1CTPQCHa1ZVheV8gesx9rwyt6bDuQwuxRt8iioAHK98VY8GHnK7EmqWG1FGax8iSD95-G-EKBtyuSMUuN6sSGr6y8ukZMkEKOlvKlKkhL2XtrR9Bw26XE-x4gxELLusM6x5uTXCIhG0R7/s1600/george+eads.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1CTPQCHa1ZVheV8gesx9rwyt6bDuQwuxRt8iioAHK98VY8GHnK7EmqWG1FGax8iSD95-G-EKBtyuSMUuN6sSGr6y8ukZMkEKOlvKlKkhL2XtrR9Bw26XE-x4gxELLusM6x5uTXCIhG0R7/s320/george+eads.jpg" width="209" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">George Eads</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;">This man is probably the only reason I watched CSI after William Petersen left.</div><div style="text-align: center;">He could really reel you in, and make you cry with him.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgB1qkS67ky7yYHr5Se4xtfoXQKH_pKrvum_9pYCjm1B08uLKhDp8tStReL5uUFeKk0Cykdy818lI9orh3TVpM5HVIvVVb1GQEz41vZOc-KxQDBm78o8ktIdExM6NH9o-A0f8m0MAJkkIYo/s1600/gerard+butler.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgB1qkS67ky7yYHr5Se4xtfoXQKH_pKrvum_9pYCjm1B08uLKhDp8tStReL5uUFeKk0Cykdy818lI9orh3TVpM5HVIvVVb1GQEz41vZOc-KxQDBm78o8ktIdExM6NH9o-A0f8m0MAJkkIYo/s320/gerard+butler.jpg" width="251" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gerard Butler</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;">One of my favorites!</div><div style="text-align: center;">Gerard has great talent, plus nothing he says could ever sound bad. </div><div style="text-align: center;">If I ever find out I'm dying of cancer, I want Gerard Butler to call and tell me, because I would respond with:<br />
"Oh, okay then! :D"</div><div style="text-align: center;">So many characters - he seems to put mental and physical genius into them.<br />
Go watch him in something. Seriously. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiz4ZN3C18Hh24ZD6SM6X-lomRJNdIWkRnmaueqS1L4z30HaRxtOsrOCLXrhsHCy4zqNBmgZNaO5uS7iEIPKJBzHIDOv_DHn9-f8HVVFbkJqeNF4fP225b_Gc-rCaW_BJbFuzkpSwfmZYwb/s1600/hugh+jackman.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiz4ZN3C18Hh24ZD6SM6X-lomRJNdIWkRnmaueqS1L4z30HaRxtOsrOCLXrhsHCy4zqNBmgZNaO5uS7iEIPKJBzHIDOv_DHn9-f8HVVFbkJqeNF4fP225b_Gc-rCaW_BJbFuzkpSwfmZYwb/s320/hugh+jackman.jpg" width="237" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hugh Jackman</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;">Hugh Jackman brought Wolverine to life like none other - I can't imagine anyone else doing it better.</div><div style="text-align: center;">I'll confess here, I actually went to see one of the X-Men movies when I was 8 1/2 months pregnant with my son, totally at a loss of what to name him, and suddenly it dawned on me - Wolverine is super bad-A! And his name is Logan. </div><div style="text-align: center;">Logan.</div><div style="text-align: center;">SOLD. Thank you, Hugh Jackman.</div><div style="text-align: center;">(Now, I have met so many children named Logan, I know that it was brought into popularity because of Hugh Jackman as Wolverine in the X-Men movies... especially talking to the moms of the other Logans.) </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggRuNDa5-IFYhonFSxCbh4MnXlCxw9pL9pJmDC_SHDHLAljDZlhyktE50XdFuh9RJz2uDK63lfN1eNBSWHpa7QX7ph9AZaHBTAC6GOmepeZ7bk6PbqVZ9wX8OE-j5HzUYvoInd_EyfX7HB/s1600/jesse+spencer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggRuNDa5-IFYhonFSxCbh4MnXlCxw9pL9pJmDC_SHDHLAljDZlhyktE50XdFuh9RJz2uDK63lfN1eNBSWHpa7QX7ph9AZaHBTAC6GOmepeZ7bk6PbqVZ9wX8OE-j5HzUYvoInd_EyfX7HB/s320/jesse+spencer.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jesse Spencer</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;"> Love his wit and delivery on House - makes it worth watching!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4GUzs1fC_5jh3VaxEs48es5vP22bGveBbT6yo0y5JXuTbYpNj3rAdjJ47y_NnHEBI9EJrBFJxYAjmtLzsk6ZnrRvlmN0Cq_Im6_h98njZzjnEgVt_UVX_BrcgmUtY8bgp0ty_1YFubcQ-/s1600/johnny+depp.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4GUzs1fC_5jh3VaxEs48es5vP22bGveBbT6yo0y5JXuTbYpNj3rAdjJ47y_NnHEBI9EJrBFJxYAjmtLzsk6ZnrRvlmN0Cq_Im6_h98njZzjnEgVt_UVX_BrcgmUtY8bgp0ty_1YFubcQ-/s320/johnny+depp.jpg" width="230" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Johnny Depp</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;"> Always amazing.</div><div style="text-align: center;">I think Johnny Depp is allergic to being terrible.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Thank you for bringing Pirates of the Carribean to a place that rocked our socks off and made us laugh so hard at the same time. Nobody else could have been Jack Sparrow!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia71KD9nz2sAT3NeOZhZXjxjIdeCL3d54nfFhKDIc8HMknP3KYt-ekxHLGTRu3PCk3HhR0OOQ17v7D_iDJvJ6JCLX6PmbtXpnuMUca8_q23PDdvU8Dl8A10Xt9BJpqKuD21zDQ650fvLRZ/s1600/leo+dicaprio.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia71KD9nz2sAT3NeOZhZXjxjIdeCL3d54nfFhKDIc8HMknP3KYt-ekxHLGTRu3PCk3HhR0OOQ17v7D_iDJvJ6JCLX6PmbtXpnuMUca8_q23PDdvU8Dl8A10Xt9BJpqKuD21zDQ650fvLRZ/s320/leo+dicaprio.jpg" width="246" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Leonardo DiCaprio</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;"> Okay if you're my age, you know you crawled to the theater 4 or more times to see Leo in "Titanic" when it first came out.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Have you seen "Inception" yet?<br />
He's definitely getting better with age!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-CFTO_8-KRJ38nAxpNkoI46Uppov-u67L4ozSwMtrUZZrKjzLkcLd9Lcwn60JAT31e-sgU_u5tSQdYXcBydSGPu970P9d6_mSc7PE3l8lvtbQvW77mJ90AcF9Oq9oHcJcqeZD18IDxqUa/s1600/matthew+mcconaughey.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-CFTO_8-KRJ38nAxpNkoI46Uppov-u67L4ozSwMtrUZZrKjzLkcLd9Lcwn60JAT31e-sgU_u5tSQdYXcBydSGPu970P9d6_mSc7PE3l8lvtbQvW77mJ90AcF9Oq9oHcJcqeZD18IDxqUa/s320/matthew+mcconaughey.jpg" width="248" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Matthew McConaughey</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;">Surfer bum dedicated to his body, who seems to crawl off the beach periodically to bring us lovely rom-coms like "How To Lose a Guy In 10 Days" and "The Wedding Planner" - cheesy or not, I always love his movies. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQkAV9T88jCxrKqm3h2DSkPkbVB7ZRLfxEd5uPZRCwzouhk5PXx6RIPSdG7OWbulccq1mV4Kxt_NQW05OPpEOGw_96HzYw7xpbHZv0oxZIIUo7Wfane2wd61qNVkBSbkvVzHr_PgybFoOz/s1600/milo+ventimiglia.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQkAV9T88jCxrKqm3h2DSkPkbVB7ZRLfxEd5uPZRCwzouhk5PXx6RIPSdG7OWbulccq1mV4Kxt_NQW05OPpEOGw_96HzYw7xpbHZv0oxZIIUo7Wfane2wd61qNVkBSbkvVzHr_PgybFoOz/s320/milo+ventimiglia.jpg" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Milo Ventimiglia</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;">Milo MADE "Heroes" - he was one of my favorites! </div><div style="text-align: center;">I think one of the biggest mistakes that show ever made was making him lose his powers - he had the power that was the most coveted! He was the most awesome.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4TdBMo8ruh4l7Jip78Xh1QWhMCLXI1iFYCgnbW0S0DAjb5HFYddpKUz0cSUIXgn8pu7EW5l0r6f3kjRlx0GAOu_vrBOqQ5aVxyIDVgp9PC2z-TUAvmvOE4dcEWjfb8YOiOVRxpkrWIMNk/s1600/paul+walker.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4TdBMo8ruh4l7Jip78Xh1QWhMCLXI1iFYCgnbW0S0DAjb5HFYddpKUz0cSUIXgn8pu7EW5l0r6f3kjRlx0GAOu_vrBOqQ5aVxyIDVgp9PC2z-TUAvmvOE4dcEWjfb8YOiOVRxpkrWIMNk/s320/paul+walker.jpg" width="245" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Paul Walker</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;"> I feel like Paul is someone I watched in movies when I was a teenager - but he's not really around in much now. I could just be a media snob, but I really don't follow gossip... or watch much tv anymore, or movies for that matter. </div><div style="text-align: center;">Which I suppose, makes this post a little bit hypocritical of me.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Oh well!</div><div style="text-align: center;">Who doesn't love Paul Walker?</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC-F56ZTWx71gEKNR76N4HqXoSlZ5_D0Tm03lguagNFQLgcmNp95TAINDgMy0832OfPtqt5P7fSL7vYX7Tc7ggMkJNViQ7vger8Y9D8-pse2T24T7zjD1GoikKwqF9iX5tdAdf8mlK0eDx/s1600/peter+dinklage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC-F56ZTWx71gEKNR76N4HqXoSlZ5_D0Tm03lguagNFQLgcmNp95TAINDgMy0832OfPtqt5P7fSL7vYX7Tc7ggMkJNViQ7vger8Y9D8-pse2T24T7zjD1GoikKwqF9iX5tdAdf8mlK0eDx/s320/peter+dinklage.jpg" width="251" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Peter Dinklage</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;"> TALENT. Okay what has he <i>not </i>been in that's awesome?!</div><div style="text-align: center;">Chronicles of Narnia... Elf... are these ringing a bell?</div><div style="text-align: center;">Another favorite.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzDEX6IgUg-gO6SwuHbGXgNwjNqbVaDOOUD5nqRvx1hMNSLe3Bw21rfjMvt02vUyUA2Y2fbNoFVcD9VeWczQ96FGPSjqyMVCtCQ10Y0juE_f9bd7a-BRF2Bj-s_J-srhyphenhypheneNxMTy9jBiF89/s1600/robert+pattinson.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzDEX6IgUg-gO6SwuHbGXgNwjNqbVaDOOUD5nqRvx1hMNSLe3Bw21rfjMvt02vUyUA2Y2fbNoFVcD9VeWczQ96FGPSjqyMVCtCQ10Y0juE_f9bd7a-BRF2Bj-s_J-srhyphenhypheneNxMTy9jBiF89/s320/robert+pattinson.jpg" width="234" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Robert Pattinson</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;"> Ok, so as a real-life man he might be a little grungy.</div><div style="text-align: center;">But you know I had to put him on the list.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg78Ml69MQvFIwYM0ptX8LDDfaima657wuNnThVz2p47KJ20fv9bgpF8djzZQX2cEADEcU71agwSj_YKzMyUN3vBEwLFa0uWpznPh4nvJ_pnpUj8kpBwM4wilumPzgp-aazlkPv47OczSOq/s1600/robert_downey_jr.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg78Ml69MQvFIwYM0ptX8LDDfaima657wuNnThVz2p47KJ20fv9bgpF8djzZQX2cEADEcU71agwSj_YKzMyUN3vBEwLFa0uWpznPh4nvJ_pnpUj8kpBwM4wilumPzgp-aazlkPv47OczSOq/s320/robert_downey_jr.jpg" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Robert Downey Jr</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;"> Iron man. Sherlock Holmes. 'Nuff said!</div><div style="text-align: center;">Favorite. Hilarious. Awesome. Bad-A.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC3YH105RmeomaVKHo_CXBYOtea6jO6mn6BoQj4YOSBajQHXU0EZ3m3RcbdnrEOXnc2H1sRUA1Yf92mkaPt2Dqjl1Wt_dhH9JSGmwOb0THICbgCBujZf2vRt65HMOKYsnIY1g4PZpWlf1N/s1600/ryan+gosling.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="230" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC3YH105RmeomaVKHo_CXBYOtea6jO6mn6BoQj4YOSBajQHXU0EZ3m3RcbdnrEOXnc2H1sRUA1Yf92mkaPt2Dqjl1Wt_dhH9JSGmwOb0THICbgCBujZf2vRt65HMOKYsnIY1g4PZpWlf1N/s320/ryan+gosling.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ryan Gosling</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;"> Eeee Ryan Gosling. I felt like such a fan girl when I saw he was in The Notebook.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Wow he's 5 years older than me?</div><div style="text-align: center;">Hm. Well anyways I remember coming home from school when I was a teen, and watching "Breaker High" - did any of you watch Breaker High?! - and I was always rooting for his character on that show!</div><div style="text-align: center;">Then I saw "The Notebook" being advertised, and I had a moment where I thought, "Awww he's all grow'd up!"</div><div style="text-align: center;">Love Ryan Gosling. He manages to be a tough softie.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWQYZ8vuJo8klhiN4GHX7CKyhqBseHdy0CHMgEaebKsszVUymQN5YQuYubFBa50pcp1u9iei3_5tHyakZGPHaQJ6W576moNzCg2Ib47Ww4GNVv31tmEJDG4b2lDfHYda1o3WNh3ap_4T4g/s1600/ryan+reynolds.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWQYZ8vuJo8klhiN4GHX7CKyhqBseHdy0CHMgEaebKsszVUymQN5YQuYubFBa50pcp1u9iei3_5tHyakZGPHaQJ6W576moNzCg2Ib47Ww4GNVv31tmEJDG4b2lDfHYda1o3WNh3ap_4T4g/s320/ryan+reynolds.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ryan Reynolds</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;"> LOVE Ryan Reynolds... everything he's in, he's just hilarious. I don't know why but his sense or how he delivers his humor is exactly my kind of humor. I can never watch him trying to be funny and not laugh until I cry.</div><div style="text-align: center;">If you haven't seen something with him in it, you should.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeSoJ403wvzGhIq3Z3rpRVcstTKuFF6CaPvpxum1cGbXgrtDL0MfWaZNbnYAdW6tDVZuebvmvq0RngYUZbieuNQnuK8r6XZkNYqgyd7nX_wPPrGA0zaJTOfkrTMiI7tLfkz93mMceotJrg/s1600/shemar+moore.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeSoJ403wvzGhIq3Z3rpRVcstTKuFF6CaPvpxum1cGbXgrtDL0MfWaZNbnYAdW6tDVZuebvmvq0RngYUZbieuNQnuK8r6XZkNYqgyd7nX_wPPrGA0zaJTOfkrTMiI7tLfkz93mMceotJrg/s1600/shemar+moore.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Shemar Moore</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;">Loved Criminal Minds - although a little dark for me sometimes.... but the show was made greater with Shemar Moore on it! Love his acting.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaJ2yEat1TUiKjwD3djKEoRnOi9QHxLGuhyorphM9_vAnm7kZHGAo0yMluINyZmX1JD7xWgtmBIAD3t8Z4s4RK1onGs8LbQqZCxi9wqXZMAry5BVzZOQmHWghjWF2aXfwjn0XAdOpdbwl8/s1600/shia+labeouf.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaJ2yEat1TUiKjwD3djKEoRnOi9QHxLGuhyorphM9_vAnm7kZHGAo0yMluINyZmX1JD7xWgtmBIAD3t8Z4s4RK1onGs8LbQqZCxi9wqXZMAry5BVzZOQmHWghjWF2aXfwjn0XAdOpdbwl8/s320/shia+labeouf.jpg" width="223" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Shia LaBeouf</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;"> Another "Aw, he's all grow'd up!" moment - watching "Even Stevens" and then "Transformers" - ahh! Shia what just happened?<br />
I love Shia's humor too - just my kind. His delivery is always perfect.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Laugh 'til I cry.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWYQrW07pYqjHUL0-zRBAGcZfRdD7m3m2La0VZMVkmXpx_4FU-1QwOnHs4Tp6mt3byeG5O4PUi7cg-lMksyA8489TFcSLlI78-5nni0WWCD148u81uEhDQ_p6OXocCHf90Y3hRip3G1uds/s1600/simon+baker.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWYQrW07pYqjHUL0-zRBAGcZfRdD7m3m2La0VZMVkmXpx_4FU-1QwOnHs4Tp6mt3byeG5O4PUi7cg-lMksyA8489TFcSLlI78-5nni0WWCD148u81uEhDQ_p6OXocCHf90Y3hRip3G1uds/s320/simon+baker.jpg" width="254" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Simon Baker</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;"> This is actually not one of my contributions - I am familiar with him, but not much about his acting.</div><div style="text-align: center;">I have to say, he looks like a Disney Prince. But kinder.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNmRzpjiknMblcXWmVu5bsGQT1sY2NkEWoiYmnZkOCNrDcdC2o4t-7d_dgaTzvMqHiz4HsFOCQu6uzLD5rDFKKhQ2GEEY3HzZNM6hG5FyH6wUjO3nhInCldJ_RcFFp5MCVXBfy9i-Ryp4h/s1600/taylor-lautner.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNmRzpjiknMblcXWmVu5bsGQT1sY2NkEWoiYmnZkOCNrDcdC2o4t-7d_dgaTzvMqHiz4HsFOCQu6uzLD5rDFKKhQ2GEEY3HzZNM6hG5FyH6wUjO3nhInCldJ_RcFFp5MCVXBfy9i-Ryp4h/s320/taylor-lautner.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Taylor Lautner</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;"> <i>Another</i> "Aw, he's all grow'd up!" moment - accidentally (no offense, Taylor) watching "Shark Boy & Lava Girl" and then seeing Twilight come out. I remember watching Shark and thinking "What?? Who <i>is</i> this kid? He's got talent!" </div><div style="text-align: center;">Well he definitely put his kung-fu abs to work!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin5BVa0mgdrfEgrD6XlvBr6DPAnRVLy557ujwYe-6GP48E_aXWfeguYgke5ghsHx53wmi9D4qiZysWKCejzJ_0aFeiZy_o6tn7Q2LhbQNzopYUjSuq2CNypYBFDu9qs2C7jear_Z4VJcK0/s1600/terrence+howard.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin5BVa0mgdrfEgrD6XlvBr6DPAnRVLy557ujwYe-6GP48E_aXWfeguYgke5ghsHx53wmi9D4qiZysWKCejzJ_0aFeiZy_o6tn7Q2LhbQNzopYUjSuq2CNypYBFDu9qs2C7jear_Z4VJcK0/s320/terrence+howard.jpg" width="252" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Terrence Howard</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;"> Iron Man, Crash, August Rush, Four Brothers, the list is endless. Everything Terrence does is moving, or amazing. </div><div style="text-align: center;">Favorite.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE_OqUmECTozGVT24vjWtpvRFBhXXLCkicWBTmpl0vADoBfhsbl3ttR1F0_zuXmpen7xyyyK1WhETgecBtfqNPqduNOSp9zyQwKg8i-ha_wOJ0XiXDp4jGxw3Q_N8jkwKKqGS5PTrNKISK/s1600/will+smith.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE_OqUmECTozGVT24vjWtpvRFBhXXLCkicWBTmpl0vADoBfhsbl3ttR1F0_zuXmpen7xyyyK1WhETgecBtfqNPqduNOSp9zyQwKg8i-ha_wOJ0XiXDp4jGxw3Q_N8jkwKKqGS5PTrNKISK/s320/will+smith.jpg" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Will Smith</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;"> Who else squealed like a little girl when they found out there is another MiB movie coming out??? I did!</div><div style="text-align: center;">I grew up with this Fresh Prince - and he's hilarious, and I love his work.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Favorite!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI94jP8Nc2XXpnyBbtk6W3eNvAe38XZr6bYfVg0jPtW2HCHRVF5n4L9oecAOQgCMzdaDOJH71LfXQP6n8xFa9voY5USl0-JD1NiKw58ju0QMQTZt87lRZpJZDJJjYd_CzEqSnI8N0tDPxa/s1600/zac+efron.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI94jP8Nc2XXpnyBbtk6W3eNvAe38XZr6bYfVg0jPtW2HCHRVF5n4L9oecAOQgCMzdaDOJH71LfXQP6n8xFa9voY5USl0-JD1NiKw58ju0QMQTZt87lRZpJZDJJjYd_CzEqSnI8N0tDPxa/s320/zac+efron.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Zac Efron</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;"> Singing, dancing, acting - he has everything. What is the phrase? </div><div style="text-align: center;">Triple-whammy.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisqO9cDuMD-1YgJZWEOtAyDHxIaJr2JHwWSdZ49C1QF5i4WaCv73r8973yVX9nvcN654f9ZCPgiiQh6OA06eNz4m4Y2O4lwDvpTgDKzCtjccCJSmGlJbidSBI0RKKsei_6srYTBwIfSXo2/s1600/zachary+quinto.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisqO9cDuMD-1YgJZWEOtAyDHxIaJr2JHwWSdZ49C1QF5i4WaCv73r8973yVX9nvcN654f9ZCPgiiQh6OA06eNz4m4Y2O4lwDvpTgDKzCtjccCJSmGlJbidSBI0RKKsei_6srYTBwIfSXo2/s320/zachary+quinto.jpg" width="251" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Zachary Quinto</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;">Sylar was another favorite of mine on "Heroes" - and seriously.. really did well for Spock's reputation.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Perfection.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><i>SO</i></b></div><div style="text-align: center;">... who are YOUR favorite actors? </div><div style="text-align: center;">Do you have someone <i>you</i> think is incredibly talented?</div><div style="text-align: center;">I know I've missed a few.</div>pepperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18094580301185673656noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3271452283085447903.post-51886039643285302562012-01-03T11:14:00.002-08:002012-04-19T12:54:08.429-07:00Confession #37 - Weird Food<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Sometimes... I like weird food.</div><div style="text-align: center;">For example,</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Confession: </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>I love BEETS</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">and...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>KIDNEY BEANS</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><br />
</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Mmm, delicious beets.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuDXtX8iroegX0MP_v75HXnlr0wy8Zr8ShcdZlGxPKGOwp3_JspBlvoGsEljfplP5vJ6wn64fNjdylJdlImfVyA2amXNg2URRpROIHyUCNw6GmAk2eJl8NMieuQZ2KSn9_9TnmotJ0-OCM/s1600/beets+001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="230" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuDXtX8iroegX0MP_v75HXnlr0wy8Zr8ShcdZlGxPKGOwp3_JspBlvoGsEljfplP5vJ6wn64fNjdylJdlImfVyA2amXNg2URRpROIHyUCNw6GmAk2eJl8NMieuQZ2KSn9_9TnmotJ0-OCM/s320/beets+001.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Now, you may be thinking - what is so odd about this? </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">There are lots of things that beets are in, or even more that you could eat kidney beans in.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">"That's not so strange!"</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">But see here? Even THESE beets are too fancy for me:</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmQfTh393cSd3qlL_mf-YqcnHi_roDTJr7yGR0GmbIFlPvPOsAtttlop0dpgRlJFgkFRc54TpKPiT_dLBd7edM3JyNzawnED_jmKK5o1SEAwBMCzrUm1zd__iElFmxBGc82CRpmbwrWShX/s1600/beets+002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmQfTh393cSd3qlL_mf-YqcnHi_roDTJr7yGR0GmbIFlPvPOsAtttlop0dpgRlJFgkFRc54TpKPiT_dLBd7edM3JyNzawnED_jmKK5o1SEAwBMCzrUm1zd__iElFmxBGc82CRpmbwrWShX/s320/beets+002.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Would I eat them? Yes.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">But I prefer to eat beets straight - heated, with a little salt and pepper.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Yep.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I drain the hot pink water though. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">That would be a little weird.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">But delicious, sweet beets with a little salt and pepper...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">YUM!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">And same with kidney beans...</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiR2WtWm1VTjhAq0uB-8qv3tWh6-BlAAPdJsPHElztWHujyIP2oL19Sxku0MQVOhf3-AGEkWFrOD04Er5qKY0Lt5KlNcV_gqnL51cOQiaw2MCR4MIPIeUvUNRKRWfV5kzQwl1t-aOSExe0S/s1600/kidney+beans+003.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiR2WtWm1VTjhAq0uB-8qv3tWh6-BlAAPdJsPHElztWHujyIP2oL19Sxku0MQVOhf3-AGEkWFrOD04Er5qKY0Lt5KlNcV_gqnL51cOQiaw2MCR4MIPIeUvUNRKRWfV5kzQwl1t-aOSExe0S/s320/kidney+beans+003.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I mean, I love them all.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ8XigFvVgJuSWo18w8fxkjNTnwA4PDaba1G6nBZ3KAVbn6wwdm7LA_VOVGsm1fExKWDtta3vddhtZ2MuCokZLVjQoWiHZVZp90g3tlop3dmAQMH8aIFvTQz8SEAhHP5Bkrk9BLcneX-Xk/s1600/kidney+beans+all+of+them+004.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ8XigFvVgJuSWo18w8fxkjNTnwA4PDaba1G6nBZ3KAVbn6wwdm7LA_VOVGsm1fExKWDtta3vddhtZ2MuCokZLVjQoWiHZVZp90g3tlop3dmAQMH8aIFvTQz8SEAhHP5Bkrk9BLcneX-Xk/s320/kidney+beans+all+of+them+004.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">This is how I look at kidney beans: (and beets)</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkcsFIuc3QFxWKHdIsxwdC03HOZm4lmSFuCspPzM2MGWBWnvIf0AJUoEFKJvz8r_Z76CrSZgVRV6p32sWApf2mtNp-HK6zM_FMV4G3wTJMM156poXGX66xwrnRUv7oe4MIp3pA6Rn9rn_a/s1600/the+happiest+food+005.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkcsFIuc3QFxWKHdIsxwdC03HOZm4lmSFuCspPzM2MGWBWnvIf0AJUoEFKJvz8r_Z76CrSZgVRV6p32sWApf2mtNp-HK6zM_FMV4G3wTJMM156poXGX66xwrnRUv7oe4MIp3pA6Rn9rn_a/s320/the+happiest+food+005.gif" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I don't know why!</div><div style="text-align: center;">But...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I would eat them in a tree,</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Or in a box, or by the sea.</div><div style="text-align: center;">I'd even eat them in my house,</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Not by a mouse, or by some grouse...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">but I would eat them here or there.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Say - I would eat them <i>anywhere.</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Some parting advice, from me to you:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9Gj3X6_jOAO938pq4zwP8aG_sXX93Z_sGTJmHlLhoigvSQosOrvoM2MYACaI0wXtroih4mya7D7Qz-LC-tF3KqZ_KftvDuMT0FEEjz6jKvcVUmjk_pBRMw3-b24eMwKnzM4BlHrlU0DK4/s1600/eat+your+veggies.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9Gj3X6_jOAO938pq4zwP8aG_sXX93Z_sGTJmHlLhoigvSQosOrvoM2MYACaI0wXtroih4mya7D7Qz-LC-tF3KqZ_KftvDuMT0FEEjz6jKvcVUmjk_pBRMw3-b24eMwKnzM4BlHrlU0DK4/s320/eat+your+veggies.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Because: </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzgWMr654nNxO2ngP_LpwLUAsfhT4TGbLq4Q7oqXc9WGbRkJEjwke9v1VVXIW-XjoNUXBCPapy9ruqYk_xgA6LbUsoD9XmPyV3JAT9soXrx_TJLl2gbYtAZZjgZsGgjYWSA5An1h2OJdHk/s1600/vegetable+awesomeness.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="173" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzgWMr654nNxO2ngP_LpwLUAsfhT4TGbLq4Q7oqXc9WGbRkJEjwke9v1VVXIW-XjoNUXBCPapy9ruqYk_xgA6LbUsoD9XmPyV3JAT9soXrx_TJLl2gbYtAZZjgZsGgjYWSA5An1h2OJdHk/s320/vegetable+awesomeness.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">And remember, no matter what your father told you, eating your vegetables will NOT put hair on your chest.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">:o)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDIygBhtBssQ3abA9_nqjacYtgwSRo2V75MapShTLpIn13hxzKlDrmH62v0b0xazFTc9u1WQXi_j-hJ5IiuFEWpRI3GcqaNsEqztOX1pA17OUcjUWdL2UMVy5_ayCMfKjRk5v-aA-EJQbR/s1600/f13ba_glazed_beet_donuts.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDIygBhtBssQ3abA9_nqjacYtgwSRo2V75MapShTLpIn13hxzKlDrmH62v0b0xazFTc9u1WQXi_j-hJ5IiuFEWpRI3GcqaNsEqztOX1pA17OUcjUWdL2UMVy5_ayCMfKjRk5v-aA-EJQbR/s320/f13ba_glazed_beet_donuts.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Someone made these glazed beet donuts. Don't they look delicious?<br />
YES.<br />
YES THEY DO.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div>pepperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18094580301185673656noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3271452283085447903.post-58172925760550195022011-10-06T12:03:00.000-07:002011-10-06T12:03:04.995-07:00A 'Grand' Lunchable<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I was just wondering today, about how far I could make a lunchable stretch. I also have a problem where my 2-year-old constantly requests "lunchable! lunchable!" but she never actually eats the lunchable, she just picks off the cheese. (Hence why you don't really find them in our fridge anymore!)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">So, I pulled a few ingredients out of my fridge and experimented.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">It turned out great!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>You'll need:</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">1. Refrigerator can biscuits</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">2. A lunchable</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">3. Chocolate sauce/whipped cream (optional)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Preheat your oven to 350°F.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I used Pillsbury 'Grands!' for my biscuits.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6nbWD0L3wP5PZTbaHj4LTtn_dCOTthOp2F-wS1KhVGQOZzdOOXpk-PyYKeMjmSmTu8ED7Ww6ixhsjZ7BclBPXxTwk0QEONHmb1xd1gWgdG3g5DOhd_efPSv5m_VL4kDECLu9PTNN3-ydA/s1600/001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6nbWD0L3wP5PZTbaHj4LTtn_dCOTthOp2F-wS1KhVGQOZzdOOXpk-PyYKeMjmSmTu8ED7Ww6ixhsjZ7BclBPXxTwk0QEONHmb1xd1gWgdG3g5DOhd_efPSv5m_VL4kDECLu9PTNN3-ydA/s1600/001.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Place your biscuits out on a baking sheet.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I lined mine with parchment paper, just in case.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">(Because nothing sticks to parchment paper!)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">:oD</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF5_pfYkC8hF8zTG7qTr7XvEQS9MjjTc7wZOGkO3oy7UdpAi95xSgAtzLHswVtwVHM2QmkCET6Ym7vq-I7x1HzfIQ4soCkqnkYkNIS_dcVwz92LG4Nwxdw5ctqPN13nWFZsEwJd59qkfPp/s1600/002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF5_pfYkC8hF8zTG7qTr7XvEQS9MjjTc7wZOGkO3oy7UdpAi95xSgAtzLHswVtwVHM2QmkCET6Ym7vq-I7x1HzfIQ4soCkqnkYkNIS_dcVwz92LG4Nwxdw5ctqPN13nWFZsEwJd59qkfPp/s320/002.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Open up your lunchable.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrLoDTZwEJi-4SIqyX1i7Qr-Pnu3SZvntUBT3RWVn05FdjOEKxEUYXlNeUOL-4zzmeHQDUSQr07bwYROvyQz16JsL9F1mBpsmoH3JhlJ3fcP3CxSS5N0wx0ja8_KyTQgBRPw41nGzRWBPd/s1600/003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrLoDTZwEJi-4SIqyX1i7Qr-Pnu3SZvntUBT3RWVn05FdjOEKxEUYXlNeUOL-4zzmeHQDUSQr07bwYROvyQz16JsL9F1mBpsmoH3JhlJ3fcP3CxSS5N0wx0ja8_KyTQgBRPw41nGzRWBPd/s320/003.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Assemble all the lunchables into sandwiches.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">(You could even double up on these if you want them to be 'meatier', but I just used one this time around because everything in the lunchable - assembled - made 8 things to wrap in 8 biscuits)</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSKxLVEK0fInoftuAHkwQ1llQs2F2-MGR3NDj_SmtgmkVHszIz8eDvJUobkCyHVfjTOYSNIfPzSNOz2CRWPzFT7MS_-h-ev5boQJeZ5gSATUZoi9tsZVETXUcIGz6LBR9L1vQ0Dg_5MvbG/s1600/004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSKxLVEK0fInoftuAHkwQ1llQs2F2-MGR3NDj_SmtgmkVHszIz8eDvJUobkCyHVfjTOYSNIfPzSNOz2CRWPzFT7MS_-h-ev5boQJeZ5gSATUZoi9tsZVETXUcIGz6LBR9L1vQ0Dg_5MvbG/s320/004.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Carefully separate the biscuit in half, and tuck in a lunchable.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">(Or two, if you are going for "heartier")</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Press closed around the edges with a fork.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwgtJ9SC8iNCp7MBqwi7QZu-08ZrTCzpNm-V7LrQ_goHXdeuGW3E9PsRBX5ladgT_DOo-xCVY4EZvd7rhk4q6sogFazgSmm1moYpjpYqn94-VGVlWNrZKvjJn-MvG_hjph3F3QNM6ScvLo/s1600/005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwgtJ9SC8iNCp7MBqwi7QZu-08ZrTCzpNm-V7LrQ_goHXdeuGW3E9PsRBX5ladgT_DOo-xCVY4EZvd7rhk4q6sogFazgSmm1moYpjpYqn94-VGVlWNrZKvjJn-MvG_hjph3F3QNM6ScvLo/s320/005.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Repeat with the rest, <i>including</i> the oreos!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">:o)</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlm9kDZYG0Bep-fu8PB5GtLe13a3_Gx3rn5CAZCEDHdGp6P6-hgM4YX_cRh_HJeeyyHRDxIu4UO6eev1rerjxlKeHU2XqD-OphbIBl3MChC5E-mKd4oOW-eZjfy47vZV0t_wrPN1_VRB2U/s1600/006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlm9kDZYG0Bep-fu8PB5GtLe13a3_Gx3rn5CAZCEDHdGp6P6-hgM4YX_cRh_HJeeyyHRDxIu4UO6eev1rerjxlKeHU2XqD-OphbIBl3MChC5E-mKd4oOW-eZjfy47vZV0t_wrPN1_VRB2U/s320/006.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Place in your oven for 12 minutes. </div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisWNtNw9tZgdJ-x56uq16jhruxYMsBeSzoD-tKkRAfo-6S1o3Jn23dlI0xYZjgpkJNgUgygK-r2wO0bFALCmCPKx9XIWxctcVpdh_ZxuXxye6PRbQF4qqnsGOkaDdKxCcPLOJNuH25em3q/s1600/007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisWNtNw9tZgdJ-x56uq16jhruxYMsBeSzoD-tKkRAfo-6S1o3Jn23dlI0xYZjgpkJNgUgygK-r2wO0bFALCmCPKx9XIWxctcVpdh_ZxuXxye6PRbQF4qqnsGOkaDdKxCcPLOJNuH25em3q/s320/007.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">They will come out golden brown:</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQm9NvcoWXDgwBnbu82_6vZ6OF_4HknOJ79KKb5s5rvpkjW21ZhBOvodJpnTYRi9jFO_Kc0tiihwX947lWt19_C45uugPF8LQAQwQyu5ZAdO9m4VKne3L9iiKBHPD4GFiTxrBX688cwD5s/s1600/008.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQm9NvcoWXDgwBnbu82_6vZ6OF_4HknOJ79KKb5s5rvpkjW21ZhBOvodJpnTYRi9jFO_Kc0tiihwX947lWt19_C45uugPF8LQAQwQyu5ZAdO9m4VKne3L9iiKBHPD4GFiTxrBX688cwD5s/s320/008.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Ta-da!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Stuffed biscuit lunchables.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">WAY filling! My daughter ate <i>one</i> for lunch, and I had two and we were done.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA0wwcWX1m8sRZdL7mjIlLBlXG_3vfTWqu-6a0oWw6uuncq09X1fBDPQEjiGYJP5cIBKpLJbbomqz9KTzaaAJL8zlkWgg14uxvbqDQCFOdLSrdhK7Xlpxwy8VJHN5Cl4GBFA9xgrwaxDLy/s1600/009.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA0wwcWX1m8sRZdL7mjIlLBlXG_3vfTWqu-6a0oWw6uuncq09X1fBDPQEjiGYJP5cIBKpLJbbomqz9KTzaaAJL8zlkWgg14uxvbqDQCFOdLSrdhK7Xlpxwy8VJHN5Cl4GBFA9xgrwaxDLy/s320/009.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Here is how the oreo one turned out:</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQCM8apEzr-zU7KPc7DZA7xfYui3SwVs_gXLh3nYQ7pslI2L91fZMe90pN7xkfzcKHyIfldGRFjRlZXOG9O3CMDl2wIK_djRQR1q7_zwPWZQSlscQfMgZGdrqwiHC-YY9uvOcHqj1OraOg/s1600/010.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQCM8apEzr-zU7KPc7DZA7xfYui3SwVs_gXLh3nYQ7pslI2L91fZMe90pN7xkfzcKHyIfldGRFjRlZXOG9O3CMDl2wIK_djRQR1q7_zwPWZQSlscQfMgZGdrqwiHC-YY9uvOcHqj1OraOg/s320/010.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I drizzled a little chocolate sauce on a plate,</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">(I used Hershey's)</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2fep5ieE8mF_kj7GpfjGRGxPVksOSAmGreQqDRDyf8r2rF0obAWmF67eWCWnIfeQwbYx6moy8OM722ybOdgXMfqtCe7258bb5h6t-oMyW6Gmhtk7ks8VHtk7MaurLD_dEKPzLraHSrlqZ/s1600/011.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2fep5ieE8mF_kj7GpfjGRGxPVksOSAmGreQqDRDyf8r2rF0obAWmF67eWCWnIfeQwbYx6moy8OM722ybOdgXMfqtCe7258bb5h6t-oMyW6Gmhtk7ks8VHtk7MaurLD_dEKPzLraHSrlqZ/s1600/011.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">And garnished with a little whipped cream,</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">(I used cool whip instead of the real thing...)</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi76ocDi0-Ldy4iY-iOkSrp0kj6z3iiqfqM-Hq4aRmwSF_QQAzs9tEDC2iSpGHvP-fFh2QV46kX811kFuCbgedKRdH-_m-2vFqJB_m2IfTZ04WJh1510m3sLIAMwzSKb23rdZrU30dFBtgF/s1600/012.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="216" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi76ocDi0-Ldy4iY-iOkSrp0kj6z3iiqfqM-Hq4aRmwSF_QQAzs9tEDC2iSpGHvP-fFh2QV46kX811kFuCbgedKRdH-_m-2vFqJB_m2IfTZ04WJh1510m3sLIAMwzSKb23rdZrU30dFBtgF/s320/012.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">And a super easy dessert was born!</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEwSaeLQ_dEwcRVo85zo0D2VqE2-K8GD7L-U-E1SF5Dlfi-EmHAESW4voXn4FnUquXseRGXGT29Yj-UEY05THpHEvPP_dXoHMzZZAN40w8D3nlG3CHZwsCDfS1v8A4dBOALXuru2IFPP7l/s1600/013.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEwSaeLQ_dEwcRVo85zo0D2VqE2-K8GD7L-U-E1SF5Dlfi-EmHAESW4voXn4FnUquXseRGXGT29Yj-UEY05THpHEvPP_dXoHMzZZAN40w8D3nlG3CHZwsCDfS1v8A4dBOALXuru2IFPP7l/s320/013.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">If you think about it, this could serve 4 people (or more, depending on how old they are) - all from one lunchable, and a can of biscuits.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">SWEET!</div>pepperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18094580301185673656noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3271452283085447903.post-74573806177616208042011-10-06T10:18:00.000-07:002011-10-06T10:18:03.191-07:00Confession #36 - Canadian Food<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpVVLTyr6odSXSsZSrpJJU4hpcRqwtUxOYJjJK90HXBb3CZjIaqBthZtC1dMX-aT-4i8pNTEY8MUYTZAMFvXo-6iRqzos9Rbw9NS1SD2tsBfHpJIVtpydVhXOG4a2uHAQbAWIOrPthhqPY/s1600/001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpVVLTyr6odSXSsZSrpJJU4hpcRqwtUxOYJjJK90HXBb3CZjIaqBthZtC1dMX-aT-4i8pNTEY8MUYTZAMFvXo-6iRqzos9Rbw9NS1SD2tsBfHpJIVtpydVhXOG4a2uHAQbAWIOrPthhqPY/s320/001.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Beautiful.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Do you know what those beauties are?<br />
Something you are missing out on, is my guess.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">These are some of my FAVORITE food items that I miss.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Confession: I miss my Canadian food.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">(Or so I've been told it is Canadian ☺)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">First up:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">KETCHUP CHIPS.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZVoeewhbs9_XfkJG3-TszDqRQWQ7XvHeOU6wh-02eDH97xSlDZKUbY5k9ZtWLS6NO7J721I3fgpXDPitZ4qku91XDTU77o-E__uYQzh1jI9mJHeWRQWTUcsLLP6xbX62fOWiFOpS-ZE7j/s1600/002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZVoeewhbs9_XfkJG3-TszDqRQWQ7XvHeOU6wh-02eDH97xSlDZKUbY5k9ZtWLS6NO7J721I3fgpXDPitZ4qku91XDTU77o-E__uYQzh1jI9mJHeWRQWTUcsLLP6xbX62fOWiFOpS-ZE7j/s320/002.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Glorious!<br />
Delicious!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Marvelous!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Last Christmas, my mother asked me what I would like for Christmas. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">She laughed a little when I told her, "Ketchup chips!"</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHKDK88NDh1FVqhwBE3sHmJHdTjGkLrlq__SrhDTjH7KzI3jHATM0k3LFd5AoTiKaRAHeXf2XOpILgVwyWOn2_VAAwUv7M1KUo_DFY2-bC0-HazQDbTLF4YKM3VZfIEpUKL6frdLdXaoiJ/s1600/003.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHKDK88NDh1FVqhwBE3sHmJHdTjGkLrlq__SrhDTjH7KzI3jHATM0k3LFd5AoTiKaRAHeXf2XOpILgVwyWOn2_VAAwUv7M1KUo_DFY2-bC0-HazQDbTLF4YKM3VZfIEpUKL6frdLdXaoiJ/s320/003.jpg" width="220" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Maybe I have not been public about my love of ketchup chips enough!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">This is what it's like:</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPkhzp9Rp4GVBdo86SecfVHrsGZdwnkfTEOC26KUjIQHdvdpb_3bEYUuFPE880uMQWV5KluXfVUOQ0UX3Inx_Ov0SbltzszAJRSTixAVCpoJKf2jXJMQGRPbg_LVdzCNH8OWZL9REflT3j/s1600/003a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPkhzp9Rp4GVBdo86SecfVHrsGZdwnkfTEOC26KUjIQHdvdpb_3bEYUuFPE880uMQWV5KluXfVUOQ0UX3Inx_Ov0SbltzszAJRSTixAVCpoJKf2jXJMQGRPbg_LVdzCNH8OWZL9REflT3j/s320/003a.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">My sentiments exactly.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Christmas morning, I opened the package from my mom.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Inside? Two bags of Old Dutch ketchup chips.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">My moment looked like this:</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGTn6UH3d3NyGeR1lbokHlkMd720-lV488XmeSZpeXQDw7cnn9cUQiDhzx5UopCjpcCBC0bZnqERbgxve1fhoRdDznlFlDRntBLqIN2a-BeT7jigEfVWGCG_twFFWJc17drxSIXCVFYbH6/s1600/004.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGTn6UH3d3NyGeR1lbokHlkMd720-lV488XmeSZpeXQDw7cnn9cUQiDhzx5UopCjpcCBC0bZnqERbgxve1fhoRdDznlFlDRntBLqIN2a-BeT7jigEfVWGCG_twFFWJc17drxSIXCVFYbH6/s320/004.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">(Thank you Mom!!! ♥)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">(*tear*)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Another thing I miss?<br />
Tim Horton's.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Running an errand with my dad, on a chilly winter day, usually came with a nice hot cup of Timmy's hot chocolate.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">♥</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0d29BQEXSEy6AD3P9Hp95_b0sUAGP3hdIADQ1vEInv-dXdQDf9zB_BvxnQuB2ZSxWGaiFdZwtT0ZcfPO4MUFVIg3b9j9F_APPOH7SnkSHwu0PgO0xYdDGw4Agf6u6pKVOxz_40dCdTbg3/s1600/005.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="235" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0d29BQEXSEy6AD3P9Hp95_b0sUAGP3hdIADQ1vEInv-dXdQDf9zB_BvxnQuB2ZSxWGaiFdZwtT0ZcfPO4MUFVIg3b9j9F_APPOH7SnkSHwu0PgO0xYdDGw4Agf6u6pKVOxz_40dCdTbg3/s320/005.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">And OH how I loved to look at all their flavors on display.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Which one to choose....</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5eCJ3aQU8PBnBlNGA8IB46ZE7beiU_BQBroijcmD_UQuBEDSEM_pY-ikskLIfyvh9oBtzApthlildJ3uqZu5TwNPNaOwoNGzjVMcB9OxC44XPigo28S7Aq3ZyXzIeAmN53MYBe3cr9NYJ/s1600/006.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5eCJ3aQU8PBnBlNGA8IB46ZE7beiU_BQBroijcmD_UQuBEDSEM_pY-ikskLIfyvh9oBtzApthlildJ3uqZu5TwNPNaOwoNGzjVMcB9OxC44XPigo28S7Aq3ZyXzIeAmN53MYBe3cr9NYJ/s320/006.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">And the feeling of bundling up a package of them, and bringing them home.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">SO MANY DELICIOUS DONUTS!</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW3bdL8X9XIS-IpU51L_YWvRuW-KEg2aqK6W2Eq9p_jG883BrBkAXEpQPZs1kam4KjGJCpzkaDpqg7Jr6MpRH1MmSSWc1s_Qaslw4MjKHYARF8AOM3sPitfzr-LPOg4tKFIG_FqRkXIvaV/s1600/007.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="228" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW3bdL8X9XIS-IpU51L_YWvRuW-KEg2aqK6W2Eq9p_jG883BrBkAXEpQPZs1kam4KjGJCpzkaDpqg7Jr6MpRH1MmSSWc1s_Qaslw4MjKHYARF8AOM3sPitfzr-LPOg4tKFIG_FqRkXIvaV/s320/007.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">And of course, Timbits.... </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">YES!</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiRvUmjlZu1TqyrsdwPp-fyGz30_I5g9xsVwNbcOoPRCkQbesiMBYl4SE8OlwG-FhjyPbZd1oVRv-4dzJLpxZUE1dAKvVYMsZS8nlQUViGY-txgdLNxhFYR321VaHJ3d2kccMU1hMBljXp/s1600/008.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiRvUmjlZu1TqyrsdwPp-fyGz30_I5g9xsVwNbcOoPRCkQbesiMBYl4SE8OlwG-FhjyPbZd1oVRv-4dzJLpxZUE1dAKvVYMsZS8nlQUViGY-txgdLNxhFYR321VaHJ3d2kccMU1hMBljXp/s1600/008.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Lastly, and some of you may think this is disgusting, but...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Poutine.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlhzBEkFURKJ9nJPWvQg8wBg2TaqmJNGMkpCyXKoEkZY-B8Tkx4bVaeSvKcKkjbA7Sb8DSNlmLnKdc3t3TBLJbBAnVvjhR1FrwG-Cm3QtMi9rxtY3VMLUTz0JOGvFkSeYr8En0BE3H-4F2/s1600/009.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlhzBEkFURKJ9nJPWvQg8wBg2TaqmJNGMkpCyXKoEkZY-B8Tkx4bVaeSvKcKkjbA7Sb8DSNlmLnKdc3t3TBLJbBAnVvjhR1FrwG-Cm3QtMi9rxtY3VMLUTz0JOGvFkSeYr8En0BE3H-4F2/s320/009.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I just remember going to the mall stopping at NY Fries for some great poutine. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">For those of you who do not know, essentially poutine is fries, topped with cheese and gravy.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS7lEhAKvVQ__rN-iKIn8m_B0x12gj2YE2JqEmUSghA9h3-zjZj3N0r94UpNi_uPkP_QslaohtLDAE55lpf9tUKJrQOfRa8b0nqVF1Aw3UQmso_J6Oe4vER_1hs1lP65cZoIq1bWmbxYgV/s1600/010.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="237" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS7lEhAKvVQ__rN-iKIn8m_B0x12gj2YE2JqEmUSghA9h3-zjZj3N0r94UpNi_uPkP_QslaohtLDAE55lpf9tUKJrQOfRa8b0nqVF1Aw3UQmso_J6Oe4vER_1hs1lP65cZoIq1bWmbxYgV/s320/010.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I am now, depressingly, hungry.<br />
<br />
Maybe I have some toast around here somewhere......</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">....<i>sigh</i>.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">☺</span></div>pepperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18094580301185673656noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3271452283085447903.post-56046790390350031512011-09-29T12:53:00.000-07:002011-09-29T12:53:25.032-07:00Speedy "Enchiladas"<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I have to admit, I have never made <i>actual</i> enchiladas before.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">However.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">These were a huge success, so I had to share my recipe.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">:o)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">This is the filling:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHqClwc477d3taQd9sYHAyGLaisUe_e4GiUJ_p57grmcpNjw948ald_GGIZ8u9Fem2MmaJS4MSEAoT1mtZDZSpmAceqyHmHx21VbgbfQ-EXYFGFC8ywGxmlEWEHPvjZKQPHiPw8b2RfBEa/s1600/speedy+enchilada.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHqClwc477d3taQd9sYHAyGLaisUe_e4GiUJ_p57grmcpNjw948ald_GGIZ8u9Fem2MmaJS4MSEAoT1mtZDZSpmAceqyHmHx21VbgbfQ-EXYFGFC8ywGxmlEWEHPvjZKQPHiPw8b2RfBEa/s320/speedy+enchilada.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><u>SPEEDY ENCHILADAS</u></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>Ingredients:</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">1/2 pouch of taco (or 'burrito') seasoning</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">1/4 cup water</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">4 chicken breasts (even if they are frozen)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">1 (15oz) can Hormel chili w/beans</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">3/4 cup salsa</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">1 cup sour cream</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">1/2 cup shredded cheese (I used cheddar)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">tortillas</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>Directions:</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">PLACE chicken in a big pot. I believe they are called dutch ovens. Fill with enough water to cover the chicken.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">BOIL the chicken until cooked thoroughly. (Trust me!) Takes about 20 minutes. It's ok to cut one in half to check. ☺</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">DRAIN chicken, and put chicken on a cutting board. Rinse out your big pot and put it to the side - you're going to use it again in a minute.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">SHRED chicken, using two forks to rip it apart - hold the chicken still with one fork, and pull chicken away in short movements with the other fork. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">PLACE chicken back in your big pot. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">SPRINKLE taco seasoning and water over chicken.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">HEAT, while stirring, until the taco seasoning is fully distributed through the chicken.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">ADD chili, salsa, sour cream, and cheese. (Everything else)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">STIR ingredients together until heated to desired temperature and the cheese has melted.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">SERVE as a burrito filling,</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>or</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><br />
</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">STUFF tortillas with filling, and place in 9x13" pan.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">SPRINKLE tortillas with shredded cheese.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">BROIL for approximately 5 minutes. (Until cheese is melted)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">SERVE and enjjjjooooy!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">♦♦♦</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">When I made this it took me less than ... 40 minutes? </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">From boiling the chicken all the way to getting it on the table.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Fast, delicious, flexible... add what you want!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Let me know if you make this, please.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">My family is biased.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="margin: 0in;"><span style="background: #F9F9F9; color: black; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 9.75pt;">(</span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11.0pt;">°</span><span style="font-family: "MS Gothic"; font-size: 11.0pt;">‿</span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11.0pt;">°</span><span style="background: #F9F9F9; color: black; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 9.75pt;">)</span></div>pepperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18094580301185673656noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3271452283085447903.post-53418229093360271312011-09-29T12:38:00.000-07:002011-09-29T12:38:59.301-07:00Monster Cookies ∙-(σ益σ)-∙<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">MONSTER COOKIES!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9mCtg21GAjy6HCV22uTJONcvtMoLAEZTc3LW7ZU9ZZUuJqaWTLL70NUuRvKerDMVDgvXIrp9Xpu5aVErDyIjzdoIr9t9tSUrYhqiNJujWEbDk2zkL_cDMOIbnalvzEOiOY1JGLrmfpOYX/s1600/monster+cookie+outside.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9mCtg21GAjy6HCV22uTJONcvtMoLAEZTc3LW7ZU9ZZUuJqaWTLL70NUuRvKerDMVDgvXIrp9Xpu5aVErDyIjzdoIr9t9tSUrYhqiNJujWEbDk2zkL_cDMOIbnalvzEOiOY1JGLrmfpOYX/s320/monster+cookie+outside.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I saw a cookie similar to this online, but I had to alter it.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">(Hey - how can I stray from the most perfect chocolate chip cookie recipe? - Thanks Keeley, for ruining every other chocolate chip cookie on Earth. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">They don't know what they're missing.)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>Especially</i> with Halloween right around the corner...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEio8aJv5D-mM8LdWT6YdePpnFXPtEmP__cRj86BRfkOyd-DWIHravtDKft8miD_g6mh80J2Elgs2PZMshZEdOc-317-FmMNwmzSayPc7dTA5-eLlYMIJJJHY4s0oSeVdrB8ScwK8qJ2z7qK/s1600/monster+cookie+inside.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEio8aJv5D-mM8LdWT6YdePpnFXPtEmP__cRj86BRfkOyd-DWIHravtDKft8miD_g6mh80J2Elgs2PZMshZEdOc-317-FmMNwmzSayPc7dTA5-eLlYMIJJJHY4s0oSeVdrB8ScwK8qJ2z7qK/s320/monster+cookie+inside.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Here's how to make these frightfully <b>delish</b> monster cookies:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">∙-(σ益σ)-∙ <u style="font-weight: bold;">MONSTER COOKIES</u> ∙-(σ益σ)-∙ </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>Prep time - approx 25 mins | Cooking time - 10 min | Cooling time - 15-20 min</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><br />
</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>Ingredients:</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">1 teaspoon baking soda</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">1 teaspoon salt</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">1 cup (2 sticks) butter, softened</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">3/4 cup granulated sugar</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">3/4 cup packed brown sugar</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">1 teaspoon vanilla extract</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">2 large eggs</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">2 cups (12oz pkg) chocolate chips</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">green food coloring (or purple)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">1 package Halloween Oreos</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>Directions:</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">PREHEAT your oven to 375ºF.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">COMBINE flour, baking soda and salt in small bowl.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">CREAM butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vanilla extract and food coloring (use to your own judgment) in a large mixing bowl.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">BEAT in eggs, one at a time, until well blended.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">GRADUALLY beat in flour mixture. (I use my Kitchenaid mixer for everything up to this point, when I am at about 3/4 of the flour, and then take over and do the rest by hand.)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">STIR in chocolate chips. (It is perfect if you are unsure if the dough will hold on to all of those chocolate chips.)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">SMUSH cookie dough on either side of your oreo - just enough to cover - pinching it around the sides to make sure it is totally covered.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">PLACE on an ungreased cookie sheet.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">REPEAT until you have used all your cookie dough to cover the oreos.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">BAKE for 10-11 minutes until they are golden brown. Er.... golden green. Once removed from the oven, wait 5-10 minutes before removing them from the cookie sheets so they hold their shape. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">COOL completely on wire racks.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">♦♦♦</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I find these bad boys are the best the day <i>after</i> you make them. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Not that I expect you to wait that long, of course. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="background: #F9F9F9; color: black; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 9.75pt;">(^</span><span style="font-family: "MS Gothic"; font-size: 11.0pt;">‿</span><span style="background: #F9F9F9; color: black; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 9.75pt;">^)</span></div><div style="text-align: center;">I just loved the idea of a fun treat to pass around for Halloween that wasn't... </div><div style="text-align: center;">well... candy corn. </div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">:o)</div>pepperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18094580301185673656noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3271452283085447903.post-49830315764458518722011-09-23T08:16:00.000-07:002011-09-23T08:29:26.034-07:00Confession #35 - Swimming<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Ok, this is an easy one.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">:o)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">CONFESSION:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGaRcdhBO2wnj6DyCglhFiA9COhEBM3HTIUzxGgnmm70Bl0Pk6PcUML4VZpFE7M9xy3N_-58Vlh-UwZ0tvteoSyG4lyD3SAQbN23_kJheXwOsPD46olRRkvscXXBbg4X6DrVQWLm0Hl9CU/s1600/001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGaRcdhBO2wnj6DyCglhFiA9COhEBM3HTIUzxGgnmm70Bl0Pk6PcUML4VZpFE7M9xy3N_-58Vlh-UwZ0tvteoSyG4lyD3SAQbN23_kJheXwOsPD46olRRkvscXXBbg4X6DrVQWLm0Hl9CU/s1600/001.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Tell me you saw it coming...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Just... I just love everything about it. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">There is something really wonderful about climbing into the pool...</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiECDNCpjiadSIETSaiKyQp95esDXUyaVCeO0cF2dcfveI8e14BHlOeYxLo5h_t22Ywg7PZMXnBWNMboPKAW6pNxLGLttSpWz-qOc14ukeFYrq1uYpd_jrld0zbhiq4NF7iVv6MchAGA7kG/s1600/001a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiECDNCpjiadSIETSaiKyQp95esDXUyaVCeO0cF2dcfveI8e14BHlOeYxLo5h_t22Ywg7PZMXnBWNMboPKAW6pNxLGLttSpWz-qOc14ukeFYrq1uYpd_jrld0zbhiq4NF7iVv6MchAGA7kG/s320/001a.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">And being in that super magical ripple water.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTxe71q34NvneHLQMpFyjnx2gmDJz3IavZlBc1fSK9AjVRdD4USNEu-8qsVSHaPJI14_cGYIx981gGwQaZxcbyPE05pZ9ToGD9nxkQ2f1nCF46qHyX0QAfIRTDahaxCvupvQfC8CaGD4SQ/s1600/002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTxe71q34NvneHLQMpFyjnx2gmDJz3IavZlBc1fSK9AjVRdD4USNEu-8qsVSHaPJI14_cGYIx981gGwQaZxcbyPE05pZ9ToGD9nxkQ2f1nCF46qHyX0QAfIRTDahaxCvupvQfC8CaGD4SQ/s320/002.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Now don't get me wrong - I still fear water just like the next shmoe!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I mean seriously, drowning... not a daydream of mine.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwTs1hLx4WnnQTpTnKVn71lCF9Uv7Gb6BF4DoVqQ2l5axky7OQCZxkFxnOZWdLRdr6ctm35po5Td4STMuCpDGTJ4OKTAQ-n5aPgSRmU64v7cXPvNAeWDNqE8KybpN2uU4rTuvlfo6zxfKF/s1600/003.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwTs1hLx4WnnQTpTnKVn71lCF9Uv7Gb6BF4DoVqQ2l5axky7OQCZxkFxnOZWdLRdr6ctm35po5Td4STMuCpDGTJ4OKTAQ-n5aPgSRmU64v7cXPvNAeWDNqE8KybpN2uU4rTuvlfo6zxfKF/s320/003.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">But I <u>do</u> <i>love</i> to be underwater.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJA88BRsyFJqzNM-5lqac0Bzfebv7VzuooRADb4QFzeQoY10ZJNaH447EUYXM1xGkFfcB5rzGYbXALCsf-OPWHZ-IMYALZGrw1JTuyHlqMvWEVEfuTJEq8HKklSOhXCSnSxCl-PsCBqTfj/s1600/004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJA88BRsyFJqzNM-5lqac0Bzfebv7VzuooRADb4QFzeQoY10ZJNaH447EUYXM1xGkFfcB5rzGYbXALCsf-OPWHZ-IMYALZGrw1JTuyHlqMvWEVEfuTJEq8HKklSOhXCSnSxCl-PsCBqTfj/s320/004.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">It's a whole other world in there.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs9WjCgtdOfYO6F5x-x6lopRIVT3KxbzHZAiE-DAlTNGmfbQwTzYkZda2_WfhY8qi6iPNF_Gq_wYDlXIQc2ghiLi0mtF2ug63feZpa0xf49aF8Lawc40I5y6ie5olPqelhPnb7eLEDMfu3/s1600/004a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs9WjCgtdOfYO6F5x-x6lopRIVT3KxbzHZAiE-DAlTNGmfbQwTzYkZda2_WfhY8qi6iPNF_Gq_wYDlXIQc2ghiLi0mtF2ug63feZpa0xf49aF8Lawc40I5y6ie5olPqelhPnb7eLEDMfu3/s320/004a.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">It just makes me want to explore.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">What's around that corner?</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">It gets me thinking... what if there was a whole city under here?</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">(Like in the little mermaid)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">:o)</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlJBlXsQ3DtEf70HwQnKqORSWjyf0rjaEXE9qgmfBIZFuaYTFVgrMZOCuhJfPBcpYqe5RDvLXy5XQwTl-wpqn1BxUy-aU_fkZvkTzDqYMykV7o_o8-mvdPfUoZk04XWJY7UDFnZvIacJjz/s1600/005.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlJBlXsQ3DtEf70HwQnKqORSWjyf0rjaEXE9qgmfBIZFuaYTFVgrMZOCuhJfPBcpYqe5RDvLXy5XQwTl-wpqn1BxUy-aU_fkZvkTzDqYMykV7o_o8-mvdPfUoZk04XWJY7UDFnZvIacJjz/s320/005.jpg" width="288" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">As a kid/teenager/me, I am always very little fun at the pool - all I ever wanted to do was see how much I could sit on the bottom. I so wished there had been handles so I could have stayed there. It was so fun for me. So peaceful under there.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">And something is just plain silly about sitting with your legs crossed,</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>underwater</i>.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Maybe it's just me. :o)</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheI8PWhqlysM8fd9Mu-Qzf16bsFo8jTGlsyRApBNFvaoC5TBB3oqFpvJlur_qdL234O9KpeV5yIbFiCUQjqiy6a1gbUfeyWtJeYea0YYgEsVchs-MCTR8FCXj0UuHf04mAxs5LzErRkiQD/s1600/006.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="235" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheI8PWhqlysM8fd9Mu-Qzf16bsFo8jTGlsyRApBNFvaoC5TBB3oqFpvJlur_qdL234O9KpeV5yIbFiCUQjqiy6a1gbUfeyWtJeYea0YYgEsVchs-MCTR8FCXj0UuHf04mAxs5LzErRkiQD/s320/006.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">In high school, the year I graduated, I was lucky enough to be on the swim team. It was hard sometimes (I lost 60lbs from it), and I wasn't even close to the hardest working swimmer out there!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">One thing I do remember was the swim meets.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">This picture gives me butterflies:</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPzdBNw47dAlFbxwOXINXbLqUNEE04HWs75wQorUkGGa9mNb1Zx4iHHbTaoeK6HfBdZABv3lMiHOkoRPjXXTSi0vX6JHwykX1CLlC6xtqxc8G_wI7Dtf4lAJjwew0_nINyBAAhgRwidq7n/s1600/007.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPzdBNw47dAlFbxwOXINXbLqUNEE04HWs75wQorUkGGa9mNb1Zx4iHHbTaoeK6HfBdZABv3lMiHOkoRPjXXTSi0vX6JHwykX1CLlC6xtqxc8G_wI7Dtf4lAJjwew0_nINyBAAhgRwidq7n/s320/007.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">*goosebumps*</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">It was so fun. I wanted to swim well, so badly.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">One day when I have a few thousand dollars to throw away, I will get one of those endless pools - the little pools that go in your home, in a patio or some such - where you can do non stop laps in a small amount of space. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Amaaaazing!</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOjze3a-CV6Aej_a7AjwqfAY6immeme2ogAoc-kHIyqcgtnRJvlTU8g-YFyL0Nj6vU4GHgJl47v_XwyRWpGxnSgPwVVuFRdx-cazLE_Jx8Ar2Hf-Recvhp5ldsk3AG0pOMqC_1bTQJk5a5/s1600/008.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOjze3a-CV6Aej_a7AjwqfAY6immeme2ogAoc-kHIyqcgtnRJvlTU8g-YFyL0Nj6vU4GHgJl47v_XwyRWpGxnSgPwVVuFRdx-cazLE_Jx8Ar2Hf-Recvhp5ldsk3AG0pOMqC_1bTQJk5a5/s320/008.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I think my love of water is what draws me to Tahiti so badly.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQGdErZHQkvD21r7JA5mMN_zOM-PvuoAxIcV_ajFQnrP8HcICoDgOScXiHKRrHjmX83ogQUFeC5tCRuYSU5lD9TgAixuoPBqdUjfxR29BG0fIEfhuKE3tatHCll93qt4LSlaHrRDqjsvne/s1600/009.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="216" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQGdErZHQkvD21r7JA5mMN_zOM-PvuoAxIcV_ajFQnrP8HcICoDgOScXiHKRrHjmX83ogQUFeC5tCRuYSU5lD9TgAixuoPBqdUjfxR29BG0fIEfhuKE3tatHCll93qt4LSlaHrRDqjsvne/s320/009.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I just love the idea of staying in a little hut, in the water - or having this waist-deep water all over the place - crystal clear, wonderful, beautiful water...</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0jGIcOogRrXUIO1r_aFoWJ-xua7_Le-KJNYpdY50roISFUtm25PPqD_qvqPGmaEZEfrvec4glGOAo6-L65y-1Ga40UDvZV9MThAVbUDiPKysQRP7QLVeHU-OoPr0wgmb-w4CWLnb3Ue-n/s1600/010.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="210" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0jGIcOogRrXUIO1r_aFoWJ-xua7_Le-KJNYpdY50roISFUtm25PPqD_qvqPGmaEZEfrvec4glGOAo6-L65y-1Ga40UDvZV9MThAVbUDiPKysQRP7QLVeHU-OoPr0wgmb-w4CWLnb3Ue-n/s320/010.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">It just seems the most peaceful thing to me.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">One day!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">...one day.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU0Utl2qIHl3aAwsNr61dU8JLT0pZUZG7OyOuMeT1KeZe7p-jUpL-6tnA0ifeDS56FkVvNlpnXs0iyXzuydnzPiHebFVS2gz6VnK4CL938LpO6leXUkgYUN59rmU9nQLe_xgEly8Yywb2L/s1600/011.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU0Utl2qIHl3aAwsNr61dU8JLT0pZUZG7OyOuMeT1KeZe7p-jUpL-6tnA0ifeDS56FkVvNlpnXs0iyXzuydnzPiHebFVS2gz6VnK4CL938LpO6leXUkgYUN59rmU9nQLe_xgEly8Yywb2L/s320/011.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Um, so as a footnote here, you'll notice my topic is mainly:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">"I love swimming - in <i>clear water</i>, mostly found in pools."</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">*ahem*</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Let me clarify why this is so.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">(Quickly, I promise.)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I do NOT like swimming in lakes, or oceans.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Why?</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Because they have living things in them, that I can't see?</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihcomIKaqe3_2XptMuTe_-3IUEYjILNVeYk3QMLPhjUtYarAb3Ix0u6_sdpWC6Aux0ZShVSaG1xOPJyXd9NQUR1ZwYx4J2YLXdSASozkTBUtzlSQK31DUy1zO8jNcOXryz1etZ6XloUUzM/s1600/012.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihcomIKaqe3_2XptMuTe_-3IUEYjILNVeYk3QMLPhjUtYarAb3Ix0u6_sdpWC6Aux0ZShVSaG1xOPJyXd9NQUR1ZwYx4J2YLXdSASozkTBUtzlSQK31DUy1zO8jNcOXryz1etZ6XloUUzM/s320/012.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">For <i>reals</i>. What <b>is</b> that thing??</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">*shudder*</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">UUuuuuuhhhhhhhghhh.... what just touched my leg?!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">*deep breath*</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">When I was a kid, I loved to swim in the lake by my grandparents' cottage.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I would probably swim in it again, just because it is <i>the</i> lake.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">BUT</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">It is a man-made lake, which means it was flooded... which means it was full of trees.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0A7T-StMlNRh_NTP2qmLUCNQwkIs46k8wfSYvdDfJ9NKOeac12958MTjdKSnM6vBK4pDnM0SLtYNYSmzyDpS2061LybHnByTuW85lg_kTS5PrXRTCGbuK5cIvpTZ2xK3enBzFFRPvWVUC/s1600/scary+lake.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0A7T-StMlNRh_NTP2qmLUCNQwkIs46k8wfSYvdDfJ9NKOeac12958MTjdKSnM6vBK4pDnM0SLtYNYSmzyDpS2061LybHnByTuW85lg_kTS5PrXRTCGbuK5cIvpTZ2xK3enBzFFRPvWVUC/s320/scary+lake.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Are you starting to get where my fears are coming from?!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Ok maybe I am over-reacting.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">One year, they drained the lake - and Grampy went down into the lake and chainsawed down all the trees/stumps into tiny stumps.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">(Look at this newfangled doohicky they have to do that now!)</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuVR7QkXEJQfI6ILk9levpjPo07fa_H9QWxCLRGQBj7KVNiOU49lnYqrSwZ8t40q1eVORdUAgDCUvYJUnMMGXavHv9bquOQxsUGeXH-uJGzzDyEVcYCRXcyzGWrDVCw072oloOFS0Q4AGE/s1600/scary+stumps.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuVR7QkXEJQfI6ILk9levpjPo07fa_H9QWxCLRGQBj7KVNiOU49lnYqrSwZ8t40q1eVORdUAgDCUvYJUnMMGXavHv9bquOQxsUGeXH-uJGzzDyEVcYCRXcyzGWrDVCw072oloOFS0Q4AGE/s1600/scary+stumps.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">But even when there were tiny stumps everywhere, it still weirded me out. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Not only were they always slimy, but they still just...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Trees underwater = creepy in my book.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">That lake was great for watching pollywogs and exploring though. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">:o)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Mmm I can almost smell it!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">For now though, I think I will work out my <i>swimming</i> love in clearer waters.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">:o)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Swim on!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibt7q_DrZbw4fjqVv7R-rSoyD-J938v-pbs2WfSLh3tfIsEf_ZMJFm3WX4OQp2QfPpP_7o1hx9wDqK54k2estrK2Wztz-KZpb8WnWFgeJWeUsWo5UZWGW1oKAxqA5MMUZ7LK2upK7CrMnz/s1600/jessica.patricia.teaparty.summer2004.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="235" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibt7q_DrZbw4fjqVv7R-rSoyD-J938v-pbs2WfSLh3tfIsEf_ZMJFm3WX4OQp2QfPpP_7o1hx9wDqK54k2estrK2Wztz-KZpb8WnWFgeJWeUsWo5UZWGW1oKAxqA5MMUZ7LK2upK7CrMnz/s320/jessica.patricia.teaparty.summer2004.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">2004 </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXgVfxI3IInsJlH_rxn7bwjBFTngLjfyhu-VbHSrbzvQkdUNQzsi3EoKwoOcFLqSONSDqITVgmfwO-lcPO9oBmMfc8qil46nLhkTPWuHxYoSgb2JTQGyDTPZY2yMxMrhD7dfW4WsnQncpM/s1600/tada.patricia.summer2004.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXgVfxI3IInsJlH_rxn7bwjBFTngLjfyhu-VbHSrbzvQkdUNQzsi3EoKwoOcFLqSONSDqITVgmfwO-lcPO9oBmMfc8qil46nLhkTPWuHxYoSgb2JTQGyDTPZY2yMxMrhD7dfW4WsnQncpM/s320/tada.patricia.summer2004.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">☼</div>pepperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18094580301185673656noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3271452283085447903.post-16168648918101672432011-09-12T14:23:00.000-07:002011-09-12T14:23:04.358-07:00Confession #34 - Artistic<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">CONFESSION:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdq_1EOivpS_ofv5CNyME5AZAXGk9I4LuF95JWnQ799UCsVFrQXUlYIrjIJ58HtRKV6-t9rIcs0j0ratqdD0fYSy7rrraj7AertovDhj-cHK4NzO7vVYRvjvzmPmHcZIVQ6qj81KwJTd93/s1600/001+%25282%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdq_1EOivpS_ofv5CNyME5AZAXGk9I4LuF95JWnQ799UCsVFrQXUlYIrjIJ58HtRKV6-t9rIcs0j0ratqdD0fYSy7rrraj7AertovDhj-cHK4NzO7vVYRvjvzmPmHcZIVQ6qj81KwJTd93/s1600/001+%25282%2529.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I love to be artistic, and I love other people who are artists!</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgg6m2XEkaLlIwacDIytmCwdALHxlyZnP6CExNDb6pWkRzH10P6Vgue_V53V6V4kNL6cuoBi3dr3Z_BdQGu7CHesYdlkKQp6_ZeRih2vqM6xtpXZqT9w6Wlu6zzLGojDVgn-0hjb2ayOYvM/s1600/001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgg6m2XEkaLlIwacDIytmCwdALHxlyZnP6CExNDb6pWkRzH10P6Vgue_V53V6V4kNL6cuoBi3dr3Z_BdQGu7CHesYdlkKQp6_ZeRih2vqM6xtpXZqT9w6Wlu6zzLGojDVgn-0hjb2ayOYvM/s320/001.jpg" width="256" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I love to admire their work - every one <i>unique</i> and <b>captivating</b>.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Once upon a time, I dreamed of being an artist as a career.<br />
I had someone inform me that to be an artist is to live poor.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Sooo... I moved on.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">But I do <i>love</i> to dabble in a few mediums.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">One being cake.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">:o)</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimj1D1zuON8nh7T_hfK3ZZQGO-76vhX6SgJEPDDD3tNCLwMXuQnFJ2__mBkQ3VXTMt_jYucVpjqJr0MxCbyWScefvneJ3gQcPP8KAxpAcUr6Jw7aHasQpBSOKZSqcXKQS0rxgQcqDkkYoN/s1600/001c.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimj1D1zuON8nh7T_hfK3ZZQGO-76vhX6SgJEPDDD3tNCLwMXuQnFJ2__mBkQ3VXTMt_jYucVpjqJr0MxCbyWScefvneJ3gQcPP8KAxpAcUr6Jw7aHasQpBSOKZSqcXKQS0rxgQcqDkkYoN/s320/001c.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">This is one of my favorites I made:</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlkFqk9opG_gRLRY51INoB2evjnnYxy3MKWLjdNTaBHlXkd5jWl3JPAV853n54j4GOzGAIuDws9PXh5Gpl2P4G2xYCv9O7QsAdgo-R2Q_kVKzIK_-QWNbj65AOhTWbwQIa6A9eTtSouQxe/s1600/002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlkFqk9opG_gRLRY51INoB2evjnnYxy3MKWLjdNTaBHlXkd5jWl3JPAV853n54j4GOzGAIuDws9PXh5Gpl2P4G2xYCv9O7QsAdgo-R2Q_kVKzIK_-QWNbj65AOhTWbwQIa6A9eTtSouQxe/s320/002.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I can't help but do SOMETHING. I've heard from a few people about my wall, but sometimes I wish I could just explain that sometimes I must do something artistic, simply because it is my way of answering the little "voices" in my head!! ;o)</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdayxXFAR4hMviY2s70bKOCeWfg47nx44IZXYfR1OBWyIl3ltD8-A6nxYlSUqX2_tuIRh7cgCmxOQpC3I4loVbEVt8xOzmreN4FT-kxCLk8DOLGBkQBjJlTlQ5LUHO5Sbvpf6qM3X0GI7t/s1600/002a.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdayxXFAR4hMviY2s70bKOCeWfg47nx44IZXYfR1OBWyIl3ltD8-A6nxYlSUqX2_tuIRh7cgCmxOQpC3I4loVbEVt8xOzmreN4FT-kxCLk8DOLGBkQBjJlTlQ5LUHO5Sbvpf6qM3X0GI7t/s320/002a.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I love Halloween costumes (almost time!)... I always have mine ready early because I'm allergic to waiting. We talk and assemble our costumes into reality between August and the middle of September around here. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">:o)</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiorkzlRy1vXiaheeAj4iEK2eauw3y0SlAWNQQtSGKDwtaGYinUXiSvZOiuB4-CJmmZLKsJ2H9Fjfo_z_XH9V4D-oFYu3gCyJXBTAER3oLWPatSZXKYu8__roVVfXUj4dF4Yvgf7avCTYA5/s1600/002b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="257" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiorkzlRy1vXiaheeAj4iEK2eauw3y0SlAWNQQtSGKDwtaGYinUXiSvZOiuB4-CJmmZLKsJ2H9Fjfo_z_XH9V4D-oFYu3gCyJXBTAER3oLWPatSZXKYu8__roVVfXUj4dF4Yvgf7avCTYA5/s320/002b.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I love to make things out of <i>anything</i>.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtVG5ITFqRJeJwWAXnlDV_pDYmKGi4Y4txaXrwH4ja02qz6wdSCSpatmsXBRHM14afqVW8dKkfz71rKuHu3z6Cgu4vA-9g2rONg_AJnEcnf8CD3xBCinZ6p-pBpgWx1SShCF6uqNeGQueC/s1600/002c.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtVG5ITFqRJeJwWAXnlDV_pDYmKGi4Y4txaXrwH4ja02qz6wdSCSpatmsXBRHM14afqVW8dKkfz71rKuHu3z6Cgu4vA-9g2rONg_AJnEcnf8CD3xBCinZ6p-pBpgWx1SShCF6uqNeGQueC/s320/002c.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I love to take pictures.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">(All of you know <u>that</u>! Lol)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">This was after watching "The Testaments" on a temple trip in 2003:</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi4ZMornfLUjnnLOICzlQSMHgAggWcezZEMZFDHLz5zpsrH2smx3YpoaNf8-9EonIzjJ08jr5-wXsWhRbyQx6R3PK-4myoRSGup91CUbJ_v8zC6L1xbcvU6lXoz_sQmUN2iEaKzPo_22-8/s1600/003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi4ZMornfLUjnnLOICzlQSMHgAggWcezZEMZFDHLz5zpsrH2smx3YpoaNf8-9EonIzjJ08jr5-wXsWhRbyQx6R3PK-4myoRSGup91CUbJ_v8zC6L1xbcvU6lXoz_sQmUN2iEaKzPo_22-8/s320/003.JPG" width="202" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">(This was on our Pioneer Trek in April 2004:)</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiSuGY2BeTZjslvvy4mYGZKmOxodhdh8Vg60D_E05TXh0PktVap5LPJsu9lnZ72fcAMbBJW1kvZRNsPS4-haBL3bwgWgzdugCo6aSealecegYZ16wBxMzGlrGVQ0MY0R0c_S_sziz1joPg/s1600/004.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="215" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiSuGY2BeTZjslvvy4mYGZKmOxodhdh8Vg60D_E05TXh0PktVap5LPJsu9lnZ72fcAMbBJW1kvZRNsPS4-haBL3bwgWgzdugCo6aSealecegYZ16wBxMzGlrGVQ0MY0R0c_S_sziz1joPg/s320/004.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">(This was in Newfoundland, in 2004, at the most eastern point:)</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgekM0BEF_A7GeFTdzpBh90G1HzREH5YFkCXBrxS1x6AQQyVLmA99spqGsHGIxQqgZwBRxe5bkpnUPCtbN2bWsGXj5-puJ2-oe0lSxIk3Tb1pkXbcUDFapcvLF2y_manpNtUk3Tx7mJgiQY/s1600/005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgekM0BEF_A7GeFTdzpBh90G1HzREH5YFkCXBrxS1x6AQQyVLmA99spqGsHGIxQqgZwBRxe5bkpnUPCtbN2bWsGXj5-puJ2-oe0lSxIk3Tb1pkXbcUDFapcvLF2y_manpNtUk3Tx7mJgiQY/s320/005.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">How amazing and fantastical is it that an artist can sweep us away to another universe?</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I loved to read when I was younger because books do this.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Fairytales are my favorite.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWs_baWsSYTQgO7YKhpx_ODtAsuNRXU32ArgXE7SXFuPNOlFmWDgw9UVOTBoRqve1QkGPfepdw_7YY0E8f5Tbj17PkZMLrWrWB6FAwJWTjqrQIKu4A45Va19PNzZkDtLvdqmg3YSI-Sy2U/s1600/005a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="216" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWs_baWsSYTQgO7YKhpx_ODtAsuNRXU32ArgXE7SXFuPNOlFmWDgw9UVOTBoRqve1QkGPfepdw_7YY0E8f5Tbj17PkZMLrWrWB6FAwJWTjqrQIKu4A45Va19PNzZkDtLvdqmg3YSI-Sy2U/s320/005a.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I am amazed by all artists.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">And at what they can accomplish!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I love to work with cake - and it makes me happy to talk about cake with other people, and give advice to help them explore working with cake too.<br />
(This cake was made by Cake Central, I believe:)</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfaphJhoyES0kXfPuYLMcrM60QB4GmIV99UY6wumuOWLHeqRtqseUq0GRMD1Vc5ChnONOqLXekRK9TbfzgpKZo3DE7H002kEFleHLJyivqrU4EaOIvvIlXbLX45P1xU69tCpWBNFITH6Qa/s1600/006.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfaphJhoyES0kXfPuYLMcrM60QB4GmIV99UY6wumuOWLHeqRtqseUq0GRMD1Vc5ChnONOqLXekRK9TbfzgpKZo3DE7H002kEFleHLJyivqrU4EaOIvvIlXbLX45P1xU69tCpWBNFITH6Qa/s320/006.jpg" width="306" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Makeup artists... blow my mind! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Ok this is totally gross to me, but (from Pirates of the Caribbean) what <i>talent</i>.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhc596566YbTTQPhLzt6vM5zOUP-BRE1x5qzim2g3MnMyWz4PY9TXJx15FMYBDoM4Q1ca14QonY4T30MIOPBn16ito-b08wmF8CZXyPSjzh1KhMqXcQBzLlp0f_XxR4nIoVMmKbdnay2W8H/s1600/006a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhc596566YbTTQPhLzt6vM5zOUP-BRE1x5qzim2g3MnMyWz4PY9TXJx15FMYBDoM4Q1ca14QonY4T30MIOPBn16ito-b08wmF8CZXyPSjzh1KhMqXcQBzLlp0f_XxR4nIoVMmKbdnay2W8H/s320/006a.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">There are so many artists that need a good standing ovation.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I am very blessed to have quite a few friends who are artists.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I don't want to be weird about it, so I won't name names.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Well, too many. :o)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">(Below, from Star Trek:)</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7rqwhjXwXHean-VTO6Oy66znC4qkpoGl0gW8GRQDB6F4VWRhsF4zBcoESvmics1jR4WR42XhOLkpcL3aQHQYoteIqJuOiTRLMPD1eKCjETZvhibIYhYBflIr3iQPCnCyib3rKl8jnjbC3/s1600/006b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="182" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7rqwhjXwXHean-VTO6Oy66znC4qkpoGl0gW8GRQDB6F4VWRhsF4zBcoESvmics1jR4WR42XhOLkpcL3aQHQYoteIqJuOiTRLMPD1eKCjETZvhibIYhYBflIr3iQPCnCyib3rKl8jnjbC3/s320/006b.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Hair stylists... artists with a complex ever-changing medium I think.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">(I stole this picture from one of my cousin's friends who does hair:)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjMbE4KyoArGJN9IZQxuXqHYxOwXo2TnjVLKeRaAku7uv7WLvz8f2zG98c7x0Qn7ziafMhA_JggvGwCz54o1yVJx3rexJXhR2eLLgBX-0ZG1CSucHrwsY7LttYJ0ADqJfHU1VOk5YCGhcv/s1600/007.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjMbE4KyoArGJN9IZQxuXqHYxOwXo2TnjVLKeRaAku7uv7WLvz8f2zG98c7x0Qn7ziafMhA_JggvGwCz54o1yVJx3rexJXhR2eLLgBX-0ZG1CSucHrwsY7LttYJ0ADqJfHU1VOk5YCGhcv/s320/007.jpg" width="187" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">(Everything she does is impressive!)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">It's fun to see the different outlets for artistic abilities. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">:o)</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOoWxluTOngVeMCk6tFE6n5qpgXWCAw1b-O7KB9_Pnw1NZQn9NMY_n9MEtCjRN3OT_hOhu-_fd0FunKyOeeRiPyxYjDTl0T0aY4KQuXkiwI4UavOGhVqyHp8cMGUkCMG0SbdweMrklL2RW/s1600/007a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOoWxluTOngVeMCk6tFE6n5qpgXWCAw1b-O7KB9_Pnw1NZQn9NMY_n9MEtCjRN3OT_hOhu-_fd0FunKyOeeRiPyxYjDTl0T0aY4KQuXkiwI4UavOGhVqyHp8cMGUkCMG0SbdweMrklL2RW/s320/007a.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I love to be shown something new - and be amazed by it.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Paper! Just paper:</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFKsGOKPs1sBXgQiCjwZeFTzgJmxtYJo2sNINfnwN2AHsBMxaelqsm-Er3r5cbPcov1q8E1cWPwKEqBxJDxVkDO_UjOMZpXk1Pv-XWEFRqRuso8Ks6kyK81th0_aWpBE7IR785tskqCnsZ/s1600/008.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFKsGOKPs1sBXgQiCjwZeFTzgJmxtYJo2sNINfnwN2AHsBMxaelqsm-Er3r5cbPcov1q8E1cWPwKEqBxJDxVkDO_UjOMZpXk1Pv-XWEFRqRuso8Ks6kyK81th0_aWpBE7IR785tskqCnsZ/s320/008.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Paper in a way I never saw it, but in a way someone <i>else</i> saw it.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpkb-tHDdGjnUkOMuuEUEDNM-_TYU52s0R7SBRJvEsKiLTyRMUvQioyUQYEyjEapZ21WXNaZ7Ivs5BnB44UossGLB7ugrw0ATC1dTOcwKfZFjK4m4wVqLrx3YyB7J64XPqTt44jMlhqDC7/s1600/008a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpkb-tHDdGjnUkOMuuEUEDNM-_TYU52s0R7SBRJvEsKiLTyRMUvQioyUQYEyjEapZ21WXNaZ7Ivs5BnB44UossGLB7ugrw0ATC1dTOcwKfZFjK4m4wVqLrx3YyB7J64XPqTt44jMlhqDC7/s320/008a.jpg" width="251" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Something about an artist being able to capture something we love in a way that we could not describe it with words is what makes art so magical in the first place.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Painters...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">"I love fall because of the leaves" doesn't ring the same as this:</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGcO8EdlzAEBz9ziNapOvu1Swj2OryxAnlCijHRrUfVG4Xg1DK_rj7XLojqj5yb2bUpuc6Q6o-vlpJVknBtKJwhGoqR5dVIvcMbVVAKsy2DqR-hURpDEAJVaBov6wwr3UxSWGgALPHjXYM/s1600/009.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="237" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGcO8EdlzAEBz9ziNapOvu1Swj2OryxAnlCijHRrUfVG4Xg1DK_rj7XLojqj5yb2bUpuc6Q6o-vlpJVknBtKJwhGoqR5dVIvcMbVVAKsy2DqR-hURpDEAJVaBov6wwr3UxSWGgALPHjXYM/s320/009.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Or art that makes us double-take:</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMfDRulsxXAVXXTE3gHJatDZKJp4q_CtNtCOs9WumXAg-IV2cT1nFAPRmBnc4akRhRdSaPz6EWQpy9p14cdk8ue799hhZDOaqK00pSRBclPZ3DtCGogYREm2mvOcncMARMxc7OaybwWKDD/s1600/010.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="279" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMfDRulsxXAVXXTE3gHJatDZKJp4q_CtNtCOs9WumXAg-IV2cT1nFAPRmBnc4akRhRdSaPz6EWQpy9p14cdk8ue799hhZDOaqK00pSRBclPZ3DtCGogYREm2mvOcncMARMxc7OaybwWKDD/s320/010.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">This piece was done by my friend Kristina - so supremely talented in so many things, just as the rest of her family is ridiculously talented (one brother, also an amazing artist, one is a crazy guitarist!):</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjr8CMkBoRrrLny6UerEYPQvqZzaRwacx4V35rgyT2aKlY3SS-FiRV_UA4jJgosuBAwGDASf3ZGaLAfRMh3PCfNX4o07bIZCFAqiSc5PtBzpgy1AoPIyUGnOMUTSJIynaTXxA0iyDU6Otw3/s1600/011.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjr8CMkBoRrrLny6UerEYPQvqZzaRwacx4V35rgyT2aKlY3SS-FiRV_UA4jJgosuBAwGDASf3ZGaLAfRMh3PCfNX4o07bIZCFAqiSc5PtBzpgy1AoPIyUGnOMUTSJIynaTXxA0iyDU6Otw3/s320/011.jpg" width="237" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I love being surprised by art. Yes, it's a banana:</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgp3D7SZ-DU9qqyeOEVv12RzC1XjE6kkfcfPP6IFegap5Kj3U7ShXALgBhIbaa1gjTPJ9A0jLootxhLWMjAcATfFvfpijIfI9Yd-dhuXZkDjUGYKAoX49ABarIUr_noKMageE4CQxiBod2D/s1600/011a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgp3D7SZ-DU9qqyeOEVv12RzC1XjE6kkfcfPP6IFegap5Kj3U7ShXALgBhIbaa1gjTPJ9A0jLootxhLWMjAcATfFvfpijIfI9Yd-dhuXZkDjUGYKAoX49ABarIUr_noKMageE4CQxiBod2D/s320/011a.jpg" width="242" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Or jealous of art.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Oh it's so easy for me to be jealous of an artist!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">But we must learn to love what we have... right? :o)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I think Martha Stewart is definitely an artist:</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEAMv6R2UWPy2_rdPn9_492EUf8S1t0_lqlVjxoh4tpAYmu4paJPW_hpc-WYBhQVGcF37ynquE2ciyceP3CH7h0k-dOnXGzUal93zz55BjkyE1atiS4tRBq-t-9nXkgKzCUWs_4R11z3vF/s1600/012.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEAMv6R2UWPy2_rdPn9_492EUf8S1t0_lqlVjxoh4tpAYmu4paJPW_hpc-WYBhQVGcF37ynquE2ciyceP3CH7h0k-dOnXGzUal93zz55BjkyE1atiS4tRBq-t-9nXkgKzCUWs_4R11z3vF/s320/012.png" width="304" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMvTIUZNqQtkhWgDVzezZ1jiEaFrpEWY24y7xttjHZ9vy01fFZ68SL2qsi5k3iojBQqEtKiC6VCPpfw7r1Y6f8jEK5ptqozGJpQoeOPM2AfdvItINjyhNEn173U0L3m1FZPfKIruTAm64U/s1600/013.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMvTIUZNqQtkhWgDVzezZ1jiEaFrpEWY24y7xttjHZ9vy01fFZ68SL2qsi5k3iojBQqEtKiC6VCPpfw7r1Y6f8jEK5ptqozGJpQoeOPM2AfdvItINjyhNEn173U0L3m1FZPfKIruTAm64U/s320/013.png" width="277" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I love inspiring art. </div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyli1O8OKratMz_QoTJpWQBfkTKOunetuLsBFgF_lEItE3na-BCycDloMdSpJ1mCKnLiK9ny2IHcPga1W0Joz7RshwBaS_UfKbsw6FoCyiIG9fUUBHQF2_iecCS3-AZoWMo1CGnDVlCqOJ/s1600/013a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="205" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyli1O8OKratMz_QoTJpWQBfkTKOunetuLsBFgF_lEItE3na-BCycDloMdSpJ1mCKnLiK9ny2IHcPga1W0Joz7RshwBaS_UfKbsw6FoCyiIG9fUUBHQF2_iecCS3-AZoWMo1CGnDVlCqOJ/s320/013a.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I have a friend who is a decorator, and not to name names or anything,</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">(LISA!)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">But she is modestly <i>amazing</i>.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Decorators... are true artists! Bringing together so many elements... to meld them, and blend them - to highlight, and encase you in the theme... truly a gift.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Photographers. Another group of amazing artists!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">(I love you photo friends! Skye, Allie, Erin, Jennie...)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I love the way a picture can take something everyday, and make you look at it in a way you never imagined. Or something simple and make it suddenly complex, and deep.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaKJVz-lzhPDwb74OgLPLTABKtwci_gLLqm1CPSfDw64gXzcfxXjXouYRs9WMJwvEKseKZqNTMtNxQwCYabASsn_pmdw4rG2PC1y5bwBI0DOKiwjvtf4T15xO9y1IurKhAZzl1lnnu7bJ8/s1600/014.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaKJVz-lzhPDwb74OgLPLTABKtwci_gLLqm1CPSfDw64gXzcfxXjXouYRs9WMJwvEKseKZqNTMtNxQwCYabASsn_pmdw4rG2PC1y5bwBI0DOKiwjvtf4T15xO9y1IurKhAZzl1lnnu7bJ8/s320/014.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">When a picture tells a story, or asks a thousand questions.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-KeuZnUCH_lut992D80mzCdTsi0KwHhftDdt_C9p_4qBurx7klaZA4D4iH9OiV6vybb1wD38j0Q7_zXSHPaTE8iZ62fqr5mkNRrRdxCFPMH74CO3lRXgA2Tgwt181tDWbG6nnmB3HQipn/s1600/015.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-KeuZnUCH_lut992D80mzCdTsi0KwHhftDdt_C9p_4qBurx7klaZA4D4iH9OiV6vybb1wD38j0Q7_zXSHPaTE8iZ62fqr5mkNRrRdxCFPMH74CO3lRXgA2Tgwt181tDWbG6nnmB3HQipn/s320/015.bmp" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Or sweeps us away to a dream world.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3xBM9R8B0uwKaCX-ix6u9xB9lVt31Gqjwfe7jwJafUuaWOTRMNcneR_nHgpN6WYtcVPoYYvzFj_VXLQN8UAsHVXQTrOks-3L81sBq0RIAoVypSIwMSRQNXhk1FBJtVzUPUMzLEJNYpaBw/s1600/016.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="208" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3xBM9R8B0uwKaCX-ix6u9xB9lVt31Gqjwfe7jwJafUuaWOTRMNcneR_nHgpN6WYtcVPoYYvzFj_VXLQN8UAsHVXQTrOks-3L81sBq0RIAoVypSIwMSRQNXhk1FBJtVzUPUMzLEJNYpaBw/s320/016.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Capturing beauty...</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfDAaDR3JgnNx3nXLFQsTUSguP0zCG39_UgzllTzOV2TWEbkE1ykbbi3rl0KZyTDinr4_nY4RjSjaX2JhdYJ62p6LeQBk3uwjwuBiT_FF1wBL33hS-d9QXzOd2oPupukbBMJ2ywZs7RY6S/s1600/017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfDAaDR3JgnNx3nXLFQsTUSguP0zCG39_UgzllTzOV2TWEbkE1ykbbi3rl0KZyTDinr4_nY4RjSjaX2JhdYJ62p6LeQBk3uwjwuBiT_FF1wBL33hS-d9QXzOd2oPupukbBMJ2ywZs7RY6S/s320/017.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Creating moments.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFns3hQQfHeG9s-qwVafUwkLP2ZtIL5PYz9EwMjuaWom3mfC2e2b-YIaezKNCxFDIL5iEbCZ6XdFvLZyV1t2_BX_2zbwPR9wdCcdAXXAy3_ePdcIRd4Zd5Ur9jXB0CHOW-S5kLCZ6cmtcn/s1600/018.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFns3hQQfHeG9s-qwVafUwkLP2ZtIL5PYz9EwMjuaWom3mfC2e2b-YIaezKNCxFDIL5iEbCZ6XdFvLZyV1t2_BX_2zbwPR9wdCcdAXXAy3_ePdcIRd4Zd5Ur9jXB0CHOW-S5kLCZ6cmtcn/s320/018.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Playing in a fantasy world of imagination brought to life.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlbeSNfwDLjJ8BateovloBrNwkN07UzBGHdJvOH2Fr-fij15JInSr5O2-YlrloPuHCfLCfzp2iR_7lIDvWMmA9FpL6V_-pZ7o7yAYtN1Nv8bY2fhZCwtZPYwoDxryfRpsQijf-P26Jt13r/s1600/019.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlbeSNfwDLjJ8BateovloBrNwkN07UzBGHdJvOH2Fr-fij15JInSr5O2-YlrloPuHCfLCfzp2iR_7lIDvWMmA9FpL6V_-pZ7o7yAYtN1Nv8bY2fhZCwtZPYwoDxryfRpsQijf-P26Jt13r/s320/019.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">This is why I love art.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The greatest artist of all time... our Savior.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Proof by the true mind-baffling beauty all around us.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">How I <i>love</i> what beauty is found in nature.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigIvShuQrpTBib7AjWP85TomBO-e3GFlRUAKl9OrodOqkUcEGX9t3ytgW_miiBQyQShyJQedNZW6OTVSgw012cLhGQxKFEk8llE0wLYSo7Z1_YyN5YGMnHqTUh4JHZx7q6JUw_zQPhwoUa/s1600/020.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="210" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigIvShuQrpTBib7AjWP85TomBO-e3GFlRUAKl9OrodOqkUcEGX9t3ytgW_miiBQyQShyJQedNZW6OTVSgw012cLhGQxKFEk8llE0wLYSo7Z1_YyN5YGMnHqTUh4JHZx7q6JUw_zQPhwoUa/s320/020.bmp" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Quilters!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Seamstresses!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Sewers!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I have a friend, Ashley, and boy that girl can coordinate a quilt like nobody else! The fabrics pulled together to make her quilts I would have <i>never</i> assembled on my own. Talent!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">And Barbara, a friend of mine who helped me alter BOTH my wedding reception dresses in a world record time - she is an artist of experience <i>and</i> talent. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Admiration!</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjr0V91FKD2xUaKgDaqG2w8XIBtK72PF6IQXh6Jrqdo19ucedZoeYaDGuRo8WdaXFro0pesb15dqfaxT-5yP5SeFigTRahCSBAprc5c2oxSq50-e_wnwvcfOA0KgD-lgh60MTN9zZLlK0aB/s1600/021.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjr0V91FKD2xUaKgDaqG2w8XIBtK72PF6IQXh6Jrqdo19ucedZoeYaDGuRo8WdaXFro0pesb15dqfaxT-5yP5SeFigTRahCSBAprc5c2oxSq50-e_wnwvcfOA0KgD-lgh60MTN9zZLlK0aB/s320/021.jpg" width="259" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The crocheters! The knitters!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I know a few crocheting friends of mine who blow off compliments with something stating that they only know how to do something because they have had the experience and time to do it. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Do they realize you have to have the desire to pursue perfection in it?</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">That's what they had! They're artists. Talented artists.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I am thankful to my friend Keeley ♥ - who taught me how to crochet enough that I can put out a mostly-decent baby blanket now. Although how it is accomplished is still totally lost on me. :o)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Or my friend Tami! Who is constantly crocheting things in 3D, which blows my mind. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The most adorable? </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">A tiny octopus. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">(I know, right?!)</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUsvIVlutS-4qO2jnjr44pp0OZHVQt1JUhFzgdqMf-BumchgjAlmpoCRYPEoeNRNP5WKKX5gLIueIIjArGxL_Vo4bFl-L5OfqQQ5yUYEX_mFPpMh1oh5jCMjW4NsFtU6dWob6ypvF6ckN2/s1600/022.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUsvIVlutS-4qO2jnjr44pp0OZHVQt1JUhFzgdqMf-BumchgjAlmpoCRYPEoeNRNP5WKKX5gLIueIIjArGxL_Vo4bFl-L5OfqQQ5yUYEX_mFPpMh1oh5jCMjW4NsFtU6dWob6ypvF6ckN2/s320/022.jpg" width="272" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Art on, artists.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Whatever medium you use.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Be happy, and create... it makes the rest of us happy by proxy.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">And I will continue to admire.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6ENiPP4FpoAm0JIoFh1qP7Ppsjn9p2tnDth8N7Z0GZAG-Li8JHwXHseFymGdbJqXY1xUH-FnyW_FRpDZjY7IkbRKQCeED2iLFqhUlN_9anaciv_CIK0B36Wc7CZfUF3FYXBDZvp3ux-Y7/s1600/023.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6ENiPP4FpoAm0JIoFh1qP7Ppsjn9p2tnDth8N7Z0GZAG-Li8JHwXHseFymGdbJqXY1xUH-FnyW_FRpDZjY7IkbRKQCeED2iLFqhUlN_9anaciv_CIK0B36Wc7CZfUF3FYXBDZvp3ux-Y7/s320/023.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">♥♥♥</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmBJVomYQ5_1jM_l7lEK9IY9EjbPwHfXZYtoLS4HmTvXzz1ArE1DCccABCbeKH6sT_HE9Cf5BUsMnF5X3bkIbztu726g4iOXXkgppZwDk-G5wdlDzT6BVgUGEDbL4oVhxn8l8kJzkyzGeW/s1600/images.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmBJVomYQ5_1jM_l7lEK9IY9EjbPwHfXZYtoLS4HmTvXzz1ArE1DCccABCbeKH6sT_HE9Cf5BUsMnF5X3bkIbztu726g4iOXXkgppZwDk-G5wdlDzT6BVgUGEDbL4oVhxn8l8kJzkyzGeW/s320/images.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>pepperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18094580301185673656noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3271452283085447903.post-31017963165069965572011-09-07T08:20:00.000-07:002011-09-07T08:23:57.012-07:00Confession #33 - Opinionated<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Confession: I love to be opinionated.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">But only as long as nobody objects to my opinion. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">:o)</div><br />
I'm totally the one willing to quip in with an opinion or story that somehow relates to what is currently being discussed.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjtoHL2W77toD0au28iiZpVAiikJPQ7-Kj4aj_b9kEQdO21eCyJ4jTjftHh6gxZeJKGxSu5TpZU_SQWZ_YTWsZGg5RgBM0Ef8tmoIw2LBWRxHqbbPkRaTdeaZV578lgbXXKQ8iMFIvtqnx/s1600/001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjtoHL2W77toD0au28iiZpVAiikJPQ7-Kj4aj_b9kEQdO21eCyJ4jTjftHh6gxZeJKGxSu5TpZU_SQWZ_YTWsZGg5RgBM0Ef8tmoIw2LBWRxHqbbPkRaTdeaZV578lgbXXKQ8iMFIvtqnx/s1600/001.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Sometimes I wish I could stop this verbal diarrhea, but alas.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">It is just who I am.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Most of you know this, and have been witness to it, for sure.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I don't want to be an opinionated know-it-all though.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I worked for one of those once!</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZAZxA3C5TMYKKvd6b9ReMVZDLUKL37f5LSZ91dmuuUXpfdo6LO5Yqk3QPlROjtdU519WZlnjqmTWq8QUqwP1l2yXaZ0ncwOFbknChjrWUbkBVFmPJfP1BrXVKFdY8mdHpSDejELQgbu2I/s1600/002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="232" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZAZxA3C5TMYKKvd6b9ReMVZDLUKL37f5LSZ91dmuuUXpfdo6LO5Yqk3QPlROjtdU519WZlnjqmTWq8QUqwP1l2yXaZ0ncwOFbknChjrWUbkBVFmPJfP1BrXVKFdY8mdHpSDejELQgbu2I/s320/002.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Secretly she is rolling her eyes! You know it!!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">And I try very hard not to be rudely opinionated.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I don't want to offend someone. Ever!</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0juMVDVXW__wmoTVNTdDNIVs2FakrTef3KgF-Z99UDn7bAr64s_5JgjmEbNohukt6egTDQMNYNyx2CFaGqHxm7LF72XfzTjmjFG7E2y7fUiVLgF13tXKYXtS66jFPnxLvPSZJ3eVTLaq7/s1600/003.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0juMVDVXW__wmoTVNTdDNIVs2FakrTef3KgF-Z99UDn7bAr64s_5JgjmEbNohukt6egTDQMNYNyx2CFaGqHxm7LF72XfzTjmjFG7E2y7fUiVLgF13tXKYXtS66jFPnxLvPSZJ3eVTLaq7/s320/003.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">(Don't you know how crazy you look???)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">But I am <i style="font-weight: bold;">soooo</i> on board for being the most opinionated know-it-all old lady!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Throwing out warnings about how you'd better put butter on that burn, or peroxide in your cuts, or don't stare at the sun, or don't eat chocolate because it will give you acne, or stop coddling your 2 week old... or other ridiculously stupid information that is totally out-dated. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">:o)</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWNonix9jR6RbaiAEh1FlOqU2S275IwJ5XBc7Av76HZOKmkR2_IK5m0P30XhIT6GZ-5R0lZebVSiYZLGVQUUn9MHOdum-Uym40yx5xHvZhivBGjexYQLgBDqYTZY95fpBx6lHqhyphenhyphenex9nan/s1600/004.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWNonix9jR6RbaiAEh1FlOqU2S275IwJ5XBc7Av76HZOKmkR2_IK5m0P30XhIT6GZ-5R0lZebVSiYZLGVQUUn9MHOdum-Uym40yx5xHvZhivBGjexYQLgBDqYTZY95fpBx6lHqhyphenhyphenex9nan/s320/004.jpg" width="285" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">While browsing the aisles of the </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">soon-to-be-totally-embarrassingly-blown-out-of-business Borders,</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> I happened upon this gem.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8zSpUmfwBIXKYsX1oa1uVf2Ji77OOkkLq0Ny4v03dD_I9DjvfnuTFcaZ8fG-7oHJXpb1bLjmTHp3nYWQ9Av5ibxNR20prOSooOn64ck8qi_s44uDcNsRhf9UvCPWomqRtgh_bWpfLcTK7/s1600/005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8zSpUmfwBIXKYsX1oa1uVf2Ji77OOkkLq0Ny4v03dD_I9DjvfnuTFcaZ8fG-7oHJXpb1bLjmTHp3nYWQ9Av5ibxNR20prOSooOn64ck8qi_s44uDcNsRhf9UvCPWomqRtgh_bWpfLcTK7/s320/005.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">A journal for someone with ... <i>opinions</i>??</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Where have you been all my life?!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">:o)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Sometimes I am terrible at journal-keeping.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Who isn't.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">But we should! I testify to you that journal-keeping is a blessing to yourself (sometimes keeping the facts really matters, sometimes venting is the only way to deal with your day/week), and to your <b>posterity</b>!! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I want my kids to be able to know who I am, no matter what happens, just in case something DID happen - I need a backup. I want their children's children to be able to know something about me if they wanted to, just by reading my journals.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">(This is also why I stopped - personally, my decision - complaining in my journals. I was about 20, when I realized... <i>what if someone finds this journal? It won't be some great discovery hundreds of years later... it will be the discovery that someone was whiny and ungrateful!! Rubbish rubblerubble rubble!... </i>I want to make sure they know <b>who I am</b> not what I didn't like. Or whatever.)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">This journal is terrific.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Mostly because other than my regular journal, it is wonderful when I feel like I have nothing to write about, this ALWAYS has something. Basically every page has something you have to make a decision about. You have to almost make a stance and an argument! Don't worry, it's about the really important things in life - </div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiVFMugBEPM7e-Qw-nbbEmsvIiONMEfONJtOyPkmkuQOQimbVYeCZp14i998ECFqqQcVXWwExIlDamIsM6AGrGk-dGawVu5SK2AFch2FghRtC9qZedukAn4IChIcuxOS9O20MARTkJX9N9/s1600/006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiVFMugBEPM7e-Qw-nbbEmsvIiONMEfONJtOyPkmkuQOQimbVYeCZp14i998ECFqqQcVXWwExIlDamIsM6AGrGk-dGawVu5SK2AFch2FghRtC9qZedukAn4IChIcuxOS9O20MARTkJX9N9/s320/006.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">:o)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">But I love it because sometimes it brings things in me and in my opinions <i>out</i> and <b>onto</b> the pages, whereas normally I wouldn't be able to voice such things in my own journal, without leaving my post-decessors the chance to wonder if my journal-keeping halted at one point in order for me to be properly fitted into my long white jacket...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Anyways!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">If you are opinionated and need a place to vent, I recommend amazon-ing this book.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">If you are young or old, and still need to figure out who you are, same advice.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">If you are terrible at journal-keeping, ditto.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">And you don't neccessarily have to BUY the book if you are short on funds - make your own! It will be fun. Pick two random things, and explain which you pick and why. One of the first pages in this book is Reason vs. Emotion - excellent topic. Next to it? Nerd vs. Jock.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">... >_> ... <_< ... Choose Wisely ... as with all things in your life.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Ok now for something adorable.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">:o)</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIrH-9pbLP_sif5pkBpYA1n0mQ3Pr_QqOC-Jjtr-Gm9dEGG5Qq295tcc3cxcgslPtTAilsB3NJsRhPDXKBZSTnoLfTidqc57wpF_KIAeLGf1KTOVwDCAqRW4M9rvisD_G2G1l7DdFXvklX/s1600/007.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIrH-9pbLP_sif5pkBpYA1n0mQ3Pr_QqOC-Jjtr-Gm9dEGG5Qq295tcc3cxcgslPtTAilsB3NJsRhPDXKBZSTnoLfTidqc57wpF_KIAeLGf1KTOVwDCAqRW4M9rvisD_G2G1l7DdFXvklX/s320/007.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Oh you little rascals you!!!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">☼</div>pepperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18094580301185673656noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3271452283085447903.post-43298477181975808872011-09-06T11:42:00.000-07:002011-09-06T11:42:03.939-07:00Confession #32 - Music Therapy<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i style="font-weight: bold;">I</i> am an emotional being.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3efkq9Q0m2NDQM84VYmyHnFXHNU2CDT7SJNZSNrX4KrO90LM3TON-KTno0JqPb6NdJ6ZzDwkiuoBz7KQqA7RjavRJPVYCEcNCskRINppSkhHi97kKPHx_rfuzALuk0vEVwBbJOH4j1EZH/s1600/001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3efkq9Q0m2NDQM84VYmyHnFXHNU2CDT7SJNZSNrX4KrO90LM3TON-KTno0JqPb6NdJ6ZzDwkiuoBz7KQqA7RjavRJPVYCEcNCskRINppSkhHi97kKPHx_rfuzALuk0vEVwBbJOH4j1EZH/s320/001.jpg" width="258" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">In fact, I frequently roller coaster through most of the above emotions daily.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Who knows if that is normal, but at least I am honest.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">:o)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Sometimes, I relate all to well with my almost three-year-old daughter.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">One of my biggest issues is feeling <i>overwhelmed</i> followed by <i>frustration</i>.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Which leads quickly to anxiety. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Anxiety is a big one!!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">But one of the biggest feelings I loathe is <i>anger</i> - and <i>frustration</i>.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I think they are so closely related that they are inseparable.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Sometimes I get frustrated while I am working on a cake - it looks something like this:</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcsExi5smuOVP_dXYhapkQ_2RnAH-e1wCUZ8oO6fEAE7Qu4oz2vLfNtMJTNco1RQH6QfHgw80I_pEWErZbTLTf1ySs1Es7-dOv5Xs8uztV7nDJbWqC0gr-3lShk_17NJeXz8atxCSDXrye/s1600/002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcsExi5smuOVP_dXYhapkQ_2RnAH-e1wCUZ8oO6fEAE7Qu4oz2vLfNtMJTNco1RQH6QfHgw80I_pEWErZbTLTf1ySs1Es7-dOv5Xs8uztV7nDJbWqC0gr-3lShk_17NJeXz8atxCSDXrye/s320/002.jpg" width="256" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">:o)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">But I am reminded quickly that:</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTj3WtMlU7pCuIcfmfOsq6LghWzdOjtuLeKwH4zk10AGGtBldf87UVboOvDnm6XGqOSggsfYZDMJIQu0HpM7Lxo7azYNN72ncaHMq6xz1evOZUG1yw8cZ4LDoDEKeDljKo9SUwAfs0p7pL/s1600/002a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTj3WtMlU7pCuIcfmfOsq6LghWzdOjtuLeKwH4zk10AGGtBldf87UVboOvDnm6XGqOSggsfYZDMJIQu0HpM7Lxo7azYNN72ncaHMq6xz1evOZUG1yw8cZ4LDoDEKeDljKo9SUwAfs0p7pL/s1600/002a.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">...and I can't very well take out my frustration on the cake, now can I?</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Just like we can't take it out on the people we are mad at.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Or frustrated with.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">It's as silly as kicking your car - and hurting your foot.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Or punching something - and hurting your hand.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Well. Frustration is especially overwhelming for me, because every time I</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">am feeling frustrated, I get angry. And when I feel angry, </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I feel overwhelmed.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzU00l2d5fDALQx_3vjtk4Qq2GeTnL4PKhntKHWg9uNZX3zAposJbZESLeQ-tq2aCGBBT16Buvhir4ESclm3b0BZlqkl8a8g2iybx1zu9U39g4BNO-axd8SYt0TvBAYuS4xyQv0rOibbIn/s1600/003.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzU00l2d5fDALQx_3vjtk4Qq2GeTnL4PKhntKHWg9uNZX3zAposJbZESLeQ-tq2aCGBBT16Buvhir4ESclm3b0BZlqkl8a8g2iybx1zu9U39g4BNO-axd8SYt0TvBAYuS4xyQv0rOibbIn/s320/003.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">And every time without fail, the desire to scream and jump up and down and pull all my hair out and break something is immediately followed by the need to break out in the ugliest cry known to mankind. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Sobbing hysteria I tell you!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Nothing else will do.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFYek0cFN6lWD7_w4f3tow93hT6OU-XKMjQ1MmE7R1bhTRjwWoUF2B5Bme22TyRadWsuitHA0hctE0dIm26F2m-jlCY7FQ2RYLbMuolGdIhC_sYx6MYdrm8-gbTd364lEvF6uGIw1OWsPT/s1600/004.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFYek0cFN6lWD7_w4f3tow93hT6OU-XKMjQ1MmE7R1bhTRjwWoUF2B5Bme22TyRadWsuitHA0hctE0dIm26F2m-jlCY7FQ2RYLbMuolGdIhC_sYx6MYdrm8-gbTd364lEvF6uGIw1OWsPT/s320/004.jpg" width="291" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Confession: Sometimes, the only thing that helps me is my music therapy.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">:o)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Sometimes there is no hope, you might as well let me work it out. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I won't lie! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I'm a toddler.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">But sometimes, all I need is a walk on the treadmill with the right music!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Or a long drive, with the right music.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">This helps me achieve my calm.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">...my sanity. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhG0Q7NwlEyTme8tTCZiqJIwM8eZgxkBig6VZ-WhFsmQDow29p66L_JgJ3zaIuSOG1aC7XqTwhcV7XKfQSs8wj8oV9SnPHCkbC55oadHZG0WazQu-ufzU0xVKJCUzcJdmOcOnMXfnVIGArw/s1600/005.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="211" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhG0Q7NwlEyTme8tTCZiqJIwM8eZgxkBig6VZ-WhFsmQDow29p66L_JgJ3zaIuSOG1aC7XqTwhcV7XKfQSs8wj8oV9SnPHCkbC55oadHZG0WazQu-ufzU0xVKJCUzcJdmOcOnMXfnVIGArw/s320/005.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">So! Here are four examples of my therapeutically angry music.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Genre... does not matter.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">☼Note: I can not be responsible for the ridiculous music videos.☼</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">First up, is the original stress-reliever from my junior high/high school days.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I would pop their CD in my walkman (yeeeah!) and listen to it on the way to the bus stop, and on the ride to school. It always helped me deal with my emotional being before arriving to class.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">"Human" from the Symphony & Metallica album</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">--classy meets angry rock--</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/f71lMnRbSaM?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Second, from my high school days.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">If you know me, you know why this is therapeutic.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">:o)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">"Earl" by the Dixie Chicks from their "Fly" album</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">--sweet, unrealistic justice--</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><object width="320" height="266" class="BLOGGER-youtube-video" classid="clsid:D27CDB6E-AE6D-11cf-96B8-444553540000" codebase="http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0" data-thumbnail-src="http://3.gvt0.com/vi/Gw7gNf_9njs/0.jpg"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/Gw7gNf_9njs&fs=1&source=uds" /><param name="bgcolor" value="#FFFFFF" /><embed width="320" height="266" src="http://www.youtube.com/v/Gw7gNf_9njs&fs=1&source=uds" type="application/x-shockwave-flash"></embed></object></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I stumbled upon this next one by accident.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">:o)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">"Gone" by Kelly Clarkson</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><object width="320" height="266" class="BLOGGER-youtube-video" classid="clsid:D27CDB6E-AE6D-11cf-96B8-444553540000" codebase="http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0" data-thumbnail-src="http://3.gvt0.com/vi/_KKxKoPXSc8/0.jpg"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/_KKxKoPXSc8&fs=1&source=uds" /><param name="bgcolor" value="#FFFFFF" /><embed width="320" height="266" src="http://www.youtube.com/v/_KKxKoPXSc8&fs=1&source=uds" type="application/x-shockwave-flash"></embed></object></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">And lastly, a song I love because it puts my frustration on the outside of my body. I love feeling like there will be justice, but also the song is bright enough that I can smile when it is over, and get on with my day.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">"Mean" by Taylor Swift</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/jYa1eI1hpDE?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Let's conclude this venting session traditionally.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">By looking at something adorably cute.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEDPlLMQO9EqJLv2LhDnWqwYXMPLbGJZRWVKqmEwz904fDUf6KEMu_b-qZOAjLiB5xT__sOhuo4AaN18zb22BFiojuNeZIpMZBrMZahmDsX4JT194sTFPHuF1tb1wRLWJmEz1bJef9nUbq/s1600/006.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="230" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEDPlLMQO9EqJLv2LhDnWqwYXMPLbGJZRWVKqmEwz904fDUf6KEMu_b-qZOAjLiB5xT__sOhuo4AaN18zb22BFiojuNeZIpMZBrMZahmDsX4JT194sTFPHuF1tb1wRLWJmEz1bJef9nUbq/s320/006.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">♥♥♥</div>pepperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18094580301185673656noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3271452283085447903.post-14138165083719933842011-09-01T12:21:00.000-07:002011-09-01T12:21:27.297-07:00Confession #31 - Freckles<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">This post is about freckles.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9oHH6220NqjuhK4Fz68zZbXbhDdNc9BGCgywXk0zAOZ0pDJaDPI2gAysnBo6BgZq0bz1rRmSnbBdvk3l3nPocSe38x44L6cY8J4mPcldcDMPxSpMhfcNf9G8FRzlPMMc_gcmNVBHv38qk/s1600/001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9oHH6220NqjuhK4Fz68zZbXbhDdNc9BGCgywXk0zAOZ0pDJaDPI2gAysnBo6BgZq0bz1rRmSnbBdvk3l3nPocSe38x44L6cY8J4mPcldcDMPxSpMhfcNf9G8FRzlPMMc_gcmNVBHv38qk/s320/001.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Beautiful, glorious, twinkling, fabulous freckles.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuYKS9lAPrZACHzfFljFzgeKv-8lBOtEbok9Q7UjUEox2N9vchz1PRe0XVUVOYBdSQD8LQdS5bs_RkjPxgmcBuj_W5h0CtnYf_DbdF9BZuBHsZg74x8BDDsah0D4twu_-_5gjsfC0mqhfC/s1600/002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuYKS9lAPrZACHzfFljFzgeKv-8lBOtEbok9Q7UjUEox2N9vchz1PRe0XVUVOYBdSQD8LQdS5bs_RkjPxgmcBuj_W5h0CtnYf_DbdF9BZuBHsZg74x8BDDsah0D4twu_-_5gjsfC0mqhfC/s320/002.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Confession: I <i>love</i> freckles.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">When I was a kid, it was frowned upon to have freckles...</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXNGty9e5PGPi8vnX3X6Ohkj8rI1Ps_b9HWjR3h1S5QOEPRccooLZT7GbvdMi6xIxdjrS_PMUkjsId8Ic2jBMdpFO6_qkBPf42c5XKJ5Bh_b_LsclACnHzU8AcKkCbPfzJkJNZO393JPkO/s1600/003.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXNGty9e5PGPi8vnX3X6Ohkj8rI1Ps_b9HWjR3h1S5QOEPRccooLZT7GbvdMi6xIxdjrS_PMUkjsId8Ic2jBMdpFO6_qkBPf42c5XKJ5Bh_b_LsclACnHzU8AcKkCbPfzJkJNZO393JPkO/s320/003.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">If you had them, you were encouraged to hide them, or endure endless teasing.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Some kids were just plain sad, some hated their freckles...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">But... quietly, I didn't understand the big deal.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Freckles are <i>adorable</i>.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-uelwCMGYsS7YKjXlNIxzvN-uyCQV1YrHhfTz2MGK1ES16kiuaVBYTRFq5E2IRVesszoSszrdJpF8iKKhfXDVPyKL_HflNJvNkceibBqmUC8FZYpVfhT8NMNZCNnMdVkQVhwLgx7U85dn/s1600/005.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-uelwCMGYsS7YKjXlNIxzvN-uyCQV1YrHhfTz2MGK1ES16kiuaVBYTRFq5E2IRVesszoSszrdJpF8iKKhfXDVPyKL_HflNJvNkceibBqmUC8FZYpVfhT8NMNZCNnMdVkQVhwLgx7U85dn/s320/005.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Like a wonderful surprise - when you walk up closer to someone, and discover their face is sprinkled with those awesome little flecks.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Like... if you pulled a box of tic tacs from your pocket and were to discover that all of them were adorably making faces at you.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ72n2abfvWCUS4TW_j2RBN6LaPstYGba7nk_RoLeV5YFKDpXbCQih6G7k83hElFUf0gVptf_I6HTP01_6bmrp584IMSzHopCMvR8api-PCdVjlkkNVMtHJprtfhGqv4D0RIF0QZOtLJGD/s1600/006.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ72n2abfvWCUS4TW_j2RBN6LaPstYGba7nk_RoLeV5YFKDpXbCQih6G7k83hElFUf0gVptf_I6HTP01_6bmrp584IMSzHopCMvR8api-PCdVjlkkNVMtHJprtfhGqv4D0RIF0QZOtLJGD/s320/006.jpg" width="198" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Aww!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The thing that is <i>great</i> about freckles is that they can be cute, </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">but they can also <u>totally</u> be <i>sassy</i>.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTYW1Kgp-MYsQ3GgcWTO9qXIrHw5Rh1vt2IODQENKfCmhh46eD8U7PAswwI1JmSfsykQQNt3QwpLiSO1-2l4Y1oFSZLET3AVBWGYuGGRNC0pBslUi4ZO9T-7NsPZwl4Ask5aPXRTR7UhCy/s1600/007.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTYW1Kgp-MYsQ3GgcWTO9qXIrHw5Rh1vt2IODQENKfCmhh46eD8U7PAswwI1JmSfsykQQNt3QwpLiSO1-2l4Y1oFSZLET3AVBWGYuGGRNC0pBslUi4ZO9T-7NsPZwl4Ask5aPXRTR7UhCy/s320/007.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I - my whole life - have wanted freckles.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">When I was a kid - back when Neve Campbell was a big deal - I wanted her freckles.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhAklECX34AoHVZ-N9E91sB0kNdMIwYZGqTmFb-SGhnBVds7YG9rMpxXd68FX6YH0Tc3zr9rLlwpYNf1i1LdxSgeNpRxe-h6jF0QD0mKQvhpKCaYf54VvZpjT5OPtwn1a1-ijostuNma2a/s1600/008.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhAklECX34AoHVZ-N9E91sB0kNdMIwYZGqTmFb-SGhnBVds7YG9rMpxXd68FX6YH0Tc3zr9rLlwpYNf1i1LdxSgeNpRxe-h6jF0QD0mKQvhpKCaYf54VvZpjT5OPtwn1a1-ijostuNma2a/s320/008.jpg" width="266" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">She was cute - totally girly.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyMY8bWTbTcvfjYvMUQX4oPQcEZOBAWlrpzbmRGD2xVQcrApIIwgo0SH17bJXCPz891RboC39LqLZZYg-HWaL5DN_EDUMM7Lrgo3QkbUWJBszRmEeW00PWGXQLvtVgUmscBFRlQ2lQ9Fyg/s1600/009.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyMY8bWTbTcvfjYvMUQX4oPQcEZOBAWlrpzbmRGD2xVQcrApIIwgo0SH17bJXCPz891RboC39LqLZZYg-HWaL5DN_EDUMM7Lrgo3QkbUWJBszRmEeW00PWGXQLvtVgUmscBFRlQ2lQ9Fyg/s320/009.jpg" width="211" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Glam!</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgERlkvS-sS7v2M7YvTNzTBbkrHuoFvSZGY5PuNlmVbozOd0tRiYYlJI-ht_tkCaqm4S4Po04BPmLEJHGFtK20SakatkOLzQx9HWNrFX3AiKMaio06UT0rmgtw33RK0nh3a6anY4L3LAJn9/s1600/010.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgERlkvS-sS7v2M7YvTNzTBbkrHuoFvSZGY5PuNlmVbozOd0tRiYYlJI-ht_tkCaqm4S4Po04BPmLEJHGFtK20SakatkOLzQx9HWNrFX3AiKMaio06UT0rmgtw33RK0nh3a6anY4L3LAJn9/s320/010.jpg" width="256" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Her awesome freckles in turn made <i>me </i>want awesome freckles.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNyWEYo0jGxhWR2rq-ZEFV_zXNqLzkwI2xD-xIVphCfU9r85KDptbtkju20cin_qX5USYVd847yue1aD2AO-QR_QV6ZT4F8R1dPmThLlgqVqQ3Mi-82i1Rjd1Vb30qDAkjuJe4Z1RVWHhI/s1600/011.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNyWEYo0jGxhWR2rq-ZEFV_zXNqLzkwI2xD-xIVphCfU9r85KDptbtkju20cin_qX5USYVd847yue1aD2AO-QR_QV6ZT4F8R1dPmThLlgqVqQ3Mi-82i1Rjd1Vb30qDAkjuJe4Z1RVWHhI/s320/011.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Any Halloween costume I could add freckles to, I would - whipping out the eyeliner pencil and twisting here and there, to make sure you could tell I had freckles, but ensuring they looked like they should have been there all along.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Maybe my freckle desire was silly.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Or weird.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">(Whatever!)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">But the good news is - finally - after all these years...</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgccUkjPJIa1qYeATMZy90Dj7ol3x3RaY12j4m_Ad6RWKInJygCJuDbLzYAdq6WuHEHKjdHOZEEoyu_MMvvL8QyjAhgUSQDI3CcRX07xNgZACw23dWAXakE2FdWTQ7OQJdtgEATGkv6O5Zk/s1600/012.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgccUkjPJIa1qYeATMZy90Dj7ol3x3RaY12j4m_Ad6RWKInJygCJuDbLzYAdq6WuHEHKjdHOZEEoyu_MMvvL8QyjAhgUSQDI3CcRX07xNgZACw23dWAXakE2FdWTQ7OQJdtgEATGkv6O5Zk/s320/012.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Now <i style="font-weight: bold;">I</i> have freckles too!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">:oD</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">♥</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>Love</b> your freckles.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">♥</div><br />
pepperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18094580301185673656noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3271452283085447903.post-56215695565766250322011-08-31T16:59:00.000-07:002011-08-31T16:59:34.352-07:00Confession #30 - Mascara<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I saw a picture of Martha Stewart on the cover of her Halloween </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">edition magazine for this year, and it got me thinking.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIttY8liQ_sxloUYLTMlAY_7_uAiFyfO8tTa5v8SPoY31m5xHbcnM2fBgZ1D0pN076H2CB_epENGA5s-8qmBhnx6nN6UztQ91s-SitpmKa92fUs1aAaYRxnUt8i3dHH7mZVrN8Hqs7sh2g/s1600/001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIttY8liQ_sxloUYLTMlAY_7_uAiFyfO8tTa5v8SPoY31m5xHbcnM2fBgZ1D0pN076H2CB_epENGA5s-8qmBhnx6nN6UztQ91s-SitpmKa92fUs1aAaYRxnUt8i3dHH7mZVrN8Hqs7sh2g/s320/001.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">For the longest time I have been </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">- (just as the rest of you have!) - </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">on a quest for the most perfect way to display my eyelashes.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">What is up with that??</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Well... eyelashes, to your face, are the equivolent of a picture frame you hang on a blank wall. (Your eyes are the picture ☺)</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipadDDUngebdb42MG3fRT0lpwKN96kCE1wf_drdIv1GziR69cDDxJDzV4XfH3F6r32rpU0JM9GK6tg3a_okfWQ4JNM7xQQNkYVkaS91VxJig6ClgAlS0E7y7Yv01GGKcNSovvvbOlOVFnR/s1600/002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipadDDUngebdb42MG3fRT0lpwKN96kCE1wf_drdIv1GziR69cDDxJDzV4XfH3F6r32rpU0JM9GK6tg3a_okfWQ4JNM7xQQNkYVkaS91VxJig6ClgAlS0E7y7Yv01GGKcNSovvvbOlOVFnR/s320/002.jpg" width="289" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">They are the biggest accessory place for your face, too!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Where else can you do the most without getting <i>ridiculous</i>?</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhw_GAhWAIa-IdVng4HNvlMKvgteo9GJYbloxiq_yi8M-ah8cB9tldEXKDU3XsfCFEm5sCPEkLs-tjqLG_p9S8Sos7f7jvg0i-k1cT-6umDeEmgFTvqzHeYtGz93WUUQ-gxejoC71la7hkn/s1600/003.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="243" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhw_GAhWAIa-IdVng4HNvlMKvgteo9GJYbloxiq_yi8M-ah8cB9tldEXKDU3XsfCFEm5sCPEkLs-tjqLG_p9S8Sos7f7jvg0i-k1cT-6umDeEmgFTvqzHeYtGz93WUUQ-gxejoC71la7hkn/s320/003.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Ok, <i>too</i> ridiculous.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">(Hello! Are those fingers?? :oO )</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">As a kid/pre-teen, I loved the models on TV for the mascara commercials,</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">who have <u>perfect</u> eyelashes.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPosXAIQ23j1SJNBoEc5rVtrBGV3XSABx-zpGiWIh6pk8DimZE62kHK-etUfp7QLlAN_Qn-lsx1el9xV6wzPb77j3XRZ2ctUBa1L938-dTuHT9LTteiWBHwicTD7mEIZMKI3fFXNa07RF2/s1600/004.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPosXAIQ23j1SJNBoEc5rVtrBGV3XSABx-zpGiWIh6pk8DimZE62kHK-etUfp7QLlAN_Qn-lsx1el9xV6wzPb77j3XRZ2ctUBa1L938-dTuHT9LTteiWBHwicTD7mEIZMKI3fFXNa07RF2/s1600/004.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Which are in <i>no</i> way accomplished by the mascara, but are just amazing in general.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I longed to have those full, luxurious eyelashes.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaXPz1-Iplus5l3tyEknj4PmqfFk1RYZCgGWcyni77Ek3uF_vXiSt6mirKd3xAO9AkCDNNitg26oM5vBxRFBum2Am2XfUf7G09NqDNEOIMaLDe4nQ9Pzok-y3_lfrFfvhHAFg4_cvSnacI/s1600/005.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaXPz1-Iplus5l3tyEknj4PmqfFk1RYZCgGWcyni77Ek3uF_vXiSt6mirKd3xAO9AkCDNNitg26oM5vBxRFBum2Am2XfUf7G09NqDNEOIMaLDe4nQ9Pzok-y3_lfrFfvhHAFg4_cvSnacI/s1600/005.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Who hasn't?? </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Not the crazy "whoa-your-eye-is-totally-a-bird" kind...</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiendg-zB70-EL84wvF9Qe6LjmkvO6Ou8WfQM-aweNjbVaWAsObQnIlL97KMkhWz4u4C8KnrltUNnWYwwqoUntT7jFnBuHZou8auKJBc7vEYfV22NQS0E09-O9SCQo78hxIM4jToILHK7xf/s1600/006.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiendg-zB70-EL84wvF9Qe6LjmkvO6Ou8WfQM-aweNjbVaWAsObQnIlL97KMkhWz4u4C8KnrltUNnWYwwqoUntT7jFnBuHZou8auKJBc7vEYfV22NQS0E09-O9SCQo78hxIM4jToILHK7xf/s1600/006.png" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">...but just some nice, <i style="font-weight: bold;">luxe</i> lashes.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">NOW.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Don't get me wrong.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I <i>do</i> like my own eyelashes.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">But...you know, just as well as the next woman in the room, I have the deep-seated prehistoric need to desire <i>more</i> from my appearance. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">(What is <i>wrong</i> with all of us??? Another blog for another day...)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">My point - </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>Confession: </b>I love mascara.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I found a new, fun mascara - that I've been using for about 2 weeks - that I love, but I am slightly embarrassed to admit WHY I love it. First, let me introduce you to my <i style="font-weight: bold;">dynamic duo</i>:</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiukcslvi7Q_QlCX5vv3C1aCxclUhk8HwBgFUKu1fbajdh8ZMSjJwkt1zjNCA4o-Idm4DbrlvQVpNcYnim1zdG64ojfVk-IkW7rAUMETDWeRXTLCbFROOHemRbO2suAYJ3vnFq5wc4pnO5G/s1600/007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiukcslvi7Q_QlCX5vv3C1aCxclUhk8HwBgFUKu1fbajdh8ZMSjJwkt1zjNCA4o-Idm4DbrlvQVpNcYnim1zdG64ojfVk-IkW7rAUMETDWeRXTLCbFROOHemRbO2suAYJ3vnFq5wc4pnO5G/s320/007.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">These... I use a <i>lot</i> lately.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The eye liner... I started using when I started applying my makeup while playing my part in the 'Savior of the World' production back in November 2010. I felt... <i>embarassed</i>? To wear so much makeup at the time (for me, it was a lot)... but for me, the liner works so great for my eye - it makes my eyelid appear smaller, so I appear more awake, which is <i>terrific</i> for me! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The only down side to this liquid liner is that you have to be <b>very</b> careful when you apply - and <i>where</i> on your eye you apply it. It is soooo not water-resistant. <u>Don't</u> put it in between your eyelashes unless you want black eye crusties an hour later.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Yeah, you heard me.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The mascara... I ran out of my usual brand, and randomly picked something from the Maybelline section. A hundred years ago (ok 6 years ago) Maybelline had been all I'd used. I got the "classic" pink tube of death with the green lid. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Why? Why do they still make that? </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Horrible. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">RETURNED.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">So... I went back and got some <i>real</i> mascara. It was bright and happy, so I bought it. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I literally put it on and while my eyelashes weren't a <i>bunch</i> thicker, it <b>intrigued</b> me. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Later that night, I took a shower - ok let me insert here that I am a horrible care-taker of my face. I wash it in the shower, and moisturize it when I get out.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The end.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Anything more than that, and my brain sits on the couch with a bag of Cheetos. So... I don't use makeup remover... I use face wash in the shower, and carefully scrub with my scrubby gloves.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Terrible?</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Maybe.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">So! I took a shower, and washed my face and everything, and get out, and dry my face, and go to apply my moisturizer and I had a moment where I looked in the mirror.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaRETveqetrVtzyUYA2HcxI0lrRFR0-2rkIWCyzHe08bBgNDvgjE_fLpOCSD7MDmIWCZ6sUMW26qo68ykvW0Rxpy64lIi9N2HUyOx9QHQYo3IAD3_HtMU0Hhp0HNYjV_dd9uBYQSDElXqS/s1600/008.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaRETveqetrVtzyUYA2HcxI0lrRFR0-2rkIWCyzHe08bBgNDvgjE_fLpOCSD7MDmIWCZ6sUMW26qo68ykvW0Rxpy64lIi9N2HUyOx9QHQYo3IAD3_HtMU0Hhp0HNYjV_dd9uBYQSDElXqS/s320/008.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><i>WHOA!!!</i></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><i><br />
</i></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">This mascara is <i>really</i> <b>REALLY</b> waterproof!!!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">We're talking... the most durable mascara I have owned to date. I actually couldn't get it off my eyes. "What?! I have to go buy makeup remover now?? Whatever..." (my brain processes) "...nahh I'll just get it in the shower <i>tomorrow</i>."</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Hey, I've got little kids. I can be lazy sometimes, right?</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Day two.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Mascara - still <i>totally</i> in tact. Lucky for me I didn't sleep on my face by accident and kink my eyelashes funny... yikes. Didn't flake or rub off <i>at all</i>. (No raccoon eyes!)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I'm thinking... <i>this mascara... maybe it was supposed to be used to make <b>tires</b> but got re-directed by accident</i>...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I shower, repeat surprise face, and lazy thought process, and crawl into bed.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Day three.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Mascara - STILL not budging. Grateful again for no face-sleeping.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Day four. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">This is getting serious. I am not a barbie.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Not that <i>that </i>has anything to do with anything, but things are getting a little ridiculous.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">After <i>four</i> showers, I spend a little extra time scrubbing and using a different soap... and the mascara gives way. Maybe I <i>will</i> have to invest in makeup remover after all. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Sigh.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">So... I love this mascara, totally for being superhero durable.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">(I am an emotional lady. I have my needs.)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">If you need durable, 140% waterproof mascara, this stuff is for you!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">So I had to throw on my <i style="font-weight: bold;">dynamic duo</i> to show you them in action.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMvWeSkUnJMRFqLotzWl2NCvjuaScrzVT0w-GbwH_BbHJwmwGjSj-MBWWgZ_vBK58HMgwYwJfwbslWIev1oEG942FTBM8Z2J4ZQDRnzSMAP1Wwi221aRK5Y0-qufMT0SU958v118WUqht2/s1600/009.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMvWeSkUnJMRFqLotzWl2NCvjuaScrzVT0w-GbwH_BbHJwmwGjSj-MBWWgZ_vBK58HMgwYwJfwbslWIev1oEG942FTBM8Z2J4ZQDRnzSMAP1Wwi221aRK5Y0-qufMT0SU958v118WUqht2/s320/009.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmltxDTfOUo_fjEho_YXQdfEKLqcDSWkKIDCB56F2G1FMvlggzeq0tbMESwIrOqwCmlP3559H0bmz-fZB9s5HWUUbdA-5UplyylB1A9pPV9F9Z6Cb0I6dql1pj2QOnBfEG0fyHtnB90YJe/s1600/010.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmltxDTfOUo_fjEho_YXQdfEKLqcDSWkKIDCB56F2G1FMvlggzeq0tbMESwIrOqwCmlP3559H0bmz-fZB9s5HWUUbdA-5UplyylB1A9pPV9F9Z6Cb0I6dql1pj2QOnBfEG0fyHtnB90YJe/s320/010.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXrFfwVAWdNZF34nOc0wBBmw5BxFM9gtI_NflBMgvfvUwaGnCDmK1lPtZvmBJ0fbBwusBkH45KmE4Da8ASBiWx_UrtvNhMaT9APj9PfALAWpQ2euCVirxz3h0cG2OQKHWLuDrAVHNEBceD/s1600/011.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXrFfwVAWdNZF34nOc0wBBmw5BxFM9gtI_NflBMgvfvUwaGnCDmK1lPtZvmBJ0fbBwusBkH45KmE4Da8ASBiWx_UrtvNhMaT9APj9PfALAWpQ2euCVirxz3h0cG2OQKHWLuDrAVHNEBceD/s320/011.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">This mascara was made for Wonder Woman.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">That must be it!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Glad they leaked their secrets to Maybelline.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">:o)</div><br />
pepperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18094580301185673656noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3271452283085447903.post-78145754445515467112011-08-19T09:35:00.000-07:002011-08-19T10:10:25.596-07:00Confession #29 - I HATE Terrible Drivers<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Sigh.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKWtmSLjHFISkz5fH-DHn1WpS2RnGIvnsuq6aEYUGc9yUJXh-f9u_ps6TzqrvsOu75sH9q8tcmrTayBJTLKB5U9J8lmqqkOpflqlJ81Lyd6V7tyi5UaXKrsOmG0MX2fGKVmXnQBVq8Mz1Q/s1600/001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKWtmSLjHFISkz5fH-DHn1WpS2RnGIvnsuq6aEYUGc9yUJXh-f9u_ps6TzqrvsOu75sH9q8tcmrTayBJTLKB5U9J8lmqqkOpflqlJ81Lyd6V7tyi5UaXKrsOmG0MX2fGKVmXnQBVq8Mz1Q/s1600/001.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Ok let me clarify on this, I would like to explain that I believe <i>all</i> drivers are terrible drivers. Yes, even <u>you</u> are a terrible driver. And I am also a terrible driver. BUT.... there is a line. I have a theory, that we are all varying degrees of awful drivers, but some drivers should not be driving at all. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">We're talking the cream of the crop.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">This is what this post is about.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The people who would drive away without unhooking the gas pump.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXwykG11O5op8mEA3RkbnPMhpU3DO4HZlhKjUsc4JtYKJo9lo3OgOgQxzKUMfEDJ1V7TxmReIBd-X5HKWqUkGfE7q3qaWgrrR1PEzVvI6jGGCv8BKE3nIucUXrub8vlYUqlxMEfGfZizrb/s1600/002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="231" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXwykG11O5op8mEA3RkbnPMhpU3DO4HZlhKjUsc4JtYKJo9lo3OgOgQxzKUMfEDJ1V7TxmReIBd-X5HKWqUkGfE7q3qaWgrrR1PEzVvI6jGGCv8BKE3nIucUXrub8vlYUqlxMEfGfZizrb/s320/002.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">This is about the drivers that could be replaced by giant albino squirrels </div><div style="text-align: center;">and you wouldn't even be able to tell the difference.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyd_7gwWdqkek5zVgwuK3SfeFZXMrcVeB8j3HSrbQ5gkfp3gXsqbQrye16T6LQVcz7-vFWEjsX0xF2MUwBfx6M_CjGzRLk8Qxswi7kh5feZ7-SBgRmixxCsowsJ9A6wtliHDRk-2q-xFaT/s1600/003.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyd_7gwWdqkek5zVgwuK3SfeFZXMrcVeB8j3HSrbQ5gkfp3gXsqbQrye16T6LQVcz7-vFWEjsX0xF2MUwBfx6M_CjGzRLk8Qxswi7kh5feZ7-SBgRmixxCsowsJ9A6wtliHDRk-2q-xFaT/s320/003.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">(Bet you didn't think I had a picture for that, didja?)</div><div style="text-align: center;">:o) </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Confession: I loathe horrible, rude, despicable drivers.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">This seething hatred began stewing back in late 2005.</div><div style="text-align: center;">It was a situation similar to this:</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOQOyk-nxqrDDQmWpKqh4nyn-IYnHlt3nwG8tzPFz7iXIiKL2kjvA6F1qK6IcKTc2eqif19PTIVcldu5wSOWM5dJDFfLiJxoWg_tIIt76Pm3F66bGqN4BnkcouCbEdflzyVvgguqE7Xp_O/s1600/004.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOQOyk-nxqrDDQmWpKqh4nyn-IYnHlt3nwG8tzPFz7iXIiKL2kjvA6F1qK6IcKTc2eqif19PTIVcldu5wSOWM5dJDFfLiJxoWg_tIIt76Pm3F66bGqN4BnkcouCbEdflzyVvgguqE7Xp_O/s320/004.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">It was cold, winter, snowy, and I was 8+ months pregnant with my first child.</div><div style="text-align: center;">I ran to Target on my lunch break from work, to grab something, and I had to be <i>fast</i>.<br />
Upon emerging from said Target, I discovered that someone had parked so close to<br />
either side of my car that there was no hope of me crawling inside.<br />
I was furious.<br />
My giant belly was going to prevent me from getting in the car anyways,<br />
but now there were only 3 or so inches of space on either side.<br />
They were in my spot!<br />
I totally did not understand how someone could be so rude.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">I marched back inside the Target, steaming, and asked the security person if they<br />
could help me find a way to make an announcement or <i>something</i>,<br />
so that I could get back to work! And that they could move their car.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Regrettably, the security person informed me that they would do no such thing.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">What?!</div><div style="text-align: center;">Fine. </div><div style="text-align: center;">So I waited.</div><div style="text-align: center;">And waited.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Ages later, a little old asian man emerged - probably pushing 90, but in bad condition.</div><div style="text-align: center;">I stood behind him, staring at him, as he sloooooooowly put his groceries away.<br />
(In hind sight, if I had been more Christlike, I should probably<br />
have helped him put his groceries in his car?)<br />
(Whatever! Move your oldsmobile!)</div><div style="text-align: center;">He looked at me, finally, as he walked to his drivers side, and - </div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>glared at me</i>. Yes! Glared!</div><div style="text-align: center;">Then looked at my car, and the space I had, and <i>smirked</i>.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
What?? Where is your heart?</div><div style="text-align: center;">He sat in his car for ten minutes.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Doing nothing. But occasionally checking to see if I was still standing in the cold.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Anyways I will get off my complainer's box, and tell you that the long story<br />
short of it is that eventually he moved his car and I went back to work.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">But this certainly helps me segway into my second opinion.... :o)</div><div style="text-align: center;">(The first being that SO many people need to learn <b>how to park</b>.)</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">SOME older civilians should NOT be allowed on the road!!!!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQOw_ndSPxG_paIa8QB1Nn_ElEP4CzkjhzC52qn_y6b8WeiFICDRJyjtVcwnr-cwXqFIj9swHFJBdZmDg7NxAycWGSbk7YwUDJpUMq9MqP6domU48Ux8Gi3tM56zjGBMOerZ7j4hfs8tiy/s1600/004a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="210" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQOw_ndSPxG_paIa8QB1Nn_ElEP4CzkjhzC52qn_y6b8WeiFICDRJyjtVcwnr-cwXqFIj9swHFJBdZmDg7NxAycWGSbk7YwUDJpUMq9MqP6domU48Ux8Gi3tM56zjGBMOerZ7j4hfs8tiy/s320/004a.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">My ex-grandfather-in-law would actually <i>scrape</i> the side of his house occasionally<br />
while pulling into his driveway. He drives on the other side of the road sometimes.<br />
He swerves. There is a long list here!</div><div style="text-align: center;">And yet - when he went to get his license renewed, they approved him!</div><div style="text-align: center;">WHY?</div><div style="text-align: center;">Who knows. </div><div style="text-align: center;">Old people. Bad idea.<br />
"Which one is the brake again?" is <i>not</i> a moment I want anyone to be having.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">I also have a problem with those giant, oblivious SUV drivers (or other large vehicle)<br />
- who cut you off, pull out of a driveway without looking at oncoming traffic... etc. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZxofQHK0ILOWRI8k9suSI-G2Lh8k7HARAGCx8B7Xl5zjd-6dxoTe8CyG2UnrU-txiSWDznUyHY4od_m-58_VqvA7c4cNL_YxSni8Y5zvMWfmz8HPy2Qq5_NVuL14Q6B2n6vOFFgrp0IAZ/s1600/005.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="256" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZxofQHK0ILOWRI8k9suSI-G2Lh8k7HARAGCx8B7Xl5zjd-6dxoTe8CyG2UnrU-txiSWDznUyHY4od_m-58_VqvA7c4cNL_YxSni8Y5zvMWfmz8HPy2Qq5_NVuL14Q6B2n6vOFFgrp0IAZ/s320/005.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Oblivious drivers are the worst!</div><div style="text-align: center;">"Nobody else is on the road. OOO look! A penny!"</div><div style="text-align: center;">*SWERVE*</div><div style="text-align: center;">- or -</div><div style="text-align: center;">*IMMEDIATE LANE CHANGE WITH NO SIGNAL*</div><div style="text-align: center;">Seriously people. Just... just look, before you plow over a pedestrian, or my car,<br />
as I'm driving on the road and you are pulling out of Meijer.</div><div style="text-align: center;">O.o</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">You KNOW that has happened to you in front of Meijer! RIGHT?! </div><div style="text-align: center;">Yeah.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Or how about the multi-tasking people. Not to pick on moms, or women,<br />
but we naturally take on more than we should anyways, right?<br />
(So why should the car be any different?) </div><div style="text-align: center;">We have a consistent rule in my car that nobody bothers the driver. </div><div style="text-align: center;">Occasionally, I get questions from the back seat:</div><div style="text-align: center;">"Mom - can you open this for me please?"<br />
"Mom! Can you get (blah blah) toy for me please?"<br />
"I dropped it!! Mom!!"</div><div style="text-align: center;">To which my response is <i>always</i> along these lines:</div><div style="text-align: center;">"Would you like me to help you, and we could get in<br />
an accident over your toy, or can you be patient?"</div><div style="text-align: center;">To which <u>their</u> response is always:</div><div style="text-align: center;">"...I'll wait."</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbJ7LEI2Q0nPxbB8rG0zX6NRv8rkF9kES2E7q1_dhBLqvGNqa6jyHpSpNAk2GDkPY7Twzn3KJCGAKIITm87JVm1459XvWpEHC7D-KdmUlyY3YUIDtm1p8lg5XZOqMVVNQUqz2WzgcqQemC/s1600/006.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbJ7LEI2Q0nPxbB8rG0zX6NRv8rkF9kES2E7q1_dhBLqvGNqa6jyHpSpNAk2GDkPY7Twzn3KJCGAKIITm87JVm1459XvWpEHC7D-KdmUlyY3YUIDtm1p8lg5XZOqMVVNQUqz2WzgcqQemC/s320/006.jpg" width="241" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">SERIOUSLY! People.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Put it down. Just... do it when you get there.</div><div style="text-align: center;">I'm glad there are laws now against texting - that's irritating.<br />
Above all, the most irritating is when people are texting at a red light,<br />
and then when it turns green they are still not budging.<br />
Nevermind that when they do it while they are driving they are a<br />
<u>billion times</u> more likely to run a red light, or blow over a peddy.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
(Yes. Those are <i>actual</i> statistics.) </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaRO0sRPVViP-oEWjArdVwKnhFuyjLRhulWYDrK8D0xsIECO-bx1u4sRXWtkZyST9S9HB168ga3B4TjdOAqi0Ee9sUVHGhyphenhyphenRsW62FZ1v75mYgajBlj56u0omJsUPmm3tH5Dxt-PX2VU5HF/s1600/006a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="223" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaRO0sRPVViP-oEWjArdVwKnhFuyjLRhulWYDrK8D0xsIECO-bx1u4sRXWtkZyST9S9HB168ga3B4TjdOAqi0Ee9sUVHGhyphenhyphenRsW62FZ1v75mYgajBlj56u0omJsUPmm3tH5Dxt-PX2VU5HF/s320/006a.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">(Caption: "AHHHHHHHHH!!!")<br />
<br />
Something else that bothers me about multi-tasking drivers is that<br />
I just... don't understand why you would put your passengers at risk,<br />
or yourself, or what's in the car at the time.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">OOOOooo...!<br />
<br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Another thing that <i>really</i> gets me face-palming my head mid-traffic...<br />
getting cut off by someone who doesn't know how to merge,<br />
doesn't know how to change lanes, doesn't know where they are going, etc.<br />
<br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Google Maps! DMV! Pay attention!</div><div style="text-align: center;">Sheesh.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9NKPjsG1rSqBQQF9LPSe9lzwV4ACVoALQC1p1l-4lT7P9TLcMgce4OH6BE7eXG6EfHHfaeAjlGsZ-B-7OMTxunDlHEkKMbxHAL6turphPQmTCNuWsC2WfyVjsV6pipWiRhKfIaBEFhaNj/s1600/007.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9NKPjsG1rSqBQQF9LPSe9lzwV4ACVoALQC1p1l-4lT7P9TLcMgce4OH6BE7eXG6EfHHfaeAjlGsZ-B-7OMTxunDlHEkKMbxHAL6turphPQmTCNuWsC2WfyVjsV6pipWiRhKfIaBEFhaNj/s1600/007.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">I guess you could lump them in with the oblivious<br />
"there-is-nobody-else-on-the-road" types as well.</div><div style="text-align: center;">GRR!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Sigh. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgv5rH6NiJ45kms2kAQL2ewwG0X2w6aLcbMIoe6r7J_kdj2ZTvR_e-uS2QhxlBKQKOPo-Y810aOf124WEG9LhBnvRAPCLKbgMCu4aiOzUWFP-rY1HyetAvnzUypQglUVpNUTIumgfJeFQcs/s1600/008.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgv5rH6NiJ45kms2kAQL2ewwG0X2w6aLcbMIoe6r7J_kdj2ZTvR_e-uS2QhxlBKQKOPo-Y810aOf124WEG9LhBnvRAPCLKbgMCu4aiOzUWFP-rY1HyetAvnzUypQglUVpNUTIumgfJeFQcs/s320/008.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Ok so let me power through the rest of this post.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Some people are so stupid.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Alright - I'm going to admit that Once Upon A Time...<br />
I had some road rage.</div><div style="text-align: center;">But now? None. Why? That is personal, relating to the passenger that was usually<br />
in the car. But on my own, or with my kids, or any body else on the planet in<br />
the car with me... my road rage is zippity-nil-no. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">It is <i>annoooooooying</i> when - for instance - when I'm delivering a cake, so </div><div style="text-align: center;">I have to drive the <i>speed limit</i> or <u>just</u> above </div><div style="text-align: center;"><<b>insert dramatic gasp</b>></div><div style="text-align: center;">And I look in the mirror and there is some business suit bdub guy swerving<br />
to the left and right, talking angrily to himself, and waving his hands like an idiot,<br />
like he is going to fly over me with the hot air he is producing.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhum8srzwBR6tjQe_VuhaVvz1SxxIwTRGWpEjJtcc-op1NnKHJ4BTohaH8w0ZLHX8XqYsgi3dchg5qY0X8wWUlFlnXvTXuAuOrb-DX_DK56gi7ukEOkYW0xMkEnwko3liW5pgmIjjunuNoL/s1600/009.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="187" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhum8srzwBR6tjQe_VuhaVvz1SxxIwTRGWpEjJtcc-op1NnKHJ4BTohaH8w0ZLHX8XqYsgi3dchg5qY0X8wWUlFlnXvTXuAuOrb-DX_DK56gi7ukEOkYW0xMkEnwko3liW5pgmIjjunuNoL/s320/009.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Road rage. What a waste of energy! </div><div style="text-align: center;">I have another theory. This applies to many things. </div><div style="text-align: center;">If I can't control it, and I'm not going to do anything about it, or if I can't do anything<br />
about it, I am NOT going to let it bother me, or complain about it, or worry about it.<br />
Because it is a WASTE of my energy.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Waste!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">So seriously guy.</div><div style="text-align: center;">You can't drive my car, or calm my screaming baby, or help me drive any faster<br />
that the old lady in front of me, or teach my teenager how to signal better,<br />
or whatever, so pull the stick out of your whatever and take a chill pill. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">The BEST case of road rage I have ever experienced involved my husband,<br />
less than a month ago.</div><div style="text-align: center;">(I'm going to put him on the spot because it just made my day, my week, my year.)</div><div style="text-align: center;">:o)</div><div style="text-align: center;">We were driving home after the kids and I had picked David up from work,<br />
and we were stuck in rush hour traffic. In front of us, someone was braking enough<br />
to leave two car lengths of space ahead of them.<br />
We all are barely moving. I casually go around.<br />
Said guy behind us - or to the right of us? - or where ever he was - becomes <i>furious</i>.<br />
...I have a reflex to be scared of furious crazy men, </div><div style="text-align: center;">(Pff who knows where <i>that </i>came from, right?) </div><div style="text-align: center;">(Sheesh.)</div><div style="text-align: center;">So I look over at my husband, David, and I say something about how<br />
that guy is super angry about nothing.</div><div style="text-align: center;">I probably look worried.</div><div style="text-align: center;">The guy pulled his car up to the right of our car, and paced us in traffic, rolling down<br />
his window and yelling at our car - all of us, inside, but we can't really hear him.<br />
<br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">David makes my day - he puts his fingers in his mouth and makes a face at him,<br />
blew a giant raspberry on the window, (or some such response), totally<br />
breaking the tension in our car. It made the crazy angry driver guy <i>more</i> furious,<br />
but also weirded him out.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Success all around.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
I couldn't help but laugh so hard I cried.<br />
The guy was <b>so</b> angry, and we were just ...laughing!<br />
<br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Terrible? Maybe.<br />
But maybe someone spit in his cheerios.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">And last... but definitely not least.</div><div style="text-align: center;">My biggest hatred.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-weight: bold;">Tail-gaters</i>.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-8vqA3jwMrGHkbm5QU6v7H0rJwP8Pc85VLpxubxSw-ooJj-tF11R1PsqUdcE6UP6fgK0Cbf5k3dzjmD4SRQYr06ZJ-h4Z_9vsJeovDmoFqfDT-T9KYmQ0qXSGc0hGZdu9O9zgDwu-LwIC/s1600/13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="252" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-8vqA3jwMrGHkbm5QU6v7H0rJwP8Pc85VLpxubxSw-ooJj-tF11R1PsqUdcE6UP6fgK0Cbf5k3dzjmD4SRQYr06ZJ-h4Z_9vsJeovDmoFqfDT-T9KYmQ0qXSGc0hGZdu9O9zgDwu-LwIC/s320/13.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Don't you understand??? -</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9ilTIsSxh6HTanooS7X7HOzU1EOliF5jCfxOCp9ryquqD7yIw4_G1gO8LQ_KByHBPPTcvy9HqUdWipzvWr1oj-tP1LzkiCJJNL8pWriVlvfYSlazbEvTnBG4ToIauuoPUzfQdDJsEu064/s1600/13a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9ilTIsSxh6HTanooS7X7HOzU1EOliF5jCfxOCp9ryquqD7yIw4_G1gO8LQ_KByHBPPTcvy9HqUdWipzvWr1oj-tP1LzkiCJJNL8pWriVlvfYSlazbEvTnBG4ToIauuoPUzfQdDJsEu064/s1600/13a.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">In fact, once upon a time, when I was working in Lombard - and my oldest<br />
was a baby (I know! Hate me now.) I was on my way home, on I-88, taking my exit,<br />
and I was being tail-gated by a semi truck.<br />
I SLOOOOOWED down. Way down. And I rolled down my window.</div><div style="text-align: center;">The semi inched closer to me, and honked.</div><div style="text-align: center;">I threw the whole bouquet out the window at him.</div><div style="text-align: center;">(Ok, if you know what this is, then you had the same fabulous YW leader as I did. ☺)</div><div style="text-align: center;">(If you do not know, I will explain that once upon a time, I listened to my YW leader explain how when someone angers her on the road, why should she give them <i>one</i> finger, when she could give them the 'whole bouquet'? I have since always applied such wisdom ☺)</div><div style="text-align: center;">(It is the holding up of all your fingers. Like you are cupping your hand, but sticking your fingers up.)</div><div style="text-align: center;">Anyways.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Why tailgate? It's not going to make me go any faster, but it <i>is</i> going to make me want to<br />
get out of my car at this red light and tell you what I think of you endangering me and<br />
my children on the highway! </div><div style="text-align: center;">Once, my employer told me that when he gets into those situations, he advises me: </div><div style="text-align: center;">"Keep a bat in your trunk or something. Always make them think you're a little crazy."<br />
<br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">The visual from his story, of him swinging his bat around talking to these people was hilarious. </div><div style="text-align: center;">Maybe you had to be there.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
---<br />
<br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Sigh!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Over all, if we could just pay attention while we are driving, that would be gr<i>eeeaa</i>at.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Pay attention, be courteous.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Be safe.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Now let's all go skip in a circle of ridiculous happiness and talk about butterflies.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjBo5pR_A4zpSSF7L9v4y70rFqQEHq7dutOACh-A-7H7Xl5eAdEwLyJEcCOAIkFU6OxAzM5EyHGwAoI6PkIELcBSSXNQL11KUg_9-nEsBrmT_dSLwGmncU_9t5hG0dBuRDC4FTsviaR4vl/s1600/014.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="253" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjBo5pR_A4zpSSF7L9v4y70rFqQEHq7dutOACh-A-7H7Xl5eAdEwLyJEcCOAIkFU6OxAzM5EyHGwAoI6PkIELcBSSXNQL11KUg_9-nEsBrmT_dSLwGmncU_9t5hG0dBuRDC4FTsviaR4vl/s320/014.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div>pepperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18094580301185673656noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3271452283085447903.post-48187647588470907132011-08-17T10:20:00.000-07:002011-08-17T10:20:28.103-07:00Confession #28 - CHOCOLATE!!!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Chocolate. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Beautiful, glorious chocolate.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Confession: There is no replacement for chocolate.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEP7IKNVXCFSge7EbYWQt16qPmwJZadXVlUDvZNTggZ_zLEC442StPB_LP1AMoVxltWz7sny09JZKcQh8MhFeFnZGkiboGuuYAbA39bRNTBKuyMVN4L1PyW53B0GYvZL7H5P_sezHs3UCA/s1600/birthday-chocolate-cakes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEP7IKNVXCFSge7EbYWQt16qPmwJZadXVlUDvZNTggZ_zLEC442StPB_LP1AMoVxltWz7sny09JZKcQh8MhFeFnZGkiboGuuYAbA39bRNTBKuyMVN4L1PyW53B0GYvZL7H5P_sezHs3UCA/s320/birthday-chocolate-cakes.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Chocolate is synonymous with happy. How many memories do you have, that involve chocolate, that ended badly? </div><div style="text-align: center;">...</div><div style="text-align: center;">Exactly my point.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">In my family, at Christmas time, everybody gets a chocolate letter from Santa Claus.</div><div style="text-align: center;">(Or St. Nicholas, whatever you want to call him by)</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Here's a whole article about it:<br />
<a href="http://www.stnicholascenter.org/pages/chocolate-letters/">http://www.stnicholascenter.org/pages/chocolate-letters/</a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGmDd_Pl5x4EykpqLcosoLz-9WlTQc0t1qoqVF7b9Zgpx2_9poCZUo8TIgqNfdUYz9oSdLprpt3zIx1b9QrYDmPAHkEMaiZpYVetxhlK8gTctPjVZsUzOu8bMaAYD9bMZsrhFLo6VLX8VR/s1600/choc-letter-s-2-sm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGmDd_Pl5x4EykpqLcosoLz-9WlTQc0t1qoqVF7b9Zgpx2_9poCZUo8TIgqNfdUYz9oSdLprpt3zIx1b9QrYDmPAHkEMaiZpYVetxhlK8gTctPjVZsUzOu8bMaAYD9bMZsrhFLo6VLX8VR/s1600/choc-letter-s-2-sm.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Chocolate is amazing! So many varieties and flavors!</div><div style="text-align: center;">A lot of thought has gone into chocolate.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Making it artistic, more delicious....</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZpJAyDVl_Bh-fKFk4GAA-i1n7uyta9ezZmx0V1EW0PXNGr1pHXAeu1LDdmUTtkUkmU0TvFObgRGeo3hiIIEbNJqofue_SYrEiw1ykUD9opJkKfaC5cZs5j7oWBLDP5Ip2q6oU8HnULmMr/s1600/choco.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZpJAyDVl_Bh-fKFk4GAA-i1n7uyta9ezZmx0V1EW0PXNGr1pHXAeu1LDdmUTtkUkmU0TvFObgRGeo3hiIIEbNJqofue_SYrEiw1ykUD9opJkKfaC5cZs5j7oWBLDP5Ip2q6oU8HnULmMr/s320/choco.png" width="213" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Or classic. :o)<br />
<br />
But I have a theory!!!</div><div style="text-align: center;">If I crave chocolate, I've realized I might as well go straight ahead and <i>eat it</i>.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTMnR0V5K-BfbBXjCm0OVnMUAmpfT73WPk3KAQVub8dqWHTVf4JFTYfei_lWXobniGDJ1r8XcfJkOCeZb_PfNayyaLXmgFW0swdb-pJVjJqnoObPftWumb-kSgy1tNuM0L0tN187hGNC7e/s1600/Chocolate%252C+Chocolate+Cake.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="269" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTMnR0V5K-BfbBXjCm0OVnMUAmpfT73WPk3KAQVub8dqWHTVf4JFTYfei_lWXobniGDJ1r8XcfJkOCeZb_PfNayyaLXmgFW0swdb-pJVjJqnoObPftWumb-kSgy1tNuM0L0tN187hGNC7e/s320/Chocolate%252C+Chocolate+Cake.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Why? BECAUSE - you know it's true - whenever you try and avoid chocolate, a pattern of events unfold.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">First: One thinks, chocolate sounds <i>delicious</i>. But I shouldn't have it, candy/sugar/fat/etc is <i>bad</i> for me.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Then: One figures, if I snack on something else, something healthier, I will stop worrying about chocolate. </div><div style="text-align: center;">First, something healthy. </div><div style="text-align: center;">Then, something salty - obviously healthy wasn't doing the trick. </div><div style="text-align: center;">Then, something slightly sweet, but not what I want. </div><div style="text-align: center;">Like... oh, let's say raisins, for example. </div><div style="text-align: center;">Still... one is not satisfied. </div><div style="text-align: center;">After mowing through a variety of snacks, I just can't put my finger on it.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Eventually: One ends up eating the chocolate anyways, but kind of feels gross from eating so many other things too.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVcQ7mfqeGtIQWLxsgKomrX8oDm_rArzfn8Vr13ru-SmoYF1YBITNP5fKvsYtWI_n8jMuFqfZqW4VGmulA2P9_MwA5JF8umdYxeFV18CJOlG6PkGK5rDFYYMe00iQ2xDapmv4XE1xH6vuU/s1600/chocolate.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVcQ7mfqeGtIQWLxsgKomrX8oDm_rArzfn8Vr13ru-SmoYF1YBITNP5fKvsYtWI_n8jMuFqfZqW4VGmulA2P9_MwA5JF8umdYxeFV18CJOlG6PkGK5rDFYYMe00iQ2xDapmv4XE1xH6vuU/s320/chocolate.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Solution:<br />
Satisfy the chocolate craving! It's delicious, and if it's dark, or whatever the other studies say, then it's good for you! It comes from a bean! It could easily be a vegetable! Right?? RIGHT??</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">But in moderation, it is just fine. And certainly better than blowing through my whole pantry. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmU4xMdhu-w1NF6uYxxIqSTyrh81eaYpRTmmsH3voDB4QamKpLDdSYCkduL-n8n4aF5CSyaLwTDMH4tMuiB-1P5Q5PQ7zIXsFiuitAUA9UjNx8hrmAkfxmnK7Wwps1Ba7rM4mPsMLHiNdU/s1600/Chocolate_Cake_Flourless_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmU4xMdhu-w1NF6uYxxIqSTyrh81eaYpRTmmsH3voDB4QamKpLDdSYCkduL-n8n4aF5CSyaLwTDMH4tMuiB-1P5Q5PQ7zIXsFiuitAUA9UjNx8hrmAkfxmnK7Wwps1Ba7rM4mPsMLHiNdU/s320/Chocolate_Cake_Flourless_1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">I love raspberry truffle loaf - I actually use the truffle loaf in a few circumstances. It's great as frosting, and also as a cake filling. It is a BIG hit as cake filling. It's part of The Christmas Cake. :o)<br />
(See my cake blog for more information on The Christmas Cake)</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Chocolate was a fun activity - as kids, my brother and I would sit down together when a new box of chocolates arrived (during Easter or Christmas) and use the "map" that came with it to find each chocolate and read the description of what was inside. Sometimes we fought about specific ones, but most of all it was fun to laugh at some of the flavors in there, and then try one of them. </div><div style="text-align: center;">Sometimes, we dared each other to eat the most repulsive-sounding chocolate. </div><div style="text-align: center;">Through these experiences, I can say honestly... fruit and chocolate together are not a friend for me.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Fruit + chocolate?<br />
No.<br />
No thank you please.<br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Chocolate... is the best flavor ice cream.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjev4NbdFQblc71f3eCWRn-MINbXWGwXeO-kL07st0z_MhOifqngvMiXPHUPoPgh5XZ-EWwlbn8qTNZtY1K32J2hrc0HxX8szu6_TX68J-i-Qm9hoBk7lBBUNn49IC_iygPQMqzLLN3fbNL/s1600/chocolate_ice_cream-2238.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjev4NbdFQblc71f3eCWRn-MINbXWGwXeO-kL07st0z_MhOifqngvMiXPHUPoPgh5XZ-EWwlbn8qTNZtY1K32J2hrc0HxX8szu6_TX68J-i-Qm9hoBk7lBBUNn49IC_iygPQMqzLLN3fbNL/s320/chocolate_ice_cream-2238.jpg" width="254" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">As a kid, my favorite part of Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory was watching the opening credits.... all that chocolate... It was magical! And then to wonder what it would be like to go to a land made out of candy!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Which was great - but I came to the conclusion that it would probably be gross, if birds could poop on it. </div><div style="text-align: center;">But it <i>was</i> insiiiiiiide... hmm.<br />
I guess the only hazard there is oompa loompa feet in the edible grass.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Blech.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">ANYWAY! Maaaaagicalllllll.... choooocolaaate......</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgw9HNofN_T8sKPiSZNI7tZNdMpb8p0GnghWCbFLoejbl8BKvGv1BRot-AuU9GExOg3T2QR3XdYttTtH4mOvezrASWO7pVOVWuxCLng-JItFU7gYHZzCwCGQQVvgBHKgonjjT4i1q5OQ4-7/s1600/chocolate1.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgw9HNofN_T8sKPiSZNI7tZNdMpb8p0GnghWCbFLoejbl8BKvGv1BRot-AuU9GExOg3T2QR3XdYttTtH4mOvezrASWO7pVOVWuxCLng-JItFU7gYHZzCwCGQQVvgBHKgonjjT4i1q5OQ4-7/s320/chocolate1.gif" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">When I was a kid, I thought about what it would be like if the buildings were made of chocolate.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">I decided that would be gross, because birds could poop on it.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">(I think I had a thing about being pooped on by birds.)</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFzTUE2Fcnmza1ysoyhFTiwNH69oZdWJm_bP6l1Xqho2uieSKMl3KJguQTWaSHNG-DYJ-6AQcprK660qykLyPpISnk-XAaM2VBt4Yiz2vC10UDaP1mP94AWcou7zMQ0CS5oXUVGMYkaNFt/s1600/chocolatecastle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="211" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFzTUE2Fcnmza1ysoyhFTiwNH69oZdWJm_bP6l1Xqho2uieSKMl3KJguQTWaSHNG-DYJ-6AQcprK660qykLyPpISnk-XAaM2VBt4Yiz2vC10UDaP1mP94AWcou7zMQ0CS5oXUVGMYkaNFt/s320/chocolatecastle.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Chocolate... also an art medium!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmt-wRvicn81BQaU84MApqvLwHq-aIku9Md0UGeuufgLucOadR_7FIvnD2Xma09elKM4YaKdhLoYJ09ttjxq6m83XVnRj1YjhyphenhyphenLmvvnIuKSB-4Mt8m08mXUVKvZF2u9Ge3p426_F-oy6IW/s1600/chocolatechariot.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmt-wRvicn81BQaU84MApqvLwHq-aIku9Md0UGeuufgLucOadR_7FIvnD2Xma09elKM4YaKdhLoYJ09ttjxq6m83XVnRj1YjhyphenhyphenLmvvnIuKSB-4Mt8m08mXUVKvZF2u9Ge3p426_F-oy6IW/s320/chocolatechariot.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Look at these. Just.... just <i>look</i>.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhL8K7Rn4MMY7twEWg1DDNscbGvrntF3eW1Hvl24NOKzZA-m3Ic1RS760Wh4YotGlbVtb_M6r2n9N9hDMrUANp3hO9QHtcaSMOOsYxM52516NJ_iaHdXK6AXUHwUtHbGR3q0WTMp0MtPYNr/s1600/chocolate-festival.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhL8K7Rn4MMY7twEWg1DDNscbGvrntF3eW1Hvl24NOKzZA-m3Ic1RS760Wh4YotGlbVtb_M6r2n9N9hDMrUANp3hO9QHtcaSMOOsYxM52516NJ_iaHdXK6AXUHwUtHbGR3q0WTMp0MtPYNr/s320/chocolate-festival.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Artful, magical, wonderful, glorious, <i>delicious</i> chocolate.<br />
♥♥♥</div><div style="text-align: center;">GIVE IN!</div><div style="text-align: center;">It's ok to be spoiled <i>some</i>times.</div><div style="text-align: center;">:o)</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNFxCprK1U3HGf9W0y165_HYm_NGUMrPJqBc8TFDVuuh7ORnwQD56xvWb87eFzQXE1l86UkMC8zQrAbIOgbP7OwTnkNVaY148WU9XRU-EyhsZGBHNXoC2iYyF5TkdflLU_IXcA0SdAutbs/s1600/morgans-gareth-mixed-melted-chocolate.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNFxCprK1U3HGf9W0y165_HYm_NGUMrPJqBc8TFDVuuh7ORnwQD56xvWb87eFzQXE1l86UkMC8zQrAbIOgbP7OwTnkNVaY148WU9XRU-EyhsZGBHNXoC2iYyF5TkdflLU_IXcA0SdAutbs/s320/morgans-gareth-mixed-melted-chocolate.jpg" width="239" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div>pepperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18094580301185673656noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3271452283085447903.post-89542274109813303642011-08-12T10:23:00.000-07:002011-08-12T10:23:41.604-07:00Princess Eleanor<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><i>August 9th, 2011</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>The Princess Dress</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><br />
</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I have to start this post by explaining that for some reason, I am a total weirdo when it comes to autumn, and Halloween. It is my <i>favorite</i> time of the year. I just love the clean, crisp air... the crunchy fall leaves... the fun activities... candied apples, pumpkin farms, the ability to dress up as anyone you want - <i>be</i> anyone you want - for one day!... I just love it. Fresh, and wonderful.. reminds me of the first day of school... I just love it.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">SO.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Naturally, we were sitting at breakfast one morning, and I announce randomly to the kids - "Oh no!" (Imagine both kids, sitting at full attention, staring at me) "We haven't talked about Halloween costumes yet!"</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Logan: "Oh no!!"</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Eleanor: " - gasp - !"</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I love my kids. Lol.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">So after breakfast, we all piled together on our little ottoman and browsed the halloween costumes online. (Uh... with caution! WHO would let their 5 year old dress up like Freddy Kruger?? Parenting, people. Parent. See previous complaint post about people being dumb or some such similar nagging. Morons.) </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Eleanor concluded that she wants to be a <i>princess</i>. And Logan concluded that he wants to be Zelda-Leo/Ninja Turtle-Superman. We'll figure that one out later. :o)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">So I got the crafy itch. I pulled down my magical purple box of crafty supplies, and pulled the lid off. It could have been dancing in sparkles, I tell you. It was great.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I pulled out some fabric scraps, and old t-shirt, and an old silk housecoat, and flipped the switch on my sewing machine. Two hours later (and one failed dress later.... luckily it will have a new home for someone who is a tid bit smaller than Eleanor is), Eleanor's princess outfit was born. She wanted it to be "like" Rapunzel's dress.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_UbQUxg8KhLe8GDFSaAwSuTDwUmafhwk0dDYQ7NmkV3O7Zi_bNLjPmoiYpjgtBTUtKMsdJDuS1pEE5oRgwzHtusDmXb-QCo6fLWuq4YBEiAxQmSE2lPRzMuahpgg_8VP2ozLUy4YcvT5w/s1600/IMG_8535.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_UbQUxg8KhLe8GDFSaAwSuTDwUmafhwk0dDYQ7NmkV3O7Zi_bNLjPmoiYpjgtBTUtKMsdJDuS1pEE5oRgwzHtusDmXb-QCo6fLWuq4YBEiAxQmSE2lPRzMuahpgg_8VP2ozLUy4YcvT5w/s320/IMG_8535.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br />
I think I'll make another skirt eventually that she can wear underneath. This one (the white one) was made from an old t-shirt. The pink part is separate from the skirt - which I did, to be like the Rapunzel dress - which turned out to be a GREAT idea, because she can wear it over whatever else she is currently wearing. LOL.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfRrmPf9HazqgnTDYSkOhSw5yRLZqlb6kFNiwl9U5BqlABIdlOMFgyw930YDxsVeZBa031ygK37-E1I27r9yhXaAgC3q8E9Wt_nSjjdvLsLMPUQDx_AyqQ0QKByl7SPZMcXvc8SslKr7lH/s1600/IMG_8541.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfRrmPf9HazqgnTDYSkOhSw5yRLZqlb6kFNiwl9U5BqlABIdlOMFgyw930YDxsVeZBa031ygK37-E1I27r9yhXaAgC3q8E9Wt_nSjjdvLsLMPUQDx_AyqQ0QKByl7SPZMcXvc8SslKr7lH/s320/IMG_8541.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br />
Teeny princess.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKiVBjcNH3iKQF84gJGg8xAzixBGzPkX5D-99mjO9ovEFd0aTFpmK9TaW3hgkXK32WnBa3B0fRovmBchIe0YZ4-kfUb1qN-fMY6CGYefAZ6vasEeIucW7KRwCW7n7YL31Gejl03_OTqrci/s1600/IMG_8551bw.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKiVBjcNH3iKQF84gJGg8xAzixBGzPkX5D-99mjO9ovEFd0aTFpmK9TaW3hgkXK32WnBa3B0fRovmBchIe0YZ4-kfUb1qN-fMY6CGYefAZ6vasEeIucW7KRwCW7n7YL31Gejl03_OTqrci/s320/IMG_8551bw.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br />
The last picture is my absolute favorite. I love - <i>love -</i> <b>love</b> having a little girl. I love how girls and boys have their very own fun interests. Keeps variety in my house. :o)pepperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18094580301185673656noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3271452283085447903.post-73450788636685176232011-08-12T10:11:00.000-07:002011-08-12T10:11:50.155-07:00Sugar Cube FHE<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><i>August 4th, 2011</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>The Sugar Cube Temple</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><br />
</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">So this sugar cube temple was part of FHE. I made the Moroni out of a little bell, and a little gold ball, and some wire. The windows are sequins.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">It made me think though, what <i>else</i> could I make out of sugar cubes?! I can't wait to find out. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbOvkt44VRp4yHT3j0VIZJofNBiu9P7VqyX3pLEj_ohIG4ifFzPN4mGoDw9xWDPHy_D6M23Y_KDdj9FTAiXhyphenhyphenH3NiYj6fgJkY946eNpWCTJGUyWo3J8ViD72ngVk4ELXsIKUkhyqTuri-e/s1600/IMG_8488.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbOvkt44VRp4yHT3j0VIZJofNBiu9P7VqyX3pLEj_ohIG4ifFzPN4mGoDw9xWDPHy_D6M23Y_KDdj9FTAiXhyphenhyphenH3NiYj6fgJkY946eNpWCTJGUyWo3J8ViD72ngVk4ELXsIKUkhyqTuri-e/s320/IMG_8488.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br />
By the way, this was super easy, and your kids would love doing it. All it is - sugar cubes, royal icing (to stick them together, and then decorate with), sequins etc- whatever you want to decorate it with. I stuck mine on some poster board, but you could also use a paper plate! You can stick things to it that are not edible, because you are not intended to eat it. (And don't. Sugar cubes are nasty.)<br />
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If you <i>do</i> make one, please! Let me know! I would love to see how they turn out.<br />
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<u><b>Royal Icing Recipe</b></u>: (makes about 3 cups of icing)<br />
<i>Ingredients</i><br />
3 tbsp Wilton Meringue Powder<br />
4 cups icing (aka powdered) sugar<br />
6 tbsp warm water<br />
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<i>Directions</i><br />
Beat all ingredients until medium-stiff peaks form. (It takes me about 5-7 minutes on my kitchenaid on 8. It's supposed to take 10 minutes with a hand-held mixer.)<br />
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*Keep your utensils grease free, keep a moist towel over the bowl while you are working with it. This will form a crust quickly, but if you want it to completely dry I would give it overnight at <i>least</i>. You could also experiment with piping designs on parchment paper, and letting them dry overnight, and then attaching them to your building. Or landscape! You could totally make trees if you wanted to. Ooo I wonder what a whole temple made out of royal icing would look like! I'll stop talking now. :o)pepperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18094580301185673656noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3271452283085447903.post-51169321693916626132011-08-12T09:59:00.000-07:002011-08-12T09:59:04.695-07:00I Spy... With My Little Eye...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><i>July 28th, 2011</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>The I Spy Bag</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><br />
</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">So... I have this thing (which I so genetically passed on to my daughter) with little things. Like... my whole life, I just am <i>drawn</i> to tiny miniature things, and details! Oh I love details. So I had been collecting a few tiny items (we're talking less than an inch big) that I was trying to figure out what to do with. I saw at this store, in the Children's Museum, a bag, with a plastic window, and inside there were... toys or buttons, that you could find! I thought that it was amaaaaaziiiiing - but not amazing enough for me to spend $20 on. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><i>Instead</i>, I vowed to one day make my own. (One year laterrr...) I was looking in my jewelry box, and saw a tiny key. Aha! I didn't think I had <i>that</i> many little things... but for kicks, maybe I should round them all up together and find out. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I had <i>FIFTY-ONE</i> little charms. Yes. Yes I think I have enough. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">There were some I had made (like a clay pie, and cupcake), things I had altered (like a lizard I had sewn a sweater on, and a plastic baby I had sewn clothes and a hat onto), things I had collected (a little mermaid from an ex-boyfriend, keys, buttons, my very first house key, a sandal that fell off a barette that was mine when I was a little girl, buttons, charms, etc) and things that I bought for Eleanor to play with (little animals, etc)... </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Off to Joann's, there was a vinyl scrap on sale in the scrap bin for just over $1. (<i>Sold!</i>)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3lMRnu3MlpgrNlapvMgFtxYR3x-IwY6rKUOeEZLRzGc3K_gjMWF0nbuFY7MwnCcYKhRaPZmOu3J_Tnvy6ylqOjwyU16ua6_L_aCgCl_QqWGyscrNNMO9UMF6acYosJoaaTzKuPHPqYI23/s1600/IMG_8428.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3lMRnu3MlpgrNlapvMgFtxYR3x-IwY6rKUOeEZLRzGc3K_gjMWF0nbuFY7MwnCcYKhRaPZmOu3J_Tnvy6ylqOjwyU16ua6_L_aCgCl_QqWGyscrNNMO9UMF6acYosJoaaTzKuPHPqYI23/s320/IMG_8428.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
I used some pink flannel that I already had, and for the other side I used a scrap of fabric from an old baby dress hand-me-down that had lived it's life, but had a super fun pattern on it.<br />
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I trimmed the front, totally lazily stitching the vinyl (wide stitches!), making sure the vinyl side was DOWN, and barely touching too... because if it catches... you are in big trouble. <i>And </i>your vinyl is full of holes. Yeah. Figured <i>that</i> out the hard way. ;o)<br />
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After stitching two sides of the vinyl to two strips of flannel, I attached the other sides of vinyl to more flannel, just laying it over top of the other edges and sewing a straight line. Hey, I'm not a sewer.<br />
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Wrong sides out, I stitched all the way around except for about a 2" opening. Then I turned it inside out.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRwLchr_n8ebg6rdB7fAndEZs5POL2zhPNBeQO94gX0pEypvByE0lhQWl-t0bsn1uYQ9nln-t9QcLjwYm9Nr0Tfdlh0GrseGOSgd2PuYBmF9svyE6AGQ7jf4u09bg0TKstSghVOfpIcwhr/s1600/IMG_8433.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRwLchr_n8ebg6rdB7fAndEZs5POL2zhPNBeQO94gX0pEypvByE0lhQWl-t0bsn1uYQ9nln-t9QcLjwYm9Nr0Tfdlh0GrseGOSgd2PuYBmF9svyE6AGQ7jf4u09bg0TKstSghVOfpIcwhr/s320/IMG_8433.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
I found these at Michael's - in the back aisle, by the "employees only" entrance - like it was secretly hidden... Apparently, this is very hard to find around here, since it took me FOREVER to locate them (JoAnn's and Hobby Lobby were <i>totally</i> out) - but voila! Polly pellets. Just what I need to fill my bag, and hide the charms/doo-hickys.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipKXNznP93Mhyphenhyphensoe_evDX1F_HJ7mimVVavCJ9gdR0Qp_-xqovN0Mmop1DzPz_f8kQFFm_d_6qwjM7NZuMlKWxwyRlwb0dSdkFWMS7knzXlDIVy5xtBonIP3d4s7g4I-3KM_p4Fh2hU-Iet/s1600/IMG_8434.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipKXNznP93Mhyphenhyphensoe_evDX1F_HJ7mimVVavCJ9gdR0Qp_-xqovN0Mmop1DzPz_f8kQFFm_d_6qwjM7NZuMlKWxwyRlwb0dSdkFWMS7knzXlDIVy5xtBonIP3d4s7g4I-3KM_p4Fh2hU-Iet/s320/IMG_8434.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br />
I dropped the charms and figurines and buttons etc into the opening in the bag, and then used a funnel to fill the bag with poly pellets. Not TOO full... as I later found out. (I emptied the whole bag in, because it filled it up with a <i>little</i> extra space, but then it was too hard to manipulate it around and find all the charms. It's ok because my daughter was mortified to see Ariel trapped inside, and I had to get her out anyways. ☺I ended up using just over half of the bag of poly pellets.)<br />
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Then I stitched the opening closed. Whatever that stitch is called where you go back and forth on the inside of the seam, to hide the stitches. :o)<br />
I took a picture so I didn't have to explain it.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgftN-Sx5IVpA0tlMeVJU_1pSrlt1k8A6y4kU5_wxwPpEtgNP6xLWUw9lYfTAhw-ulBSVPCp6dRysTaZsyrIOc2mbZMH0uAHv9JIOS5hVqU5ufXY5QyfGAZk4VKKA6baFszf1pkxLg5uMle/s1600/IMG_8435.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgftN-Sx5IVpA0tlMeVJU_1pSrlt1k8A6y4kU5_wxwPpEtgNP6xLWUw9lYfTAhw-ulBSVPCp6dRysTaZsyrIOc2mbZMH0uAHv9JIOS5hVqU5ufXY5QyfGAZk4VKKA6baFszf1pkxLg5uMle/s320/IMG_8435.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
Ta-da! The bag, before I took some of the pellets out, was pretty heavy.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsLVsQoG14XV0ySvlnZI4kWQUN88LkBPN0wQgNySYCjy1dT7MqpHZ46HiRpnPoRzdpI1Ll9yf3q9oSZDgzqw8fw1S3oFG4pwxJlA5aPYfngab7m8o2FK12h7cMteUWJ516JV1XE05u7Dgu/s1600/IMG_8437.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsLVsQoG14XV0ySvlnZI4kWQUN88LkBPN0wQgNySYCjy1dT7MqpHZ46HiRpnPoRzdpI1Ll9yf3q9oSZDgzqw8fw1S3oFG4pwxJlA5aPYfngab7m8o2FK12h7cMteUWJ516JV1XE05u7Dgu/s320/IMG_8437.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
This is what my daugther saw, and then asked - with a very worried face - if I could 'save Ariel'... so I had to get her out, of course. I think this would have been more fun with around 20 charms instead of 50... but that is just my opinion. There are always 5 or more charms in the window instead of one or two, like the one I saw in the store... but it's still loved!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAIkygNEijMuWjXxJMC9D8Ku0PkPv_KoJmSpZTj-hutJj1YpoObIQQs5kJXWNiQ12yy73lpABi3OFiUPw-mH9t-8om9SmMnWjERWPiptYedIipducARvyfhMrVD2UEJK6kGvaw2bSEMa_W/s1600/IMG_8438.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAIkygNEijMuWjXxJMC9D8Ku0PkPv_KoJmSpZTj-hutJj1YpoObIQQs5kJXWNiQ12yy73lpABi3OFiUPw-mH9t-8om9SmMnWjERWPiptYedIipducARvyfhMrVD2UEJK6kGvaw2bSEMa_W/s320/IMG_8438.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
Of course, I want to take this to church - what a great quiet activity! - but I didn't want to toss it in the bag with everything else... (the loose snacks! the leaking juice! ahhhh!)...that can happen in the bag... because I don't want to think about how to clean it if that becomes an issue. SO.<br />
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I kept this packaging for my happiest-shower-curtain-on-earth, because it is sturdy vinyl with velcro button attachments on the inside.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT5XqnJTLRXbDGwoUlzGgP9wvBULtaDb304DzIukBrv6siqdpUMKEwIDyXMN2R86ghz8EZUeSVPOj2B1RUQUsbX82CoqgwesecUx5eZKg6oR9yrK24PUZDPEtekYNG_bFT4L6Og18Ga_mf/s1600/IMG_8439.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT5XqnJTLRXbDGwoUlzGgP9wvBULtaDb304DzIukBrv6siqdpUMKEwIDyXMN2R86ghz8EZUeSVPOj2B1RUQUsbX82CoqgwesecUx5eZKg6oR9yrK24PUZDPEtekYNG_bFT4L6Og18Ga_mf/s320/IMG_8439.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br />
I replaced the inside board paper with trimmed poster board, and put some stickers on the front cardboard part to read "I Spy"...<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGaxppyUcsMN1m2lxzfaR2d_CgJhB5kv44EIQyqpCaUHJ_Mi_PnHXUbZaVpfVV00VMW6xyjugTr9cBX_GYPVHQzPpYRQXEErgEwFEjvxsw5nv_jVmDfXKJszm2ohrgNqW6-djOQfFOpb_V/s1600/IMG_8485.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGaxppyUcsMN1m2lxzfaR2d_CgJhB5kv44EIQyqpCaUHJ_Mi_PnHXUbZaVpfVV00VMW6xyjugTr9cBX_GYPVHQzPpYRQXEErgEwFEjvxsw5nv_jVmDfXKJszm2ohrgNqW6-djOQfFOpb_V/s320/IMG_8485.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br />
And now, it <i>almost</i> looks like I could have bought it. Instead of made it. The funny thing is... by the end of this, it cost just over $1 for the vinyl, about $1 for the posterboard, and about $6 for the poly pellets. Which is still less than the $20 they wanted, <i>and</i> I got to pick the charms I wanted in it.<br />
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Wuhoo!pepperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18094580301185673656noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3271452283085447903.post-18051472036535182532011-08-12T09:32:00.000-07:002011-08-12T09:32:18.717-07:00Logan, the Kindergartener<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><i>July 27th, 2011</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>The Art Smock</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><br />
</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">When Logan's kindergarten packet came in the mail, with the hefty list of supplies he would need, my eyes caught on the line, "Please include 1 art smock (an old shirt, trimmed to wrist length) - label with child's name"...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">This could go a few ways, I'm thinking. Old t-shirts... with gaping arm holes... hmm.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Logan's father donated a shirt to the art smockery. After a good wash, I trimmed the sleeves to wrist length, as instructed. It was SO boring. Maybe I have something wrong with me. Who knows. All <i>I</i> know, is that it needed to look less slobby.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Cue montage music, overlaying the video replay of replacing the shirt cuffs on the shortened arms, hand painting a Mario M with Logan's name on the front pocket, and sewing velcro on the inside of the button strip so that it <i>looks</i> like a button-up, but he doesn't actually have to button it. End montage music. :o)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The art smock of Mario is born. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Logan is pretty excited. :o)<br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Secretly, I am excited too, because nobody else will have an art smock like it. :o)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUl1e5IxEzJMX5k6MDelV1_UBp9wexBSWduTCy4b32LNP6yb-DYE2jZrECFzZwDUyBa8e41b1V2T5et0ntuAosHF3tMpDrqCg2n3LNiM8Ydh6xD29k55HyDxRQQyNQEcdijvv4mfL9vm7G/s1600/IMG_8431.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUl1e5IxEzJMX5k6MDelV1_UBp9wexBSWduTCy4b32LNP6yb-DYE2jZrECFzZwDUyBa8e41b1V2T5et0ntuAosHF3tMpDrqCg2n3LNiM8Ydh6xD29k55HyDxRQQyNQEcdijvv4mfL9vm7G/s320/IMG_8431.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKR77etiUAfCWGuUezavsVkvHzNeUzHY7rAEkbuOzzFWIDzzs9uArpZ0NAXXvJhftcXH8q5woO0ZI0swRwHTlSXWnOLAiFwzh5-5IFk7Wd4mGWoKH-vzDeoB9wC5oetgMHzcg_YtdQYNfC/s1600/IMG_8432.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKR77etiUAfCWGuUezavsVkvHzNeUzHY7rAEkbuOzzFWIDzzs9uArpZ0NAXXvJhftcXH8q5woO0ZI0swRwHTlSXWnOLAiFwzh5-5IFk7Wd4mGWoKH-vzDeoB9wC5oetgMHzcg_YtdQYNfC/s320/IMG_8432.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br />
pepperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18094580301185673656noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3271452283085447903.post-5091626567794120102011-07-22T12:00:00.001-07:002011-07-22T12:00:27.905-07:00Confession #27 - Blondes<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">BLONDE!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBstd-GKPh4GSJ7Ed81KfDTTCmiVbz0cJkovfkIA89ad6TIp9X0W7wlb-trGZPiwaxpJWBqlfY8ikcEcAUpjBJYXidHVDeTOXXNmA6SWAYLbfbhAo9LAtlWLULmvI13YjIR6DUG9JrsPGz/s1600/09-18-2010.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBstd-GKPh4GSJ7Ed81KfDTTCmiVbz0cJkovfkIA89ad6TIp9X0W7wlb-trGZPiwaxpJWBqlfY8ikcEcAUpjBJYXidHVDeTOXXNmA6SWAYLbfbhAo9LAtlWLULmvI13YjIR6DUG9JrsPGz/s320/09-18-2010.jpg" width="238" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">They totally get away with more. </div><div style="text-align: center;">This is just my theory.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjgfuTZPREjer_Jszc2kjrgZGKUDL6lyg9gvfKDW91IoxHT4mJmwx0BLnwpxwQ3NtPAJSBebAyCaVQLbAh_ZPPaxWS1CEoObAjDVA6gtXv35iONnZvQ7av3ptSc-BLh3vtibkVDDINbT0k/s1600/103711855_10-cropped-proto-custom_14.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjgfuTZPREjer_Jszc2kjrgZGKUDL6lyg9gvfKDW91IoxHT4mJmwx0BLnwpxwQ3NtPAJSBebAyCaVQLbAh_ZPPaxWS1CEoObAjDVA6gtXv35iONnZvQ7av3ptSc-BLh3vtibkVDDINbT0k/s320/103711855_10-cropped-proto-custom_14.jpg" width="244" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Beautiful radiant blonde hair. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Confession: I always wanted to be a blonde.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPGO_qIw0ZMQ2sGrBZsYi7kJ9r1jAhf-9-uukl7iiN2xMkqyY51M4WBwXo4dayYGfaAMUPFqqHaeZiOiHHMtuK1jRNyltwIJwdhdOuT_-o55YcENtWJr74QWP0uNTLMJdF8aU-swotnHbH/s1600/blonde+2.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPGO_qIw0ZMQ2sGrBZsYi7kJ9r1jAhf-9-uukl7iiN2xMkqyY51M4WBwXo4dayYGfaAMUPFqqHaeZiOiHHMtuK1jRNyltwIJwdhdOuT_-o55YcENtWJr74QWP0uNTLMJdF8aU-swotnHbH/s320/blonde+2.bmp" width="210" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">If I could find an affordable way to keep it up, I totally would do it.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHFax0gV8d1mYuRzRP80NVkn4jJ47qmMH2wkTEqPD11L3SNZTqCsJbYMxGHuinDvm2V_sXfSzoLhf145p5iqXDMOh25PPwlrRtRk7Dlje10fUjg6EQeS9OtYRz8wse0TDzc34Oe2xcVHyZ/s1600/blonde.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHFax0gV8d1mYuRzRP80NVkn4jJ47qmMH2wkTEqPD11L3SNZTqCsJbYMxGHuinDvm2V_sXfSzoLhf145p5iqXDMOh25PPwlrRtRk7Dlje10fUjg6EQeS9OtYRz8wse0TDzc34Oe2xcVHyZ/s320/blonde.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">But that will probably be a while.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">In the mean time I will dream!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgM2jRfgr32hrJpH8n-dEm8DE1UVCVv_GIUOVLy42Yf4Bw0d5_7ByDwCuquKYwmfWGRzV4DXJce6_U96_VaYglzgnT3pjrDcofL-8H7xqCaRgFi4s5YkIHCzizZh-EdzK6efH7jdzwzpFyg/s1600/p_celeb_braids_p_01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgM2jRfgr32hrJpH8n-dEm8DE1UVCVv_GIUOVLy42Yf4Bw0d5_7ByDwCuquKYwmfWGRzV4DXJce6_U96_VaYglzgnT3pjrDcofL-8H7xqCaRgFi4s5YkIHCzizZh-EdzK6efH7jdzwzpFyg/s320/p_celeb_braids_p_01.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">It just has always seemed like the ultimate princess hair.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">How could you feel ugly when you have shimmery golden hair?</div><div style="text-align: center;">☺</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4gYSzCFBkG7SkeQg1-Ef9MXufHClB-oT5aI-vhDIXUrNFQeWJ_2CHmAPh7M2j5Bn-CeiJs45LKCvT-IbOfkp0YOayq4jwxNZFxyZgwGn1ql9B9IvJpcU_EiXtLtIH5lmHqwleLLqE92D1/s1600/perfect+blonde+mena+suvari.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4gYSzCFBkG7SkeQg1-Ef9MXufHClB-oT5aI-vhDIXUrNFQeWJ_2CHmAPh7M2j5Bn-CeiJs45LKCvT-IbOfkp0YOayq4jwxNZFxyZgwGn1ql9B9IvJpcU_EiXtLtIH5lmHqwleLLqE92D1/s320/perfect+blonde+mena+suvari.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Then again, it could be the "grass-is-always-greener" theory...</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOfW4wPaw-xOHjzeGE-1B2e44K1qFU7E5Ywo4r_lfHcP6ZApMCXaOJY14kYuMLGf3dDS1bnCdRu2gf7Ba-cOG0Kihz-2De8urNyo-6Xx8A5IA0t2EJUt49fTBMldZaa9ieHl7NPlDpat8P/s1600/perfect+blonde.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOfW4wPaw-xOHjzeGE-1B2e44K1qFU7E5Ywo4r_lfHcP6ZApMCXaOJY14kYuMLGf3dDS1bnCdRu2gf7Ba-cOG0Kihz-2De8urNyo-6Xx8A5IA0t2EJUt49fTBMldZaa9ieHl7NPlDpat8P/s320/perfect+blonde.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Which means that someone out there, who is blonde, is probably itching to be a brunette.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">It doesn't make sense to me, but it does make sense a little - we're all women, designed somehow to be jealous of each other!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQm7mpiASUuhbjhrs-uTKIsF4jrOOvCvjXh4OJK2_7jO02cxcWEtEJgceeDCMfwy0w0Db0ntE8Kgnl-41voCkxyEG00txyBZSXB3WaP8m5ge7qY1Jj6giolO5aXMcObSEgg1CLc6Gnd49f/s1600/portrait-kristen-stewart-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQm7mpiASUuhbjhrs-uTKIsF4jrOOvCvjXh4OJK2_7jO02cxcWEtEJgceeDCMfwy0w0Db0ntE8Kgnl-41voCkxyEG00txyBZSXB3WaP8m5ge7qY1Jj6giolO5aXMcObSEgg1CLc6Gnd49f/s320/portrait-kristen-stewart-2.jpg" width="217" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">What would it be like if we all appreciated and <i>loved</i> what we already had??</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">What would we do with all that free time? ;o)<br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_xlMJ9Jwnw7v9Nlp7PP-vtVAtkhGmRHUrjRisSJ3JNpe8rt6m81-CEWU5hcuGIO1Jxa7jkiGuZkBuHBOyavClW7tjmY-TbrKRvhYeWUeqKDLwziqAws0bV0d33chlhKcwpwPOwxOAGl8k/s1600/Taylor-taylor-swift.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_xlMJ9Jwnw7v9Nlp7PP-vtVAtkhGmRHUrjRisSJ3JNpe8rt6m81-CEWU5hcuGIO1Jxa7jkiGuZkBuHBOyavClW7tjmY-TbrKRvhYeWUeqKDLwziqAws0bV0d33chlhKcwpwPOwxOAGl8k/s320/Taylor-taylor-swift.jpg" width="191" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Maybe one day, for fun, I <i>will</i> try the blonde thing.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">☼ Sparkle sparkle ☼</div>pepperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18094580301185673656noreply@blogger.com2