tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-56859794140765942742024-03-13T14:11:50.705-06:00The Bad TouristStephhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01441061003224998589noreply@blogger.comBlogger60125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5685979414076594274.post-55261204373721798602012-02-21T21:59:00.000-07:002012-02-21T21:59:40.345-07:00Ova OvaLook what an adorable friend I have:<div><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-28rTVWTwkdQ/T0RzgRSANbI/AAAAAAAAAiY/A-ucsU6N2Lo/s1600/IMG_1963.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-28rTVWTwkdQ/T0RzgRSANbI/AAAAAAAAAiY/A-ucsU6N2Lo/s400/IMG_1963.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">She's also brilliant, funny, and has many other enviable best friend qualities! In fact she's so brilliant that she started her own business. Her new website, <a href="http://www.ovaova.com/">www.ovaova.com</a>, is a groundbreaking new way for women to track their fertility. It can be used to achieve pregnancy or to be used as natural birth control. I won't go into it too much because she is the expert of course. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Check out her new website pretty please and prepare to be amazed! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="http://ovaova.com/">http://ovaova.com/</a> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
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</div>Stephhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01441061003224998589noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5685979414076594274.post-73937983018460471972012-02-04T13:12:00.000-07:002012-02-04T13:12:19.156-07:00Lemon Ginger Blueberry Scones<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />
<div>Cabin fever has driven me to continue baking- I truly believe it is a symptom. I bought a big tub of crystallized ginger a while ago, thinking it would be a good snack to keep at work. Oh boy was I wrong. I really had no idea how spicy this stuff was! I cannot eat it by itself so I've been looking around for some other ways to use the whopping 1 lb. of crystallized ginger I have sitting in my cupboard.</div><div><br />
</div><div>Luckily, I came across this recipe on Epicurious for <a href="http://www.epicurious.com/recipes/food/views/Ginger-Scones-104666">Ginger Scones</a>. This recipe is an adaption since Blueberries were also on sale at Sunflower Market and I had a lemon hanging around:</div><div><br />
</div><div>Lemon Ginger Blueberry Scones (<a href="http://www.blogger.com/2%201/4%20cups%20unbleached%20pastry%20flour%20or%20unbleached%20all-purpose%20flour%201/3%20cup%20granulated%20sugar%201%20tablespoon%20baking%20powder%201%20teaspoon%20finely%20chopped%20lemon%20zest%20(about%201/2%20lemon)%201%201/2%20sticks%20(6%20ounces)%20unsalted%20butter,%20cut%20into%201-inch%20cubes%20and%20frozen%204%201/2%20ounces%20candied%20ginger,%20finely%20chopped%20into%201/4-inch%20pieces%20to%20equal%202/3%20cup%203/4%20cup%20heavy%20cream,%20plus%20extra%20for%20brushing%20the%20tops%20of%20the%20scones%20%20%20Read%20More%20http://www.epicurious.com/recipes/food/views/Ginger-Scones-104666#ixzz1lRdiMJuX">adapted from Epicurious</a>):</div><div>(yields 16 scones)</div><div><ul><li class="ingredient" style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Lucida Grande', Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">2 1/4 cups unbleached all-purpose flour</li>
<li class="ingredient" style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Lucida Grande', Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">1/3 cup granulated sugar</li>
<li class="ingredient" style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Lucida Grande', Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">1 tablespoon baking powder</li>
<li class="ingredient" style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Lucida Grande', Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">Juice of of 1 lemon, plus zest</li>
<li class="ingredient" style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Lucida Grande', Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">1 1/2 sticks (6 ounces) unsalted butter, cut into 1-inch cubes and frozen</li>
<li class="ingredient" style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Lucida Grande', Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">4 1/2 ounces candied ginger, finely chopped into 1/4-inch pieces to equal 2/3 cup</li>
<li class="ingredient" style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Lucida Grande', Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">3/4 cup heavy cream</li>
<li class="ingredient" style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Lucida Grande', Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">1 pint of blueberries</li>
<li class="ingredient" style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Lucida Grande', Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">1 egg, beaten</li>
<li class="ingredient" style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Lucida Grande', Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">Love</li>
</ul></div><br />
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<div class="instruction" style="background-color: white; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: 'Lucida Grande', Arial, Verdana, sans-serif;">1. Adjust the oven rack to the middle position and preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.</span></div><div class="instruction" style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Lucida Grande', Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="instruction" style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Lucida Grande', Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-align: left;">2. In a bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and baking powder, and combine with a whisk. Add the lemon zest and butter, then use clean hands to incorporate butter into the flower untl the mixture is pale yellow and the consistency of fine meal.</div><div class="instruction" style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Lucida Grande', Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="instruction" style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Lucida Grande', Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-align: left;">3. Stir in the ginger and blueberries. Make a well in the center and pour in the cream. Using one hand, draw in the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.</div><div class="instruction" style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Lucida Grande', Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="instruction" style="background-color: white; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: 'Lucida Grande', Arial, Verdana, sans-serif;">4. Wash and dry your hands and dust with flour. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured work surface and gently knead a few times to gather it into a ball. Cut in half and roll each piece of dough into a circle about 3/4 inch thick. Cut into eighths, like a pizza.</span></div><div class="instruction" style="background-color: white; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: 'Lucida Grande', Arial, Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="instruction" style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Lucida Grande', Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-align: left;">5. Place the scones 1 inch apart on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush the tops of the scones with the egg- this will make the tops shiny. Bake for 12 to 16 minutes, until the surface cracks and they are slightly browned.</div><div class="instruction" style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Lucida Grande', Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="instruction" style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Lucida Grande', Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; text-align: left;">6. Once they come out of the oven, while they're still hot, squeeze the juice from the lemon on top- hold back the seeds. It smells delicious and I mostly just love the way it sounds. (I wanted to add some powdered sugar to the lemon juice and frost them but I ran out of powdered sugar! I plan on doing this next time)</div><span style="background-color: white; text-align: left;"><br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-j7rrLTVDNFc/Ty2KvakhYmI/AAAAAAAAAiQ/VkYtxATPxsg/s1600/IMG_1913.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="425" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-j7rrLTVDNFc/Ty2KvakhYmI/AAAAAAAAAiQ/VkYtxATPxsg/s640/IMG_1913.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zG7tKK4DxEc/Ty2KFdeRHsI/AAAAAAAAAh4/TFgUBHFw5AE/s1600/IMG_1910.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zG7tKK4DxEc/Ty2KFdeRHsI/AAAAAAAAAh4/TFgUBHFw5AE/s640/IMG_1910.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Enjoy!</div>Stephhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01441061003224998589noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5685979414076594274.post-82525878903653356522012-02-04T12:17:00.000-07:002012-02-04T12:17:35.444-07:00Fire and Ice<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I don't know if you've heard but we've been in a blizzard here in Colorado. I just measured the snow outside and we got 18 inches! As I'm writing this, it has just stopped snowing and the sun is coming out. I've been shoveling the driveway and the porch all morning so I'm already exhausted! It was nice to get outside though, I didn't get out yesterday but ended up cleaning the house and cooking like crazy. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I took a snow day yesterday and didn't go in to work, thank goodness because I would probably be writing this from my cubicle now- the roads are still in pretty bad shape. Today probably won't be much different- lot's of cooking and hanging out! </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Here's a few photos so you can see what it's like here:</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RCjaIeytm1w/Ty12II00DUI/AAAAAAAAAgo/u1SQ0pBY9fY/s1600/IMG_1914.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RCjaIeytm1w/Ty12II00DUI/AAAAAAAAAgo/u1SQ0pBY9fY/s640/IMG_1914.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Max- he's like a polar bear!</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bcKowTlP_f0/Ty12P7OPNOI/AAAAAAAAAgw/010s6pN0LQE/s1600/IMG_1915.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bcKowTlP_f0/Ty12P7OPNOI/AAAAAAAAAgw/010s6pN0LQE/s640/IMG_1915.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Layla loves the snow :)</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TlefmdYMlZU/Ty12a8p8u2I/AAAAAAAAAg4/bxYtdPuPQjI/s1600/IMG_1918.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TlefmdYMlZU/Ty12a8p8u2I/AAAAAAAAAg4/bxYtdPuPQjI/s640/IMG_1918.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Look at this!!!! That's 18 inches of heavy snow!</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-v5F9YuGj3YI/Ty12i4TtZZI/AAAAAAAAAhA/XAuFvREhK88/s1600/IMG_1923.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-v5F9YuGj3YI/Ty12i4TtZZI/AAAAAAAAAhA/XAuFvREhK88/s640/IMG_1923.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Stella loves the snow too! She has to wear a little sweater so she can stay out a little longer with the big dogs.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PpUBqPhIXMo/Ty12r6P9fmI/AAAAAAAAAhI/mEv30FvQeuA/s1600/IMG_1929.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PpUBqPhIXMo/Ty12r6P9fmI/AAAAAAAAAhI/mEv30FvQeuA/s640/IMG_1929.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This was the fire! I just found a little <span style="background-color: white; line-height: 15px;"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/BonJour-Brulee-Culinary-Torch-Ramekins/dp/B000IZRWKI/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1328382869&sr=8-4">Crème Brûlée kit</a> that I was psyched out of my mind about. </span></span><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 15px;">Crème Brûlée is my FAVORITE dessert and I asked for a blow torch for Christmas but did not receive one. This was so much fun to make, here's the recipe:</span></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 15px;"><br />
</span></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 15px;">Crème Brûlée Recipe (<a href="http://www.amazon.com/BonJour-Brulee-Culinary-Torch-Ramekins/dp/B000IZRWKI/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1328382869&sr=8-4">adapted from the back of the box</a>):</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 15px;">(Makes 4 tiny four ounce ramekins)</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 15px;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 15px;">-1 cup heavy cream</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 15px;">- 2 Tbs. plus an additional 1/3 cup sugar</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 15px;">- 2 extra large or jumbo egg yolks (the orange-er the yolk, the better)</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 15px;">- 1/2 tsp. pure vanilla extract</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 15px;">- Seeds of 1 vanilla bean</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 15px;">- Love</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 15px;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 15px;">1. Preheat oven to 300 degrees Fahrenheit. Prepare a kettle of boiling water</span></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 15px;"><br />
</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 15px;">2. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine cream and 2 Tbs of sugar; cook, stirring occasionally until small bubbles appear around the edges of the pan, 5-6 minutes. Set aside.</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 15px;"><br />
</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 15px;">3. In a bowl, beat egg yolks and vanilla (extract and seeds) until smooth and light. Pour small amounts of hot cream mixture into egg yolks, beating continuously until well blended. If you pour in too much at once, it will scramble your eggs. I start with a teaspoon at a time at first. Divide mixture among four 4 oz. ramekins.</span></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 15px;"> </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 15px;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 15px;">4. Arrange ramekins in a baking pan (about 3 inches deep) and place on the middle shelf of your pre-heated oven. Fill the pan with the boiling water to halfway up the sides of the ramekins. Cover the pan loosely with aluminum foil. Bake until custard is just set, about 30 minutes. Shake the pan very gently to determine if the custard is set- let it go for a little longer if you need to. Mine took about 40 minutes. <b>Use caution when removing the ramekins from the oven as they will be very hot! </b>Chill for 2-3 hours.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 15px;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 15px;">5. Sprinkle the remaining sugar evenly over the top of cooled custards. With your torch, move the flame continuously over the sugar until the sugar melts and becomes golden brown and bubbly (I burnt mine a little bit!). You can serve these immediately or put them back in the fridge and eat later.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 15px;"><br />
</span></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 15px;">Enjoy! (Don't you love cracking the top? It reminds me of </span></span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; line-height: 23px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"><a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0211915/">Amélie</a></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 15px;">)</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 15px;"><br />
</span></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-62J7UpKclc8/Ty17XPG-YMI/AAAAAAAAAhQ/KA1s60HC_A4/s1600/IMG_1931.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-62J7UpKclc8/Ty17XPG-YMI/AAAAAAAAAhQ/KA1s60HC_A4/s640/IMG_1931.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Stephhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01441061003224998589noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5685979414076594274.post-82579520238592150572012-01-26T20:15:00.001-07:002012-01-26T20:15:00.341-07:00Winter Wonderland<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>I know I just posted pictures of 80 degree weather at the beach so let's shake things up around here! A few weeks ago when my younger brother and sister were in town, we all went snowshoeing in the Rockies! What an adventure! It was my first time snowshoeing and for some reason I had some serious concerns. Mainly being chased by a bear and not being able to get away fast enough. When I found out that if you come in contact with a bear you aren't supposed to run - just stand tall and if they attack, play dead- my fears were calmed. Who knew- <a href="http://www.google.com/url?q=http://www.youtube.com/watch%3Fv%3DYbsnGVWmI1M&sa=U&ei=bWshT8HFGcHZtgeVr5CiCw&ved=0CBIQtwIwAA&usg=AFQjCNG9aPfO2SfSlOkXs4CM6uZX8MqsQw">it's like bear school.</a> <br />
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Here's a few snapshots:<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OefoIu-AAOA/TxOg_lJjEzI/AAAAAAAAAb8/2OEVFjkjCmA/s1600/IMG_1638.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426px" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OefoIu-AAOA/TxOg_lJjEzI/AAAAAAAAAb8/2OEVFjkjCmA/s640/IMG_1638.JPG" width="640px" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">My sister, Lindsay, ready to attack in case we did have to fight for our lives.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JgHe0eiKcE8/TxOhPByIFRI/AAAAAAAAAcE/K8MHABZ0cdM/s1600/IMG_1640.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426px" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JgHe0eiKcE8/TxOhPByIFRI/AAAAAAAAAcE/K8MHABZ0cdM/s640/IMG_1640.JPG" width="640px" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I got a hydration pack as a Christmas gift which came in handy! Don't I look totally geared in?!? Mountain woman!!!! Rachael looks like she has long, white, mountain woman braided pigtails.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hT5PigohqVA/TxOhlgXNATI/AAAAAAAAAcM/zp8kpLqrzco/s1600/IMG_1642.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426px" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hT5PigohqVA/TxOhlgXNATI/AAAAAAAAAcM/zp8kpLqrzco/s640/IMG_1642.JPG" width="640px" /></a></div><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Let's do this!!!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oNrz3F9ITeQ/TxOh6xO-Q8I/AAAAAAAAAcU/GNuFMtpPmJo/s1600/IMG_1646.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426px" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oNrz3F9ITeQ/TxOh6xO-Q8I/AAAAAAAAAcU/GNuFMtpPmJo/s640/IMG_1646.JPG" width="640px" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Gorgeous view of the mountain. The snow looked majestic floating up in the air like that.</div><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Colorful Colorado</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-M48g3GgU1M0/TxOiY3vcTlI/AAAAAAAAAck/jskecPaf_uM/s1600/IMG_1665.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426px" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-M48g3GgU1M0/TxOiY3vcTlI/AAAAAAAAAck/jskecPaf_uM/s640/IMG_1665.JPG" width="640px" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Rachael and Dad. Don't you love his furry hat? I got him that for Christmas!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qq6Hr9JdQos/TxOilJNZEoI/AAAAAAAAAcs/YIM-AXeIQYc/s1600/IMG_1689.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="412px" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qq6Hr9JdQos/TxOilJNZEoI/AAAAAAAAAcs/YIM-AXeIQYc/s640/IMG_1689.JPG" width="640px" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I made a little friend. He was eating a nut!!</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VYExbPzksTo/TxOi_-PpAHI/AAAAAAAAAc0/JQLvJC--Ffw/s1600/IMG_1700.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426px" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VYExbPzksTo/TxOi_-PpAHI/AAAAAAAAAc0/JQLvJC--Ffw/s640/IMG_1700.JPG" width="640px" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">This frozen waterfall was so freakin' cool! I felt like an explorer :)</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-knzMNk4zXNY/TxOjQQlJQ5I/AAAAAAAAAc8/VwR2_ZX13XI/s1600/IMG_1706.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426px" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-knzMNk4zXNY/TxOjQQlJQ5I/AAAAAAAAAc8/VwR2_ZX13XI/s640/IMG_1706.JPG" width="640px" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-X__d2qgO6co/TxOjeA2SFEI/AAAAAAAAAdE/vyHnA3FYAyc/s1600/IMG_1711.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426px" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-X__d2qgO6co/TxOjeA2SFEI/AAAAAAAAAdE/vyHnA3FYAyc/s640/IMG_1711.JPG" width="640px" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">My brother David decided to wander off and climb a mountain without telling anyone. That was like the #1 thing the park rangers were telling us NOT to do but he's a teenager so of course he HAD to do it. I got this shot of him when he finally decided to make his way back down the mountain and re-join his family. We all thought he was a goner.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wcpXTRxEyDQ/TyFue_psX6I/AAAAAAAAAgg/N0sBytX7Z1U/s1600/walken_in_a_winter_wonderland.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gda="true" height="640px" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wcpXTRxEyDQ/TyFue_psX6I/AAAAAAAAAgg/N0sBytX7Z1U/s640/walken_in_a_winter_wonderland.jpg" width="480px" /></a></div><br />
Oh and Christopher Walken was there too. (Sorry, I couldn't resist.)<br />
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</div>Stephhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01441061003224998589noreply@blogger.com4Estes Park, CO, USA40.3772059 -105.521665140.3421854 -105.5679791 40.4122264 -105.47535110000001tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5685979414076594274.post-31813626519056036572012-01-25T22:29:00.000-07:002012-01-25T22:29:47.653-07:00MexicoI just got back from beautiful Cancun, Mexico! Wow, I feel so rested and rejuvenated! Hanging out on the beach and reading all day was just the thing to get me out of the freezing winter blues. I worked a lot while most of the other people at my office were on Christmas break to save up some time off for this trip. Totally. Worth. It.<br />
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I'm the kind of person that likes adventures more than I like things so this was kind of a Christmas present for my boyfriend Danny and I. When we were planning a trip, we originally had our sites set on New York City but when we realized how icy cold it is in January, we started thinking of warm, sandy beaches. We ended up finding <a href="http://www.hotelessolaris.com/Sitios/SolarisEng/GRCaribe/grcaribeindex.html">our resort</a> through a <a href="http://subscribe.livingsocial.com/cities/6?ref=broader_roadblock&skippable=1">Living Social</a> deal which I would highly recommend- we had no problems at all.<br />
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I was also hearing a lot of horror stories about Mexico before I left so I was starting to get really scared! I had a list of things to be aware of (being kidnapped and forced to be a drug mule, drinking the water, eating the food, having a vital organ stolen from me and sold on the black market, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Traveler%27s_diarrhea">Montezuma's revenge</a>, and murder among other things). Thankfully, none of those things happened and everyone in Mexico was very nice and accommodating. Also, there is a lot of bottled water and beer.<br />
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Here's a few snapshots:<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3khy5S9ei6I/TyDW0sA5BOI/AAAAAAAAAdU/qovFZxG5wtA/s1600/IMG_1747.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3khy5S9ei6I/TyDW0sA5BOI/AAAAAAAAAdU/qovFZxG5wtA/s640/IMG_1747.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">This was the view from the room. The sound of the waves crashing on the beach at night was like a lullaby.</div><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Hey-yo! Beach time baby! This is where I spent the majority of my time. And just in case you were wondering, I wore SPF 45 the whole time and didn't burn. HUGE accomplishment for me.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ViMwQe9ucqw/TyDXJl0Un8I/AAAAAAAAAds/ZSvOgEF0N3o/s1600/IMG_1779.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ViMwQe9ucqw/TyDXJl0Un8I/AAAAAAAAAds/ZSvOgEF0N3o/s640/IMG_1779.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PIEbDcWS_q4/TyDXWOp-VTI/AAAAAAAAAd0/5cxJO8n7rno/s1600/IMG_1784.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PIEbDcWS_q4/TyDXWOp-VTI/AAAAAAAAAd0/5cxJO8n7rno/s640/IMG_1784.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LQjttr7V7LQ/TyDXervwL-I/AAAAAAAAAd8/phlbCfdvVMc/s1600/IMG_1790.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LQjttr7V7LQ/TyDXervwL-I/AAAAAAAAAd8/phlbCfdvVMc/s640/IMG_1790.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RqYl0pz8jp0/TyDX213i65I/AAAAAAAAAeM/HK9VUe-Eyso/s1600/IMG_1833.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RqYl0pz8jp0/TyDX213i65I/AAAAAAAAAeM/HK9VUe-Eyso/s640/IMG_1833.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">This handsome guy is my boyfriend, Danny :)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KJqtdZyGW0Q/TyDX-dgQ6sI/AAAAAAAAAeU/Oh-pf5q63VU/s1600/IMG_1840.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KJqtdZyGW0Q/TyDX-dgQ6sI/AAAAAAAAAeU/Oh-pf5q63VU/s640/IMG_1840.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">EXTREME close up! </div><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The pool had these cool cabanas which we didn't sit at even once! I liked being by the ocean more and putting my feet in the sand.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XEqd-ZxR_-s/TyDYYxn3tBI/AAAAAAAAAes/-yijekeSH0s/s1600/IMG_1853.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XEqd-ZxR_-s/TyDYYxn3tBI/AAAAAAAAAes/-yijekeSH0s/s640/IMG_1853.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Yep. I took a picture of him while he was eating breakfast. It was our last meal and they had delicious omelettes so I had to document it. Speaking of food, it was pretty decent at the resort. There were a lot of things that we were able to have there that are kind of out of season here (like avacados!). There were about three different restaurants to choose from for dinner and we just had to leave a tip. It sucks coming back home and having to pay for things. Towards the end though, I just wanted a real home-cooked meal! I was burnt out on restaurant food.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aWyPvgs3cwY/TyDYfzPDbUI/AAAAAAAAAe0/h3f25BTIttY/s1600/IMG_1860.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="370" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aWyPvgs3cwY/TyDYfzPDbUI/AAAAAAAAAe0/h3f25BTIttY/s640/IMG_1860.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">On the swing in the lobby!</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Rc6VFjnUpB4/TyDYlmu7NmI/AAAAAAAAAe8/NGBfgRJawXI/s1600/IMG_1865.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Rc6VFjnUpB4/TyDYlmu7NmI/AAAAAAAAAe8/NGBfgRJawXI/s640/IMG_1865.JPG" width="392" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The drinks were included as well and oh my did I drink a lot of these babies! Mojitos! They were SO good! Our favorite guy that worked at the resort was Vanilly. He came down to the beach and brought us drinks all the time- he always had a Mojito for me :)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-52pwAzHLY1Y/TyDWrjj5J0I/AAAAAAAAAdM/1hE3pcRqiuc/s1600/IMG_1735.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="502" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-52pwAzHLY1Y/TyDWrjj5J0I/AAAAAAAAAdM/1hE3pcRqiuc/s640/IMG_1735.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">We didn't really buy any souvenirs but this is what we ended up with by the end of our stay: 1 Sol bottle filled with sand from the beach, 7 seashells, 1 ceramic Mayan calendar that the resort gave us when we checked in, and 1 tiny paper rose that our server for dinner one night, Jose, made for me. The Mayan calendar broke in the suitcase on the way back which I think could be a sign of good luck but I guess we won't know until the end of 2012... </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-P4wYKnIhxp4/TyDXqcwdM0I/AAAAAAAAAeE/7_0pFJJXgaM/s1600/IMG_1826.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-P4wYKnIhxp4/TyDXqcwdM0I/AAAAAAAAAeE/7_0pFJJXgaM/s640/IMG_1826.JPG" width="426" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I'm sorry but I just had to document this. The artwork above the toilet in our room. Am I the only person who finds this hilarious?</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-s5Y70pmXUJs/TyDYqUIXjcI/AAAAAAAAAfE/3by4zQRNfrA/s1600/IMG_1868.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-s5Y70pmXUJs/TyDYqUIXjcI/AAAAAAAAAfE/3by4zQRNfrA/s640/IMG_1868.JPG" width="632" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Of course we got in a few last drinks with some friends from Oklahoma that we met at the resort. Unfortunately, I had the waitress take it and forgot to set my camera to automatic. It turned out too blurry :(</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Cheers!</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="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nknELwLSCEU/TyDYzq5vzlI/AAAAAAAAAfU/5L6J0aS6rVA/s1600/IMG_1885.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nknELwLSCEU/TyDYzq5vzlI/AAAAAAAAAfU/5L6J0aS6rVA/s640/IMG_1885.JPG" width="457" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Back home again...</div><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4oNhkI3iKJI/TyDYtuiu4jI/AAAAAAAAAfM/oo2pPYl3W4k/s1600/IMG_1872.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4oNhkI3iKJI/TyDYtuiu4jI/AAAAAAAAAfM/oo2pPYl3W4k/s640/IMG_1872.JPG" width="611" /></a></div>Stephhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01441061003224998589noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5685979414076594274.post-88814962859788214212012-01-17T20:25:00.000-07:002012-01-17T20:25:00.203-07:00Akward Family Photos<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">My family is so sweet. They offered to help me improve my photo skills over the holidays.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">1. Photo-bombing:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_MnNHztIM8k/TxOZt35H3AI/AAAAAAAAAak/COwXAygG9Cg/s1600/IMG_1559.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_MnNHztIM8k/TxOZt35H3AI/AAAAAAAAAak/COwXAygG9Cg/s640/IMG_1559.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">2. Red Carpet:</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8T4RBbT9OCk/TxOZ-5jibrI/AAAAAAAAAas/P0bDCPHa1so/s1600/IMG_1573.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8T4RBbT9OCk/TxOZ-5jibrI/AAAAAAAAAas/P0bDCPHa1so/s640/IMG_1573.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">3. Classic:</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ozKeN8Wtyz8/TxOaQnWU2qI/AAAAAAAAAa0/oBNYF6WeKcs/s1600/IMG_1587.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ozKeN8Wtyz8/TxOaQnWU2qI/AAAAAAAAAa0/oBNYF6WeKcs/s640/IMG_1587.JPG" width="426" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">4. Engagement:</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QyMWwRV1src/TxOaiPj0jJI/AAAAAAAAAa8/b4tKpE6l90w/s1600/IMG_1591.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QyMWwRV1src/TxOaiPj0jJI/AAAAAAAAAa8/b4tKpE6l90w/s640/IMG_1591.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HJohT2bokyI/TxOa0ZlaLXI/AAAAAAAAAbE/phCI4ZEm_pQ/s1600/IMG_1602.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HJohT2bokyI/TxOa0ZlaLXI/AAAAAAAAAbE/phCI4ZEm_pQ/s640/IMG_1602.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VCa6Wa6F-04/TxObMHsQUoI/AAAAAAAAAbM/17xPc507pgk/s1600/IMG_1603.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VCa6Wa6F-04/TxObMHsQUoI/AAAAAAAAAbM/17xPc507pgk/s640/IMG_1603.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tn0FdbOFjNc/TxObczfm-kI/AAAAAAAAAbU/uQZSFJ1AcLU/s1600/IMG_1605.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tn0FdbOFjNc/TxObczfm-kI/AAAAAAAAAbU/uQZSFJ1AcLU/s640/IMG_1605.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">5. Maternity:</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--e_Zmzfd0lw/TxOb0BpamSI/AAAAAAAAAbc/dVjaTt6jK-E/s1600/IMG_1607.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--e_Zmzfd0lw/TxOb0BpamSI/AAAAAAAAAbc/dVjaTt6jK-E/s640/IMG_1607.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">6. "Partners":</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZCjoInzPrn4/TxOcJpprkgI/AAAAAAAAAbk/jFBMVs7H8PI/s1600/IMG_1610.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZCjoInzPrn4/TxOcJpprkgI/AAAAAAAAAbk/jFBMVs7H8PI/s640/IMG_1610.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>That is all.Stephhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01441061003224998589noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5685979414076594274.post-7196843619623880332012-01-16T18:47:00.001-07:002012-01-16T18:47:00.282-07:00Pomp and Circumstance<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">My little sister Rachael graduated from college! So proud of her! It was a busy weekend full of food and family. Here's a few photos: </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3BkPaOmJ-Gw/TxOCfU4NRSI/AAAAAAAAAZU/sNAbJmxiPP0/s1600/IMG_1517.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3BkPaOmJ-Gw/TxOCfU4NRSI/AAAAAAAAAZU/sNAbJmxiPP0/s640/IMG_1517.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Waiting for graduation to begin. My sister Lindsay, my step mom Janet, and Dad:</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OKIm3POgKzI/TxOC2JCZOzI/AAAAAAAAAZc/3TZzJbCg6Yo/s1600/IMG_1518.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OKIm3POgKzI/TxOC2JCZOzI/AAAAAAAAAZc/3TZzJbCg6Yo/s640/IMG_1518.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Rachael's boyfriend Dave there to cheer her on!</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OhqwsTGiF9A/TxODM0yZBkI/AAAAAAAAAZk/u6JxLA88IMQ/s1600/IMG_1519.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OhqwsTGiF9A/TxODM0yZBkI/AAAAAAAAAZk/u6JxLA88IMQ/s640/IMG_1519.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">So proud of you little sister!</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YuTG4DORkv4/TxODmSLT0UI/AAAAAAAAAZs/EKipKjZZ7Vg/s1600/IMG_1523.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YuTG4DORkv4/TxODmSLT0UI/AAAAAAAAAZs/EKipKjZZ7Vg/s640/IMG_1523.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UHOg-cVnAmA/TxOD6gM_RFI/AAAAAAAAAZ0/zS6Y_Qgt_BI/s1600/IMG_1530.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UHOg-cVnAmA/TxOD6gM_RFI/AAAAAAAAAZ0/zS6Y_Qgt_BI/s640/IMG_1530.JPG" width="426" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Rachael and Mom :)</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uma5IZZDLEM/TxOEUQTtY7I/AAAAAAAAAZ8/xPdV0nXrFj8/s1600/IMG_1532.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uma5IZZDLEM/TxOEUQTtY7I/AAAAAAAAAZ8/xPdV0nXrFj8/s640/IMG_1532.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Our sister Lindsay came out all the way from New Hampshire! She's the best- she even ran down the halls of the convention center with me when I realized I needed to more time on my parking. We actually RAN. And we barely made it too. The scary meter maid was like 10 cars down from mine writing some other poor soul a ticket.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yCGMV1BFDqU/TxOEqU1YGHI/AAAAAAAAAaE/BjVrUbCxBEA/s1600/IMG_1536.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yCGMV1BFDqU/TxOEqU1YGHI/AAAAAAAAAaE/BjVrUbCxBEA/s640/IMG_1536.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">We made a ridiculous amount of food for the party but by the time I got there a lot of it had already been consumed! We feasted! Rachael and I planned out the menu months in advance and she was busy preparing food and studying for finals even! I wish I had more pictures but for the recipes,<a href="http://pinterest.com/sselden/rachael-s-graduation-party/"> check out my board on Pintrest</a>. I did make a red velvet cake with cream cheese frosting- my favorite!</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KYC9J6Xn6BI/TxOFA6VkBPI/AAAAAAAAAaM/aK9iA30nHdY/s1600/IMG_1547.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KYC9J6Xn6BI/TxOFA6VkBPI/AAAAAAAAAaM/aK9iA30nHdY/s640/IMG_1547.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VNTbn3n7fBw/TxOFZdDjHEI/AAAAAAAAAaU/ZSS7onQ8EpA/s1600/IMG_1552.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VNTbn3n7fBw/TxOFZdDjHEI/AAAAAAAAAaU/ZSS7onQ8EpA/s640/IMG_1552.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">My grandma brought these pictures of little Rachael through the years, so sweet! She's always thinking of stuff like that. My absolute favorite picture of Rachael is the one of her in the blue sweater on top. I think she was about 3. How freakin' cute is that?</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AjxOXEXOB40/TxOF1vBv2hI/AAAAAAAAAac/c9mSb3eUYBs/s1600/IMG_1555.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AjxOXEXOB40/TxOF1vBv2hI/AAAAAAAAAac/c9mSb3eUYBs/s640/IMG_1555.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">And if you're wondering, she did just land a new job as an admissions counselor for a college here in Denver! The girl got some education and it paid off! Congratulations Rachael! </div>Stephhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01441061003224998589noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5685979414076594274.post-57302868746063791012012-01-15T18:46:00.000-07:002012-01-15T18:46:20.677-07:00New Landscapes Okay, these pictures are from Thanksgiving but I don't care! I still wanted to post them!<br />
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I was so lucky this year to spend Thanksgiving in Arizona with my mom's side of the family. My Aunt Maureen and Uncle Bill had their hands full with 11 guests and 4 dogs. Amazing! We did a lot of hanging out around the house and just spending time together. It is not very often that we're in one place on the holidays.<br />
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Here is my beautiful little sister, Olivia:<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6DsHi1CJNbw/TxNx6trTaxI/AAAAAAAAAW0/0g4YJVm5pd4/s1600/IMG_1361.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="422" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6DsHi1CJNbw/TxNx6trTaxI/AAAAAAAAAW0/0g4YJVm5pd4/s640/IMG_1361.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />
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And Grandpa with his apple pie skillz..<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VDTF38d1BIk/TxNxQ1QOk5I/AAAAAAAAAWk/QBaMCsshJbw/s1600/IMG_1350.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VDTF38d1BIk/TxNxQ1QOk5I/AAAAAAAAAWk/QBaMCsshJbw/s640/IMG_1350.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />
We went for a little hike/walk around the neighborhood- totally different from Colorado! My little brother Jimmy wanted to find some "specimens" to take home, hence the plastic glove. You never know what you're gonna find out there:<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-A5BVz_LBjUs/TxNyurLQ5SI/AAAAAAAAAXE/mIoJvTJQ094/s1600/IMG_1368.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-A5BVz_LBjUs/TxNyurLQ5SI/AAAAAAAAAXE/mIoJvTJQ094/s640/IMG_1368.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TFXPHTHTl6A/TxNzGaZftZI/AAAAAAAAAXM/JIBUJiFQzNY/s1600/IMG_1370.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TFXPHTHTl6A/TxNzGaZftZI/AAAAAAAAAXM/JIBUJiFQzNY/s640/IMG_1370.JPG" width="425" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bHRfPK8oiPM/TxNzkxaIHrI/AAAAAAAAAXU/SoCsH28kWz8/s1600/IMG_1373.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bHRfPK8oiPM/TxNzkxaIHrI/AAAAAAAAAXU/SoCsH28kWz8/s640/IMG_1373.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DJoq85NKG70/TxN0DX7aSzI/AAAAAAAAAXc/HBbOzTZ7uKM/s1600/IMG_1382.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DJoq85NKG70/TxN0DX7aSzI/AAAAAAAAAXc/HBbOzTZ7uKM/s640/IMG_1382.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GiQO5_xnE4U/TxN0sT9wGcI/AAAAAAAAAXk/cleL0uxxMj8/s1600/IMG_1384.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GiQO5_xnE4U/TxN0sT9wGcI/AAAAAAAAAXk/cleL0uxxMj8/s640/IMG_1384.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wFQ2jNRpE_4/TxN1aUdYicI/AAAAAAAAAXs/9p94t6ePi9U/s1600/IMG_1385.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wFQ2jNRpE_4/TxN1aUdYicI/AAAAAAAAAXs/9p94t6ePi9U/s640/IMG_1385.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">My awesome Aunt Maureen! She is the hostess with the most-ess and an amazing cook!</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Xf-Frem2bJE/TxN1voArMpI/AAAAAAAAAX0/r-HhxWtUmkE/s1600/IMG_1408.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Xf-Frem2bJE/TxN1voArMpI/AAAAAAAAAX0/r-HhxWtUmkE/s640/IMG_1408.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Aunt Sarah came all the way from Minnesota to hang out with us! Love her!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gaqWWM1aI2g/TxN2CHk4nCI/AAAAAAAAAX8/VnmR6wZasS4/s1600/IMG_1409.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gaqWWM1aI2g/TxN2CHk4nCI/AAAAAAAAAX8/VnmR6wZasS4/s640/IMG_1409.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Oh and did I mention there was a pool? Definitely not used to going swimming on Thanksgiving but I'll take it! This is where we spent the majority of our time.</div><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-N-G8ADO6R5c/TxN2_G6sr0I/AAAAAAAAAYU/QyjguPHobEU/s1600/IMG_1446.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-N-G8ADO6R5c/TxN2_G6sr0I/AAAAAAAAAYU/QyjguPHobEU/s640/IMG_1446.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Sitting around the table with family is the best. Jimmy came up with these crazy games every night at dinner. The first night, we did eenie meenie minie moe around the table and if Jimmy landed on us, that meant we got to put a napkin on our head- signifying that we would not be going to hell (idk). My sister Rachael was the one who ended up without the napkin on her head- very sad.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">On Thanksgiving, we all got a little show when each of the kids sat on Uncle Bill's lap as he acted as a ventriloquist and the kids were the puppets. I broke out some black eye-liner for the occasion. Jimmy even wrote the scripts: </div><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UHg7a26Wyi8/TxN494uQulI/AAAAAAAAAZE/sDCzdFjMleA/s1600/IMG_1513.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="330" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UHg7a26Wyi8/TxN494uQulI/AAAAAAAAAZE/sDCzdFjMleA/s640/IMG_1513.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Oh, and Bill and Maureen have Yorkies! Meet Dixie! Stella's cousin :)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6DAtJhsTS8E/TxN4BBDbQXI/AAAAAAAAAYs/8seP87nJBzI/s1600/IMG_1469.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6DAtJhsTS8E/TxN4BBDbQXI/AAAAAAAAAYs/8seP87nJBzI/s640/IMG_1469.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />
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Thanks Olivia :)Stephhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01441061003224998589noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5685979414076594274.post-68063850775671054532012-01-04T18:12:00.000-07:002012-01-04T18:12:29.101-07:00Fancy PantsThis year was our second annual tradition of high tea with Grandma! What can I say? We like to be fancy and the <a href="http://www.brownpalace.com/">Brown Palace</a> is one of the fanciest places in Denver. It made us feel rich.<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JtNpsAR7_7g/TthGZr-YVXI/AAAAAAAAAVI/6TrsU7b6pIM/s1600/IMG_1298.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="352" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JtNpsAR7_7g/TthGZr-YVXI/AAAAAAAAAVI/6TrsU7b6pIM/s640/IMG_1298.JPG" width="640" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qSPldpDnf1E/TthGty67e8I/AAAAAAAAAVQ/PqqKXL_mPDk/s1600/IMG_1281.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qSPldpDnf1E/TthGty67e8I/AAAAAAAAAVQ/PqqKXL_mPDk/s640/IMG_1281.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />
Rachael and Grandma- who looks thrilled to be there!<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Grandma and I</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xDdCaCDtoYs/TwTzg2UoUCI/AAAAAAAAAWU/7kcLSEw1-0s/s1600/IMG_1285.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xDdCaCDtoYs/TwTzg2UoUCI/AAAAAAAAAWU/7kcLSEw1-0s/s640/IMG_1285.JPG" width="640" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xDdCaCDtoYs/TwTzg2UoUCI/AAAAAAAAAWU/7kcLSEw1-0s/s1600/IMG_1285.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><br />
</a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xDdCaCDtoYs/TwTzg2UoUCI/AAAAAAAAAWU/7kcLSEw1-0s/s1600/IMG_1285.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2yhPvKzCssM/TthHQ2P5aGI/AAAAAAAAAVg/yDz0-KKaGK4/s1600/IMG_1288.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2yhPvKzCssM/TthHQ2P5aGI/AAAAAAAAAVg/yDz0-KKaGK4/s640/IMG_1288.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2YiaCe0YylQ/TwTztnyxy-I/AAAAAAAAAWc/unSIXi0sAbo/s1600/IMG_1287.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2YiaCe0YylQ/TwTztnyxy-I/AAAAAAAAAWc/unSIXi0sAbo/s640/IMG_1287.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I know it doesn't look like much but they give you as many three tiered plates of goodies as you can possibly consume in one sitting. The bottom plate has warm and fresh scones that you put lemon curd, cream, and jam on. The middle plate is filled with teeny tiny sandwiches with the crusts cut off! Yes! The top plate has itty bitty desserts which I didn't get a decent picture of because the thing was so freakin' tall.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aPrwRpSXqvc/TthJTwgvbDI/AAAAAAAAAVo/ngmNzGA8smA/s1600/IMG_1304.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aPrwRpSXqvc/TthJTwgvbDI/AAAAAAAAAVo/ngmNzGA8smA/s640/IMG_1304.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: -webkit-auto;">I highly recommend it!</div>Stephhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01441061003224998589noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5685979414076594274.post-34052210325918502792011-12-01T11:33:00.000-07:002011-12-01T11:34:07.236-07:00Gloomy Skies and Fun Times<div style="margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: left;"><br />
I swear this is the last post on Chicago. I bet you're all thinking, "Enough already! I'm sick of it! SICK OF IT" </div><div style="margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: left;">Well, too bad. I've got a few more up my sleeve so here you go:</div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ygihDt6y4LA/TsM9QNS-_AI/AAAAAAAAASg/cVcWarSt2S8/s1600/IMG_1204.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="427px" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ygihDt6y4LA/TsM9QNS-_AI/AAAAAAAAASg/cVcWarSt2S8/s640/IMG_1204.JPG" width="640px" /></a>The saucy Marilyn Monroe. Who<a href="http://thebadtourist.blogspot.com/2011/11/chicago-in-fall.html"> played on air vents and didn't get in trouble</a>.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uYCP9NAkLOQ/Ttbpi3_57zI/AAAAAAAAAUg/_8ta444-AJo/s1600/IMG_1203.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426px" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uYCP9NAkLOQ/Ttbpi3_57zI/AAAAAAAAAUg/_8ta444-AJo/s640/IMG_1203.JPG" width="640px" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-o3IRjSFeciM/TtbpHSb_yXI/AAAAAAAAAUQ/19w43KQjHQY/s1600/IMG_1201.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426px" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-o3IRjSFeciM/TtbpHSb_yXI/AAAAAAAAAUQ/19w43KQjHQY/s640/IMG_1201.JPG" width="640px" /></a></div> Don't ask<br />
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<div style="margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Fr55U1U8qwQ/TsM9QB0K9iI/AAAAAAAAASo/SK8NDw9wZAI/s1600/IMG_1213.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" height="427px" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Fr55U1U8qwQ/TsM9QB0K9iI/AAAAAAAAASo/SK8NDw9wZAI/s640/IMG_1213.JPG" width="640px" /></a> </div><br />
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<div style="margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OnqXWYulJ9o/TsM9QaykFaI/AAAAAAAAAS4/EHaNbZUtVzw/s1600/IMG_1218.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" height="427px" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OnqXWYulJ9o/TsM9QaykFaI/AAAAAAAAAS4/EHaNbZUtVzw/s640/IMG_1218.JPG" width="640px" /></a> </div>The chips that I later gave to a homeless man and the Chicago dog that was delicious.<br />
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We had a few extra hours to kill so we stopped in the Art Institute for a little while and I'm so glad we did! Not only am I still getting away with using my student ID for discounts, I also got to see some great works of art I never thought I would in real life. <br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6lud0ceVy3E/TtbzxIAw2VI/AAAAAAAAAUo/7EqcjQecsd8/s1600/IMG_1219.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426px" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6lud0ceVy3E/TtbzxIAw2VI/AAAAAAAAAUo/7EqcjQecsd8/s640/IMG_1219.JPG" width="640px" /></a><br />
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<div style="margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XMFaFIshbJE/TsM9QzrCSQI/AAAAAAAAATE/7RYrJCL8zvY/s1600/IMG_1221.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" height="427px" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XMFaFIshbJE/TsM9QzrCSQI/AAAAAAAAATE/7RYrJCL8zvY/s640/IMG_1221.JPG" width="640px" /></a> </div>Seurat's <em> A Sunday Afternoon on the Island of La Grande Jatte</em><br />
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<div style="margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Au7eF8iZlng/TsM9RI0uX4I/AAAAAAAAATQ/3yYtAvAD_Vg/s1600/IMG_1223.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" height="427px" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Au7eF8iZlng/TsM9RI0uX4I/AAAAAAAAATQ/3yYtAvAD_Vg/s640/IMG_1223.JPG" width="640px" /></a> </div>Van Vogh's Self Portrait (the 1887 one... in case you were wondering)<br />
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<div style="margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-c50WYyqii4g/TsM9RfAJwqI/AAAAAAAAATc/a2-kZKqy1t0/s1600/IMG_1224.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" height="427px" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-c50WYyqii4g/TsM9RfAJwqI/AAAAAAAAATc/a2-kZKqy1t0/s640/IMG_1224.JPG" width="640px" /></a> </div>Van Gogh's <em>Bedroom in Arles</em><br />
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<div style="margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cNrp3bZ94tc/TsM9Rky-F1I/AAAAAAAAATo/J2taCsFYLwM/s1600/IMG_1225.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" height="427px" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cNrp3bZ94tc/TsM9Rky-F1I/AAAAAAAAATo/J2taCsFYLwM/s640/IMG_1225.JPG" width="640px" /></a> </div>Monet!<br />
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<div style="margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vH2JNmLauIc/TsM9R8b8KDI/AAAAAAAAATw/SKQYVhE7KkY/s1600/IMG_1226.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" height="427px" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vH2JNmLauIc/TsM9R8b8KDI/AAAAAAAAATw/SKQYVhE7KkY/s640/IMG_1226.JPG" width="640px" /></a> </div>I kept thinking "Who is this man? His beard is very sensual." I can't remember the artist, but if you want to zoom in and find out that's fine with me. I would prefer it to be a mystery.<br />
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<div style="margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1Iw2RqvqgHk/TsM9R-wTnqI/AAAAAAAAAUA/Dw4CBzDVQdY/s1600/IMG_1231.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" height="427px" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1Iw2RqvqgHk/TsM9R-wTnqI/AAAAAAAAAUA/Dw4CBzDVQdY/s640/IMG_1231.JPG" width="640px" /></a> </div>A model by the architect, <a href="http://bertrandgoldberg.org/">Bertrand Goldberg</a>, of my favorite buildings in Chicago, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Marina_City">Marina City.</a> You can LIVE there! Who wouldn't want to?! (Not actually there- what is that? A city for ants? No, there's actual buildings)<br />
I got in trouble for taking this picture so I hope you appreciate it.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GjXybPOBsas/Ttbz7VYtSCI/AAAAAAAAAUw/iNWnHTrlZII/s1600/IMG_1195.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426px" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GjXybPOBsas/Ttbz7VYtSCI/AAAAAAAAAUw/iNWnHTrlZII/s640/IMG_1195.JPG" width="640px" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The end.</div><br />
<div style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://picasa.google.com/blogger/" target="ext"><img align="middle" alt="Posted by Picasa" border="0" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/pbp.gif" style="-moz-background-clip: initial; -moz-background-inline-policy: initial; -moz-background-origin: initial; background: 0% 50%; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" /></a></div>Stephhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01441061003224998589noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5685979414076594274.post-13690429457398075932011-11-30T19:26:00.000-07:002011-11-30T19:26:30.136-07:00Chicago in the FallChicago continued! <br />
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Several weeks later!<br />
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We got to spend a whole day just walking around the city. Here's a little preview:<br />
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The autumn colors<br />
<div style="margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-G5eBm4GM7pI/TsM8fJt1f7I/AAAAAAAAAQI/sZ8aYkWFT74/s1600/IMG_1165.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="427" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-G5eBm4GM7pI/TsM8fJt1f7I/AAAAAAAAAQI/sZ8aYkWFT74/s640/IMG_1165.JPG" width="640" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1hv2iyRVJOk/TsM8feaXNCI/AAAAAAAAAQQ/_CoObfpZD4I/s1600/IMG_1170.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" height="544" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1hv2iyRVJOk/TsM8feaXNCI/AAAAAAAAAQQ/_CoObfpZD4I/s640/IMG_1170.JPG" width="640" /></a> </div>Dad and I were lured in by the "free art" at the Art Institute. Sadly, this is all we found.<br />
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<div style="margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mawKb56_9OA/TsM8fVg3eZI/AAAAAAAAAQg/dZrzDQ4B0GU/s1600/IMG_1173.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" height="427" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mawKb56_9OA/TsM8fVg3eZI/AAAAAAAAAQg/dZrzDQ4B0GU/s640/IMG_1173.JPG" width="640" /></a> </div>The beautiful skyline<br />
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<div style="margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8PgFlYiFFU8/TsM8fyfhh8I/AAAAAAAAAQo/UHkOd0HknQ8/s1600/IMG_1177.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" height="427" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8PgFlYiFFU8/TsM8fyfhh8I/AAAAAAAAAQo/UHkOd0HknQ8/s640/IMG_1177.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
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</div><div style="margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hl_khPqSblE/TsM8gOEp-MI/AAAAAAAAAQ0/Tr1-Waqjy48/s1600/IMG_1179.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" height="427" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hl_khPqSblE/TsM8gOEp-MI/AAAAAAAAAQ0/Tr1-Waqjy48/s640/IMG_1179.JPG" width="640" /></a> </div>This is the "Chicago of the Future" club.<br />
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<div style="margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BBXv77mCXik/TsM8geXRWAI/AAAAAAAAARI/8pZr0vcNfT8/s1600/IMG_1182.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" height="427" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BBXv77mCXik/TsM8geXRWAI/AAAAAAAAARI/8pZr0vcNfT8/s640/IMG_1182.JPG" width="640" /></a> </div>Native grasses of Illinois<br />
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<div style="margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-G3tbfOBPPDk/TsM8gzqURdI/AAAAAAAAARQ/3yp7XGu1B7g/s1600/IMG_1183.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" height="427" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-G3tbfOBPPDk/TsM8gzqURdI/AAAAAAAAARQ/3yp7XGu1B7g/s640/IMG_1183.JPG" width="640" /></a> </div>But it looks fun!<br />
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<div style="margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0V0AigizkV0/TsM8g87Hd3I/AAAAAAAAARc/lJrpNvszyYs/s1600/IMG_1193.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" height="427" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0V0AigizkV0/TsM8g87Hd3I/AAAAAAAAARc/lJrpNvszyYs/s640/IMG_1193.JPG" width="640" /></a> </div>There was a lot of cabbage and kale used as decoration which I thought was lovely and edible. I wondered why all of the homeless people didn't just eat that, it has a lot of vitamins, right? I did lay an uneaten bag of potato chips by a sleeping homeless man though. Just doing my part.<br />
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<div style="margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9f4TXDBWce0/TsM8hBcPn5I/AAAAAAAAARk/nCXm4jhubuo/s1600/IMG_1197.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" height="427" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9f4TXDBWce0/TsM8hBcPn5I/AAAAAAAAARk/nCXm4jhubuo/s640/IMG_1197.JPG" width="640" /></a> </div>Looks fun and cold at the same time.<br />
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<div style="margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KtDX2PwJHAo/TsM8hdVRX4I/AAAAAAAAAR4/f07EamP2o-w/s1600/IMG_1198.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" height="427" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KtDX2PwJHAo/TsM8hdVRX4I/AAAAAAAAAR4/f07EamP2o-w/s640/IMG_1198.JPG" width="640" /></a> </div>Wha?!? Really? Back in the day I guess.<br />
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<div style="margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-probdGSStmg/TsM8h-INjaI/AAAAAAAAASA/4h0FMI9M2pw/s1600/IMG_1199.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" height="427" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-probdGSStmg/TsM8h-INjaI/AAAAAAAAASA/4h0FMI9M2pw/s640/IMG_1199.JPG" width="640" /></a> </div>They all look bronze-ish to me...<br />
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<div style="margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LgK0iVPIvBM/TsM8iFHYm3I/AAAAAAAAASI/5mYAfalIIK4/s1600/IMG_1200.JPG"> </a> </div><div style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://picasa.google.com/blogger/" target="ext"><img align="middle" alt="Posted by Picasa" border="0" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/pbp.gif" style="-moz-background-clip: initial; -moz-background-inline-policy: initial; -moz-background-origin: initial; background: 0% 50%; border: 0px currentColor; padding: 0px;" /></a></div>Stephhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01441061003224998589noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5685979414076594274.post-17194988709064830862011-11-15T21:27:00.000-07:002011-11-15T21:27:21.111-07:00The Bean!<div style="margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fw2_PsirjRk/TsM2jpEyFUI/AAAAAAAAAOg/cqvE3hONdhY/s1600/IMG_1144.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" height="427" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fw2_PsirjRk/TsM2jpEyFUI/AAAAAAAAAOg/cqvE3hONdhY/s640/IMG_1144.JPG" width="640" /></a> </div><br />
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<div style="margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YmXQ4MRutZs/TsM2j2Kyq2I/AAAAAAAAAOs/BRRF3QPhwr4/s1600/IMG_1147.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" height="427" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YmXQ4MRutZs/TsM2j2Kyq2I/AAAAAAAAAOs/BRRF3QPhwr4/s640/IMG_1147.JPG" width="640" /></a> </div><br />
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<div style="margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fgZ7mr1QdgY/TsM2kRnRGcI/AAAAAAAAAO8/rjn7S6clPhU/s1600/IMG_1148.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" height="427" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fgZ7mr1QdgY/TsM2kRnRGcI/AAAAAAAAAO8/rjn7S6clPhU/s640/IMG_1148.JPG" width="640" /></a> </div><br />
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<div style="margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DmKFuWBpVfU/TsM2lFe-taI/AAAAAAAAAPE/NbwmKUsUukc/s1600/IMG_1153.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" height="427" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DmKFuWBpVfU/TsM2lFe-taI/AAAAAAAAAPE/NbwmKUsUukc/s640/IMG_1153.JPG" width="640" /></a> </div><br />
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<div style="margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-w_t3A8E9unI/TsM2lFa742I/AAAAAAAAAPU/5slxUMolB2M/s1600/IMG_1156.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" height="427" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-w_t3A8E9unI/TsM2lFa742I/AAAAAAAAAPU/5slxUMolB2M/s640/IMG_1156.JPG" width="640" /></a> </div><br />
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<div style="margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KljEoSoccbo/TsM2l44Xj5I/AAAAAAAAAPc/j61FcsLcHzk/s1600/IMG_1157.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" height="457" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KljEoSoccbo/TsM2l44Xj5I/AAAAAAAAAPc/j61FcsLcHzk/s640/IMG_1157.JPG" width="640" /></a> </div><br />
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</div><div style="margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: left;">I was in Chicago last weekend and had an amazing time exploring the city. I can't believe I had never gone before. Since it's such a quick flight from Denver, it's just stupid not to go. </div><div style="margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: left;">I had one day to explore the city and everyone suggested Michigan Avenue. I had heard people discussing <a href="http://gochicago.about.com/od/attractionsandlandmarks/ss/millennium_park_6.htm">the Bean</a> before and I always thought "where could this bean be?" "how much does it weigh?" and "when will it appear?". Well my friends, as it so happens, the bean is located in <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Millennium_Park">Millenium Park</a> in Chicago. It weighs 110 tons and it appeared in front of me when I accidentally strolled into Millenium Park in search of hot dogs.</div><div style="margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: left;">It's just too awesome to take pictures in/on/of not to devote an entire post to. I wanted to take it home with me.</div><div style="margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: left;"></div><div style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://picasa.google.com/blogger/" target="ext"><img align="middle" alt="Posted by Picasa" border="0" src="http://photos1.blogger.com/pbp.gif" style="-moz-background-clip: initial; -moz-background-inline-policy: initial; -moz-background-origin: initial; background: 0% 50%; border: 0px currentColor; padding: 0px;" /></a></div>Stephhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01441061003224998589noreply@blogger.com3Millennium Park, 201 E Randolph St, Chicago, IL 60601-6530, USA41.8820989 -87.62295660000000941.8803269 -87.6247656 41.883870900000005 -87.621147600000015tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5685979414076594274.post-61294718463888186862011-11-10T15:05:00.000-07:002011-11-10T15:05:48.875-07:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oKqMdCZPTig/TrxJI2xdenI/AAAAAAAAAOM/zl5aROS6MEE/s1600/oreo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320px" nda="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oKqMdCZPTig/TrxJI2xdenI/AAAAAAAAAOM/zl5aROS6MEE/s320/oreo.JPG" width="239px" /></a></div>Dear Oreo Cakesters,<br />
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Why did you have to be on sale at Target the other day? You know I can't help myself. You are like a little pillow of love. When I think about you just hanging out in the cabinet above my desk at work I get anxious, but in a good way you know? I like how you have a dark and mysterious exterior but your extra soft on the inside (because you're double stuffed). <br />
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You complete me.<br />
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Love,<br />
StephanieStephhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01441061003224998589noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5685979414076594274.post-87564627466748778102011-10-29T12:59:00.000-06:002011-10-29T12:59:55.585-06:00The new EricksonsHey guys! I've been so busy lately, haven't had much time to blog but it's because I've been doing so many awesome things ;)<br />
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Last weekend I had the special honor of being a bridesmaid in my best friend's wedding back in Omaha. I had such a great time seeing old friends and making new ones.<br />
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I've known Kait since Freshman year of high school and back in the day we would have sleepovers and recite Zoolander all day long. Let's just say that she's grown up a lot more than me. I still quote Zoolander regularly and Kait is in her first year of teaching third grade.<br />
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From the moment I met Kait, she always knew what she wanted. It was like she could describe Jake years before she met him. The way he looked, the kind of car he drove, his hobbies and his demeanor. When I finally got to meet Jake it was like meeting someone I already knew. He was exactly as she had imagined him and she finally found him. I am so happy for the two of them, they deserve all the happiness in the world.<br />
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I'd like to share a few pictures with you from their beautiful wedding:<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xyEdcFIY6WE/Tqw-62_ACqI/AAAAAAAAALs/rH1rwyOO8Z0/s1600/IMG_0909.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xyEdcFIY6WE/Tqw-62_ACqI/AAAAAAAAALs/rH1rwyOO8Z0/s640/IMG_0909.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aOXdtiWscqw/Tqw_F-6_F6I/AAAAAAAAAL0/lX3gIGqY2Uc/s1600/IMG_0916.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aOXdtiWscqw/Tqw_F-6_F6I/AAAAAAAAAL0/lX3gIGqY2Uc/s640/IMG_0916.JPG" width="640" /></a></div> The night before the big day we had a sleepover!!! No Zoolander but it was still good!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yciw3DPbBOc/Tqw_R5TAEMI/AAAAAAAAAL8/c_Fm0Q-gINw/s1600/IMG_0923.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yciw3DPbBOc/Tqw_R5TAEMI/AAAAAAAAAL8/c_Fm0Q-gINw/s640/IMG_0923.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-h_KW-Ev-6As/Tqw_gemxV2I/AAAAAAAAAME/9ga6eSOhyK4/s1600/IMG_0931.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-h_KW-Ev-6As/Tqw_gemxV2I/AAAAAAAAAME/9ga6eSOhyK4/s640/IMG_0931.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"> Talking to her groom the night before the wedding. So sweet.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3Yn2Yr4tTAA/Tqw_r0SmwOI/AAAAAAAAAMM/z0XLqoEUqIg/s1600/IMG_0938.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3Yn2Yr4tTAA/Tqw_r0SmwOI/AAAAAAAAAMM/z0XLqoEUqIg/s640/IMG_0938.JPG" width="640" /></a></div> The lovely Amanda, always helping me with my photos! Check out her awesome blog <a href="http://livingeasilyinspired.blogspot.com/">here</a>.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_P-kAFVbFfQ/Tqw_7fh0rTI/AAAAAAAAAMU/hK_osuSW2PY/s1600/IMG_0965.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_P-kAFVbFfQ/Tqw_7fh0rTI/AAAAAAAAAMU/hK_osuSW2PY/s640/IMG_0965.JPG" width="640" /></a></div> Hair time!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rFdXYz8DBXI/TqxAGyjBACI/AAAAAAAAAMc/oE5Le_7Ygk4/s1600/IMG_1000.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rFdXYz8DBXI/TqxAGyjBACI/AAAAAAAAAMc/oE5Le_7Ygk4/s640/IMG_1000.JPG" width="640" /></a></div> Beautiful.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BebORlWIeaY/TqxATz70mkI/AAAAAAAAAMk/oJZEc7mIv8Y/s1600/IMG_1009.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BebORlWIeaY/TqxATz70mkI/AAAAAAAAAMk/oJZEc7mIv8Y/s640/IMG_1009.JPG" width="426" /></a></div> Putting on the dress. It all came together so beautifully.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-c4DPDZr7aHM/TqxAfBoBuyI/AAAAAAAAAMs/B-q9-iyTyiI/s1600/IMG_1022.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-c4DPDZr7aHM/TqxAfBoBuyI/AAAAAAAAAMs/B-q9-iyTyiI/s640/IMG_1022.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oBIecH6Kj9w/TqxApvzvEmI/AAAAAAAAAM0/LukViDrfiOQ/s1600/IMG_1033.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oBIecH6Kj9w/TqxApvzvEmI/AAAAAAAAAM0/LukViDrfiOQ/s640/IMG_1033.JPG" width="425" /></a></div> Sassy!<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-19RT_NoIWbU/TqxFqp0ehGI/AAAAAAAAANc/Jb0gCOAk5ns/s1600/IMG_1027.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-19RT_NoIWbU/TqxFqp0ehGI/AAAAAAAAANc/Jb0gCOAk5ns/s640/IMG_1027.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5VBZCNhKZPw/TqxFxHE8pmI/AAAAAAAAANk/zkPZGwfQ_5c/s1600/IMG_1028.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5VBZCNhKZPw/TqxFxHE8pmI/AAAAAAAAANk/zkPZGwfQ_5c/s640/IMG_1028.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Stacie, Maid of Honor. I love your mind. I love the way it works. <a href="http://officiallydifferent.blogspot.com/">blog.</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2_iTy7srkTk/TqxF1dM_2gI/AAAAAAAAANs/EJYLJCCTlsU/s1600/IMG_1035.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="601" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2_iTy7srkTk/TqxF1dM_2gI/AAAAAAAAANs/EJYLJCCTlsU/s640/IMG_1035.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WHBSU7oX4h8/TqxF8hV_7eI/AAAAAAAAAN0/gTqG5N4Ld3k/s1600/IMG_1037.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WHBSU7oX4h8/TqxF8hV_7eI/AAAAAAAAAN0/gTqG5N4Ld3k/s640/IMG_1037.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Two of my best girls</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-C-DxPAUJYOw/TqxBNKC2i7I/AAAAAAAAANM/pbAfeFekTus/s1600/IMG_1061.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-C-DxPAUJYOw/TqxBNKC2i7I/AAAAAAAAANM/pbAfeFekTus/s640/IMG_1061.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VoYo8g6DFSc/TqxA_nMuq2I/AAAAAAAAANE/ILIUJhzD3vk/s1600/IMG_1058.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VoYo8g6DFSc/TqxA_nMuq2I/AAAAAAAAANE/ILIUJhzD3vk/s640/IMG_1058.JPG" width="640" /></a></div> Father of the bride's toast<br />
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-alIkcleTiwA/TqxGA1vjYxI/AAAAAAAAAN8/Dq0C29YJ15g/s1600/IMG_1065.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="579" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-alIkcleTiwA/TqxGA1vjYxI/AAAAAAAAAN8/Dq0C29YJ15g/s640/IMG_1065.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Classic and stunning.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</a> Congratulations!<br />
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Not to end on a tacky note but I had to throw this one in here--- on the way out of Nebraska we saw this. Pool. HBO. Beer. 'Nuff saidStephhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01441061003224998589noreply@blogger.com0Platte River State Park, 14421 346th St, Louisville, NE 68037-3001, USA40.9899547 -96.22432200000002940.9838307 -96.249375000000029 40.9960787 -96.199269000000029tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5685979414076594274.post-86710913824135526292011-09-22T20:21:00.000-06:002011-09-22T20:21:17.576-06:00Improvement<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">This past weekend I participated in a photography workshop to improve my photo skillz. The class was about 4 hours long and really informative-- great for beginners like me :) I signed up for it around the same time I ordered my camera and I am so glad that I did it. Before the class I just kind of experimented with my camera and didn't really understand how it works. <a href="http://capturingtrueemotion.com/">Here's the website</a> for the class. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I thought I would share a couple of my photos from the "photo safari" it wasn't quite as exciting as an African safari but it wasn't too bad. We mostly had to practice photographing flowers and buildings so that's what you'll see here, no National Geographic yet. I wish I could say I recommend the safari but there were way to many students for one teacher. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">p.s. I didn't do any editing software on these and my camera is a Cannon digital rebel 1100D. These were shot with an 18-25mm lens. So gimme a shout if you have any tips/tricks/suggestions or whatever.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xTFZ6dSKsLM/Tnfxbq4bgXI/AAAAAAAAAKo/Wv2K4KPC2ss/s1600/IMG_0706.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xTFZ6dSKsLM/Tnfxbq4bgXI/AAAAAAAAAKo/Wv2K4KPC2ss/s640/IMG_0706.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wCXwtSXvmyc/Tnvrrd8mUqI/AAAAAAAAALo/ft1oCw8uAJo/s1600/IMG_0755.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wCXwtSXvmyc/Tnvrrd8mUqI/AAAAAAAAALo/ft1oCw8uAJo/s640/IMG_0755.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3TCz9bxr2SQ/TnfxwDtc3WI/AAAAAAAAAKw/1SZApbb5u6k/s1600/IMG_0809.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3TCz9bxr2SQ/TnfxwDtc3WI/AAAAAAAAAKw/1SZApbb5u6k/s640/IMG_0809.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">After I got home I walked around the lake by my house and took a few more shots:</div> <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5sWoqC4S8IU/TnfzUdbjC1I/AAAAAAAAALQ/QSnYbuGhulA/s1600/IMG_0872.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5sWoqC4S8IU/TnfzUdbjC1I/AAAAAAAAALQ/QSnYbuGhulA/s640/IMG_0872.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Improvement-- especially if you look back at some of my older posts!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Have a lovely evening!</div>Stephhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01441061003224998589noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5685979414076594274.post-46917634179963072172011-09-19T19:24:00.000-06:002011-09-19T19:24:39.575-06:00It's here....Autumn! Yay! My absolute favorite season is finally here! To celebrate I wanted to combine some of my favorite early fall flavors and make a salad. I also wanted to prove to my dad that homemade vinaigrette is way freakin' better than the stuff in the bottle so here you go my friends:<br />
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Johnny Apple Salad and Cornbread Puddin':<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ijg9be8Q_Kk/Tnfn7j0SCoI/AAAAAAAAAKY/WDcly045OKo/s1600/IMG_0883.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ijg9be8Q_Kk/Tnfn7j0SCoI/AAAAAAAAAKY/WDcly045OKo/s640/IMG_0883.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">For the salad:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Package of Spring Mix</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">5 strips of bacon, cooked to a crisp and crumbled</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">2 Gala apples, diced</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">1 Small shallot, minced</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">1/2 Cup toasted almonds</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">4 T Olive oil</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">1 t Apple cider vinegar</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">1 glug of runny hunny</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Salt and Pepper to taste</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">To make the vinaigrette, combine the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, salt, pepper, and shallot. Add the lettuce, almonds, apples and toss. Sprinkle with the bacon and almonds and enjoy!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Cornbread puddin':</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">2 14.75 oz cans of creamed corn</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">3/4 C Sour cream</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">1 package of Jiffy cornbread mix</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">1 egg</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">1 stick of melted butter</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Combine all ingredients and pour into a greased casserole dish. Bake at 350 degrees for 45 minutes and serve warm.</div><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">enjoy!</div>Stephhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01441061003224998589noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5685979414076594274.post-11464110100162728882011-08-31T08:05:00.000-06:002011-08-31T08:05:57.123-06:00Seattle Day two! Sometimes family vacations sometimes get a little weird....<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Like the fact that the sun was shining in Seattle. Not what I was expecting but I enjoyed it.</div><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Good news! My paleness was not out of the ordinary in Seattle. There were pale people everywhere. I felt so loved and accepted that I wore shorts. </div><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">There were flowers everywhere and I cannot even explain their affordability. Huge bouquets were like $10 which is unheard of in Denver.</div><br />
Now I'll be quiet and let the food do the talkin'<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dp36H0b_cV0/TlsPqvJUggI/AAAAAAAAAJE/TZsgnmh0D94/s1600/IMG_0242.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="302px" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dp36H0b_cV0/TlsPqvJUggI/AAAAAAAAAJE/TZsgnmh0D94/s640/IMG_0242.JPG" width="640px" /></a></div><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Chowda! Just as good on the West Coast</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KkqyBXRQRG8/TlsRcECRDsI/AAAAAAAAAJo/V3WnjmZH3Yw/s1600/IMG_0264.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="338px" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KkqyBXRQRG8/TlsRcECRDsI/AAAAAAAAAJo/V3WnjmZH3Yw/s640/IMG_0264.JPG" width="640px" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SdxDnL1z6Rc/TlsRirVoCjI/AAAAAAAAAJs/B0ZULaoZGZs/s1600/IMG_0268.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="316px" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SdxDnL1z6Rc/TlsRirVoCjI/AAAAAAAAAJs/B0ZULaoZGZs/s640/IMG_0268.JPG" width="640px" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8AuXEADZd6A/TlsRvguPK5I/AAAAAAAAAJw/6RmYArnVxts/s1600/IMG_0274.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426px" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8AuXEADZd6A/TlsRvguPK5I/AAAAAAAAAJw/6RmYArnVxts/s640/IMG_0274.JPG" width="640px" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">We went to the EMP <a href="http://www.empmuseum.org/index.asp">(Experience Music Project)</a> by the Space Needle! Probably the best museum I have been to in a long time, I highly recommend checking it out. We actually got in fo' free! The place was only open for another hour and a half so we asked the guy if there was a discount, apparently the discount was 'free'. Thank you EMP guy, you made our day.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">They had a really great Nirvana exhibit but I loved the Jimi Hendrix exhibit and I got to see his Woodstock Fender Stratocaster. If you're there, check out the Sound Lab too, they have interactive stations where you can learn differnent instruments. They also have jam studios where you and your sisters can act like total idiots and feel like rockstars for 10 minutes.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div>I tried to scrounge up some more pictures but my memory card crapped out on me halfway through the trip, what the eff?!?! It was brand new! I lost a ton of pictures but I'm still working on retrieving the rest.<br />
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Here's a few pictures from where we stayed on Camano Island, our cabin was just 2 blocks from the ocean:<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6uuPux92uk0/Tl49qYZ57nI/AAAAAAAAAJ8/-hzpqjLOF8E/s1600/IMG_0384.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426px" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6uuPux92uk0/Tl49qYZ57nI/AAAAAAAAAJ8/-hzpqjLOF8E/s640/IMG_0384.JPG" width="640px" xaa="true" /></a><br />
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-k0r0MrEsaK0/Tl49vZTbtyI/AAAAAAAAAKA/uUmNmrElMJA/s1600/IMG_0385.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426px" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-k0r0MrEsaK0/Tl49vZTbtyI/AAAAAAAAAKA/uUmNmrElMJA/s640/IMG_0385.JPG" width="640px" xaa="true" /></a><br />
Lindsay told us there was an abundance of crabs walking along the shore but when we got there we didn't find any! I'm a midwestern girl so I've never really seen so much "sea stuff" the only way I can describe it. Not exactly a beach for laying out on but it was beautiful.Stephhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01441061003224998589noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5685979414076594274.post-50163694658627602672011-08-28T21:39:00.000-06:002011-08-28T21:39:52.928-06:00Oh, hey!<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;"><div style="text-align: left;">Woah, where have you been?!?! Oh, my bad. That was me who didn't blog for about three months. Ooops. Oh well, I have some pictures, we went to Washington! Here's day one:</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LOZoYTKdkg8/TlsD-MrovUI/AAAAAAAAAIQ/-XRBsAQXcuU/s1600/IMG_0174.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LOZoYTKdkg8/TlsD-MrovUI/AAAAAAAAAIQ/-XRBsAQXcuU/s640/IMG_0174.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
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Rachael and Lindsay hanging out at a little coffee shop we had breakfast at the first day in Washington. SO MUCH FOOD.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-p7tccpZ2ISA/TlsEJT95WeI/AAAAAAAAAIU/8rQDnTWD_j4/s1600/IMG_0175.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-p7tccpZ2ISA/TlsEJT95WeI/AAAAAAAAAIU/8rQDnTWD_j4/s640/IMG_0175.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
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</tbody></table>My brother David came along too! He likes his phone :)<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VHpR7jdO7VQ/TlsETDUth_I/AAAAAAAAAIY/Yb4EkhHeQJM/s1600/IMG_0181.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VHpR7jdO7VQ/TlsETDUth_I/AAAAAAAAAIY/Yb4EkhHeQJM/s640/IMG_0181.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
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</tbody></table>Dad was happy to be in Seattle. This is actually supposed to be a picture of the sign behind him. It was a shop that sold vintage art. However, I misread the sign and thought it said "Vintage Farts" and almost peed my pants.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GdSGNY-cljo/TlsEe7ogR_I/AAAAAAAAAIc/-8ivGWZWDq4/s1600/IMG_0192.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GdSGNY-cljo/TlsEe7ogR_I/AAAAAAAAAIc/-8ivGWZWDq4/s640/IMG_0192.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I was able to capture an image of David spitting something from his mouth at a high speed. This is probably the photo I am most proud of after recently upgrading my camera.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uUM9CsYpK1w/TlsEs8lqRGI/AAAAAAAAAIg/sBJaJumcVzk/s1600/IMG_0194.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uUM9CsYpK1w/TlsEs8lqRGI/AAAAAAAAAIg/sBJaJumcVzk/s640/IMG_0194.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Hey pretty sisters!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">We went to a little parade in the town near where we were staying. Here's a taste of some local flavor from Washington:</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--vAd2YmoSX8/TlsE83-rSyI/AAAAAAAAAIk/LTjLKUHFstA/s1600/IMG_0195.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--vAd2YmoSX8/TlsE83-rSyI/AAAAAAAAAIk/LTjLKUHFstA/s640/IMG_0195.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Okay, what's scarier?</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YurK1KsbWFI/TlsFK2Hg1oI/AAAAAAAAAIo/VCnCLYDyEIw/s1600/IMG_0197.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YurK1KsbWFI/TlsFK2Hg1oI/AAAAAAAAAIo/VCnCLYDyEIw/s640/IMG_0197.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">My father, shaming us children for not crossing the parade route IN THE MIDDLE OF THE PARADE to search for food. </div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EV3nMPaGuH4/TlsFa-uEfLI/AAAAAAAAAIs/SwrQtITZYXM/s1600/IMG_0207.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EV3nMPaGuH4/TlsFa-uEfLI/AAAAAAAAAIs/SwrQtITZYXM/s640/IMG_0207.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Ejx3W0Nztis/TlsFm7ySt1I/AAAAAAAAAIw/b72gFrnUWws/s1600/IMG_0211.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Ejx3W0Nztis/TlsFm7ySt1I/AAAAAAAAAIw/b72gFrnUWws/s640/IMG_0211.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Tomorrow: Day two!Stephhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01441061003224998589noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5685979414076594274.post-56863122725801685442011-05-13T17:52:00.001-06:002011-05-13T19:08:00.033-06:00Happy Friday!Here's some links: <br />
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From <a href="http://shitmystudentswrite.tumblr.com/">S*** my Students write</a>, <a href="http://shitmystudentswrite.tumblr.com/post/4720558508/wily-like-a-fox">this had me in a laughing fit today</a>. Okay <a href="http://shitmystudentswrite.tumblr.com/post/4691897073/sodom-did-a-lot-for-sex">this one</a> and <a href="http://shitmystudentswrite.tumblr.com/post/4529524310/pre-megans-law">this one</a> did too. In fact just check out the whole site, I dare you not to pee your pants.<br />
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<a href="http://consumerist.com/2011/05/lady-weeps-with-joy-as-new-in-n-out-opens.html">Only in Texas</a><br />
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Plus... Jellies are a thing again! I bought a pair last weekend <a href="http://reviews.dsw.com/2752/187525/sm-sm-womens-swirly-flat-reviews/reviews.htm?page=5">at DSW</a>. The plasticky shoe smell of my childhood is in the air and I'm loving every minute of it!!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Omc0msrpO4k/Tc3AVHETHjI/AAAAAAAAAHo/qtJTgobrAZM/s1600/jellies2.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" j8="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Omc0msrpO4k/Tc3AVHETHjI/AAAAAAAAAHo/qtJTgobrAZM/s1600/jellies2.gif" /></a></div><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.coolinfographics.com/blog/2011/5/10/sitting-all-day-is-killing-you-infographic.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+CoolInfographics+%28Cool+Infographics%29">Sitting all day is killing you</a> --- ain't that the truth! I've been taking daily walks to get away from my desk</div><br />
<a href="http://www.tvsquad.com/2011/05/12/ashton-kutcher-next-in-line-for-two-and-a-half-men/">They're continuing this show?</a> God help us.<br />
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1617750255/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=acoj-20&linkCode=as2&camp=217145&creative=399349&creativeASIN=1617750255">Can't wait till this book comes out!</a><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://first-avenue.com/files/images/performer/portugal_the_man.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425px" j8="true" src="http://first-avenue.com/files/images/performer/portugal_the_man.jpg" width="640px" /></a></div><br />
Going to see <a href="http://www.portugaltheman.com/">Portugal the Man</a> this weekend at <a href="http://bluebirdtheater.net/">the Bluebird</a>... can't wait! Last time we tried to go for Amanda's bachelorette and it was sold out and it was my fault. bummer.<br />
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Have a lovely weekend!Stephhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01441061003224998589noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5685979414076594274.post-54610226390232456232011-05-12T11:22:00.000-06:002011-05-13T14:35:22.382-06:00Warning: Some of you may find this boring.But I don't! I got home from Omaha on Monday night and I'm still trying to catch up from my busy weekend! I still need to upload all the pictures from my computer but in the meantime I thought I would share this great article I found from Ashley at <a href="http://moneytalkscoaching.com/">Money Talks</a>. If you have time you should check out her blog. She gives great advice on personal finance and Lord knows I need all the help I can get. <br />
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<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jzREfFVPSN4/Tcwar3AOrDI/AAAAAAAAAHk/1SPEGckc8Oo/s1600/social_security.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="195px" j8="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jzREfFVPSN4/Tcwar3AOrDI/AAAAAAAAAHk/1SPEGckc8Oo/s320/social_security.png" width="320px" /></a></div><br />
Anyway, she wrote a <a href="http://moneytalkscoaching.com/2011/05/an-argument-for-privatizing-social-security/">very interesting article on privatizing Social Security</a>. I've always heard how there will be none left for people in my generation but it helps to see why and what might be done to make some changes. It always hurts a little bit when I look at my paystub to see that money being put into a system that doesn't work too well anymore.<br />
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So if you have any interest in this, take a look! Check back later, I do plan on posting some pictures from Omaha eventually...Stephhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01441061003224998589noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5685979414076594274.post-60679804842410661912011-05-05T14:49:00.001-06:002011-05-05T15:48:56.261-06:00Guess where I'll be this weekend... <br />
<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;"><img alt="Advertising History" src="http://ny-image3.etsy.com/il_570xN.185389727.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="570px" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/59590275/advertising-history?ref=sr_gallery_27&ga_search_query=Omaha&ga_page=8&ga_search_type=all&ga_facet=">Advertising History</a> by <a href="http://www.etsy.com/people/FrozenTimePhoto?ref=ls_profile">Brandon Addis</a> on <a href="http://www.etsy.com/?ref=si_home">Etsy </a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>I know it sounds like a pretty lame town to some but it's home to me! I'm excited to see my friends and family and be able to spend Mother's Day with my mom.<br />
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If you have ever thought about visiting Omaha, I highly reccomend it! Here is a list of some of my favorite spots:<br />
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Entertainment:<br />
<a href="http://www.omahazoo.com/">Henry Doorly Zoo</a><br />
<a href="http://www.omahaperformingarts.org/">Orpheum Theater</a><br />
<a href="http://www.oldmarket.com/">The Old Market</a><br />
<a href="http://www.omahabotanicalgardens.org/">Botanic Gardens</a><br />
<a href="http://www.durhammuseum.org/">Durham Western Heritage Museum</a><br />
<a href="http://www.joslyn.org/">Joslyn Art Museum</a><br />
<a href="http://www.bemiscenter.org/">Bemis Center</a><br />
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Food:<br />
<a href="http://www.yelp.com/biz/johnny-sortinos-pizza-parlor-omaha">Johnny Sortino's </a><br />
<a href="http://www.yelp.com/biz/la-casa-pizzeria-omaha-2">La Casa's Pizza</a> (<em>Best pizza in the world</em>...)<br />
<a href="http://www.yelp.com/biz/gorats-steak-house-omaha">Gorat's</a> <em>(You might see Warren Buffett here)</em><br />
<a href="http://www.yelp.com/biz/ms-pub-omaha">M's Pub</a><br />
<a href="http://www.yelp.com/biz/upstream-brewing-company-omaha">Upstream Brewing Company</a><br />
<a href="http://www.yelp.com/biz/anthonys-restaurant-and-cocktail-lounge-omaha">Anthony's Restaurant</a><br />
<a href="http://www.caffeinedreams.net/">Caffeine Dreams</a><br />
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Outdoors-y<br />
<a href="http://nebraskastateparks.reserveamerica.com/campgroundDetails.do?topTableIndex=CampingSpot&contractCode=ne&parkCode=0273">Mahoney State Park</a><br />
<a href="http://www.fontenelleforest.org/">Fontenelle Forest</a><br />
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Music:<br />
<a href="http://www.theslowdown.com/">The Slowdown</a><br />
<a href="http://www.waitingroomlounge.com/">The Waiting Room</a><br />
<a href="http://sokolunderground.intuitwebsites.com/">Sokol</a><br />
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This is by no means an exhaustive list... I just decided to make a little one before I take off. Add more suggestions in the comments! I need to go home and pack my bags then I will be on my way! <br />
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<a href="http://www.visitomaha.com/visitors/things-to-do/attractions/">Here's the Omaha tourism website</a><br />
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My weekend starts now!Stephhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01441061003224998589noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5685979414076594274.post-76632806136292791382011-05-02T19:09:00.000-06:002011-05-02T19:09:07.685-06:00The Original Hipsters<a href="http://dadsaretheoriginalhipster.tumblr.com/page/2">This made me laugh today</a>, Dads are the Original Hipsters<br />
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<img alt="Your dad ate local fair trade produce before you did and he has dirt under his finger nails to prove it. Your dad had a green thumb and leather tanned neck. He worked in the garden and grew his own food, not because he had to, but because he wanted to. So hipsters, next time you&#8217;re asking the waitress if the tomatoes in your salad were ethically grown, locally produced, fair trade, sustainable and if the workers were given a livable wage, remember this&#8230;
Your dad was the leader of the eating local trend, he contributed to society and you&#8217;re just a giant succubus at the teat of it, who contributes nothing, but feels the need to bitch about everything&#8230;
and to conclude this conclusion, grow up hipsters, grow a pair and add something to culture other than shitty art and bad music." height="435" src="http://24.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_ljchdfwbBR1qghsqpo1_500.png" width="640" /><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white; font-family: Futura, Georgia, Helvetica, Arial, serif; font-size: 14px;">"Your dad ate local fair trade produce before you did and he has dirt under his finger nails to prove it."</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white; font-family: Futura, Georgia, Helvetica, Arial, serif; font-size: 14px;"><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white; font-family: Futura, Georgia, Helvetica, Arial, serif; font-size: 14px;"><img alt="Your dad went to dance parties before you did. Long before you were grinding up against some poor hipster girl wearing an American Apparel jazz jumper at a Steve Aoki concert, your dad was showing honey dips his hip swivels. Every move you make, including that slightly hunched arm dangle seizure shake you do, he did first. The only person with more patents on originality is Thomas Edison.
So hipsters, next time you&#8217;re rocking a tank, poppin&#8217; some molly and headed out for the night, remember this&#8230;
your dad was the original dancing machine.
P.S. - Take a fucking shower already, you sweat when you dance and I don&#8217;t want to have to smell you the next day when I&#8217;m trying to enjoy brunch." height="492" src="http://25.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_lixnsrRoBA1qghsqpo1_500.png" width="640" /></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white; font-family: Futura, Georgia, Helvetica, Arial, serif; font-size: 14px;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white; font-family: Futura, Georgia, Helvetica, Arial, serif; font-size: 14px;">"Your dad went to dance parties before you did. Long before you were grinding up against some poor hipster girl wearing an American Apparel jazz jumper at a Steve Aoki concert, your dad was showing honey dips his hip swivels"</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white; font-family: Futura, Georgia, Helvetica, Arial, serif; font-size: 14px;"><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white; font-family: Futura, Georgia, Helvetica, Arial, serif; font-size: 14px;"><img alt="Your dad had a mustache before you did. He rocked one the bitching-est lip sweaters on his block. It&#8217;s why your mom put out in the back of his El Camino and why her friend Becky wished they would break up. He was awesome and his mustache was original. So next time Movember rolls around, maybe you should stop dousing your pathetic pubic stache in Rogain and call up dad for some lip scarf growing advice." height="640" src="http://27.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_lfwrwj46Gm1qghsqpo1_500.jpg" width="597" /></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white; font-family: Futura, Georgia, Helvetica, Arial, serif; font-size: 14px;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white; font-family: Futura, Georgia, Helvetica, Arial, serif; font-size: 14px;">"Your dad had a mustache before you did. He rocked one the bitching-est lip sweaters on his block."</span>Stephhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01441061003224998589noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5685979414076594274.post-25790310459381548372011-05-02T08:51:00.000-06:002011-05-02T08:51:55.348-06:00Its a Beautiful Mornin'!It's a better world now that Osama Bin Laden is no longer in it!<br />
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Lindsay and David had to go back to New Hampshire but I got to spend Saturday with them! We got to do a sisters sleepover on Friday after we ate dinner at Panera and Rachael came over for a 'spa night'. I was really tired so 'spa night' consisted of me watching Lindsay and Rachael paint their nails on my living room floor. We were too sleepy to do our homemade spa facials but we had a good time like we usually do!<br />
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The next morning we were ready to wake up early to do the <a href="http://www.marchforbabies.org/">March of Dimes walk</a>. The weather was supposed to be really bad but I woke up at 6:00 and decided we were going. Apparently the rest of my family decided they were not going. Lindsay and I were on our way when we called Rachael and our step-mom Janet who were still sleeping. The wind was crazy and we hadn't even walked one block when Lindsay started walking like a creep. She had blisters on her feet from her new shoes so we decided to turn around and go to breakfast (I still donated money to the March of Dimes for for all they know, I did walk... just in case you were concerned)<br />
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Before we went out, Lindsay cleaned my kitchen! I found her doing this:<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eoxRJczeYbk/Tb4IBWJzW6I/AAAAAAAAAG8/PZ8Ll31_nKY/s1600/IMG_2591.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640px" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eoxRJczeYbk/Tb4IBWJzW6I/AAAAAAAAAG8/PZ8Ll31_nKY/s640/IMG_2591.JPG" width="480px" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Thanks again Lindz!</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tkchIiY0Q2Y/Tb4ICYT17bI/AAAAAAAAAHE/ZP0VUqPkDs4/s1600/IMG_2600.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480px" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tkchIiY0Q2Y/Tb4ICYT17bI/AAAAAAAAAHE/ZP0VUqPkDs4/s640/IMG_2600.JPG" width="640px" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We went to Moe's, I highly recommend it! The place was packed though</td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yLcPk5szRPo/Tb4IB-Wo_3I/AAAAAAAAAHA/EqKwoPaaktw/s1600/IMG_2597.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480px" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yLcPk5szRPo/Tb4IB-Wo_3I/AAAAAAAAAHA/EqKwoPaaktw/s640/IMG_2597.JPG" width="640px" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We did manage to get some seats and I had the Denver breakfast sandwich and my daily dose of caffeine</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_KO91JDCMmQ/Tb4IC93ZULI/AAAAAAAAAHI/9y8hyUXCeqs/s1600/IMG_2601.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640px" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_KO91JDCMmQ/Tb4IC93ZULI/AAAAAAAAAHI/9y8hyUXCeqs/s640/IMG_2601.JPG" width="480px" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lindsay likes to model</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZY74sxOoFhs/Tb4IDfiO7ZI/AAAAAAAAAHM/L9qrurC1uYM/s1600/IMG_2602.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480px" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZY74sxOoFhs/Tb4IDfiO7ZI/AAAAAAAAAHM/L9qrurC1uYM/s640/IMG_2602.JPG" width="640px" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I was a little messy with my sandwich. Then we realized that I got onion on <i>The Onion</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table> After a little brekkie, we decided to do some thrifting! I love the thrill of the hunt!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1NOwHFbY59Y/Tb4K19GRWTI/AAAAAAAAAHY/vhA4nYqEyyA/s1600/IMG_2615.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="273px" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1NOwHFbY59Y/Tb4K19GRWTI/AAAAAAAAAHY/vhA4nYqEyyA/s320/IMG_2615.JPG" width="320px" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Here's what I picked up. I feel like I tell people this all the time but I love going to thrift stores for books. I always find some great stuff and I think I only spend about $15.00 on all of these books. You don't go to find what you're looking for, but every once and a while you can pick up some good stuff. This reminded me of a post I just read on one of my favorite blogs, <a href="http://www.budgetsaresexy.com/">Budgets Are Sexy</a>. J. Money wrote a <a href="http://www.budgetsaresexy.com/2011/04/should-only-poor-people-shop-at-thrift-stores/">great post about thrift stores</a> and how some people think only poor people should shop there. I would love to hear your thoughts and I think you know what side of the fence I'm on!</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LIM1hWocL4M/Tb4ID7jxslI/AAAAAAAAAHQ/lQHx1Ni3now/s1600/IMG_2608.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480px" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LIM1hWocL4M/Tb4ID7jxslI/AAAAAAAAAHQ/lQHx1Ni3now/s640/IMG_2608.JPG" width="640px" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Lindsay got David a mini hockey game and I thought it was too hilarious not to take a picture of. David missed out on the thrifting because he and my Dad went to the shooting range that morning.</div><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tIQRLfql5Xg/Tb4IEkD7SKI/AAAAAAAAAHU/VloIM1jqRWs/s1600/IMG_2611.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="486px" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tIQRLfql5Xg/Tb4IEkD7SKI/AAAAAAAAAHU/VloIM1jqRWs/s640/IMG_2611.JPG" width="640px" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">p.s. Stella got a haircut! She looks like she's missing her legs in this photo but I swear they're still there.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Stephhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01441061003224998589noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5685979414076594274.post-19336764052313133602011-05-01T19:03:00.000-06:002011-05-01T19:03:05.940-06:00Spring BreakYeah right, I wish I still got a Spring Break. I sort of felt like I was on vacation though even though I did have to work. My younger brother and sister were in town on Spring Break from New Hampshire! We had a lot of fun this past week, I miss them already.<br />
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When the Selden kids get together, we get a little crazy. I should have taken more pictures.. I didn't get any with Miss Rachael<br />
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Sorry in advance for the poor quality of the pictures, need a new camera!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-meLuXi1yuMA/Tb34r7epTPI/AAAAAAAAAF0/zCoGWZpxBHo/s1600/IMG_2550.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="476" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-meLuXi1yuMA/Tb34r7epTPI/AAAAAAAAAF0/zCoGWZpxBHo/s640/IMG_2550.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">David and I at church on Easter</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VuiFmeEyBa4/Tb34sDQtIVI/AAAAAAAAAF4/ve4wtH76ecI/s1600/IMG_2551.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VuiFmeEyBa4/Tb34sDQtIVI/AAAAAAAAAF4/ve4wtH76ecI/s640/IMG_2551.JPG" width="380" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lindsay looking lovely... so excited for Spring!</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div>We went bowling.. kind of our tradition. Next time we need to remember to go to the happy hour bowling, we went at about five and it was pricey... but worth it<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--Mi6vIyvHPE/Tb34t7PLNWI/AAAAAAAAAGI/vW7A74w4xpo/s1600/IMG_2555.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--Mi6vIyvHPE/Tb34t7PLNWI/AAAAAAAAAGI/vW7A74w4xpo/s640/IMG_2555.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lindz had a split</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-K_9688TbRQY/Tb34u4-8VTI/AAAAAAAAAGQ/jupan0TZ52w/s1600/IMG_2557.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="374" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-K_9688TbRQY/Tb34u4-8VTI/AAAAAAAAAGQ/jupan0TZ52w/s640/IMG_2557.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me, kicking their butts</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Z1k0l_7jUTI/Tb34vfHx0XI/AAAAAAAAAGU/K0XdFrxOdRs/s1600/IMG_2558.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="592" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Z1k0l_7jUTI/Tb34vfHx0XI/AAAAAAAAAGU/K0XdFrxOdRs/s640/IMG_2558.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Good form David!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MAFCx3PN67k/Tb37wDglqWI/AAAAAAAAAGw/AU8pnrkkaok/s1600/page.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MAFCx3PN67k/Tb37wDglqWI/AAAAAAAAAGw/AU8pnrkkaok/s640/page.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Someone likes to make fun of my cellular telephone</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sWlxVPd0zBI/Tb34vxpzVvI/AAAAAAAAAGY/fmQoXIR83lM/s1600/IMG_2560.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sWlxVPd0zBI/Tb34vxpzVvI/AAAAAAAAAGY/fmQoXIR83lM/s640/IMG_2560.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nice shewz.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YOwVSI8uLTY/Tb34wVoLYoI/AAAAAAAAAGc/nJWg-p7Ndms/s1600/IMG_2562.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YOwVSI8uLTY/Tb34wVoLYoI/AAAAAAAAAGc/nJWg-p7Ndms/s640/IMG_2562.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Can you see that? I bowled 100. boo-ya</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RNs65SyQBss/Tb4AVCvYH3I/AAAAAAAAAG0/JwXQvVCloj8/s1600/IMG_2573.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RNs65SyQBss/Tb4AVCvYH3I/AAAAAAAAAG0/JwXQvVCloj8/s640/IMG_2573.JPG" width="534" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The jukebox</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-I4dsBXrY4NQ/Tb34xT71RrI/AAAAAAAAAGk/2XJB_Cy05Uc/s1600/IMG_2574.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-I4dsBXrY4NQ/Tb34xT71RrI/AAAAAAAAAGk/2XJB_Cy05Uc/s640/IMG_2574.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I thought you wanted to be a Veterinarian?</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
Played a little pool too!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dQTZpZNSkmM/Tb34xw9iIuI/AAAAAAAAAGo/KLtCoZuMVbk/s1600/IMG_2577.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dQTZpZNSkmM/Tb34xw9iIuI/AAAAAAAAAGo/KLtCoZuMVbk/s640/IMG_2577.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NeeqeEBALUk/Tb34yTqwr5I/AAAAAAAAAGs/E9f-HBVeQek/s1600/IMG_2581.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NeeqeEBALUk/Tb34yTqwr5I/AAAAAAAAAGs/E9f-HBVeQek/s640/IMG_2581.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6PnOjMFGLWY/Tb4BOEZAiCI/AAAAAAAAAG4/9IfgefcCL7A/s1600/IMG_2584.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="340" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6PnOjMFGLWY/Tb4BOEZAiCI/AAAAAAAAAG4/9IfgefcCL7A/s640/IMG_2584.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Smashburger.. yum<br />
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</tbody></table>We went to see Limitless after that which was pretty good. Got a little crazy at the end but I would wait for it to come out on Redbox.<br />
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More to come!</div>Stephhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01441061003224998589noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5685979414076594274.post-86973895495235368202011-04-28T11:02:00.000-06:002011-04-28T11:02:57.131-06:00FamousHey guys! Long time no post, which I was kindly reminded of by my lovely friend Stacie over at <a href="http://officiallydifferent.blogspot.com/">Officially Different</a>! At least someone is reading... <br />
<br />
So I can now officially add writer, producer, and director to my resume because of <a href="http://www.centuranews.org/repository/newsletters/Photos/CorpAssoc/2020%20Champions%20Code%20You%20videos/Corp%20109_tale%20of%20timmy.swf">this ultra fun/cheesy video</a> I did for work! Don't laugh too hard but I make a cameo appearance as "Susan".<br />
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More posts to come--- I have family in town so we have been having lots of adventures over the past few days and I can't wait to share what I've been up to!<br />
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Toodles!<br />
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p.s. if the link to the video doesn't work, let me know :)Stephhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01441061003224998589noreply@blogger.com2