tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-47183686686027522632024-03-05T18:46:24.934-08:00seeking charmClairehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18088299004360278265noreply@blogger.comBlogger30125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4718368668602752263.post-2729690420641009842012-12-26T12:00:00.001-08:002012-12-26T12:00:33.333-08:00wrap battle...<div align="center">
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">One thing I love about Christmas is the giving part.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;">I love to shop.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;">I love to buy gifts.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;">I'm addicted to that part of Christmas. And one of the best parts, for me, of giving, is the presentation.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;">A picture of my gifts under the tree...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"> The precious animal paper was a gift given to me from someone who knew how much I loved to wrap. It is so loved.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Our big theme this year was 'woodland'. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Story of the woodland: every year my husband and I shop after Christmas for the next years paper, etc. My husband fell in love with the woodland paper at World Market. Me, not so much. I spent most of the year toiling over how to make this paper pretty and special. <span style="font-size: xx-small;">(call me silly, doubt my words, but I promise you, I probably spent 347 hours thinking about it)</span> Enter wooden tags idea, which my husband made. Enter die-cut ribbon, which I found at Michael's. and of course, top it off with a little paper raffia. BOOM! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Close up of my favorite tag. The opposite side said the name of who the gift was for.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Naughty and Nice was the paper theme I picked last year. Cute, but I have to hand it to Justin, the woodland really does have that extra something special...</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieRQLyX1maEaJCDScT4aeFw_XQpEK_5ZSUwrDfsF-f4_CLjiyU3W9w19rq-fU464J5bxfnY4F5-zODbJ25ga22INjqD0pOGz29HPg_0vawR7WdQ-BYO8ZpAZ1StfrHLvJZ3fluj0Au7lgT/s1600/DSC_0659.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieRQLyX1maEaJCDScT4aeFw_XQpEK_5ZSUwrDfsF-f4_CLjiyU3W9w19rq-fU464J5bxfnY4F5-zODbJ25ga22INjqD0pOGz29HPg_0vawR7WdQ-BYO8ZpAZ1StfrHLvJZ3fluj0Au7lgT/s320/DSC_0659.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Another shot of our packages, oh, so pretty.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;">We're headed out to shop for next year's paper. And we will be stopping at World Market because we saw earlier this year that they had woodland again and we're hoping to grab a few more rolls for next year.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;">So, my advice to all of those bargain shoppers headed out today to prep for next year's packages: Let your husbands pick a few rolls of giftwrap. They may end up being your favorites next year. And, if not, they're 70% off anyway.</span></div>
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<img height="63" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7OdRuLb4vl8bNYjKKPJ6oESYrpyxjd0swH4DNOitRFWLpyoKZ1T3YVsQP_Z_3WcgceIDMZirSKKdv_11Suw1QJ8Sv-4IcK8SETJAJU_fv6g9cflFX94L6YknqVN0xoRrbqbgCKiG1w4ax/s320/DSC_0655.JPG" style="left: 391px; opacity: 0.3; position: absolute; top: 1047px;" width="96" />Clairehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18088299004360278265noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4718368668602752263.post-24938939991203103912012-12-25T18:08:00.000-08:002012-12-25T18:08:02.674-08:00Christmas update.<div align="center">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">Merry Christmas!!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">What you don't know is that the above and below are both possible Christmas card pictures that never mailed out.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;">Alas, Merry Christmas from myself, the husband, Lilly and J.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">We've had a lovely Christmas at home with family. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">This month has meant a lot of travelling for us.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Here's a picture of our travels last week (Ah-mazing):</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">And our travels this week:</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYj0HFk0VIV3_TzhLkch49X5DgKGSD7K1Wich3SeIDBkUYabuhxUTbmdaV1zDha86dAH2G8_bv46RHU9DlHRssqRenZRa1V67EpJCRWrjHwf7cIfb1PoQM_fygK8fTMJiErRswjJmQiJoR/s1600/cold+in+Philly.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYj0HFk0VIV3_TzhLkch49X5DgKGSD7K1Wich3SeIDBkUYabuhxUTbmdaV1zDha86dAH2G8_bv46RHU9DlHRssqRenZRa1V67EpJCRWrjHwf7cIfb1PoQM_fygK8fTMJiErRswjJmQiJoR/s320/cold+in+Philly.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Bleh, it was cold in Philly, yet WONDERFUL in the DR. We really loved our mid-cold vacation and I got sick as soon as we landed in the US. More to come on our Dominican vacation.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">We returned to lots of really sad and heart-wrenching news, and have spent a lot of time talking, praying and dealing with it all.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Nonetheless, it was a happy Christmas.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">What did you do for the holidays? Any traveling?</span></div>
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Clairehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18088299004360278265noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4718368668602752263.post-6020783598896377332012-12-02T19:20:00.001-08:002012-12-02T19:20:35.816-08:00I'm still alive.....<div style="text-align: center;">
October and November have tried to suck the life out of me. </div>
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But they lost.</div>
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I will survive.</div>
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There have been some major changes. I'm trying to stay optimistic. I'm looking for the bright side.</div>
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And, with all the downs, there certainly has been a lot of brightness in my life.</div>
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My sister had her twins.</div>
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Boy: Daxlee Sabo</div>
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Girl: Bodie Flynne</div>
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They are perfect.</div>
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And they are a miracle.</div>
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Which means...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivdgLYAIWqCDlz-42tYGtzeclWZnJ_qCUTCMBrfVA1KqHmAX0n6za2KnOUz-j74Veh10yMghxCXI9AX1t3OmCf2RhNkqpmqY4K6Yk9cnATHOXW2IEuTR3q0mOym9Iw2dzOnATACEEjp1i_/s1600/Justin's+an+uncle.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivdgLYAIWqCDlz-42tYGtzeclWZnJ_qCUTCMBrfVA1KqHmAX0n6za2KnOUz-j74Veh10yMghxCXI9AX1t3OmCf2RhNkqpmqY4K6Yk9cnATHOXW2IEuTR3q0mOym9Iw2dzOnATACEEjp1i_/s320/Justin's+an+uncle.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Justin is an uncle. For the first time. x2.</div>
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Also...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigUnc-dCNCH0cksAmYbmMdScS2o-vhzKWJgm4GKbnV4rkuz4QCKYWW4iy7G-Z20h6yP5C_zZT9mSmjCO6tm7WyLMsyWVbJfQ2yE0SOGEs0q9qdpSaNlaAHnMshmgg8uAAzOZP9_Fz7xS2F/s1600/Justin's+30+boysntara.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigUnc-dCNCH0cksAmYbmMdScS2o-vhzKWJgm4GKbnV4rkuz4QCKYWW4iy7G-Z20h6yP5C_zZT9mSmjCO6tm7WyLMsyWVbJfQ2yE0SOGEs0q9qdpSaNlaAHnMshmgg8uAAzOZP9_Fz7xS2F/s320/Justin's+30+boysntara.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Justin turned 30!</div>
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Lots of people showed their love for Justin and I think he was overjoyed.</div>
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We had a bar crawl.</div>
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Which was a blast!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_7QjA1kEawIrnstEYHHzPNpYI9LII6WGeIQZyou8xQiYV9mWQqMtVyCDnBJrUu4PG3l8GpUWMsuyKtaL3mCDlpc6BfvzbJHvktz6qdPYmj9UpH43qBrseHAG0adXVE848yTAffsc6PJWD/s1600/Justin's+30+girls.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_7QjA1kEawIrnstEYHHzPNpYI9LII6WGeIQZyou8xQiYV9mWQqMtVyCDnBJrUu4PG3l8GpUWMsuyKtaL3mCDlpc6BfvzbJHvktz6qdPYmj9UpH43qBrseHAG0adXVE848yTAffsc6PJWD/s320/Justin's+30+girls.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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My BFF's came to celebrate Justin's 30th.</div>
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We've been best friends since elementary and middle school.</div>
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And every time I see them, I remember why.</div>
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We also had 2 perfect Thanksgivings.</div>
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One with my family, which just grew by 2.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibGFWKyeNCyj0Puqt78wjPMqc57gwqFUcBA-pPzwxZLFvTzY2WxxHOobXEYOOaPlw3trLtcsyOO-i6yj0AKm90xxiujc4dnnZrdKBT6FKVyqfJ031sqFi48aXHbLdoUdZj2XqQ7D5DRBgE/s1600/DSC_0370.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="467" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibGFWKyeNCyj0Puqt78wjPMqc57gwqFUcBA-pPzwxZLFvTzY2WxxHOobXEYOOaPlw3trLtcsyOO-i6yj0AKm90xxiujc4dnnZrdKBT6FKVyqfJ031sqFi48aXHbLdoUdZj2XqQ7D5DRBgE/s640/DSC_0370.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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And then later on with Justin's family</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-KEWqUj0ImjIJbE_EtCnaTxAWxjTVvXDaYgJ2-lEAyhAXl8IAcI9a9XDnKOO2xV8XzWjIVIEv5xhAF2bpybCgqXnVRZcyV3Tmzq76yeXHv5h7SNlTMELYK1sOEWuy-2nKB_BwwOli4NJz/s1600/DSC_0385.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-KEWqUj0ImjIJbE_EtCnaTxAWxjTVvXDaYgJ2-lEAyhAXl8IAcI9a9XDnKOO2xV8XzWjIVIEv5xhAF2bpybCgqXnVRZcyV3Tmzq76yeXHv5h7SNlTMELYK1sOEWuy-2nKB_BwwOli4NJz/s640/DSC_0385.JPG" width="424" /></a></div>
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We are packing for the Caribbean.</div>
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We'll be there for a few days next week and I can hardly breathe I'm so excited.</div>
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Just one day at a time until then.</div>
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And I want to be a blogger.</div>
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So, I'm coming back.</div>
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I promise you and myself.</div>
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But until then, here's some baby adorable-ness.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjICZ6gcqRCD15ei9ZT8hWGT7oxjt4mP6oluFQzyN5hOHa-PxfvO6gODQYniGakax35YxPf4K7LvngLgRSEezPqivU2788MkvZCEZTPO9c19EdqRHl-D1x249uXQ1ms39atB17QQ_5tMudo/s1600/twins+go+home.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjICZ6gcqRCD15ei9ZT8hWGT7oxjt4mP6oluFQzyN5hOHa-PxfvO6gODQYniGakax35YxPf4K7LvngLgRSEezPqivU2788MkvZCEZTPO9c19EdqRHl-D1x249uXQ1ms39atB17QQ_5tMudo/s320/twins+go+home.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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They wear precious baby clothes and hats with ears.</div>
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Little snuggle bears.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx7ZrxcVc9fWCY28L9z9jxHc6IZnVjd1dosmQ4kI1mXV8-XcES07NM5i3w8HVrPC32lrRgR13FX4YMFMBbUsRjnCldOx1qCbPrzLMDt_XWpx32ekj6ME4D6OXY5OKZa6ml7sCoeIZNjq3c/s1600/twins+snuggle.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx7ZrxcVc9fWCY28L9z9jxHc6IZnVjd1dosmQ4kI1mXV8-XcES07NM5i3w8HVrPC32lrRgR13FX4YMFMBbUsRjnCldOx1qCbPrzLMDt_XWpx32ekj6ME4D6OXY5OKZa6ml7sCoeIZNjq3c/s320/twins+snuggle.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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They snuggle.</div>
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Lean on me.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5y13gtpoRgMfgqkeijpv8j5_IQjxG0dd_RJq5vGXfUDVMtNkEGdpWrSFgWX2U9bpZyY3BRVGdzQ884jxZBhUgtGDOWWk0bVRB-IDzMUE9l5Y8yGBPiTj3AWmFI9G3iJwLHQgh3sXDiRQQ/s1600/sleeping+babies.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="223" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5y13gtpoRgMfgqkeijpv8j5_IQjxG0dd_RJq5vGXfUDVMtNkEGdpWrSFgWX2U9bpZyY3BRVGdzQ884jxZBhUgtGDOWWk0bVRB-IDzMUE9l5Y8yGBPiTj3AWmFI9G3iJwLHQgh3sXDiRQQ/s400/sleeping+babies.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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Bodie likes her hand above her head. She always wiggles it out somehow.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidT7XMgQh_2a0GwW7uPKIbu3pkJbIJDuS-Dse74Yis5NwH2JVjNBNpKhEw948ulmi1oSxxJAERx_JKk8WV5sGgSxVnEv2SbfhLI_WHr4QdkI8TXRQ7Ncxbl-omLss5pd9thcblej-FVOl6/s1600/number1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidT7XMgQh_2a0GwW7uPKIbu3pkJbIJDuS-Dse74Yis5NwH2JVjNBNpKhEw948ulmi1oSxxJAERx_JKk8WV5sGgSxVnEv2SbfhLI_WHr4QdkI8TXRQ7Ncxbl-omLss5pd9thcblej-FVOl6/s320/number1.JPG" width="319" /></a></div>
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And Daxlee thinks I'm number one.</div>
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I'll be back with a better post soon.</div>
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Like I said...</div>
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I promise.</div>
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:-).</div>
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Clairehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18088299004360278265noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4718368668602752263.post-67848515725744596762012-10-02T06:56:00.002-07:002012-10-02T06:56:21.347-07:00Sorry, Rachel Zoe<div style="text-align: center;">
So, I was looking through my Pinterest board, 'I Die' and I realized that a lot of the outfits I pinned weren't so high fashion. (Maybe I should rename my board) In fact, a lot of what I had pinned was actually achievable.</div>
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<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdVlItkfMsU8I9xEkkBD8nw6CHzfNExUWfId2QK1p_Hi3dls9bh7FM_UELFETqgH35Pc0CfXS8F6qjHK7mD2bbppRjVkhpoifpu3o3q9gp3wRuPITcAaqrwBU5dBtnzrXWHIDDoHAfyzH3/s1600/outfit2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" mea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdVlItkfMsU8I9xEkkBD8nw6CHzfNExUWfId2QK1p_Hi3dls9bh7FM_UELFETqgH35Pc0CfXS8F6qjHK7mD2bbppRjVkhpoifpu3o3q9gp3wRuPITcAaqrwBU5dBtnzrXWHIDDoHAfyzH3/s1600/outfit2.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pinned <a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/235946467948769189/" target="_blank">here</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZP6KY2FVR3so31yKDOL_ARChQZXT36igbQUP2q_IJq2r0vxZOrsKxnAsXgCWMiM8rY3yJ2018cv2lXLTZiHrxGJTCTm6H1Qkspg8O_q1rTyxsX0g_xCzl403WFVVVQp3U1XI3vtvTHCdC/s1600/outfit3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" mea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZP6KY2FVR3so31yKDOL_ARChQZXT36igbQUP2q_IJq2r0vxZOrsKxnAsXgCWMiM8rY3yJ2018cv2lXLTZiHrxGJTCTm6H1Qkspg8O_q1rTyxsX0g_xCzl403WFVVVQp3U1XI3vtvTHCdC/s320/outfit3.jpg" width="187" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pinned <a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/235946467948787693/" target="_blank">here</a></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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM34PI61BujX7qA_9YXf3n7h2Eznt1qgW9_L_Q0lNhnyY8unOBhphVHqarVRAC5Yopg4xyoD1VzsaGPyYlqCSQjUCASmwXBXg7qsWj6tvKkNZ8r4iZ3D_MXMJhuuaxNXPlEslhrLsCjkCg/s1600/outfit1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" mea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM34PI61BujX7qA_9YXf3n7h2Eznt1qgW9_L_Q0lNhnyY8unOBhphVHqarVRAC5Yopg4xyoD1VzsaGPyYlqCSQjUCASmwXBXg7qsWj6tvKkNZ8r4iZ3D_MXMJhuuaxNXPlEslhrLsCjkCg/s1600/outfit1.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pinned <a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/235946467948722179/" target="_blank">here</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
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<div style="text-align: center;">
Here's my problem: When I shop, I buy pieces, and don't think about what I'll wear them with. I don't put outfits together and then end up just wearing the same old things.</div>
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I always covet the way my friends put together outfits, mixing and matching pieces and creating different looks. On the contrast, I have some really great pieces that never get worn because they don't match anything. I need to amend how I shop.</div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
My solution: I figured out what in my 'I Die' board I would need to create a good mix of outfits for fall. Things that I could mix and match and use in multiple ways. Things that would compliment some of the things I already have. Then, taking it one step further, I set a budget for each item. A maximum amount that I would be willing to spend.</div>
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Here's my list:</div>
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Cognac Flats- budget $30</div>
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Chambray Shirt - budget $30</div>
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White looser-fitting layering tee - budget $15</div>
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Longer Cardigan medium thickness - budget $30</div>
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Statement Multi-Colored beaded necklace (with some plum in it) - budget $20</div>
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Shorter Trench coat - budget $50</div>
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Straight leg Navy blue cords - budget $50</div>
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nicer layering top with button sleeves - budget $20</div>
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Cognac purse - budget $30</div>
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And if I stay on my budget, I'll spend $275 total!</div>
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This has made shopping more fun and has kept me searching for the versitile pieces that I need.</div>
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<br /></div>
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I've found 3 pieces so far, and stayed under budget. I've found a few of the others, but have been over my budget. So, I'll just keep them in mind and keep my ears open for a sale!</div>
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Do you think it's do-able? What do you think of my strategy?</div>
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Clairehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18088299004360278265noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4718368668602752263.post-90321907510512666282012-09-28T17:14:00.000-07:002012-09-28T17:14:47.765-07:00Okay, okay....<div style="text-align: center;">
I don't like fall....there, I said it. Go ahead and tell me all the reasons why I'm crazy.</div>
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I just don't.</div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
It means the end of summer and leads into winter (my most hated season). I get sick, like I am now, every time fall rears it's ugly head. I don't like bulky clothes, and I don't look good in sweaters. My dogs track in leaves, and the days start to get shorter. <span style="font-size: x-small;">whining finished, promise.</span></div>
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However, there are <em>some</em> things that I do like about fall. Pumpkins being the largest one. I like Halloween and Thanksgiving, but wish it were warm outside for both holidays. I love football. and I like to lay outside and read in pajamas in the early fall/indian days of summer.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
That being said, I have a number of activities that I'd like to accomplish this fall. So, I made a bucket list. I know, I know, join the club, right? who hasn't made a fall bucket list yet? Whatever, I jumped on the bandwagon.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid6kAp6EJaEsZC_zDz8PVEjBITKYSAaVY5mRp4htM6Wrj30HcfAESTpzopfeZViqZB56TNmxexIyMLd8zJc50A1dc6GJycQx0KthbeAH9cj1pyHZg1IvvY_M0AdocS4Ws-tHeJWd5aHwgZ/s1600/JandCbucketlist.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" kea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid6kAp6EJaEsZC_zDz8PVEjBITKYSAaVY5mRp4htM6Wrj30HcfAESTpzopfeZViqZB56TNmxexIyMLd8zJc50A1dc6GJycQx0KthbeAH9cj1pyHZg1IvvY_M0AdocS4Ws-tHeJWd5aHwgZ/s400/JandCbucketlist.jpg" width="356" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">looking at it now, I should have made the heading larger.... I feel like I'm never done editing.</td></tr>
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I will say, though, this list makes me a lot more excited about the season ahead of us.</div>
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My plan is to frame it and use a dry erase marker on the glass to cross out everything as we accomplish each activity.</div>
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What do you think of Fall? What's on your bucket list?</div>
Clairehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18088299004360278265noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4718368668602752263.post-16066911763744086202012-09-27T15:23:00.001-07:002012-09-27T15:23:41.750-07:00Weighing in on The Replacements.<div style="text-align: center;">
And it's goooooood! They're back</div>
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And here's what I have to say to the replacement referees<span style="font-size: x-small;"> (with warning that I have a tendency to root for the underdog)</span></div>
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Dear Replacement Refs,</div>
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First off, thank you. Without you, what would have happened to football for its first 3 weeks. Maybe we would have missed out. And so, thanks for stepping up.</div>
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Now, I forgive you for the weird, confused, and bad calls; if you forgive me for hating on you so bad. I know it's not your fault that you aren't experienced. You should see me trying to do things I'm not experienced at (like calling football or tailoring shirts). I may also need to thank you again, because without you, not sure what I would have talked about with the boys in my office, besides Fantasy Football, and the baby panda at DC Zoo <span style="font-size: x-small;">(tear).</span></div>
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I'm glad to have our regular refs back, especially muscle man Ed Hochuli. I've missed him, especially. Although, even he makes bad calls sometimes I'm sure you're glad to not have to get yelled at anymore. Take some time off. Watch some football. Enjoy yourself.</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMuScxwVMNLoiWTYuw2qYdQhJRss9e2JhDo3m8Y9c8CtvOiNqjFT3biDKHFSEH13XwgfT0LR5iU7EtPMsdBYSMK38HtcQfpHYS2C8_wN0bPemh0Om2Cmx04dgHxHLDE60fMs1PIT4hyphenhyphenfHa/s1600/Ed-Hochuli.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" kea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMuScxwVMNLoiWTYuw2qYdQhJRss9e2JhDo3m8Y9c8CtvOiNqjFT3biDKHFSEH13XwgfT0LR5iU7EtPMsdBYSMK38HtcQfpHYS2C8_wN0bPemh0Om2Cmx04dgHxHLDE60fMs1PIT4hyphenhyphenfHa/s320/Ed-Hochuli.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.sportsgrid.com/nfl/11-songs-that-would-make-fantastic-entrance-music-for-ed-hoculis-muscle-bound-return/" target="_blank">source, funny article</a></td></tr>
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At the end of the day, you have given us 3 weeks we will never forget.</div>
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Sincerely,</div>
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<div style="text-align: right;">
Claire Jacyshyn</div>
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NFL Football fan</div>
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And, of course, in case you missed them, here are some of my favorite responses to the replacement referee disasters</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgS4fa_Ta-2j_t9KcR-qu7L18RXz3HCrvchwZbilJps4VpaFR1k5jUbZ0QBwijHtCxN8Xti2sLJWkgeZVmNCXj0JHbShPypoy68uKGuJJ8YMcGIcwKt38lETkAeU5TFeFZtuXtUJLSZutQb/s1600/touchdown+celtics.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" kea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgS4fa_Ta-2j_t9KcR-qu7L18RXz3HCrvchwZbilJps4VpaFR1k5jUbZ0QBwijHtCxN8Xti2sLJWkgeZVmNCXj0JHbShPypoy68uKGuJJ8YMcGIcwKt38lETkAeU5TFeFZtuXtUJLSZutQb/s320/touchdown+celtics.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://allfacebook.com/blown-football-call-touchdown-celtics-meme_b100523" target="_blank">source</a></td></tr>
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<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/mgxhYvE-2Qg?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
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"we've all made bad calls"</div>
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<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/AzPBcCF9yKc?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
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"Call it maybe?"</div>
Clairehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18088299004360278265noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4718368668602752263.post-7694824778540035112012-09-26T19:07:00.000-07:002012-09-27T06:27:18.912-07:00Fall photo session mood board<div style="text-align: center;">
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I've booked a photography session for Justin and I at a friend's farm in a few weeks. I. AM. SO. EXCITED. </div>
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As a kid, we didn't do family photos every year, and I wish we had. So I'm determined to do so!</div>
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These pictures will also be used as our christmas photos. So, since this session will have to be a double whammy.... I created a mood board for it. Just so I can try to achieve the vibe I want.</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ4pbiHbMr8e3-WYJpVNBYTJ6pKCn8e0_sBbASu1YzXeFA60JEHhRZjGqhLmdep4pbGI9mzZ5k7ou7BADeYR815gNaIk-lO7pNs4AKdaBukjaGuVbWTgzy3QvQDKSwMK6UPsgtX3edPoEA/s1600/moodboardwithtext.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="456" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ4pbiHbMr8e3-WYJpVNBYTJ6pKCn8e0_sBbASu1YzXeFA60JEHhRZjGqhLmdep4pbGI9mzZ5k7ou7BADeYR815gNaIk-lO7pNs4AKdaBukjaGuVbWTgzy3QvQDKSwMK6UPsgtX3edPoEA/s640/moodboardwithtext.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">1. <a href="http://www.ohweddings.net/photography-christmas-newlywed-shoot.php" target="_blank">source</a><br />
2. <a href="http://greenweddingshoes.com/a-fun-camping-engagement-session/" target="_blank">source</a><br />
3. <a href="http://dawnkearneyphotography.com/p969191508#h2763f1c9" target="_blank">source</a><br />
4. <a href="http://www.ablogaboutlove.com/2012/09/love-story-still-in-love-after-our_26.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+ablogaboutlove%2FIcJQ+%28A+BLOG+ABOUT+LOVE%29" target="_blank">source</a><br />
5. same <a href="http://greenweddingshoes.com/a-fun-camping-engagement-session/" target="_blank">source</a> as #2</td></tr>
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So, this is my mood board.</div>
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Pictures 1, 2, and 5 were found on Pinterest.</div>
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Picture 4 is from one of my favorite blogs, <a href="http://www.ablogaboutlove.com/" target="_blank">A Blog About Love</a>.</div>
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And, <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">lastly and bestly </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">(I made that up, and it's staying)</span>, Picture 3 is of my adorable best friend, Betsy and her husband Paul. You should check her blog out too. She's over at <a href="http://www.peonyandgray.com/" target="_blank">Peony and Gray</a>. Her adorable-ness may be contagious; pop over there and try to catch some. I do as often as I can.</div>
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You like my mood board? Ever created a mood board? What do you think about using one to plan a photography session, or anything else?</div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">(I know I've been gone forever, but I never gave up, I was just not being motivated. I needed a little nudge from the before-mentioned BFF to get back into action. Maybe I'll do a nice, long, where I've been entry. Maybe I won't. Haven't decided. What do you think? ) </span></div>
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Clairehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18088299004360278265noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4718368668602752263.post-51456873120291912092012-07-19T08:15:00.000-07:002012-07-19T08:15:16.576-07:00Oh wow.<div align="center">
Another chapter in my life.</div>
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I just made one of the dumbest mistakes a person can make. Oh wow. Luckily, it turned out okay.</div>
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But a co-worker sent me this to cheer me up:<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Everything happens for a reason, but sometimes things happen because youre stupid and make bad decisions.#Repin By:Pinterest++ for iPad#" class="PinImageImg" id="_x0000_i1025" src="http://media-cache-ec9.pinterest.com/upload/83738874291804554_jIdOngXh_b.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">It's true...</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;"><b>deep breath...</b></span><br />
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And I'm going to get some inspiration from Mulan to get back in the game. This (song in video below) was my theme song with my 3 best friends in college and was also sung before I walked down the aisle at my wedding with the same 3 friends.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRi-Edn_gEv7nW-FbjA4oOn4EjzJVy21biu2sIbubk5XUUrfPZe7kvvaiX-BjplGRztbTk-F2k5ytoqcU7Z-GtSnq6_vmCOscWRu4J9c4xNbY6sZemg8Cxla3DFwDjbQV5Gxj8gQkhOsGE/s1600/mulan.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" hda="true" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRi-Edn_gEv7nW-FbjA4oOn4EjzJVy21biu2sIbubk5XUUrfPZe7kvvaiX-BjplGRztbTk-F2k5ytoqcU7Z-GtSnq6_vmCOscWRu4J9c4xNbY6sZemg8Cxla3DFwDjbQV5Gxj8gQkhOsGE/s400/mulan.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">singing "Make a Man Out of You" at my wedding!</td></tr>
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Need to get pepped up? This song works for me!!<br />
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What do you do to recover from a really stupid mistake?? </div>Clairehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18088299004360278265noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4718368668602752263.post-79288427695412594312012-07-18T06:59:00.000-07:002012-07-18T06:59:06.288-07:00Quite possibly...<div align="center">
...my favorite "Human of New York" in a long time.</div>
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<a href="http://humansofnewyork.tumblr.com/post/27330594748/im-a-librarian-whats-your-favorite-part">http://humansofnewyork.tumblr.com/post/27330594748/im-a-librarian-whats-your-favorite-part</a></div>
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I've sometimes wondered if I should be a librarian. Major caveat: I'm very loud. :-/</div>Clairehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18088299004360278265noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4718368668602752263.post-76017434568336615882012-07-17T06:13:00.000-07:002012-07-17T07:46:48.831-07:00New Wall Art!!<div align="center">
Recently saw <a href="http://www.frommygreydeskblog.com/2012/06/confetti-artwork.html" target="_blank">this post</a> on one of my fav blogs, From My Grey Desk and was immediately infatuated.</div>
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She found the idea and instructions <a href="http://www.mintlovesocialclub.com/2011/08/diy-confetti-art.html" target="_blank">here</a> over at Mint Love Social Club, an awesome blog I hadn't discovered yet!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieQF2Ad0wzeQhYkdCo_iE-Tgwmp0ET-8UILQYvkdShqdLJsHum5gcWb8Pg5OKoyBu4_d_jJvnjqhHpc3tXSsiV8hY5DhdkBS-7ZYN346PFtg_4Ux0ne-MD6eCv7xuw2ZwwCoowZhc3k7js/s1600/Kateonwall2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hda="true" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieQF2Ad0wzeQhYkdCo_iE-Tgwmp0ET-8UILQYvkdShqdLJsHum5gcWb8Pg5OKoyBu4_d_jJvnjqhHpc3tXSsiV8hY5DhdkBS-7ZYN346PFtg_4Ux0ne-MD6eCv7xuw2ZwwCoowZhc3k7js/s320/Kateonwall2.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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I just LOVE all things Kate Spade, so knew I just had to try to reproduce this. Plus, my guest room is a little boring and I've been looking for things to fill the walls.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgodeak194xfL_TP3sAtEFHlnuzdcUoJgK9fi7V2VYE3PxKvpAOc1M181n21P3TG7msWEBZ_xuv_i8MVSdFRmtM2v_3boE4M6oEK4wlRYGtDkYhUfmGJ0RJznusNtllkBcjrcPWXCo07FOq/s1600/Kateonwall1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hda="true" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgodeak194xfL_TP3sAtEFHlnuzdcUoJgK9fi7V2VYE3PxKvpAOc1M181n21P3TG7msWEBZ_xuv_i8MVSdFRmtM2v_3boE4M6oEK4wlRYGtDkYhUfmGJ0RJznusNtllkBcjrcPWXCo07FOq/s320/Kateonwall1.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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I had a little trouble keeping it simple and probably glued WAYYY too many dots on my canvas, but I was just having so much fun!!</div>
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You can't tell (I wish I used my real camera and not my phone!) but I used 3 different color shimmer-y/ glitter-y scrapbook papers. Used about 2.5 sheets. Total project cost me about $18. </div>
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So I gained a new wall hanging, and found a great new blog! Total score!!</div>
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<br /></div>Clairehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18088299004360278265noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4718368668602752263.post-64631307412318364112012-07-16T07:33:00.000-07:002012-07-16T07:35:31.545-07:00Blog Lovin'<div align="center">
Just decided to join Blog Lovin'</div>
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I love reading my friends and my favorite blogs and heard it was a good way to keep up.</div>
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Anybody else got love for Blog Lovin?</div>
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<a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/blog/3873752/seeking-charm?claim=9s9zrj83juf">Follow my blog with Bloglovin</a>
</div>Clairehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18088299004360278265noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4718368668602752263.post-6237064560772012382012-07-12T13:18:00.000-07:002012-07-12T13:18:34.779-07:00Current Crush Thursday: Brown flats<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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So, today, I'm linking up with Framed Frostings for her Current Crush Thursday link up party!</div>
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My current Crush is brown, strappy, gladiator-ish sandals. I'm wanting a pair so bad! Help me pick!!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpGTQW19OY98_pSt8xDB9jZNoRcvaETWdztgRYi93JNdC7sVz74C9wKxBdXcqCBdE6eXUc7W_tQnPxN9-mqcSTGQWSBSsK7wKrxCr68_fTtpNSmaMDX9sXsgV1vqpcLpKi49iotmFIIP9P/s1600/Brown+Strappy+Collage+FIN.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img $ca="true" border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpGTQW19OY98_pSt8xDB9jZNoRcvaETWdztgRYi93JNdC7sVz74C9wKxBdXcqCBdE6eXUc7W_tQnPxN9-mqcSTGQWSBSsK7wKrxCr68_fTtpNSmaMDX9sXsgV1vqpcLpKi49iotmFIIP9P/s640/Brown+Strappy+Collage+FIN.jpg" width="624" /></a></div>
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And here is where you can go to purchase:</div>
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1. <a href="http://www.kohls.com/kohlsStore/landingpages/sandalspringshoeshop/viewall/PRD~1007564/Apt+9+Gladiator+Wedge+Sandals.jsp" target="_blank">Kohl's</a></div>
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2. <a href="http://www.dsw.com/shoe/michael+antonio+dryden+sandal?prodId=242478&productRef=SEARCH" target="_blank">DSW</a></div>
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3. <a href="http://www.6pm.com/product/7990711/color/360862" target="_blank">6pm</a></div>
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4. As seen in <a href="http://www.jseverydayfashion.com/2012/07/todays-everyday-fashion-sandals-at-work.html" target="_blank">J's Everyday Fashion</a></div>
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5. <a href="http://shop.nordstrom.com/S/dv-by-dolce-vita-dannah-sandal/3251549?origin=category&fashionColor=ORANGE+RED&resultback=903" target="_blank">Nordstrom</a></div>
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6. <a href="http://piperlime.gap.com/browse/product.do?cid=35978&vid=1&pid=242622&scid=242622022" target="_blank">Piperlime</a></div>
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Best part: I think I can afford them all (unless any sales change after the time of this post)</div>
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<center > <a href="http://www.framedfrosting.com/search/label/current%20crush" target="_blank"><img alt="Current Crush Thursdays" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8008/6960234856_6b71c8a505_m.jpg" border="0" alt="Current Crush Thursdays"/></a> <center>Clairehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18088299004360278265noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4718368668602752263.post-12414937263201951002012-07-11T10:42:00.001-07:002012-07-11T10:42:18.435-07:00Happy 7 11 day!!<div style="text-align: center;">
Don't forget to grab your free slurpee!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBoVZByi19KnaI8JfgWbveuBGfa3HBMAiTXAagEM7-JOxm6KVjEQYHIHm5nnLDwobnLFOT9WqbzDY5Ci90EZd5iXXKvshzzbv5Ve9WsLBeNAkeP7P2XHMHBzQuaByEIujsfVqlZcB85fu_/s1600/711.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img $ca="true" border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBoVZByi19KnaI8JfgWbveuBGfa3HBMAiTXAagEM7-JOxm6KVjEQYHIHm5nnLDwobnLFOT9WqbzDY5Ci90EZd5iXXKvshzzbv5Ve9WsLBeNAkeP7P2XHMHBzQuaByEIujsfVqlZcB85fu_/s320/711.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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This is the only day out of the year that I drink Slurpee's, but that might change. I got the new Lemon Creme flavor, and wow! It's SO good!</div>
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Check it out!!</div>Clairehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18088299004360278265noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4718368668602752263.post-81366635991401544102012-07-03T11:10:00.001-07:002012-07-03T11:10:18.228-07:00Get yourself...<div align="center">
An affirmation notebook.</div>
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...don't laugh. (although, I'll admit, I did when I first heard about it)</div>
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My boss recommended that I get one.</div>
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It's a place where I can put down little affirmations about myself. I had a particularly bad week last week and began to think it might not be such a silly idea. You know, get all kinds of positive things out there in my universe. After all, I love inspirational posts on Pinterest, and sometimes go there to try and motivate myself. As a matter of fact, one such pin is currently my work computer background.</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG7T5SAszvzd3Japp31uVgQhpX3UWGMjGqkzFlxUMfOIWKB8STIqFZqV3hEiQpEGSz7kFPuzIApeRScz932TmLtY0j6GIBh2oURNCMAVUxDgPfhABnppdo7eP2V4IKcEXP5ToGd_SDDTgD/s1600/affirmation1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" sca="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG7T5SAszvzd3Japp31uVgQhpX3UWGMjGqkzFlxUMfOIWKB8STIqFZqV3hEiQpEGSz7kFPuzIApeRScz932TmLtY0j6GIBh2oURNCMAVUxDgPfhABnppdo7eP2V4IKcEXP5ToGd_SDDTgD/s320/affirmation1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Work computer background: She believed she could so she did<br />
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So, on Friday, my sweet husband took me to Target just to buy something because he knew I was having a bad week. I love all things paper: stationery, wrapping supplies, notebooks, you name it and I'm there! So, when he said I could get anything, I went straight to the notebook aisle and I picked up this little beauty.</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho6ttSGklpmOAOJMPopcw7JKjjp77vUzekJ8fpCMSggr8OpOnC7UiXRZGNU5VyLh4YNEZDg_gPWcOoCsqjRKVATxmWR_VclS62pVqzI23GQrlTTgCrbGtxrL8Mgs5esqVg0Hj-orpwUPS7/s1600/Affirmation2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" sca="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho6ttSGklpmOAOJMPopcw7JKjjp77vUzekJ8fpCMSggr8OpOnC7UiXRZGNU5VyLh4YNEZDg_gPWcOoCsqjRKVATxmWR_VclS62pVqzI23GQrlTTgCrbGtxrL8Mgs5esqVg0Hj-orpwUPS7/s320/Affirmation2.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">She's a dreamer, a doer, a thinker. She sees possibility everywhere.</td></tr>
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I think it looks like Kate Spade, and for a stellar 4 bucks, quite the deal! I decided to make it an affirmation notebook; to heed my brilliant boss's advice.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFs9V5w0Z0l4EfaZl8O1zlbwMYZs6ipFPKHa6ef-0VUiA4gdjrAwNz9Z3-gUlSGI2dyuFWnyS3Fhsen51qaOtD_qpI_jy7UoNlEJu0OVmyFcpp91DlXo6wPH6iGGKYqNhtZfj_JJ3dYwUP/s1600/affirmation3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" sca="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFs9V5w0Z0l4EfaZl8O1zlbwMYZs6ipFPKHa6ef-0VUiA4gdjrAwNz9Z3-gUlSGI2dyuFWnyS3Fhsen51qaOtD_qpI_jy7UoNlEJu0OVmyFcpp91DlXo6wPH6iGGKYqNhtZfj_JJ3dYwUP/s320/affirmation3.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Affirmations</td></tr>
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<div align="center">
I started writing things in it to affirm myself and to motivate me each day. I re-read what I've already written, and I write new things. And so far, it's really helping. This week has been way better, and I'm a lot more positive.</div>
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Affirmation book, affirmative!!</div>
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<br /></div>Clairehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18088299004360278265noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4718368668602752263.post-47387466725146469282012-07-03T07:44:00.000-07:002012-07-03T07:44:23.711-07:00Happy Independence Day!<div style="text-align: center;">
Happy Early Independence Day!</div>
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Thank you to all of the brave men and women who have served, and fought to protect our freedoms.</div>
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Special shout out to my hero, and husband, Justin.</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLcdJXZW1ooxWw1jZ1-Y8vPWCJsZNMZM57opqusE66l9sAWaXn1pf7xcl6y2RKN6ftZkGhWA1WF6f6Fv5ADehddK5e5ArWnAnfI790jCnB5vWZoU7aXs2EabObRfRSyVd_bNFtzJS6GQPu/s1600/Justin+-+Arm2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="238" sca="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLcdJXZW1ooxWw1jZ1-Y8vPWCJsZNMZM57opqusE66l9sAWaXn1pf7xcl6y2RKN6ftZkGhWA1WF6f6Fv5ADehddK5e5ArWnAnfI790jCnB5vWZoU7aXs2EabObRfRSyVd_bNFtzJS6GQPu/s320/Justin+-+Arm2.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Handsome Husband - 1st deployment</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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgM8low64EpyA-C1kEuIb31fGhlhPObRmPwQVSTURguESeWenH3I8NeNA-chQIDT9tAnAAhHMZuz6kif98Shu1cBIQfOCgmkK8U4u6Pln2NLVaze_lZueWIgDuyRUS4PLTV8o3DZBV2C8KP/s1600/Justin+-+Army+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" sca="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgM8low64EpyA-C1kEuIb31fGhlhPObRmPwQVSTURguESeWenH3I8NeNA-chQIDT9tAnAAhHMZuz6kif98Shu1cBIQfOCgmkK8U4u6Pln2NLVaze_lZueWIgDuyRUS4PLTV8o3DZBV2C8KP/s320/Justin+-+Army+3.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Handsome Husband - 2nd deployment</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Clairehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18088299004360278265noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4718368668602752263.post-74901230802638453102012-06-14T09:58:00.001-07:002012-06-14T09:58:09.731-07:00black and brown<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><div style='width:600px;margin:0 auto'><div style='position:relative;'><a href='http://www.polyvore.com/black_brown/set?.embedder=4030636&.svc=blogger&id=50935319'><img force='1' border='0' height='439' title='black and brown' src='http://cfc.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-set/.sig/KycMpZUB7d5kq6bPIGDaQ/cid/50935319/id/KR3DFLtSQVu92jUhGgYbgw/size/c600x439.jpg' alt='black and brown' width='600'/></a></div></div><br/><div style='text-align:center'><small><a href='http://www.polyvore.com/black_brown/set?.embedder=4030636&.svc=blogger&id=50935319'>black and brown</a> by <a href='http://claire-logan.polyvore.com/?.embedder=4030636&.svc=blogger'>claire-logan</a> featuring <a href='http://www.polyvore.com/plastic_sunglasses/shop?query=plastic+sunglasses'>plastic sunglasses</a></small></div><div style='width:600px;margin:0 auto'><small><div style='padding-top:16px'><p style='clear:both;margin:0em;padding:0px'><a href='http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing.outbound?.embedder=4030636&.svc=blogger&id=57490226' rel='nofollow'><img force='1' height='50' style='border:1px solid #cccccc;margin:0 8px 8px 0;padding:2px;background-color:#ffffff;' src='http://ak2.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-thing/size/s/tid/57490226.jpg' hspace='4' align='left' width='50'/></a><div style='margin-bottom:8px;text-align:left;'><a href='http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing.outbound?.embedder=4030636&.svc=blogger&id=57490226' rel='nofollow'>Long sleeve black dress</a><br/>$82 - romwe.com<br/><br style='display:none'/></div></p><p style='clear:both;margin:0em;padding:0px'><a href='http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing.outbound?.embedder=4030636&.svc=blogger&id=58098209' rel='nofollow'><img force='1' height='50' style='border:1px solid #cccccc;margin:0 8px 8px 0;padding:2px;background-color:#ffffff;' src='http://ak2.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-thing/size/s/tid/58098209.jpg' hspace='4' align='left' width='50'/></a><div style='margin-bottom:8px;text-align:left;'><a href='http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing.outbound?.embedder=4030636&.svc=blogger&id=58098209' rel='nofollow'>Steven by Steve Madden high heel booties</a><br/>$122 - endless.com<br/><br style='display:none'/></div></p><p style='clear:both;margin:0em;padding:0px'><a href='http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing.outbound?.embedder=4030636&.svc=blogger&id=57370797' rel='nofollow'><img force='1' height='50' style='border:1px solid #cccccc;margin:0 8px 8px 0;padding:2px;background-color:#ffffff;' src='http://ak2.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-thing/size/s/tid/57370797.jpg' hspace='4' align='left' width='50'/></a><div style='margin-bottom:8px;text-align:left;'><a href='http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing.outbound?.embedder=4030636&.svc=blogger&id=57370797' rel='nofollow'>Wet Seal metal belt</a><br/>$11 - wetseal.com<br/><br style='display:none'/></div></p><p style='clear:both;margin:0em;padding:0px'><a href='http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing.outbound?.embedder=4030636&.svc=blogger&id=52669772' rel='nofollow'><img force='1' height='50' style='border:1px solid #cccccc;margin:0 8px 8px 0;padding:2px;background-color:#ffffff;' src='http://ak1.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-thing/size/s/tid/52669772.jpg' hspace='4' align='left' width='50'/></a><div style='margin-bottom:8px;text-align:left;'><a href='http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing.outbound?.embedder=4030636&.svc=blogger&id=52669772' rel='nofollow'>Warehouse plastic sunglasses</a><br/>$28 - warehouse.co.uk<br/><br style='display:none'/></div></p></div></small></div></div>Clairehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18088299004360278265noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4718368668602752263.post-19729741871620721352012-06-07T14:25:00.000-07:002012-06-07T14:25:29.077-07:00I made May amazing!!<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8tTMy3eZxvq5kP_RsMMbsenRbZlha8MwEGN5CthBddl1Se1BFrlcIMBO3l5a7TsY15Pm7cynQFhNikzZ1gqRNBU6Sdqh0ykf5XTge3D9qKQHXAN7TyWYyRa3OSo3zR8jdXNIL6XxuSfaW/s1600/Rosie+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" fba="true" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8tTMy3eZxvq5kP_RsMMbsenRbZlha8MwEGN5CthBddl1Se1BFrlcIMBO3l5a7TsY15Pm7cynQFhNikzZ1gqRNBU6Sdqh0ykf5XTge3D9qKQHXAN7TyWYyRa3OSo3zR8jdXNIL6XxuSfaW/s320/Rosie+3.jpg" width="242" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My girl, Rosie</td></tr>
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Yep, that's my girl, Rosie the Riveter. I'm in love with her. So much so, that I dressed as her in my favorite ever halloween costume!</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_RVy0jdQWlEINPOfe3PpUFB9UUb8EBb-ynBrkyP1sRXCpUkfFwSlPCd42qOHjVTG3R8bhTn-d8j8mXVMgBpl5-fKTNsw-Qt0cuBT0RbBMwaQ6sql4vTPavpKXZohGtbLaVKk_pSUVsO7R/s1600/Claire+as+Rosie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" fba="true" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_RVy0jdQWlEINPOfe3PpUFB9UUb8EBb-ynBrkyP1sRXCpUkfFwSlPCd42qOHjVTG3R8bhTn-d8j8mXVMgBpl5-fKTNsw-Qt0cuBT0RbBMwaQ6sql4vTPavpKXZohGtbLaVKk_pSUVsO7R/s400/Claire+as+Rosie.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me as Rosie</td></tr>
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And the month of May, I felt a lot like Rosie.</div>
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I performed in a dance production, and had my first solo. WHICH I LOVED!!!</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRn7x2w-4q5dv9bUz5OkjkyONe_LCuWW1HG1w1dCsU5IOMgE8CsldN3zfiZ2a-Lp4N8ST_-jLIz37Mcgxcf9tGNqSmAA9AuwIDmefSZNScMgg_8_aTtReBJp5aJtq6Gtzt9X02RCOJtUwm/s1600/mother+goose..jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" fba="true" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRn7x2w-4q5dv9bUz5OkjkyONe_LCuWW1HG1w1dCsU5IOMgE8CsldN3zfiZ2a-Lp4N8ST_-jLIz37Mcgxcf9tGNqSmAA9AuwIDmefSZNScMgg_8_aTtReBJp5aJtq6Gtzt9X02RCOJtUwm/s400/mother+goose..jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me as Mother Goose</td></tr>
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Yep, that's me ALONE on stage!! :-). I was Mother Goose and I opened a giant book (exactly like the one I'm reading in this picture) where 12 5-7 year olds came out to perform their number, and boy were they CUTE!!!</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimCHJTrlxf0gKlUAR9sNqHTDnqiCbYvB4iYLh-XPusdmv12txbX7_LbBGPJwYzG4MhGK2BX8h1Ra4EotjNi0kHokFJtEt_ztl9Mn17VKFves6vRyyzKQDKdUahRKA58_WWbg6Zh38NVDk9/s1600/mother+goose+and+babies.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" fba="true" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimCHJTrlxf0gKlUAR9sNqHTDnqiCbYvB4iYLh-XPusdmv12txbX7_LbBGPJwYzG4MhGK2BX8h1Ra4EotjNi0kHokFJtEt_ztl9Mn17VKFves6vRyyzKQDKdUahRKA58_WWbg6Zh38NVDk9/s400/mother+goose+and+babies.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me and the girls backstage.<br />
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I also got to perform in like 100 other numbers. My family and Justin's family's were all really complimentary and said they loved the show. I love being on stage.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJpJ8CrSbK6RFe-MMpX2Y7a5l39G0taD7cj2nOFHDkJJbI5vKgUFUF_c46UDhC8H15pWR_o_bONaBf5ufro9723g3YYfCqRsboKnxNadqFF7tB6bxcN7xecBe2zKnpE7RYu93_pr1RpOk8/s1600/Petticoat+Junction.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" fba="true" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJpJ8CrSbK6RFe-MMpX2Y7a5l39G0taD7cj2nOFHDkJJbI5vKgUFUF_c46UDhC8H15pWR_o_bONaBf5ufro9723g3YYfCqRsboKnxNadqFF7tB6bxcN7xecBe2zKnpE7RYu93_pr1RpOk8/s400/Petticoat+Junction.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me, my neice and some of my favorites in one of my favorite dances, Petticoat Junction. :-).</td></tr>
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I opened a small business, which I'm totally excited about. And I got a new job!!! :-). More on all of that to come!</div>
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You could say I've been a little busy re-writing my life. (I CAN DO IT!!) So, I've neglected writing in my little blog, which I'm so excited to say, broke 2000 reads recently!! (Come on people, follow me!;-)!)</div>
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:-). I'm a happy girl. Very lucky. Very driven and very happy.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7ImsJ2KwUqZXOxSJbgy8pG6qxZZzItrm31JJsauNEI_GnJuE_-XDGDUyQEcsu1Ephu_Tim5YrceyQziPjxgULWm9oJDAOmALCuyjnFqRpehBrqL46XiveufdFLmsnOYDc8WZ8S8Eg8OmK/s1600/She+believed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" fba="true" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7ImsJ2KwUqZXOxSJbgy8pG6qxZZzItrm31JJsauNEI_GnJuE_-XDGDUyQEcsu1Ephu_Tim5YrceyQziPjxgULWm9oJDAOmALCuyjnFqRpehBrqL46XiveufdFLmsnOYDc8WZ8S8Eg8OmK/s320/She+believed.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I believed I could make my life a little better. And May proved that I could!! :-). More to come on my AMAZING May! <br />
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Thank you for all the reads, friends! ;-)!!</div>Clairehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18088299004360278265noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4718368668602752263.post-45840200636521584252012-05-04T07:05:00.002-07:002012-05-04T07:05:09.566-07:00Remember that 25 random things that went around facebook for a while?<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; line-height: 16px; text-align: left;">Well, here was mine. Some of the things needed updates</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; line-height: 16px; text-align: left;">1. I am terribly paranoid. About almost everything. </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; line-height: 16px; text-align: left;"><span style="color: #93c47d;">Still.</span></span>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; line-height: 16px; text-align: left;">2. I have wrecked my old car 8 times that I can remember. I hate driving. </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #93c47d; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; line-height: 16px; text-align: left;">Update: My current car has only been wrecked once. I still hate driving.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; line-height: 16px;">3. I have a ticket on my record for a wreck that I wasn’t really driving in. </span><span style="color: #93c47d; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; line-height: 16px;">One of the best stories of my life.</span></div>
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4. I also apologize too often. I’m often sorry that I do that. <span style="color: #93c47d;">I'm really sorry, seriously, I am.</span></div>
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5. I have two tattoos. One Joanna told me about and the other is similar to something that Amanda drew me back in high school. Neither were completely my own. <span style="color: #b6d7a8;">Still only 2.</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5mRfIJLBsMyCmwJxY9zdOHjQBhyphenhyphenfzRE3T_Y4b_sCxPlr9BcjtKanhD5uJyLdV-PUFiTvz-NSPYDiq61fi9T5QFtKcyxJijRx5XNlEpHpgwWDwP458q-XhIFUdgoebpTfGkRn34zyxZgJy/s1600/tattoo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5mRfIJLBsMyCmwJxY9zdOHjQBhyphenhyphenfzRE3T_Y4b_sCxPlr9BcjtKanhD5uJyLdV-PUFiTvz-NSPYDiq61fi9T5QFtKcyxJijRx5XNlEpHpgwWDwP458q-XhIFUdgoebpTfGkRn34zyxZgJy/s320/tattoo.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Getting inked.</td></tr>
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6. I call small burps “bubbles”. I bubble often. A co-worker has really pointed out that to me. <span style="color: #93c47d;">This bad habit has been kicked. Thank you, Chet Fisher, if you ever read this.</span></div>
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7. It is because of a few VERY close friends from Roanoke that I can say that I have a relationship with God at all. This is something I’m most thankful for. <span style="color: #93c47d;">Still true.</span></div>
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8. Most everyone knows this about me but, anyway, I HATE, LOATH, bananas. I will run from a banana. I CANNOT be in the same room of someone eating one. Bleh. <span style="color: #93c47d;">Very true, in fact, one of the scariest things about getting my new job is not knowing if anyone is going to eat bananas around me. And not knowing how I will handle it if they do.</span></div>
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9. I once had a pet dog named Fido. For about 10 minutes. <span style="color: #93c47d;">Thank you, boys from the Elite Eight. That was a good night.</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgMs2iKvU4ZgowVfy00F8UUFdXl71tPPlXOW-bIqDa0nIZvTx54YVr2-_SVW0LeiOoPjiMDW1VCrc2oRVvSmPzjg4zmgBX4t08h-ZvzxE7gdG_N0BrUPkON3ZmR7_BiExcRTvKDPiA209S/s1600/Fido.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgMs2iKvU4ZgowVfy00F8UUFdXl71tPPlXOW-bIqDa0nIZvTx54YVr2-_SVW0LeiOoPjiMDW1VCrc2oRVvSmPzjg4zmgBX4t08h-ZvzxE7gdG_N0BrUPkON3ZmR7_BiExcRTvKDPiA209S/s400/Fido.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is the day we got Fido. Best. Snow. Day. Ever.</td></tr>
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10. I catch myself talking to myself a lot. <span style="color: #93c47d;">Hourly, to be exact.</span></div>
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11. My jaw pops really loudly when I open my mouth really wide. <span style="color: #93c47d;">Yes. And it's still gross.</span></div>
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12. I could sit on a boat for the rest of my life and never regret a moment of it. <span style="color: #93c47d;">Wanna start tomorrow?</span></div>
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13. I once went on a first ‘real’ date in Ireland. He’s still my best friend. <span style="color: #93c47d;">I wouldn't say best friend, more like not even talking. Actually, there's a better-matched best friend now, thank you.</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_Xb5cKUaxguA_VjYeQIgtOgYXnT4vlHWL1pyLbMU_joozR3dBf_IUHwAuqKrcS9NC0PClPME7Bh7SzxWIW6skOcHpSxUUQVuZeMuN6HBoNmvPy9fgQ-bT0L9HGiYT2oMShTUoStcRYFdO/s1600/claire___justin__223.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_Xb5cKUaxguA_VjYeQIgtOgYXnT4vlHWL1pyLbMU_joozR3dBf_IUHwAuqKrcS9NC0PClPME7Bh7SzxWIW6skOcHpSxUUQVuZeMuN6HBoNmvPy9fgQ-bT0L9HGiYT2oMShTUoStcRYFdO/s400/claire___justin__223.jpg" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My best friend at our wedding.</td></tr>
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14. Lately, there are some things that I can only do with two particular friends b/c I know they're going to be calm and honest enough to keep me from stressing. These include serious haircuts and tattoos. <span style="color: #93c47d;">I still rely on Betsy, Alyssa and Corinne a lot for support.</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjleSLH-4OfNEC94sVs0lUFKuT9G4fLw-WcBsHCQH5rpczVfFVKqIGxdyx5zzmzX4dLGBb4-4KUoNpoIFHtSrMhN13EiwgUz2FM23fUFocFmdcbtSmf4s5Z3I2PPIej6R46k4X8DV8u1F-c/s1600/Haircut.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjleSLH-4OfNEC94sVs0lUFKuT9G4fLw-WcBsHCQH5rpczVfFVKqIGxdyx5zzmzX4dLGBb4-4KUoNpoIFHtSrMhN13EiwgUz2FM23fUFocFmdcbtSmf4s5Z3I2PPIej6R46k4X8DV8u1F-c/s320/Haircut.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Probably the worst picture I've ever taken. This haircut I lost many inches. They're back now, but I'm thinking of chopping again.</td></tr>
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15. I love to talk to strangers. <span style="color: #93c47d;">I still do.</span></div>
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16. I have always wanted to be called charming. without the person being prompted. I'm afraid this will never happen for me. <span style="color: #93c47d;">This has happened, but I just want it more now. :-).</span></div>
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17. I get disappointed when I get flowers (even as surprises) and they are not daisies. <span style="color: #93c47d;">Update: I want any flowers. All the flowers I can get.</span></div>
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18. I love hugs. I will hug just about anyone. <span style="color: #93c47d;">Wanna hug?</span></div>
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19. I practice conversations before I call anyone or if I know I’m going to be talking to anybody soon. To me, it's just like proof-reading something. SO necessary. <span style="color: #93c47d;">Sometimes I'll even go over a conversation again with what I should have said! </span><span style="color: #93c47d;"> Getting caught doing this by my husband a lot. Sometimes I forget that everyone doesn't to this and it's weird.</span></div>
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20. I like surprises, unless I know they are coming (like Christmas presents) then I hate them. <span style="color: #93c47d;">Same.</span></div>
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21. I am overly proud that my family has been firefighters and my mom was a nurse. <span style="background-color: transparent;">
</span><span style="color: #93c47d;">Same.</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiL-uh45sIV83OGa_nO_Q9w18GlW8aHo6IV9Pzjpotq_AO5TjucOHgO3Ir90Pk8Lgn3qhuwhfoqEHChSl23cxYTeW1_CI27I28n0OpRhUdMixV8K_2UKSO6qpftsbaYtIomTb771hldW6Ys/s1600/Bopie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiL-uh45sIV83OGa_nO_Q9w18GlW8aHo6IV9Pzjpotq_AO5TjucOHgO3Ir90Pk8Lgn3qhuwhfoqEHChSl23cxYTeW1_CI27I28n0OpRhUdMixV8K_2UKSO6qpftsbaYtIomTb771hldW6Ys/s1600/Bopie.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My boopie. Real hero.</td></tr>
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22. I hate VMI. Even though I’m really proud of Austin for going there and dealing with that. <span style="color: #93c47d;">Don't really care anymore. Think it would be a great place to go if you wanted to play D1 sports. I actually recommended to my husband's little brother that he check this school out. Of course he didn't. Can't really blame him.</span></div>
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23. I dance when I think no one is looking, especially in elevators. I sing out loud when I think no one is paying attention and EVERY time I drive anywhere! I’ve been caught a lot. <span style="color: #93c47d;"> Still. </span></div>
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24. I HATE SNOW. Even though a particular snow day was one of the most fun days of my life. I get angry at people who like snow and try to make me like it. <span style="background-color: transparent;">
</span><span style="color: #93c47d;">Still. </span><span style="background-color: transparent;"> </span></div>
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25. I still have a really hard time with left and right. <span style="color: #93c47d;">Still. Don't laugh.</span></div>
</span>Clairehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18088299004360278265noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4718368668602752263.post-18764966081782269622012-05-03T10:53:00.000-07:002012-05-04T07:05:35.213-07:00Giveaway at oh, hello friend<div style="text-align: center;">
Okay, so there's a really awesome giveaway right now being hosted by <a href="http://www.ohhellofriendblog.com/">oh, hello friend.</a> I love her blog and store. </div>
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Click <a href="http://www.ohhellofriendblog.com/2012/05/reader-appreciation-giveaway-4.html">here for the giveaway</a>, but don't even bother, I'm going to win this one!</div>
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It's really cool stuff!</div>Clairehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18088299004360278265noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4718368668602752263.post-4089834228512957202012-05-01T08:17:00.000-07:002012-05-01T08:17:20.873-07:00TED Tuesday<div style="text-align: center;">
Last night I took a leap of faith. More to come on that. I'm really excited about a new venture in my life!</div>
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This isn't technically a TED talk, but it's on the TED website. So, who am I?</div>
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Give yourself some time today and listen to Mr. Steve Jobs.<br />
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Here's hoping we can all connect our dots one day.<br />
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Stay Hungry, Stay Foolish.</div>Clairehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18088299004360278265noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4718368668602752263.post-52511385005968713442012-04-26T05:46:00.000-07:002012-04-26T05:46:28.354-07:00Maggie Mae<div style="text-align: center;">
We spent last Friday night with some friends. </div>
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They have a dog who I love. Her name is Maggie Mae and she is an English Bulldog.</div>
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Here she is the first time we met her in November.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAg2IyIqnrFMdWapuBovNCxdmDj2yiL57fg__8dneLuBhTnRBXwIriI2sTiv8SCDkjg1ZSKzPeP_Jo-199kR-kBeeaUs2dS2SqAVfN9_LFb18mGM0-zLu_nRcdZVrzJ5Z3XbqUtI5uvmhx/s1600/maggie+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAg2IyIqnrFMdWapuBovNCxdmDj2yiL57fg__8dneLuBhTnRBXwIriI2sTiv8SCDkjg1ZSKzPeP_Jo-199kR-kBeeaUs2dS2SqAVfN9_LFb18mGM0-zLu_nRcdZVrzJ5Z3XbqUtI5uvmhx/s320/maggie+1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Precious, right? Well, we took a lot of pictures of Mags that night. Here is some of the adorable-ness that is in my camera right now.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLb9gUs9MU9u0s5NZmpgYtY1QAqmoGaeOd_YdKNh6pK-SUssyucvFInpiDBR7_o33FmtR9RMXMDWqemU7CwPiHy9D3uLH5iPoQujgbN3pvqojdVdPUCezccEZOO417ZOg6uQnB9Gi7u1Mp/s1600/Maggie+Mae+1" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLb9gUs9MU9u0s5NZmpgYtY1QAqmoGaeOd_YdKNh6pK-SUssyucvFInpiDBR7_o33FmtR9RMXMDWqemU7CwPiHy9D3uLH5iPoQujgbN3pvqojdVdPUCezccEZOO417ZOg6uQnB9Gi7u1Mp/s320/Maggie+Mae+1" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQBmPfBGJCcHcR1cm2ih4VJuDc62t42lW8OUZ3xe0lzy5ZR_wERszNjpLfp5wEmVoH-PW217e11FXlwtcQwH5RRa4ykG0ixiDH0e0M_gNtlC3Q2FKtCmQmNW8At8TloDhmJAiPPn9kg0uc/s1600/Maggie+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQBmPfBGJCcHcR1cm2ih4VJuDc62t42lW8OUZ3xe0lzy5ZR_wERszNjpLfp5wEmVoH-PW217e11FXlwtcQwH5RRa4ykG0ixiDH0e0M_gNtlC3Q2FKtCmQmNW8At8TloDhmJAiPPn9kg0uc/s320/Maggie+2.jpg" width="212" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvOLUcETzBQ1ylSJa7h-s-oDir_JjheAgbiibjmNRof6zvcD6je32x-2rgAvM3lKggqsSbkAX9BHAECQWqisKgzcGFQiWFAqUchGANDA2GuCTmxtQR8vyTAetGLaZLjeXRyGckodlCJ5oD/s1600/Maggie+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvOLUcETzBQ1ylSJa7h-s-oDir_JjheAgbiibjmNRof6zvcD6je32x-2rgAvM3lKggqsSbkAX9BHAECQWqisKgzcGFQiWFAqUchGANDA2GuCTmxtQR8vyTAetGLaZLjeXRyGckodlCJ5oD/s320/Maggie+3.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Of course, I got this one with my phone, and it was my favorite. Such is life. If only it focused a little better!! </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv3TiznX73fyVNnpOGgN6uW5nZQaftEXztGgFAct_LeX8NfNRpUcOtX2czm-lgrmC_z3e9v5DQIZR6dEVL45RUloihgabO-UK6gZ_pIzm9I_XmteXrWLKpcylVtAxlyS6OKqbVhFdD6hLz/s1600/Maggie+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv3TiznX73fyVNnpOGgN6uW5nZQaftEXztGgFAct_LeX8NfNRpUcOtX2czm-lgrmC_z3e9v5DQIZR6dEVL45RUloihgabO-UK6gZ_pIzm9I_XmteXrWLKpcylVtAxlyS6OKqbVhFdD6hLz/s320/Maggie+3.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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And a self portrait, Go Flyers!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP6Zj_2Gs8ZqXHGZ_MmOtgLbA1-G8wjbmR0KMe91M-q5snspP8KZ1X0JostH37jM4y0vFONACYnvHChVCxvbqfHRGH56n277zPbijJxVb_9jMbfvszzt99P3ZvjdDa5uttVZCA-8r7SGQm/s1600/us+flyers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP6Zj_2Gs8ZqXHGZ_MmOtgLbA1-G8wjbmR0KMe91M-q5snspP8KZ1X0JostH37jM4y0vFONACYnvHChVCxvbqfHRGH56n277zPbijJxVb_9jMbfvszzt99P3ZvjdDa5uttVZCA-8r7SGQm/s320/us+flyers.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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<br /></div>Clairehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18088299004360278265noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4718368668602752263.post-66716480522202085742012-04-25T19:40:00.002-07:002012-04-25T19:40:59.343-07:00Papa is 80!<div style="text-align: center;">
Yesterday my Papa turned 80!</div>
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On our way home from work, my husband and I tried to track him down so that we could see him, and ended up finding out he was at the VFW, where he spends a lot of time.</div>
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My Papa is an Army Vet and a retired Fireman. True to his generation, he never stops working. He is always busy and slow to accept help. He is proud yet humble, kind, loving, hard-working, and (if you really tune your ears to hear his soft comments) hilarious.</div>
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He is deeply in love with my grandmother. They will have taken care of each other for 60 years in June. He is a true family man, and we all love him.</div>
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Happy 80th Birthday to the best Grandfather a girl could ask for! I love my Papa.</div>
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He serves as a bartender at the VFW, among other things. So, he pumped my husband, Justin, with free beer, and cheered him up after a hard day at work! Then, they convinced Justin to join the VFW. haha, he's probably the youngest member by at least 20 years. Here is Justin wearing the hat they give with new membership! So proud! :-).<br />
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<br /></div>Clairehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18088299004360278265noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4718368668602752263.post-8384469345722610392012-04-24T11:08:00.000-07:002012-04-24T11:08:31.475-07:00Tuesdays finds<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Happy Tuesday! These are some things that I found that I want!!</div>
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the colors of <a href="http://www.modcloth.com/shop/dresses/two-times-the-cute-dress">this dress</a> are my newest obsession.<br />
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a gorgeous <a href="http://top/">top</a></div>
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drooling over <a href="http://www.libbystory.com/MM-Couture-Border-One-Shoulder-Dress-P8466.aspx">this dress</a> currently</div>
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pretty <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/93939470/ruby-red-swarovski-briolettes-wrapped-in">earrings</a></div>
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precious open back <a href="http://www.victoriassecret.com/ss/Satellite?ProductID=1265788906787&c=Page&cid=1332988554019&pagename=vsdWrapper">beach cover-up</a></div>
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a straw <a href="http://www.zara.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/product/us/en/zara-us-S2012/205001/680021/LARGE%2BBASKET">beach bag</a> to die for</div>
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Can you tell I'm just dying to plan a vacation? </div>
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What are your summer plans?</div>
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<br /></div>Clairehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18088299004360278265noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4718368668602752263.post-55361613599292166172012-04-24T05:12:00.000-07:002012-04-24T05:12:19.257-07:00TED Tuesday<div style="text-align: center;">
Whenever I need to be awoken, or reminded that I have feelings, or break up the monotony of life, I visit <a href="http://www.ted.com/">the TED website</a></div>
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The other day I found a talk by the creator of Post Secret, Frank Warren, and I was reminded of when I discovered Post Secret.</div>
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I have long loved <a href="http://www.postsecret.com/">Post Secret</a>. But I didn't find it through this awesome blog, instead, I was really lonely one night in college while on summer break. I went somewhere that I loved, the book store. Here, I discovered one of Post Secret's books. And I was reminded that I wasn't alone. </div>
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Frank Warren is the man behind Post Secret. I love his <a href="http://www.ted.com/talks/lang/en/frank_warren_half_a_million_secrets.html">TED talk. Here</a> it is, watch it, it's a good one!</div>
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<br /></div>Clairehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18088299004360278265noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4718368668602752263.post-34652048071027440762012-04-23T10:19:00.000-07:002012-04-23T10:19:47.871-07:00Sweet Frog and Prom Dates<div style="text-align: center;">
So, I get this cryptic message yesterday from my husband's little brother, Greg:</div>
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"Can I come over real quick? I need to ask you a favor"</div>
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And before I could reply that he could certainly come over, but I didn't know how many favors I could do with my migraine, I got a call. It was Greg.</div>
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He needed some advice on asking this girl that was "just a friend" to prom. Greg didn't go to prom the year before and I've been a big push on him to go, just so he doesn't wonder what it was like.</div>
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After much deliberation, we decided that he should go to Sweet Frog, where his date-hopeful works, take her flowers, and ask her to their Senior Prom. </div>
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He didn't want to go alone, and I was kind of excited for him, so I tagged along.</div>
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We decided to get the flowers from Trader Joe's because I love their selection. And we spent forever trying to figure out which flowers would say friends and not dating, because, apparently most people are interested in dating seriously the people they take to prom. Who knew?</div>
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When I was in high school, we didn't do all of this flowers and thinking, and everyone went as friends, unless you had a boyfriend. </div>
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Anyway, we figured he had a 70 percent chance of walking away with a prom date, so we snapped this picture:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVRS0DQ9kS1TWM-gLqC0XqO6WoyaTN8u741dIbASvuHNpE-7smUaYxXG_46G6znM9DDDYnyg2as_mLXvNY0GJ-jHLoMacZlqIqJTDu-QwHb6kaTWY-qf1KZUj4_s2Fzdi5lWLSrbSe_n_N/s1600/Greg+Prom.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVRS0DQ9kS1TWM-gLqC0XqO6WoyaTN8u741dIbASvuHNpE-7smUaYxXG_46G6znM9DDDYnyg2as_mLXvNY0GJ-jHLoMacZlqIqJTDu-QwHb6kaTWY-qf1KZUj4_s2Fzdi5lWLSrbSe_n_N/s320/Greg+Prom.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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She said yes! And she even asked him what color to wear! He told her she could wear whatever color she liked. I had meant to snap a few pictures of him with his date after he asked, but it was so awkward, that I opted not to.</div>
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More to come on Senior Prom 2012.</div>
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After Sweet Frog, I went home and disappeared from the world. My husband eventually lulled me out of migraine-land with a surprise sick supper in bed, some medicine, and my addiction to Game of Thrones.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAe7ud7JE9BMTsdWP94pr-aei-n0z9njQlpwdKH2nqs7uzjhc7nk_CJm7A7idkw8JE3FL-mLtzzZznlG2cA_zDMl5ITvUxc4LjPiYSvyWZbUVKCIDIRSN1pV1kvmWT-OULm5nQU10e0s-z/s1600/Sick+food.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAe7ud7JE9BMTsdWP94pr-aei-n0z9njQlpwdKH2nqs7uzjhc7nk_CJm7A7idkw8JE3FL-mLtzzZznlG2cA_zDMl5ITvUxc4LjPiYSvyWZbUVKCIDIRSN1pV1kvmWT-OULm5nQU10e0s-z/s320/Sick+food.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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What was your prom experience like? </div>
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Did anyone else watch GOT last night? What did you think? OH MY GOODNESS, I think this season is so good!</div>Clairehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18088299004360278265noreply@blogger.com2