tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-56347953394309278332024-02-19T05:35:20.918-06:00regal meAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01491663766987448865noreply@blogger.comBlogger135125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5634795339430927833.post-62751473097414196082013-04-23T15:42:00.001-05:002013-04-23T15:42:38.494-05:00I've MovedI decided to start over with my blog, this one will no longer have new postings.<br />
Come visit me at <a href="http://heatherstate21.blogspot.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #3d85c6;">State 21</span></a>.<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01491663766987448865noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5634795339430927833.post-36593859552768723072013-02-19T13:52:00.002-06:002013-02-19T16:30:17.620-06:00Strawberry ButterRecently I read an article that said berries do amazing things for skin.<br />
I was born with a skin disorder called eczema.<br />
I have a very mild version, but it leaves me with dry, itchy skin if I don't lather up with a ton of lotion every day.<br />
In the article that I read, it said that berries, especially strawberries and blueberries can help keep eczema breakouts away.<br />
Yes, please!<br />
I ran out to the store and stocked up on fresh and frozen berries, trying to incorporate them into all of my meals.<br />
Today's concoction yielded strawberry butter.<br />
(By the way, this goes perfectly with my <a href="http://maybecommon.blogspot.com/2013/02/greek-village-bread.html" style="color: #3d85c6;" target="_blank">Greek Village Bread</a>!)<br />
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<i><u>Ingredients:</u></i><br />
1 lb of strawberries<br />
3-4 tbsp of honey<br />
2 tsp of lemon juice<br />
1-1/2 sticks (or the equivalent) of your favorite butter/spread<br />
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Chop the tops off of the strawberries, then throw them into a blender. Chop it until there are no big chunks.<br />
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Put it into a saucepan, along with the honey and lemon juice. Boil and stir for 5-10 minutes or until it begins to thicken.<br />
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Let the strawberry mixture cool while you soften the butter- soften, DO NOT melt it.<br />
Once the strawberries are room temperature, mix the butter into them.<br />
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Throw the new mixture back into the blender to make it smooth. Let it chill in the fridge for a while, then serve on <a href="http://maybecommon.blogspot.com/2013/02/greek-village-bread.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: #3d85c6;">fresh out of the oven bread</span></a>.<br />
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This spread is a perfect mix between butter and jam, it's sweet, but not overpowering.</div>
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It's mouthwatering when the Strawberry butter becomes a little melty and the aroma fills your nose. </div>
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Enjoy it before it's gone, this won't last long in your fridge!</div>
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X</div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01491663766987448865noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5634795339430927833.post-82293270456023332352013-02-15T09:26:00.001-06:002013-02-15T09:26:35.769-06:00Cancer Awareness GiveawayI don't have a million readers, but I am very appreciative of the followers I do have.<br />
This has been an awesome week and I can't help but be walking on cloud nine, so it's the perfect time to do a giveaway!<br />
<br />
Two people in my life were suffering from cancer, and I found out yesterday that BOTH are cancer free!<br />
One battled pancreatic cancer two years ago, having a huge, very serious surgery. The survival rate for those diagnosed with pancreatic cancer is VERY low, but she managed to pull through, and after two long years, her doctors have informed her that she is cancer free.<br />
The other was a teenager when she was first diagnosed with ovarian cancer. She had the ovary removed and continued on with life. Last fall, she was diagnosed with ovarian cancer again. And earlier this week, she had surgery again to remove the remainder of her inside lady parts. Doctors assured her she is once again cancer free.<br />
<br />
To celebrate this amazing news for both people in my life, I want to do a giveaway to raise some awareness of both types of cancers. You're never too old or too young to get screened or share your body changes/concerns with your doctor. Make sure they listen to you, and don't dismiss your worries!<br />
<br />
The bracelets are made with Swarovski pearls for the <a href="http://www.choosehope.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #3d85c6;">Choose Hope</span></a> organization. If you win, you just have to promise that when someone asks you about the bracelet, you tell them what it represents. Deal?<br />
<br />
Purple is the color for pancreatic cancer awareness and teal for ovarian cancer awareness.<br />
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<br />
I am giving away BOTH bracelets!<br />
You can enter by leaving a comment on here with your name, city, email address, how you found my blog, and which color your prefer.<br />
Here's the trick, I MUST have at least 25 of my wonderful readers enter the contest before I will ship these little beauties off, so spread the word!<br />
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This contest will remain open until next friday.<br />
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Good luck! XAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01491663766987448865noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5634795339430927833.post-29195094357739890822013-02-14T08:25:00.000-06:002013-02-19T16:32:09.421-06:00Greek Village BreadMy Grandma was proud to be Greek.<br />
She loved the food and she loved her family, she always called me her "little Greek girl".<br />
But when it came to talking about the country itself, she never said much.<br />
I brought up the idea of traveling abroad to visit Greece with a friend, and she practically begged me not to go.<br />
I don't know which town my family came from or what they went through trying to come to America because it was never talked about.<br />
Questions have gone unanswered since I can remember, and now my Grandma is gone, and I still don't have answers.<br />
I know very little about my Grandma's upbringing, except her mother passed when she was a toddler, and in order to work to provide for his family, my Grandma's father had to pass her and her sister off to other family members and, from what I understand, orphanages at times.<br />
I don't care that I'm not sure of my exact roots, I know I'm Greek, and I'm damn proud of it.<br />
Some day I will travel to see the ruins and live like the Grecians do, but for now, this little Greek girl will stick to making their delicious food.<br />
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I went for an old, traditional recipe this time. It's Greek Village Bread, also known as Horiatiko Psomi (ho-ree-ah-tee-koh so-me).<br />
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It's relatively easy to make, this was my first time baking any bread on my own, and it turned out VERY (surprisingly!) well.<br />
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What you'll need:<br />
2-1/4 tbsp dry yeast (one little packet)<br />
1/2 cup whole wheat flour<br />
8 cups bread flour<br />
1 tbsp salt<br />
2 tbsp milk<br />
2 tbsp olive oil (and a little extra for drizzling later)<br />
2 tbsp honey<br />
2-1/2 cups warm water<br />
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1. Stir the yeast packet into about 3/4 cup of warm water.<br />
2. Stir in the whole wheat flour.<br />
3. Let it stand for 20 minutes. It will look like this:<br />
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4. In a (very) large mixing bowl, mix the bread flour with the salt, then create a well in the middle.<br />
5. Add the yeast mixture, oil, honey, and milk (in that order, it helps to keep the honey from sticking to the measuring spoon) to the well. It will look like this:<br />
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6. Use your hands to mix it all together, adding the 2-1/2 cups of water until it's a thick, gooey lump.<br />
7. Transfer dough to a floured surface and knead until it's no longer sticky.<br />
8. Drizzle some olive oil over the top of the bread and rub it all around, making sure all sides have a thin layer.<br />
9. Place the dough back into the mixing bowl.<br />
10. Make a wet towel sandwich (dry, wet, dry) and lay it over the bowl.<br />
11. Let it rise for 90 minutes.<br />
12. For 5-10 minutes, alternate kneading and punching the dough on a floured surface.<br />
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13. Divide the dough into 4 loaves, and shape them (long, round, throw it in a pan, it doesn't matter).<br />
14. Place the loaves (several inches apart) onto cookie sheets and cover with the towel sandwich again.<br />
15. Let them rise for at least an hour.<br />
16. Score the tops of the loaves, with an X or a couple slash lines, whatever you fancy.<br />
17. Pre-heat the oven to 450 degrees and place one sheet in the oven at a time, on the middle rack.<br />
18. Bake for 20 minutes (maybe shorter depending on how you make your loaves), keep an eye on them!)<br />
19. Remove from oven, slice, eat while warm.<br />
20. Save some for later to sop up oil or for the morning to toast and enjoy with jam.<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01491663766987448865noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5634795339430927833.post-43196916927242776762013-02-01T16:39:00.000-06:002013-02-01T16:39:34.715-06:00Lemon SquaresNothing says "Spring" to me quite like fresh fruit.<br />
Especially lemons.<br />
I love when restaurants start offering lemonade drinks for the beginning of the warm seasons. <br />
For me, it's like a party celebrating the end of a long winter.<br />
Because it is still January,I also need some comfort in my diet- I couldn't quite go full-blown Spring on you yet.<br />So I made Lemon Bars. <br />
All the lemon taste I craved, but the warmth and fluffiness of a winter treat.<br />
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I wasn't happy about the way they looked while I was making them, but the first bite made my eyes roll back into my head, and before I knew what my mouth was doing I let out an "ohhhmmmm" sound.<br />
These aren't for the faint of heart. If you just want a little lemon taste, this is not your recipe.<br />
<br />
Ingredients:<br />
2 cups all purpose flour<br />
1 cup (2 sticks) butter<br />
1/2 cup powdered sugar<br />
1/4 tsp salt<br />
1 cup granulated sugar<br />
3 large eggs<br />
1/3 cup fresh lemon juice (this equals about 1 juicy lemon)<br />
sifted powdered sugar (for later)<br />
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Soften the butter in the microwave for a few seconds. Mix the flour, butter, powdered sugar, and salt until it becomes crumbly/crust like. I used a mixer and left it on low for a while. It came out smooth, yet crumbly. Just make sure everything is mixed well.<br />
Smoosh it all down into a greased pan. I used one slightly smaller than a 13x9 in order to make my bars thicker. Use what you'd like. Bake for 20 min (until golden colored) at 350.<br />
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While the crust is baking, mix together the granulated sugar, eggs, and lemon juice. I blended slowly at first then turned it up to medium-fast for a few seconds.</div>
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When the crust is done, remove it from the oven, and pour the lemon juice mixture on top of the hot crust.</div>
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Pop it back into the oven at 350 for an additional 20 minutes or until the edges are golden and the middle looks done-ish.</div>
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Let it cool completely, sift with powdered sugar, cut into squares and enjoy</div>
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Try not to eat more than two in one sitting.</div>
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You will get an upset tummy.</div>
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Lesson learned.</div>
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X</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01491663766987448865noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5634795339430927833.post-4200457663372331192013-01-31T19:20:00.001-06:002013-01-31T19:22:28.472-06:00Spring 2013 Fashion GuideIt's January, yet it's warm and I haven't seen snow in quite some time.<br />
This strange weather makes me want Spring more than usual, so I thought now would be a good time to do a Spring fashion guide. <br />
The best part about Spring is the change of clothing. We go from dark colors, boots, hats, and wool scarves to light layers, fresh and fun colors, and strappy sandals. <br />
When I was younger, it seemed that if you weren't right on trend, you were made fun of in school, thought to be uncool.<br />
Now, if you're doing something different, people admire you for it. <br />
You really can't go wrong this spring. Bright colors, pastels, grays and browns are all making an appearance on the runway. <br />
Anymore you can find skinny jeans next to boot cuts next to flared jeans. You'll find girls of the same age preferring different styles and all rocking them flawlessly. A young girl's fashion has really become about personal preference and being able to pull off the look you're going for, rather than having one label.<br />
One day you can find me in a colorful, flowery dress, and the next I'll be in a black and gray tiger t-shirt with leather boots.<br />
I don't have an exact style. I always felt pressured into fitting into a certain group: was I preppy with polos and khakis or was I more of a vixen with dark colors, tight pants, and sky-high heels?<br />
Now that I'm older, I see fashion for what it is. Fun.<br />
If you're not having fun with it, you're doing it wrong. You don't need to fit into one single category. Do what you want, play with color, and most importnatly, rock what you wear.<br />
So here is my eclectic mix of clothing that you may catch me in this Spring. <br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #3d85c6;"> </span><a href="http://www.hm.com/us/product/06756?article=06756-C#article=06756-C" target="_blank"><span style="color: #3d85c6;">find it here</span></a></div>
I love pink. Pink goes with light, pink goes with dark, pink is feminine no matter how you wear it. Pink is good. This blazer is great for work or running around town. It makes you look like you tried to be "stylish", yet you can throw it on over just about anything else in your closet.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZyntB2kAIquJcgyiIicbfikW-RNQSiC66Vze5yNdB90VgUc7xZaelIszZFqBxJ1G1NLDX410qTWSbwvr5RlBgkrRQuaeF3MOFZ8xiHWMvbpeIJzSk2_7QCS-vVlBvBQ8VCGFzxXxTJbc/s1600/&+shirt.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZyntB2kAIquJcgyiIicbfikW-RNQSiC66Vze5yNdB90VgUc7xZaelIszZFqBxJ1G1NLDX410qTWSbwvr5RlBgkrRQuaeF3MOFZ8xiHWMvbpeIJzSk2_7QCS-vVlBvBQ8VCGFzxXxTJbc/s320/&+shirt.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.boohoo.com/usa/clothing/new-in/icat/newin/t-shirts-and-hoodies/lola-oversized-slub-tee-with-drip-and-print/invt/azz54165" target="_blank"><span style="color: #3d85c6;">find it here</span></a></div>
Statement tees are fun, fashionable, and easy to wear. You can be a size 2 or 22 and this shirt will be just as cool. The dripping paint look reminds me of <a href="http://www.artnet.com/artists/zevs/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #3d85c6;">Zevs dripping logo art</span></a><span style="color: #3d85c6;">,</span> which I fell in love with last year.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaeMQanXHjzm8LmBSiKyS-1fbXtOdO6Dm5WDoFgpSphwaxpcDLYMmE6-X0LTyXTC9Htf6rLxWI7evfrsPJsjXGxk6N4FwryzXUvaIxDrsGpuLRAnp0vYKMY27zO2aNGO8ScdwoR520Le4/s1600/bodysuit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaeMQanXHjzm8LmBSiKyS-1fbXtOdO6Dm5WDoFgpSphwaxpcDLYMmE6-X0LTyXTC9Htf6rLxWI7evfrsPJsjXGxk6N4FwryzXUvaIxDrsGpuLRAnp0vYKMY27zO2aNGO8ScdwoR520Le4/s320/bodysuit.jpg" width="250" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://us.asos.com/ASOS-Body-with-Scoop-Neck/yuqu0/?iid=2557524&cid=2623&sh=0&pge=3&pgesize=20&sort=-1&clr=Black&mporgp=L0FTT1MvQVNPUy1Cb2R5LXdpdGgtU2Nvb3AtTmVjay9Qcm9kLw.." target="_blank"><span style="color: #3d85c6;"> find it here</span></a></div>
Who doesn't love a body suit? It won't come untucked and it looks sleek and composed all night. You could be sloppy drunk (not that I recommend it) and your outfit will still look flawless- minus the drink spills.....<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHOmoBwb_8qEkyc1kd7lEpYUy0Ffbn4q8OTZR1U0xhJlIUl7intfXprAXcGAdJdc-nfJZWUiAY-4jpMu9K3xtmbJ7vWmtNo0ZmmPaTIZJfuKq_hLf6KVnEd1WRc3FlUY71nhp9hWDwmtk/s1600/cardigan.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHOmoBwb_8qEkyc1kd7lEpYUy0Ffbn4q8OTZR1U0xhJlIUl7intfXprAXcGAdJdc-nfJZWUiAY-4jpMu9K3xtmbJ7vWmtNo0ZmmPaTIZJfuKq_hLf6KVnEd1WRc3FlUY71nhp9hWDwmtk/s320/cardigan.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #3d85c6;"> </span><a href="http://www.boohoo.com/usa/clothing/new-in/icat/newin/cardigans/liv-cable-knit-cardigan/invt/azz53955" target="_blank"><span style="color: #3d85c6;">find it here</span></a></div>
If it's just a little too cold to wear your favorite dress, throw this on. Keep it in your bag or car and when the sun starts going down, sling this on and voila. Warm again. You could also wear this with leggings or jeans for an extra slouchy look. No matter how you wear it, you're going to be comfortable.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9-cCTHq6zgvuK0CJmLlkm9zSUgjdToDn0gvER9e9HxXRuPiRRAVf7L6y7VdALQf-yGfqscYfFIlQRLo-rHgo56ktmSeyS31IcrOpuzmf8tKEusNdQjWeYHVuSWwmpFedcAzas6Sy8ITs/s1600/pants.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9-cCTHq6zgvuK0CJmLlkm9zSUgjdToDn0gvER9e9HxXRuPiRRAVf7L6y7VdALQf-yGfqscYfFIlQRLo-rHgo56ktmSeyS31IcrOpuzmf8tKEusNdQjWeYHVuSWwmpFedcAzas6Sy8ITs/s320/pants.jpg" width="273" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #3d85c6;"> </span><a href="http://www.hm.com/us/product/01982?article=01982-E#article=01982-F" target="_blank"><span style="color: #3d85c6;">find them here</span></a> </div>
Not only are these pants colorful, they scream spring. Blue is a great color to wear year round. They're a slightly stretchy, almost legging type pant, so very breathable and won't weigh you down. The best part about these is that they're under $15! These pants are an awesome way to change your wardrobe significantly without spending a ton of money. They come in a variety of colors and patterns, but I like blue the best. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhebAiMKztSVhoWjVPvx0Q-wAgtw77mtlNjW7qFNU0KnB6UB624d2StMzXvVrfZPSD54k42wDjqtueDhzMOtq9tXbmIFL8qVbdKvwC-6MYFsRitNL02nT2k58KnzCwQwxoq8dIsNghKl_Y/s1600/sweater.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhebAiMKztSVhoWjVPvx0Q-wAgtw77mtlNjW7qFNU0KnB6UB624d2StMzXvVrfZPSD54k42wDjqtueDhzMOtq9tXbmIFL8qVbdKvwC-6MYFsRitNL02nT2k58KnzCwQwxoq8dIsNghKl_Y/s320/sweater.jpg" width="273" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.hm.com/us/product/06920?article=06920-C#article=06920-C" target="_blank"><span style="color: #3d85c6;">find it here</span></a> </div>
The older I get, the more muted colors I enjoy wearing. Taupe is one of my new favorites. It's good for every season and will always be classy. You will always be on color trend if you go with earth tones, so if you're someone who worries about that sort of thing, make your expensive clothing purchases in colors that will be "in" forever. Then mix it up with the more inexpensive items in your closet. <br />
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Ok, now here's something I've been struggling with for a while. Denim on denim.<br />
I'm never quite sure if I love it. But then crazy colored pants came back into stores, and all of a sudden it's ok to wear a denim top with coral colored pants. <br />
You can find my favorite denim tops <a href="http://www.hm.com/us/product/07747?article=07747-C#article=07747-C" target="_blank"><span style="color: #3d85c6;">here,</span></a><span style="color: #3d85c6;"> </span><a href="http://www.abercrombie.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?catalogId=10901&storeId=10051&langId=-1&categoryId=12266&parentCategoryId=12266&topCategoryId=12203&productId=1076509&seq=01" target="_blank"><span style="color: #3d85c6;">here,</span></a> and <a href="http://www.ralphlauren.com/product/index.jsp?productId=17535086&cp=1760782.2735224&ab=ln_women_cs1_shirts&parentPage=family" target="_blank"><span style="color: #3d85c6;">here.</span></a> <br />
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If you're stuck with what to wear, ask yourself if you love it. If you love it and will wear it, buy it. <br />
No one else's opinion matters.<br />
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XAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01491663766987448865noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5634795339430927833.post-19186774260111338452013-01-28T19:12:00.001-06:002013-01-28T21:59:15.713-06:00The RoundhouseThe last train station on the BNSF metra is Aurora, IL. <br />
Some of you may recognize that city from Wayne's World... No way! Way!<br />
Connected to the train station is what is known as The Roundhouse.<br />
I'm not sure of everything that currently occupies the building, but from what little wandering I've done, I've seen a pub tucked away. I've been told there are also little venues for concerts/weddings/events within the building.<br />
During the holidays, reindeer would be put in the center to mingle with the diners and wanderers. <br />
They don't do this anymore due to a death in the reindeer family. Apparently reindeer have very sensitive stomachs and people were feeding the food off their plates.<br />
Regardless, The RH has become a favorite of mine.<br />
We were the first customers for the day, don't let the empty tables fool you. By the time we were done eating, the place was full of men in suits, girlfriends meeting up, and families too.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8mi7-UMGljm3TFgUTSg5Rq6vQAsUaLTZsLegqpedoeWxFeXqV1pfdHawK5PIoxfMRqv20gIZubSYfXV1uQZAcyCrQ3tA5HJWUaW_jvn7AizdFAQywpXnKeB7eR7fAPx9Ta8hzYhyphenhyphenUmIA/s1600/DSC_0389.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8mi7-UMGljm3TFgUTSg5Rq6vQAsUaLTZsLegqpedoeWxFeXqV1pfdHawK5PIoxfMRqv20gIZubSYfXV1uQZAcyCrQ3tA5HJWUaW_jvn7AizdFAQywpXnKeB7eR7fAPx9Ta8hzYhyphenhyphenUmIA/s640/DSC_0389.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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The atmosphere is a mix of soft and hard, warm and cold. The old wood floor, stone walls, exposed hardware, cushiony sleek leather seats, and roaring fires keep the restaurant comfortable, yet stimulating.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY2LzOfwBzGT28vSeJWjQKy_lcF8z7xWhG6ztp7KVJKjLSxcTo75kePhIc7JhWonWdRc5en-Yn8HwaALIXWxmlSi-h4qEfr6Sg1asXTiR7skdp6tPERGfmJvX-E6F1pLU2ny5jsqGleXk/s1600/DSC_0380.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY2LzOfwBzGT28vSeJWjQKy_lcF8z7xWhG6ztp7KVJKjLSxcTo75kePhIc7JhWonWdRc5en-Yn8HwaALIXWxmlSi-h4qEfr6Sg1asXTiR7skdp6tPERGfmJvX-E6F1pLU2ny5jsqGleXk/s640/DSC_0380.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1jNUv4UI-SAMXs5grP0JtK_H9xlIx2b4yzWjJaTESMncgqNRcm09XK3ubpkSxiUIqpl5vn7pyuL4JH-ihwq7zkuw_8WZN2MX6q1FYXDo90M6PE0FW6enyk8deGgmskJUl5Sp1_MEaHhI/s1600/DSC_0379.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1jNUv4UI-SAMXs5grP0JtK_H9xlIx2b4yzWjJaTESMncgqNRcm09XK3ubpkSxiUIqpl5vn7pyuL4JH-ihwq7zkuw_8WZN2MX6q1FYXDo90M6PE0FW6enyk8deGgmskJUl5Sp1_MEaHhI/s640/DSC_0379.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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I went with the Roundhouse Burger. It is a medium-thick patty with applewood smoked bacon, a roasted pablano, white cheddar cheese, and oozing with a house-made spicy/tangy barbecue sauce. I also opted for the house-cut french fries. <br />
Everything that is served at The RH is 100% organic, including beverages.<br />
The owners also only use local, fresh ingredients.<br />
I couldn't believe my senses when our waitress brought out the food. It looked and smelled so amazing. I don't think J and I talked for the next 15-20 minutes as we devoured our lunch, except for the occasional "can I have a bite of that?"<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmz4kPZeuxwCdyFaGnTMEcYcdPwwiKNoxHuAbEdx0E2zzI98A1XWVTLNuTttAXkZdCePD6vYfobrhIi2GfLDZ_dxAppcPdJ5tnoaR46UTfZpUXCnbGhlmsAqkJ6Dvh7zBsluCR7q73VkY/s1600/DSC_0385.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmz4kPZeuxwCdyFaGnTMEcYcdPwwiKNoxHuAbEdx0E2zzI98A1XWVTLNuTttAXkZdCePD6vYfobrhIi2GfLDZ_dxAppcPdJ5tnoaR46UTfZpUXCnbGhlmsAqkJ6Dvh7zBsluCR7q73VkY/s640/DSC_0385.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8hYlkyrHb1BaQ-eLt7IMxN3jpVHRVcnllf57yrbfQfMn7XoBHa7Z6L3r1zwCqGVIVJK731ZZqrdLZcRBqFMxMoO3QVRaqmsgoMB748-qeeRjP31hDgU1DfeWf0JCCdF-IJf1qz4sU2G0/s1600/DSC_0387.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8hYlkyrHb1BaQ-eLt7IMxN3jpVHRVcnllf57yrbfQfMn7XoBHa7Z6L3r1zwCqGVIVJK731ZZqrdLZcRBqFMxMoO3QVRaqmsgoMB748-qeeRjP31hDgU1DfeWf0JCCdF-IJf1qz4sU2G0/s640/DSC_0387.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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J ordered the N'Awlins Muffaletta- a sandwich made of ham, salami, mortadella, and capicola meats with provalone cheese, topped with an olive salad, smooshed between two pieces of a sesame bun. <br />
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<img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieOKqyOzVtm3tsu1rFFhjZ1lHDOLclObFBJdgK9iLtTmmhJLEtYf7pWIqYT9cm70TTXyYFavpJhD1SE1XYMtZ0163gIW5tJTs0DM8PM3cBL_POvZHVPhOb_gpmV3H4j_VCFykzw4f0gTU/s640/DSC_0386.JPG" width="640" /></div>
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<span id="goog_65714411"><span id="goog_1782793193">The portions are enough to have a meal and take a goody bag home... that's only if your tastebuds will let you stop.</span></span><br />
The building has been in the hands of many owners (including Walter payton of the Bears), but now the RH is owned by Two Brothers. <br />
They brew and serve their own beer and have seasonal favorites; you can learn more about that and brewery tours <a href="http://www.twobrothersroundhouse.com/brewery.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: #3d85c6;">here</span></a>.<br />
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You can also find more information about The RH <a href="http://www.twobrothersroundhouse.com/restaurant.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: #3d85c6;">here</span></a>, and the other Two Brother's restaurant, The Tap House, <a href="http://www.twobrotherstaphouse.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #3d85c6;">here</span></a>.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlVvfJVzV47z_fdw6epvBBr3F6fS-c2cO5uWmRdLPhs9J49LeRQstoj4PYQdTwio8QuWOXDoNshX6qDO1Xk3woS4HDgIA30RRXF2_TJYDPtzvl1304L59vHAbNw9P8wW0aHxuwoEyuOtM/s1600/DSC_0381.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlVvfJVzV47z_fdw6epvBBr3F6fS-c2cO5uWmRdLPhs9J49LeRQstoj4PYQdTwio8QuWOXDoNshX6qDO1Xk3woS4HDgIA30RRXF2_TJYDPtzvl1304L59vHAbNw9P8wW0aHxuwoEyuOtM/s640/DSC_0381.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01491663766987448865noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5634795339430927833.post-74499126672250121292013-01-25T14:31:00.003-06:002013-01-25T14:31:37.809-06:00Philadelphia Brownies<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Hi everyone!</div>
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It has been a loooong few months. I have a ton of updates to give you.</div>
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Most importantly, I graduated from college and am now ready to sit for boards! </div>
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I'm nervous and excited and so ready to get on with the rest of my life.</div>
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I'm adjusting slowly to city life, but it's not coming as naturally as I thought it would.</div>
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I get nervous going to new places by myself when J is at work, but I know the more I do it, the easier it will be.</div>
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Moving to a new state requires so much paperwork in order to get a new license, a library card, and all the other little things you don't really think of. </div>
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I wouldn't change any of it though!</div>
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It's snowing today and I'm being a shut-in with the pup. Nothing sits better in my tummy on a cold winter day than something deliciously warm.</div>
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I've been trying to stay away from sweets but since it's my Dad's birthday and I wanted to bake him something anyways, here's one of my all-time favorite treats- Philadelphia Brownies.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibQNsIHCbW0Vakzw5AeR1elB2PUxn1w8gFAVbwwKxzogYM1uEKhIcjFD_gwqCqf0BhAlTWSrHF5YSZm77DkPux7idTtv1vXkAjyx76r41xG-U_vKkp-u2X2WX_W22RcBUd-EwLWxOTBgc/s1600/DSC_0006+-+Copy.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="352" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibQNsIHCbW0Vakzw5AeR1elB2PUxn1w8gFAVbwwKxzogYM1uEKhIcjFD_gwqCqf0BhAlTWSrHF5YSZm77DkPux7idTtv1vXkAjyx76r41xG-U_vKkp-u2X2WX_W22RcBUd-EwLWxOTBgc/s640/DSC_0006+-+Copy.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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A rendition of this recipe goes way back in my family. It's one that my Grandma loved baking for my Dad. Since I can't find Grandma's recipe, I made my own easy (cheating!) version.</div>
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<em><u>What you'll need:</u></em></div>
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1 Ghirardelli Chocolate Supreme brownie mix</div>
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1/4 cup water</div>
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1/3 cup vegetable oil</div>
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2 eggs</div>
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1 package (8oz) Philadelphia cream cheese</div>
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1/3 cup sugar</div>
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1/2 tsp vanilla</div>
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What I love about the Ghirardelli brownies is that it comes with a chocolate syrup. Set the syrup aside, even though the package tells you to add it right away, DON'T! Otherwise, follow the directions on the back of the box. Pour only 2/3 of the mixture into the greased pan, and set it aside (don't put it in the oven yet). Save the other 1/3, along with the syrup packet, and set it aside.</div>
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With a mixer, beat the cream cheese until it is soft and smooth, then add 1 egg, the sugar, and the vanilla. Mix until it is smooth again.<br />
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Plop the entire cream cheese mix on top of the uncooked brownies in the pan. Smooth it all around until it covers most of the top. Then pour the remaining brownie mix over the cream cheese mix. Don't worry if the white shows through. This isn't art class!<br />
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Spread the syrup packet evenly over the pan using a knife. You can leave it like this, or make a pretty design using the tip of the knife.<br />
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Plop the pan in the oven at 325F for about 35-40 minutes or until the cream cheese is a golden color. Wait until the pan is completely cooled before cutting and serving. </div>
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Also, these should be refrigerated.... obviously unless they're all gone after one sitting!</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01491663766987448865noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5634795339430927833.post-92195844580822585662012-11-01T06:38:00.001-05:002012-11-01T06:38:10.818-05:00Jake Melnick'sWhile wandering around Chicago, J and I stopped in at Jake Melnick's to get some grub.<br />
I was running low on energy, so we stopped in the first place we saw. <br />
I've made a vow to not eat at the same place twice until I've covered a vast majority of the restaurants downtown.<br />
Jake's. Check.<br />
I'm dying to go back already though.<br />
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The entire restaurant was cozy, with friendly staff, and delicious food. <br />
We skipped the daily specials/appetizers and went straight for the entrees.<br />
J ordered some kind of chicken sandwich - with their award winning sauce.<br />
I was insanely jealous after I tasted his food. Not because mine wasn't good, but I wanted them both!<br />
I went with the salami brick oven pizza. <br />
It was smothered in cheese, had pepperoncini, thinly sliced genoa salami, marinara, fresh basil, and olive oil. <br />
Yum yum yum yum yum.<br />
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<br />
The wing sauce was voted "Best in Chicago", so I will definitely be getting some sort of chicken next time I go... in years from now after I've tried a bunch of other restaurants... or maybe this weekend when J and I need somewhere to eat.<br />
<br />
You can find Jake's Corner Tap <a href="http://www.jakemelnicks.com/news_reviews" target="_blank"><span style="color: #3d85c6;">here</span></a>. Take your kiddos, your bff, or your love bird. <br />
Stop in, have a beer, eat something off the "specials" menu, and/or enjoy their delicious wing sauce.<br />
I promise you'll love it. And if you don't........ more for me ;)<br />
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01491663766987448865noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5634795339430927833.post-54287008443688020792012-10-30T19:07:00.001-05:002012-10-30T19:07:07.900-05:00The Last October WeekendI spent last weekend not feeling so great.<br />
All I wanted to do was snuggle in pajamas and catch up on DVRed TV shows. <br />
But I was in the Windy City and exploring with J was an opportunity I didn't want to pass up.<br />
We headed in on the Metra and walked around aimlessly making note of restaurants to try and shops to stop in.<br />
Uggs and oversized sweatshirts are the next best thing other than pajamas, so that's what I threw on to run around my new stomping ground.<br />
It was a cold, blustery day, but it was worth every mile we walked.<br />
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We headed down Michigan Ave to peek in all the stores.<br />
We stopped in the mall to have a Christmas ornament made, and J got his picture taken with a life size Woody (from Toy Story) made of LEGOs. <br />
Our 3 year old nephew now thinks we have great connections ;)<br />
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We stopped off at "the bean", formally known as Cloud Gate. It was designed by a British artist and rests in Millennium park. It's shined so well that you can't see any of the seams from the 168 plates that it consists of. </div>
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People from all over the world have taken their own picture with the bean, and I couldn't pass up being a tourist this weekend. </div>
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Maybe some day that will all be out of my system...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRoFfRl8DxQ3aQgnA3DZfq4InE1pXZxaCmrqCr7tgJuS5Yh4PJhyphenhyphenyK9xqHB3eb2zZUVsu07Bg9cxcz-bXobY1s6P7WmAOULRsOyNL4GojUB9Ws61GqFnNbAMbGvPM2SWtT156QBD2_jVE/s1600/15.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRoFfRl8DxQ3aQgnA3DZfq4InE1pXZxaCmrqCr7tgJuS5Yh4PJhyphenhyphenyK9xqHB3eb2zZUVsu07Bg9cxcz-bXobY1s6P7WmAOULRsOyNL4GojUB9Ws61GqFnNbAMbGvPM2SWtT156QBD2_jVE/s640/15.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Almost all the leaves have fallen from the trees, and it makes me sad to say that the Autumn weather I love so much is almost gone.</div>
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We arrived back at the train station windswept and shivering.</div>
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I was ready for a warm meal and my bed.</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01491663766987448865noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5634795339430927833.post-86626954034473922002012-10-19T09:08:00.002-05:002012-10-19T09:08:30.257-05:00An Autumn Afternoon<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Fall is my favorite season.</div>
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It reminds me so much of being little and spending what seemed like hours at the pumpkin patch searching for the perfect pumpkin.</div>
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My parents used to take my brother and me on hayrides, and afterwards we would go apple picking at the orchard.</div>
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I always wanted to be Belle from Beauty and The Beast for Halloween (and in real life).</div>
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Putting on my golden gown - over my snow suit of course - and heading out collecting as much candy as I could fit into my bag is one of the best memories I have.</div>
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My Mom and I headed outside yesterday to enjoy the beautiful weather.</div>
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We ended up at <a href="http://maybecommon.blogspot.com/2012/07/toledo-botanical-gardens.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: #3d85c6;">Toledo Botanical Gardens</span></a> again.</div>
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Living in the North this time of year is so amazing. The colors are absolutely unreal and simply incredible.</div>
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I convinced my Mom to do a photoshoot, and let her capture me running around, twirling, playing in the leaves, and climbing trees.</div>
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The afternoon was straight from my childhood...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6vHeVTFMCtvPl-Kxi8FwJX1PAOf-JkeJu0xh2h00LYtfcF50Y1ACYS4cy-Rmll6TfBzUf6q9MiK1vSxL8AXYrU2-sccQyS_R_FQV6cmTTwl7fJFTDWQQOIQoPq_s7oSYp-LHBqaZVcDA/s1600/Heather1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6vHeVTFMCtvPl-Kxi8FwJX1PAOf-JkeJu0xh2h00LYtfcF50Y1ACYS4cy-Rmll6TfBzUf6q9MiK1vSxL8AXYrU2-sccQyS_R_FQV6cmTTwl7fJFTDWQQOIQoPq_s7oSYp-LHBqaZVcDA/s640/Heather1.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvUbkiuDgmDR7lYp56W_VqGRjwjCcyhJ5FiNdmwFX7f74zeG-BBCM1YYWQ4jARBYjWEpjjdbjeMg8ExcVaDhmdHvx1SIqAVy0PYtb3GqA3MKDoReithmr9YCYwcnwjLN8VIhZTsqXLbFg/s1600/Heather1-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="505" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvUbkiuDgmDR7lYp56W_VqGRjwjCcyhJ5FiNdmwFX7f74zeG-BBCM1YYWQ4jARBYjWEpjjdbjeMg8ExcVaDhmdHvx1SIqAVy0PYtb3GqA3MKDoReithmr9YCYwcnwjLN8VIhZTsqXLbFg/s640/Heather1-2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Pure joy on my face as I swung on this door over and over (and over and over) again...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwJO2v1K6ZXjcmaUjcT9lFkGeq1a5LA20PjBysnVcEWzEmT6gfxXS7nE3JT0a0iZoKtY42vaYDrscz9EfvypeYXp1tyugaKxHGWefez2Sarp31x1_En8opkuGfQhcov-HYyMg7oY52PbQ/s1600/Heather2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="448" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwJO2v1K6ZXjcmaUjcT9lFkGeq1a5LA20PjBysnVcEWzEmT6gfxXS7nE3JT0a0iZoKtY42vaYDrscz9EfvypeYXp1tyugaKxHGWefez2Sarp31x1_En8opkuGfQhcov-HYyMg7oY52PbQ/s640/Heather2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://i.picasion.com/pic60/c6f0a02273c0d9a477d23055aba366f5.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://i.picasion.com/pic60/c6f0a02273c0d9a477d23055aba366f5.gif" width="425" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPiuTpTSUBkaiKMMQVIP5AUhYhy-5SCszHW9Kd731ApDNi5IOJIsJ4C89PZ-U3DmGOwhXFsNo_wml9RZuxXbac0ndRLJv2qp90AwXJIb5JuLp-pU7wH-uL_6HlpkWfIhgRts51D-cqaO4/s1600/Heather4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPiuTpTSUBkaiKMMQVIP5AUhYhy-5SCszHW9Kd731ApDNi5IOJIsJ4C89PZ-U3DmGOwhXFsNo_wml9RZuxXbac0ndRLJv2qp90AwXJIb5JuLp-pU7wH-uL_6HlpkWfIhgRts51D-cqaO4/s640/Heather4.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgefXyp7M8o5qm-CTFv_ZnG0WnMvOLVrYzBjGDcPd86W18-H4oPQSLSDCj0KjhjPDlsp983mOmM5-G-QW2pPPIt8bs73GHvBanwctguTVKRrlktFoHieC8PkZ4lI3JM0V9a3SwcqsqwrB4/s1600/Heather3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgefXyp7M8o5qm-CTFv_ZnG0WnMvOLVrYzBjGDcPd86W18-H4oPQSLSDCj0KjhjPDlsp983mOmM5-G-QW2pPPIt8bs73GHvBanwctguTVKRrlktFoHieC8PkZ4lI3JM0V9a3SwcqsqwrB4/s640/Heather3.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih2_uQjOuPeke2_QiWRcMp0ac0V-oIvB0JmnVfRrR6pVvD8RTvZzOQLKZ_EQJiX-qIYI1TglQTrk9mz5kdtgRyHzdCba1ttjpDJDkPr0kmqlIizdVcmELVZZWmJLicLWeg5nPIKdsWk4c/s1600/Heather5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih2_uQjOuPeke2_QiWRcMp0ac0V-oIvB0JmnVfRrR6pVvD8RTvZzOQLKZ_EQJiX-qIYI1TglQTrk9mz5kdtgRyHzdCba1ttjpDJDkPr0kmqlIizdVcmELVZZWmJLicLWeg5nPIKdsWk4c/s640/Heather5.jpg" width="504" /></a></div>
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Here are a few of my favorite pictures of my Mom from the shoot. She's so beautiful....</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8RGaK1UIDus9ACVK5MqMYKq1ZK0PP2llc_Q40_siEkbbZ162cSmzKNUiXOBBYIjHqlb3rRZAUkMgwb1BjABOhWXKYnE2XFbavbO0huI30yuABBUi7JylUbP_FRihn_hIIN7fAnQjp6YU/s1600/Steph4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8RGaK1UIDus9ACVK5MqMYKq1ZK0PP2llc_Q40_siEkbbZ162cSmzKNUiXOBBYIjHqlb3rRZAUkMgwb1BjABOhWXKYnE2XFbavbO0huI30yuABBUi7JylUbP_FRihn_hIIN7fAnQjp6YU/s640/Steph4.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXaET0qycDESXr_fpvWtjG22KdyBBeriqQm3Yga32wTUlj28REPxuFa4KWMxmCOkvRBMcvzmeXOMh-h6W7kx4X2RXjt9Zv9A8KArpiQg-xmworToNnfn0ZI1_pDqvCrw1ImCIGAC6InSU/s1600/Steph1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXaET0qycDESXr_fpvWtjG22KdyBBeriqQm3Yga32wTUlj28REPxuFa4KWMxmCOkvRBMcvzmeXOMh-h6W7kx4X2RXjt9Zv9A8KArpiQg-xmworToNnfn0ZI1_pDqvCrw1ImCIGAC6InSU/s640/Steph1.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMTS74rJHQmuIuFvSn91ku4BVCdce2oNa8Co2Uvvigp4IZ4rYRZhuHYFfzG2L5qmjS70jMzppLgHMncsHEKQJUwLg8DMYeX5lWaVr5DrnltuGTXmRzLuv2n-4sW1gG74Dcr_f9pyfaCXg/s1600/Steph7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="372" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMTS74rJHQmuIuFvSn91ku4BVCdce2oNa8Co2Uvvigp4IZ4rYRZhuHYFfzG2L5qmjS70jMzppLgHMncsHEKQJUwLg8DMYeX5lWaVr5DrnltuGTXmRzLuv2n-4sW1gG74Dcr_f9pyfaCXg/s640/Steph7.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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IF I make it to a Halloween party this year, I have my costume picked out. It's a secret though....</div>
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What are you dressing up as??</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01491663766987448865noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5634795339430927833.post-5943572296352201722012-10-18T11:55:00.002-05:002012-10-18T11:55:10.650-05:00Catch UpWhile I'm playing catch up with my work, I thought I'd share a few pictures of what I've been up to lately...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1G2XtUiu8u7rPw1oY0MC_H9WrGI4uHgux-4tW6vLQEaGGKe1iVOT4CeVu-j4Atpzcj19Y9MG_MzX-o3JG0MYj5VHQ8UvrlXRTirFwuj9doAkN976LJP9aUiVZACkf8cAyDDc4aL_QF1I/s1600/untitled.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1G2XtUiu8u7rPw1oY0MC_H9WrGI4uHgux-4tW6vLQEaGGKe1iVOT4CeVu-j4Atpzcj19Y9MG_MzX-o3JG0MYj5VHQ8UvrlXRTirFwuj9doAkN976LJP9aUiVZACkf8cAyDDc4aL_QF1I/s640/untitled.png" width="480" /></a></div>
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Driving to and from Chicago late nights with gorgeous Autumn sunsets.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVilU2R2FjHo6KJo1MqaGzH2IL7EB0iHc4RjPrPs5CDsMl2oEm4qF4oc-NG4xebWIjuVYz6nStAwB4ZK31dXNG92sjbmIt1uIsyJAisUGDgkFt2yHC5cuNG6N4XMkvx8HoxE4wYlDh1Ac/s1600/13.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVilU2R2FjHo6KJo1MqaGzH2IL7EB0iHc4RjPrPs5CDsMl2oEm4qF4oc-NG4xebWIjuVYz6nStAwB4ZK31dXNG92sjbmIt1uIsyJAisUGDgkFt2yHC5cuNG6N4XMkvx8HoxE4wYlDh1Ac/s640/13.png" width="480" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNW7TAf4l81ZiVWlhurr3WQ4r6Q6EpQfbI4Rk5Fs7YcbTIdj61uNttRheWhuQ8_Uyrc4xVZ3P_bKzwMFpE_XFlGig0I2Io50_XBqgy5qu9pl1fsWUS0DvzHpgIir1H1Im_VRDiTy3qQ4g/s1600/12.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNW7TAf4l81ZiVWlhurr3WQ4r6Q6EpQfbI4Rk5Fs7YcbTIdj61uNttRheWhuQ8_Uyrc4xVZ3P_bKzwMFpE_XFlGig0I2Io50_XBqgy5qu9pl1fsWUS0DvzHpgIir1H1Im_VRDiTy3qQ4g/s640/12.png" width="480" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2ETE1l3tp1g1Vspz5TBb6X8qAJnDPtKiIEovsiGuTZNvw2Szjdo4jgvIEXRGIUFdcHRh1aUPx8vc93_z-P0EnwKdn6c0DLFD1RpNXgCkkYDzkWrewVYCNzVTrLcB9AJMAwWRxMBQvDuM/s1600/1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2ETE1l3tp1g1Vspz5TBb6X8qAJnDPtKiIEovsiGuTZNvw2Szjdo4jgvIEXRGIUFdcHRh1aUPx8vc93_z-P0EnwKdn6c0DLFD1RpNXgCkkYDzkWrewVYCNzVTrLcB9AJMAwWRxMBQvDuM/s640/1.png" width="480" /></a></div>
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Found pumpkins at the farm to use as centerpieces after spray painting them to a beautiful golden hue.<br />
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Lots of outdoor time with the pup.<br />
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Enjoyed some fine Japanese cuisine and loved discovering a Harry Potter sushi roll.<br />
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Indulged...<br />
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Enjoyed a much over-due pedicure (that I almost immediately smudged up).<br />
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Pranced around in my birthday outfit, which is completely different from my birthdy suit by the way ;)<br />
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Laughed histerically at this on a really stressful day.....</div>
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What have you been up to? I've been missing out on a lot of things going on in the blogger world.</div>
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I'm trying to keep up with everything that is on my plate- I'm slowly, but surely falling behind with just about everything.</div>
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X</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01491663766987448865noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5634795339430927833.post-899228539037290022012-10-12T08:05:00.002-05:002012-10-12T08:05:27.778-05:00Flex WatchesFlex watches has created 10 different colored watches. Each color represents 1 of 10 charities in which 10 percent of your purchase will go towards (the 10-10-10 standard).<div>
While the money is being put to good use, the main reason for the watches is to promote awareness of each charity. </div>
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By simply buying and wearing a watch, you too can contribute to the success of the 10 charities.</div>
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The black watch supports LHON- an organization that helps people who are affected by spontaneous blindness, which occurs to about 100 people each year in the US.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjQmD7XN7GtBWulHJynT5A2CxDFGqsN5_zpoHNWTJp-Z3c4eaJJwG8OKv3DzJm8Oh1YbnmOTW9gOK2ijxCpqoivuRuKlqRMnO2uVzlH2_aXz24Lv7ZfqsuApTUj_prHW0va9krk8qsCgI/s1600/LHON.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="443" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjQmD7XN7GtBWulHJynT5A2CxDFGqsN5_zpoHNWTJp-Z3c4eaJJwG8OKv3DzJm8Oh1YbnmOTW9gOK2ijxCpqoivuRuKlqRMnO2uVzlH2_aXz24Lv7ZfqsuApTUj_prHW0va9krk8qsCgI/s640/LHON.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #3d85c6;"><a href="http://flexwatches.com/store/the-all-black-watch.html" target="_blank">source: buy here</a></span></div>
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The blue watch supports Nika Water- a charity that helps bring clean water and sanitization to the world's poor. 100% of proceeds go to Nika.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZDKbM2APIMMkBafCwxsOOJQa8-v1YyzNy_A6hxvlhv4bANI43uVx65CMPfZNzHHVCeKNGXmHGZ-TYGYhHxzJzL1usZKjDreypPLreOfblynX76-tcyJYrab5Fsfjw1InPxcveccNDBIU/s1600/nika+water.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="443" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZDKbM2APIMMkBafCwxsOOJQa8-v1YyzNy_A6hxvlhv4bANI43uVx65CMPfZNzHHVCeKNGXmHGZ-TYGYhHxzJzL1usZKjDreypPLreOfblynX76-tcyJYrab5Fsfjw1InPxcveccNDBIU/s640/nika+water.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://flexwatches.com/store/the-blue-mini.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: #3d85c6;">source: buy here</span></a></div>
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The gray watch supports the Imerman Angels charity. This organization matches those who are fighting cancer, with someone who has already won the battle. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNHj9QV6eGixG8Iqx41lcqAt4HpDwSK76MSyxnTsB2_AeSFHjEyZwMYXBkU7_KZDfSaNcq-NVCuzR7c8JIVzO8wZBd2heeVbD0z08bJwK4GB7p9lkO8H5xT8r_WFkSp3SoP4_Ge5OXWko/s1600/imerman+angels.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="443" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNHj9QV6eGixG8Iqx41lcqAt4HpDwSK76MSyxnTsB2_AeSFHjEyZwMYXBkU7_KZDfSaNcq-NVCuzR7c8JIVzO8wZBd2heeVbD0z08bJwK4GB7p9lkO8H5xT8r_WFkSp3SoP4_Ge5OXWko/s640/imerman+angels.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #3d85c6;"><a href="http://flexwatches.com/store/the-gray-watch.html" target="_blank">source: buy here</a></span></div>
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The green watch supports the Be Perfect Foundation- a charity that provides funds to people who have endured spinal cord injuries and financially cannot afford a full recovery. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDD1N_IsLz3j8R1uqwH1_FIc34iZ6nIjKNGno8j__WGm5Vx3DDSSv-GW4YZ_7pdOmQqodbgh7PV9xb-UXnz8KRc6yyS7_EwfsaI8RKB0bHFiVeyhZOJKmEZKECgVJdFTevmsw5OtmgiJU/s1600/be+perfect.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="443" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDD1N_IsLz3j8R1uqwH1_FIc34iZ6nIjKNGno8j__WGm5Vx3DDSSv-GW4YZ_7pdOmQqodbgh7PV9xb-UXnz8KRc6yyS7_EwfsaI8RKB0bHFiVeyhZOJKmEZKECgVJdFTevmsw5OtmgiJU/s640/be+perfect.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://flexwatches.com/store/the-green-watch.html" target="_blank">source: buy here</a></div>
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The light blue watch supports The Living Memoir, which is a forum about suicide awareness, but was initially started so people could talk about the past, be present in the now, and talk about the future.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCnuRuhu-K75k20e_TZcaLLA_mlYRV5RJIP5RgcV7BQojedrHRaYSCP17F2ho3gvgGGnBPXMYSNfmOBPWlpdXgvK34T6kpua048R8kk5sFzgUOYxaKoh-h01MH428ipLAbPnILY2oGWg0/s1600/living+memoir.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="443" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCnuRuhu-K75k20e_TZcaLLA_mlYRV5RJIP5RgcV7BQojedrHRaYSCP17F2ho3gvgGGnBPXMYSNfmOBPWlpdXgvK34T6kpua048R8kk5sFzgUOYxaKoh-h01MH428ipLAbPnILY2oGWg0/s640/living+memoir.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #3d85c6;"><a href="http://flexwatches.com/store/the-light-blue-watch.html" target="_blank">source: buy here</a></span></div>
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The orange watch supports the St. Bernard Project, which builds homes for Hurricane Katrina victims.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKnhNzmb6l6mk2ZziN1_0fOM6ru2w51YlBr5UVMrqv5si3uSxGaRXWTXrR5BJNWWir1pce7ejHeN_E8NpcHrbJN8xGq39T9iO6J74wPTPXD23pd1VvmX56bguIG4aT7a9sMyjQSDP7OuE/s1600/st+bernard+project.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="443" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKnhNzmb6l6mk2ZziN1_0fOM6ru2w51YlBr5UVMrqv5si3uSxGaRXWTXrR5BJNWWir1pce7ejHeN_E8NpcHrbJN8xGq39T9iO6J74wPTPXD23pd1VvmX56bguIG4aT7a9sMyjQSDP7OuE/s640/st+bernard+project.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://flexwatches.com/store/the-orange-watch.html" target="_blank">source: buy here</a></div>
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The pink watch supports the Keep-A-Breast foundation, which hopes to get rid of breast cancer altogether through methods of prevention. During the month of October, an extra $5 will be donated to the charity by Flex Watches.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUxulqeKg4uQ1_Izgzh_xlWeghSLCc4px4rXJZrR-iGaRiCW5LWNqfkOMPoyy_jCyTB8QK3v7bUpnDjMpWDKVBn8waYBFCjXt8Lw4amdEA-a0WfP5YqQYbOY-yOiStIZEL6Tq0CT5rfQM/s1600/keep+a+breast.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="443" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUxulqeKg4uQ1_Izgzh_xlWeghSLCc4px4rXJZrR-iGaRiCW5LWNqfkOMPoyy_jCyTB8QK3v7bUpnDjMpWDKVBn8waYBFCjXt8Lw4amdEA-a0WfP5YqQYbOY-yOiStIZEL6Tq0CT5rfQM/s640/keep+a+breast.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #3d85c6;"><a href="http://flexwatches.com/store/the-pink-mini.html" target="_blank">source: buy here</a></span></div>
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The red watch supports Mariner's Outreach, which provides mostly food needs to the poor in Mexico.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimnFCkB4OKg-Uuf-9oY7gxKuOoP9RWJcC8xl-5494stAowsbE1Iezjp9lWlrWOYkx_qeyMV2_P2Z4ilcHtTICfIVVHq9zx7lhs7G0EXJ9euyaDblWDzBNBQvlrRV4u0nHCWlIUz3bWi2E/s1600/mariners+outreach.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="443" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimnFCkB4OKg-Uuf-9oY7gxKuOoP9RWJcC8xl-5494stAowsbE1Iezjp9lWlrWOYkx_qeyMV2_P2Z4ilcHtTICfIVVHq9zx7lhs7G0EXJ9euyaDblWDzBNBQvlrRV4u0nHCWlIUz3bWi2E/s640/mariners+outreach.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #3d85c6;"><a href="http://flexwatches.com/store/the-red-watch.html" target="_blank">source: buy here</a></span></div>
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The white watch supports Life Rolls On- a charity that encourages young people with spinal cord injuries to be active despite paralysis.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHohojQViBSfUipIzTWiGVrftSuRgDyH3_3YYh8NymU2rPbxtGMi0q8tlA8NL2jz-aqbVqxnmOt7B7jc3UVb-CIctv5JmLz9zo-4iiAT74PfRQaXmuVi2FakW1Jpmy53Sm0zieqWxOMBc/s1600/life+rolls+on.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="443" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHohojQViBSfUipIzTWiGVrftSuRgDyH3_3YYh8NymU2rPbxtGMi0q8tlA8NL2jz-aqbVqxnmOt7B7jc3UVb-CIctv5JmLz9zo-4iiAT74PfRQaXmuVi2FakW1Jpmy53Sm0zieqWxOMBc/s640/life+rolls+on.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://flexwatches.com/store/the-white-mini.html" target="_blank">source: buy here</a></div>
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The yellow watch supports the APDA, which donates huge amounts of money for Parkinson's research every year.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvy475U8lxtPB3YYZyv7-Aq_pz9kQcC7EP98bmNpIlYOaAaCxva57AWXaHNI7XHDH7PHofRFbMX9YHANQ6EfmLrJ-veyVawVTyxNoxCh5q1oVV0XyD0zUUzZI8l_hKQpzRENRsUb9n6M8/s1600/adpa.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="443" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvy475U8lxtPB3YYZyv7-Aq_pz9kQcC7EP98bmNpIlYOaAaCxva57AWXaHNI7XHDH7PHofRFbMX9YHANQ6EfmLrJ-veyVawVTyxNoxCh5q1oVV0XyD0zUUzZI8l_hKQpzRENRsUb9n6M8/s640/adpa.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #3d85c6;"><a href="http://flexwatches.com/store/the-yellow-watch.html" target="_blank">source: buy here</a></span></div>
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The watches are sold in mini and a regular size, which are slightly different. </div>
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The cost of each watch is $40.</div>
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The bands are interchangeable, so you can start by purchasing any watch and when you're sick of the color, pick up a different colored band for $15. </div>
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You can also purchase rubber bracelets for $5 or a t-shirt for $25 to raise awareness of Flex Watches.</div>
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Please contribute to one of these excellent charities, or at least get the word out about them. I'm off to get the black one...</div>
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XX</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01491663766987448865noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5634795339430927833.post-37747637657981391812012-10-11T12:11:00.000-05:002012-10-11T12:11:43.076-05:00Portillo'sIn 1963 in Villa Park, Dick Portillo opened up a rinky dink hot dog stand called The Dog House.<br />
He used a garden hose for running water and had no bathroom.<br />
Fast forward nearly 50 years, he changed the name and now has a few dozen locations around the Windy City, California, and Indiana.<br />
I travelled back to Chicago this week, so I stopped in to judge the food for myself.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibjGF8M46TsV-_HKJykZDL1LqTTdK6zNp7zMQ2iB76AbkFp4hht0Im1BrHCZcUnxBpLKo62IpPnywGz6KfM3h067V06Zxhg4RMcC8eq7k54rFQzGXl6pXlw0rlYr6fxEqd28rqK9Aumg8/s1600/DSC_0129.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibjGF8M46TsV-_HKJykZDL1LqTTdK6zNp7zMQ2iB76AbkFp4hht0Im1BrHCZcUnxBpLKo62IpPnywGz6KfM3h067V06Zxhg4RMcC8eq7k54rFQzGXl6pXlw0rlYr6fxEqd28rqK9Aumg8/s640/DSC_0129.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOe_zVCp4ZR9jJhqgOOnLCmsPOs1zXtNlkRS_GOLjXjqtPYgJ5oZQzxXhoOXP0jUthe1m0K4rdrEgx-CcN5ccU-IXPOo_GT8vqrwC1B3PFWjJqJfrkYhzdBlKnVoEEwvFNMWwtbgArwbg/s1600/DSC_0145.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOe_zVCp4ZR9jJhqgOOnLCmsPOs1zXtNlkRS_GOLjXjqtPYgJ5oZQzxXhoOXP0jUthe1m0K4rdrEgx-CcN5ccU-IXPOo_GT8vqrwC1B3PFWjJqJfrkYhzdBlKnVoEEwvFNMWwtbgArwbg/s640/DSC_0145.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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I went with the jumbo chili cheese dog...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgenLJDKkYJt8Btv49fVCImWCHF7s0Ac6cdKdeH2iy69hPsNo2Vcjw9tfmv0jJPhaY4EIIEDBaKF_PHoJbB4ES9gYZXXnPybEiygG4Gfg1tkMSBsLBLRy8PajrdyJ8h1-rScN9PitJnLzg/s1600/DSC_0132.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgenLJDKkYJt8Btv49fVCImWCHF7s0Ac6cdKdeH2iy69hPsNo2Vcjw9tfmv0jJPhaY4EIIEDBaKF_PHoJbB4ES9gYZXXnPybEiygG4Gfg1tkMSBsLBLRy8PajrdyJ8h1-rScN9PitJnLzg/s640/DSC_0132.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>
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And the jumbo hot dog...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDSNn4RDQAG2Ei4XXEf_AYRewOHf1XjJFLMIbvEOJRzm7Ehi1EinfKbsuna06eVqTfpyXRMZfl-bUY4LxK5YterUZgLvzNv4TRTFBbxXMThOVBYPeb2eKVUjQ9C5dS8zmTgQEIkAnmZ3o/s1600/DSC_0140.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDSNn4RDQAG2Ei4XXEf_AYRewOHf1XjJFLMIbvEOJRzm7Ehi1EinfKbsuna06eVqTfpyXRMZfl-bUY4LxK5YterUZgLvzNv4TRTFBbxXMThOVBYPeb2eKVUjQ9C5dS8zmTgQEIkAnmZ3o/s640/DSC_0140.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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For the full menu go <a href="http://www.portillos.com/assets/pdfmenu/972AC7203C2B46F49F78B1D5B5FDE3F6.pdf" target="_blank"><span style="color: #3d85c6;">here</span></a>.<br />
The menu is full of chicken, salads, and sandwiches, but it's a hot dog stand, so I'll stay true.<br />
I can already see myself gaining hot dog weight. I'd go for a million more of each of these in the future.<br />
The service is excellent. They get you in and out without pushing or rushing.<br />
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If you're in the area, check out one of the Portillo's <a href="http://www.portillos.com/portillos/locations/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #3d85c6;">locations</span></a>.<br />
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XAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01491663766987448865noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5634795339430927833.post-87766032463198242062012-10-01T15:22:00.001-05:002012-10-01T15:22:25.330-05:00CarsonI've mentioned him before, but my favorite four-legged friend has been by my side for the past week.<br />
While J and I have to be living in separate parts of the country for a while, I've been staying with my new bff, Carson.<br />
He was a stray that came wandering into my brother's yard. He couldn't take care of him, so my Mom took him in. <br />
He's been the sweetest, most lovable little guy since day 1.<br />
He loves playing in leaves, eating all of my favorite non-edibles, and sneaking food off the counter.<br />
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Whenever I point my camera at him, he either runs around like a crazed, rabid animal, or he acts like I'm punishing him by putting his ears back and giving me the puppy dog eyes. <br />
I'm pretty sure he's saying "why are you doing this to me???"<br />
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Because he's some sort of Beagle mix, he normally runs around with his nose to the ground, barking at all of his favorite smells (i.e. rabbits, birds, squirrels).<br />
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He's such a lover and the best 4-legged snuggler in the whole world. He curls up into the tiniest ball and pretends to be a lap dog.<br />
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I had a Beagle growing up that was a lover too. They really are the sweetest dogs... if you can get past that bark!<br />
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XX<br />
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Side note: he's a runner. For all of you thinking that's a shock collar, you're half right. It's for his invisible fence. I don't believe in using shock collars, but he would be long gone if the fence wasn't in place.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01491663766987448865noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5634795339430927833.post-2486488707389807512012-09-29T14:57:00.002-05:002012-09-29T14:57:15.716-05:00A Year Of WishesI haven't been avoiding you. <br />
Life has been taking some crazy, unexpected turns, and I'm trying to keep up with it all.<br />
J & I moved into our new (newer than the pictures I shared <a href="http://maybecommon.blogspot.com/2012/08/home-sweet-home.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: #3d85c6;">here</span></a>) place. <br />
We received a thoughtful housewarming gift from his side of the family that I thought was worth sharing.<br />
They sent a "Year of Wishes" set from Red Envelope. It includes 12 candles, each with a charm inside.<br />
We can burn a new candle each month, revealing adventure, joy, fun, wealth, etc.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN3cMwW-wzdXAYJ5tDrhAYW3RavB6k2F8lN0M4inJ8dBBxBObxbiT14M5K1KVfr48bFjvGDCFVmulxBDNIydUcAcJX5fkW0qHII-JImxelpPCX4UuTuFXIPn5ClbLZYfbJfqkYLZwmzIY/s1600/DSC_0037.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN3cMwW-wzdXAYJ5tDrhAYW3RavB6k2F8lN0M4inJ8dBBxBObxbiT14M5K1KVfr48bFjvGDCFVmulxBDNIydUcAcJX5fkW0qHII-JImxelpPCX4UuTuFXIPn5ClbLZYfbJfqkYLZwmzIY/s640/DSC_0037.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKrvIIsZylKrhKSUnfR_oQNwwk1SGjSfZKWay478bNCkk3ztZH2wnYVcNXocxKT-3T2nQ_chUkKtT8zrzEXRmrfYpIR0uGv1LrOOvZZwJi-gWzAdWaE0NUUBoDJOxXBOEpm6vZdOXhr70/s1600/DSC_0036.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKrvIIsZylKrhKSUnfR_oQNwwk1SGjSfZKWay478bNCkk3ztZH2wnYVcNXocxKT-3T2nQ_chUkKtT8zrzEXRmrfYpIR0uGv1LrOOvZZwJi-gWzAdWaE0NUUBoDJOxXBOEpm6vZdOXhr70/s640/DSC_0036.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmlGImCjTbWFWioQMH6eb_sCo7jcYPV2qxacHFpkXd0vo8naUG6h3qsyBlBurQ06uKkMqWhRrtnQaTn7HJ75nNlXgZQEgg05b2UxTobgOF8c9YqG5C339T88WTH3898I98SC6HeOvQPx4/s1600/DSC_0034.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmlGImCjTbWFWioQMH6eb_sCo7jcYPV2qxacHFpkXd0vo8naUG6h3qsyBlBurQ06uKkMqWhRrtnQaTn7HJ75nNlXgZQEgg05b2UxTobgOF8c9YqG5C339T88WTH3898I98SC6HeOvQPx4/s640/DSC_0034.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Because I will be away from J for a while, I left this candle out and ready to burn.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVm1ohTL1HSOfg617h9KFZGNdiRkkpEiOPdRStoSj-zDb2NLGLY1vcSbuKmL6QYhcwAea_qgHIgMPrDdZkckloIZLUzRyGHX5TT2tqw-3fGUSYA6LLMbyhoSw7ca4muCZShsGXQr0wa3o/s1600/DSC_0041.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVm1ohTL1HSOfg617h9KFZGNdiRkkpEiOPdRStoSj-zDb2NLGLY1vcSbuKmL6QYhcwAea_qgHIgMPrDdZkckloIZLUzRyGHX5TT2tqw-3fGUSYA6LLMbyhoSw7ca4muCZShsGXQr0wa3o/s640/DSC_0041.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijEvYGvqFpsp9C7nh50rJOdfpqD71xSrqwh0X4YgcxMzCN4PwV0WwZqM118YlvMl5zzVm8oRyf9zw5gD8IsBNOrcYAn67OMwiVswk0CYt00LIOd2n_z1nKLE5lUAo-gbM2ZVlmqF2PFNE/s1600/DSC_0042.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijEvYGvqFpsp9C7nh50rJOdfpqD71xSrqwh0X4YgcxMzCN4PwV0WwZqM118YlvMl5zzVm8oRyf9zw5gD8IsBNOrcYAn67OMwiVswk0CYt00LIOd2n_z1nKLE5lUAo-gbM2ZVlmqF2PFNE/s640/DSC_0042.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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The set even comes with little tweezers to remove the gem after the wax has burned away.<br />
If you're interested in sending someone a little present, you can find the candles <a href="http://gifts.redenvelope.com/candles/year-of-wishes-candles-25819680?ref=HomeNoRef&q=candle&viewpos=1&trackingpgroup=rcndl" target="_blank"><span style="color: #3d85c6;">here.</span></a><br />
Also, message me if you'd like an address to send additional gifts (I kid, I kid) ;-)<br />
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XX<br />
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Btw, I shot these photos with my new 35mm lens J got me for my birthday. I'm still learning and adjusting to it, but so far I'm in love!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01491663766987448865noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5634795339430927833.post-8167513385686457282012-09-18T16:54:00.001-05:002012-09-18T16:54:24.016-05:00Fall FashionThe last drops of Summer are quickly slipping away, and my favorite season is just about here.<br />
There's nothing I love more than being in an over-sized sweater and chunky socks on a cold Autumn day.<br />
I've put together a few necessities for the upcoming season for you to check out.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHNoqIsRH3hZ7bCnQCYENDmXezMEnodK3AOPWWcrdWad-fRiZgEY5UJWEM7bKsNNiTXxLCgpnOmNBZ3lPv9pCSrvMVW-d43nzr6PEeUGGAuL4En4UaOjkOMrIsYZkiYhQVigGuBugMfnk/s1600/mint+blazer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHNoqIsRH3hZ7bCnQCYENDmXezMEnodK3AOPWWcrdWad-fRiZgEY5UJWEM7bKsNNiTXxLCgpnOmNBZ3lPv9pCSrvMVW-d43nzr6PEeUGGAuL4En4UaOjkOMrIsYZkiYhQVigGuBugMfnk/s640/mint+blazer.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
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Mint was one of the hottest colors for Spring, but I'm going to continue it into Fall for 2 reasons: <br />
I love mint & I love this blazer.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRwb39lYXpcVVHV38cp6EeK3ZCEeGtHe8cvasZ8N0B6obMSkW7865NGnQN7EQK7MCBkB2whTy-BhwsxvjhNc5FnZVAlaC-Leb1nFJE2Z1P8Akdy1zzPZSnuxhtD2jaczxsPY_Odqywg5U/s1600/tan+coat.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRwb39lYXpcVVHV38cp6EeK3ZCEeGtHe8cvasZ8N0B6obMSkW7865NGnQN7EQK7MCBkB2whTy-BhwsxvjhNc5FnZVAlaC-Leb1nFJE2Z1P8Akdy1zzPZSnuxhtD2jaczxsPY_Odqywg5U/s640/tan+coat.jpg" width="536" /></a></div>
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Everyone needs a good trench in their lives. This one screams feminine with the front bow that I'm obsessed with. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh0p_IZ063esTgvh3DfT0LufrCt-RDZwZKTdjMbLJ3c4EYoJuw_SMuJen2n3VhfXjK5O4D3ChL8FAnNkSPxTnQgDuL8q0QEMfiCJ9e8R9MwyGALREQv4eC37_dtC87qTG01duz7XnfQag/s1600/brown+sweater.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh0p_IZ063esTgvh3DfT0LufrCt-RDZwZKTdjMbLJ3c4EYoJuw_SMuJen2n3VhfXjK5O4D3ChL8FAnNkSPxTnQgDuL8q0QEMfiCJ9e8R9MwyGALREQv4eC37_dtC87qTG01duz7XnfQag/s320/brown+sweater.jpg" width="261" /></a></div>
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On to the weekend looks. I love extra long jeans, boots, and sweaters. This casual/dressy look is perfect for strolling around the city on a blustery day.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfMn5BagyRZZTJvPUGIASxcF9g2QyoKN50P0LaNEBEzala6wtGbNEZZjOT_XwAfLwruC4WIoRJ6rHcqD1Be_c9PY0Np0ayqPC32Bh434dadGusz1XZhfmKfk1c93z6_nuqtAO_9LdrKtQ/s1600/casual.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfMn5BagyRZZTJvPUGIASxcF9g2QyoKN50P0LaNEBEzala6wtGbNEZZjOT_XwAfLwruC4WIoRJ6rHcqD1Be_c9PY0Np0ayqPC32Bh434dadGusz1XZhfmKfk1c93z6_nuqtAO_9LdrKtQ/s320/casual.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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The ultra casual, "I'm running to the grocery store" look is always needed. I love the simplicity of this look. This is something I could easily wriggle into every day.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3ld-R2ezAbVgljnX398-gJMt7QlGNGDZzepl9Ox4LTlVFe5X1DhVjrhRZXO58Sc-6ioKs0aSNPvBlyBK7ZtcQzfQXJ7a_j7yJDjKaKD9oGwrE6j0oE1liEQpp9Um3F3t6z2e4uyHsFWo/s1600/burberry+jacket.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3ld-R2ezAbVgljnX398-gJMt7QlGNGDZzepl9Ox4LTlVFe5X1DhVjrhRZXO58Sc-6ioKs0aSNPvBlyBK7ZtcQzfQXJ7a_j7yJDjKaKD9oGwrE6j0oE1liEQpp9Um3F3t6z2e4uyHsFWo/s320/burberry+jacket.jpg" width="180" /></a></div>
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And then there's the Burberry jacket. The pleats in the back sets this jacket so far above any others I've seen lately. It's pure perfection.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg46qfZMICtJKRAH5ee2o7WPXVWwm8A4hz2hwRbX9CewMzWPLXP0ZI6WyatgQDStpM4bVBgzbEznOb6acmhsorLet-4VRrlBmzjNGz55D8b-ikQBOFMh9O97uh6-ctp15ITRW75TuiY4EY/s1600/aztec.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg46qfZMICtJKRAH5ee2o7WPXVWwm8A4hz2hwRbX9CewMzWPLXP0ZI6WyatgQDStpM4bVBgzbEznOb6acmhsorLet-4VRrlBmzjNGz55D8b-ikQBOFMh9O97uh6-ctp15ITRW75TuiY4EY/s320/aztec.jpg" width="202" /></a></div>
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For those of you who are over the Aztec prints, sorry, but I'm not (yet, anyways). Now, I don't absolutely love this exact sweater, but if I happen to come across an over-sized, deliciously snuggly Aztec print, I'm going to take it home with me. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpJs8z9400qGZPtRD2cVqqERn-RXkZFSwccdLhBtSujUghAwzcyqY71B9Yde3BXRU1xR68HP2otFG-qMZYr3TarI_IMjzh9tiZAiaxiC3PdKj-PKmnTS-Nr6jEvUfVntJE7rxWneSBJK4/s1600/socks.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="281" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpJs8z9400qGZPtRD2cVqqERn-RXkZFSwccdLhBtSujUghAwzcyqY71B9Yde3BXRU1xR68HP2otFG-qMZYr3TarI_IMjzh9tiZAiaxiC3PdKj-PKmnTS-Nr6jEvUfVntJE7rxWneSBJK4/s320/socks.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Knit socks! A must have for every cold day. These are perfect for wearing with boots or hanging by a fireplace.</div>
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My favorite thing about Fall is the smell of apples and the feeling of cool air while being snug and cozy in my warm clothes.</div>
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What is your must-have for this season?</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01491663766987448865noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5634795339430927833.post-57985226815514946692012-09-17T13:28:00.000-05:002012-09-17T13:28:05.203-05:00Early Birthday PresentMy birthday is exactly a week away. I've been shopping around for ideas to give those who always ask for them, when I came across my new loves.<br />
Every year for my birthday, my Dad and I go shopping and we always end up getting me a new pair of shoes. Because Winter seems to last forever in my neck of the woods, I usually pick out some sort of boot.<br />
This year while pre-shopping for the big daddy/daughter day, I came across a clearanced out pair of leather Aldo booties that I knew wouldn't be on the shelf for long. <br />
I couldn't wait a few more weeks and let someone else get the (slightly too large) boots of my dreams! I justified the size by saying I'd wear socks with them, and I will do just that.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilPLb6ok0Iev6mRJg6RRMF9dT-GelwRYl6mU2yxzpejjqf0PDV2OiXtkCAloXAG3euMHHK788Y-jnJPjQaKSD8tcQT2_c0eJwle1FfHwhkOYDtosxUR4jVo9oEtE9A-CWk8OT-54EOpsI/s1600/DSC_0044.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilPLb6ok0Iev6mRJg6RRMF9dT-GelwRYl6mU2yxzpejjqf0PDV2OiXtkCAloXAG3euMHHK788Y-jnJPjQaKSD8tcQT2_c0eJwle1FfHwhkOYDtosxUR4jVo9oEtE9A-CWk8OT-54EOpsI/s640/DSC_0044.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBhHMuURJ7PqZ5xfVLF4ju89oX6rH2HEonCmQBBbgRMkyl0P27XdrEVaJiCW-iHlioVZA8ATXPh1b3njtMEreBiXRdAQnCH0-oC258YogT3En2EYLe5ONTfwBCjF5HMrpPu6v4WCux8AM/s1600/DSC_0045.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBhHMuURJ7PqZ5xfVLF4ju89oX6rH2HEonCmQBBbgRMkyl0P27XdrEVaJiCW-iHlioVZA8ATXPh1b3njtMEreBiXRdAQnCH0-oC258YogT3En2EYLe5ONTfwBCjF5HMrpPu6v4WCux8AM/s640/DSC_0045.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbPVkZbOoH4r4r2RM0s2Zy1lyYgrBP5Z4t5GpNtdkWuQUsYEnUNOvqWk-zn-uvyPbYxtDPozxOPblRea2WSY5zJHvqtiDSyNJ59BpjGElpPf07GXaGVfH4wQPJROksfnZLd_LfSg7zaL8/s1600/DSC_0040.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbPVkZbOoH4r4r2RM0s2Zy1lyYgrBP5Z4t5GpNtdkWuQUsYEnUNOvqWk-zn-uvyPbYxtDPozxOPblRea2WSY5zJHvqtiDSyNJ59BpjGElpPf07GXaGVfH4wQPJROksfnZLd_LfSg7zaL8/s640/DSC_0040.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjur22QeVHlwMy9XVqpEjSOkwOFSUqejcLNT9lqEUcMXLeVv7g9vFC7PFHFUxI4vVSFUQqCifptxJgHYo84Pf7P0I7TBe8Ct7rrKKH9ATFf8z3q632UybzjMirxFEJv_Zkxo83-8RByHvw/s1600/DSC_0042.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjur22QeVHlwMy9XVqpEjSOkwOFSUqejcLNT9lqEUcMXLeVv7g9vFC7PFHFUxI4vVSFUQqCifptxJgHYo84Pf7P0I7TBe8Ct7rrKKH9ATFf8z3q632UybzjMirxFEJv_Zkxo83-8RByHvw/s640/DSC_0042.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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They are my newest go-to shoe that I will be sporting all around Chi-Town this fall/winter.</div>
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I've been stuck inside studying and in class, so they haven't made their outside debut. </div>
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That doesn't mean I haven't been strutting my stuff down the catwalk *ahem* hallway in them.</div>
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Any new boots for you this year or are you sticking to your deliciously comfortable UGGS from last year?</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01491663766987448865noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5634795339430927833.post-79467337549828577852012-09-08T11:20:00.000-05:002012-09-08T11:20:27.184-05:00Football WidowI know there are a lot of women out there who can sympathize with me.<br />
Every September, I'm left fending for myself on Saturdays.<br />
Unless, of course, it's a bye week.<br />
<br />
Here is a glimpse into what my family room looks like in the Fall.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6MIr5S9yYLQrjaZjhW-l0yBAVcJxV-ZXkXVFL9oaHNrL9r3xfNsF1xmOcjwgkBGroTaz6tHFliaaFhaV84U4fmxbrx9vYO_DNYrHer2tqRgnR7SQtvZfCRkX7oQAXkMdyMRcYz_TdiHk/s1600/DSC_0036.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6MIr5S9yYLQrjaZjhW-l0yBAVcJxV-ZXkXVFL9oaHNrL9r3xfNsF1xmOcjwgkBGroTaz6tHFliaaFhaV84U4fmxbrx9vYO_DNYrHer2tqRgnR7SQtvZfCRkX7oQAXkMdyMRcYz_TdiHk/s640/DSC_0036.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdsWhHRKn_yUnguCrA9oiiDbVxP3E016CNRV3CywEM5-lzvX7fC0ff0TMAlsYJRwx3ZN393RySPsghoLVuDZnISWyYvM2uE2XYI_5yGbwjQ_6s_k7c4jdhipNCtz3sublOn59ek5yIPbo/s1600/DSC_0038.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdsWhHRKn_yUnguCrA9oiiDbVxP3E016CNRV3CywEM5-lzvX7fC0ff0TMAlsYJRwx3ZN393RySPsghoLVuDZnISWyYvM2uE2XYI_5yGbwjQ_6s_k7c4jdhipNCtz3sublOn59ek5yIPbo/s640/DSC_0038.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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It includes intense game watching by J and Brutus, beer, snacks, and of course, The Ohio State.<br />
Wish me luck for yet another cold, windy Autumn all alone.<br />
What are you a widow of? Video games, sports, work?<br />
<br />
X<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01491663766987448865noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5634795339430927833.post-60803444907818918112012-09-05T09:40:00.003-05:002012-09-05T09:40:51.349-05:00Veggies & SoupIf you're looking for a quick and easy way to put lunch or dinner on the table, look no further.<br />
Tomatoes soaked in balsamic vinegar, a couple cans of soup, and grilled sugar snap peas & green beans.<br />
Not only is it fast as lightning to prepare, it's full of vitamins and health benefits too!<br />
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J opted for New England Clam Chowder, while I went for Wolfgang Puck's Tortilla soup.<br />
We used a George Foreman grill to cook the beans and peas to perfection.<br />
I sliced up some Roma tomatoes, placed them in a bowl, and saturated them with balsamic vinegar.<br />
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With all the fiber in the veggies, you'll be full before you know it.<br />
Everything is prepared before you can say healthy food, and you'll enjoy it too.<br />
Then you can brag about how healthy you were... for a meal ;-)<br />
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XAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01491663766987448865noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5634795339430927833.post-65196442538034070792012-09-03T06:34:00.000-05:002012-09-03T06:36:58.510-05:00Zia's At The DocksZia's holds a special place in my heart.<br />
Not only was it the place J and I had our first date, but it's also where we got engaged.<br />
I'm always game when anyone suggests dining there.<br />
The Docks is a strip of Toledo's nicest restaurants with waterfront property.<br />
You don't need to dress fancy, but some people do. Casual-nice clothing is appropriate.<br />
The inside is decorated with clothes lines, garlic cloves, and wine bottles.<br />
Although it's very unique and quaint, my favorite place to eat is under an umbrella watching the boats sail by.<br />
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The fresh bread with olive butter is complimentary, endless, and addictive.<br />
It never gets wasted when I'm at the table.<br />
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The appetizer of the week was Pera Ripiene con Ricotta e Pancetta.<br />
It's a poached pear stuffed with applewood smoked bacon, ricotta cheese and fresh herbs, finished with sweet port wine reduction.<br />
Need I say more?<br />
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For my dinner drink I went with the Zia's Red Sangria.<br />
It's a perfect mixture of coconut rum, orange juice, cranberry juice and dry red wine with a cherry on top.<br />
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For our main course we ordered the Pizza Zia's.<br />
Smothered with all fresh ingredients including tomato, olives, onion, sausage, and cheese, this thin crust pizza is to die for.<br />
It comes with no sauce (apparently that's how Pizza is done in Italy), but we got half and half.<br />
The pizza is supposed to feed 4-6 people. Yeah.... maybe 4 if we're lucky ;)<br />
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They serve pizza with an optional spicy oil.<br />
I believe it's olive oil with crushed red pepper and rosemary.<br />
It packs just the right amount of punch.<br />
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We finished our dinner and thought it was a good idea to walk some of it off.<br />
We took to the docs to watch captains and their crew tie up to eat.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxD78ncsGXuoTISkP7QCzXBv1VHix37UcrmWK9bOBdlIAiVfk3AOxdd_1heI7sKzvY7NsRd72CyqyxX7w6Ad-KgpW_rjFMfajMaClN_agDDJYMEwQKJnXtFDdaqz2ObqmwdbzUbma2GCg/s1600/DSC_0025.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxD78ncsGXuoTISkP7QCzXBv1VHix37UcrmWK9bOBdlIAiVfk3AOxdd_1heI7sKzvY7NsRd72CyqyxX7w6Ad-KgpW_rjFMfajMaClN_agDDJYMEwQKJnXtFDdaqz2ObqmwdbzUbma2GCg/s640/DSC_0025.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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You can find more information about Zia's <a href="http://www.ziasrestaurant.com/"><span style="color: #3d85c6;">here</span></a>.<br />
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X<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01491663766987448865noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5634795339430927833.post-68123268441764177802012-08-30T14:07:00.001-05:002012-08-30T14:07:16.197-05:00Home Sweet HomeI have been searching all over for my and J's new Chicago burbs pad, and I have finally found it.<br />
Because we're not quite ready to buy, I was very limited on places to choose from.<br />
We could rent big houses with space we don't need and a yard I don't have time to take care of, or we could rent a tiny little beat up apartment in areas of town that I'm not so sure I would be safe in.<br />
Then a little birdie sent an email and presented me with a beautiful condo that will suit us perfectly.<br />
Say hello to my little condo. *All pictures are from the property owner.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPGf0d6jYTULrIQI4mdMTK4YVrlhYrOKY0st9ppOONl7RIvv0uD0afvp6xLAiKFBaCY0UWApGkmeOGevEKDWjHorwezbGwSGVIpU9Kr-4b8Lx00DrVYuVX2rGiFEV3EY4skWTBTfxO7nM/s1600/Presentation1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPGf0d6jYTULrIQI4mdMTK4YVrlhYrOKY0st9ppOONl7RIvv0uD0afvp6xLAiKFBaCY0UWApGkmeOGevEKDWjHorwezbGwSGVIpU9Kr-4b8Lx00DrVYuVX2rGiFEV3EY4skWTBTfxO7nM/s640/Presentation1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
It has a 2 story family room that floods the entire place with light.<br />
This will make all of my pictures turn out even better.<br />
The picture was taken from the loft area.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFFWn7b01dg9l82N1eLsa_0g2DRy4u-rCVOXDpzvVDWfnoQTySYdDBjS0e5TPG4Fsy7iJhgtxtww0HYSGIZtD5I16K4dix0lq-l8kLvIjeHFkKoQAXavALQPcSkSH7hYgpxijMHmqed1c/s1600/condo1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFFWn7b01dg9l82N1eLsa_0g2DRy4u-rCVOXDpzvVDWfnoQTySYdDBjS0e5TPG4Fsy7iJhgtxtww0HYSGIZtD5I16K4dix0lq-l8kLvIjeHFkKoQAXavALQPcSkSH7hYgpxijMHmqed1c/s640/condo1.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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The loft will be my workout room.<br />
Right now my weight bench and everything that goes along with it are shoved in my master bedroom, while the treadmill is in the guest room.<br />
I can't wait to have it all in one beautiful open space.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzV95gTBmLjIqckOVCvJTsltThs-MPcn0a4OMxzMztiftHug4pd_Fe3Ppx40QDPxVV6d_TXk3_W30ssoT7NIu46w5gWPp_mdxkTLhEezGk7qCkcu9NSEt2ARuUG5YpGi2CbWxipd5kp-I/s1600/condo4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzV95gTBmLjIqckOVCvJTsltThs-MPcn0a4OMxzMztiftHug4pd_Fe3Ppx40QDPxVV6d_TXk3_W30ssoT7NIu46w5gWPp_mdxkTLhEezGk7qCkcu9NSEt2ARuUG5YpGi2CbWxipd5kp-I/s640/condo4.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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My current apartment is so small, I don't even have room for a small dining room table, so we're going to need to look for not only a dining room table, but also a table for our eat-in kitchen.<br />
(Can I really complain though? I mean, look how cute the space is!)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzTqxkjsMvI4nrr2PWyPuKLomNsNrUYQNEXmfXzfnLjh8PD5ZxxMs_DmzluZhUxDMkmKT735DlnHnNPlf7xdIBDcRGr6yAtqQ9l6N5_PwllpIG2ZZpsOse6PTl0C3ZPwsH0pofgelURHQ/s1600/condo2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzTqxkjsMvI4nrr2PWyPuKLomNsNrUYQNEXmfXzfnLjh8PD5ZxxMs_DmzluZhUxDMkmKT735DlnHnNPlf7xdIBDcRGr6yAtqQ9l6N5_PwllpIG2ZZpsOse6PTl0C3ZPwsH0pofgelURHQ/s640/condo2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQN6pwyi9fTXJHjO6cY2cXSRpWRvo1G4jtLf7-WioCJBtusobiE9NMw17lKHyVpmxswtQE4YXrDpdOXsJL4lFsKcmZYkwP6ga0bRc3c_CjXvFwxaNzFsvozAolKcfUP3IffjFcEA-dtO4/s1600/condo3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQN6pwyi9fTXJHjO6cY2cXSRpWRvo1G4jtLf7-WioCJBtusobiE9NMw17lKHyVpmxswtQE4YXrDpdOXsJL4lFsKcmZYkwP6ga0bRc3c_CjXvFwxaNzFsvozAolKcfUP3IffjFcEA-dtO4/s640/condo3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I will even have a little patio with courtyard and can own a grill again! I had to throw away my grill when I moved into where I live now.<br />
We will be moving shortly, and I can't wait to start my life in my new little home!<br />
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I am taking suggestions for DIY/Etsy tables. Any links or ideas out there?<br />
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XAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01491663766987448865noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5634795339430927833.post-41023527608465986782012-08-28T12:19:00.002-05:002012-08-28T12:19:33.914-05:00Greek Salad<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
If you are anything like me, you hate making your own salad at home.</div>
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For whatever reason, it never tastes as good as when you order one in the store.</div>
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Am I right? Or am I right?</div>
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While continuing on my quest to lose the chub & flub, I've convinced myself to make and eat homemade salads.</div>
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Lucky for me (and now you), I think I've mastered the homemade Greek salad!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcsXNtrP8PWpLhIMS34E3slo6g8GCXLKPtmeVf6_tAZupAbtBplK-kYn03Jga6LXrGFuK_DGcH8FVlI34K_D2x1LuaGbJwhuvO9qNpNps6-4XX5p7U3TW2Bx-DDGneOQ7CFFqNuZRSdEY/s1600/DSC_0241.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcsXNtrP8PWpLhIMS34E3slo6g8GCXLKPtmeVf6_tAZupAbtBplK-kYn03Jga6LXrGFuK_DGcH8FVlI34K_D2x1LuaGbJwhuvO9qNpNps6-4XX5p7U3TW2Bx-DDGneOQ7CFFqNuZRSdEY/s640/DSC_0241.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ6YEU8OoUmlrsXiT3gFwbyUasqumQcICNMf8m_UFQEF2FdK5FZF0JKsCp-_qsdVA4YGE9-wuCUNHFDDkHNGP_uGah4-jSc6-JTy21Jx6-xJVid1mv9mjlGWk1_7F09w0vuLKfk3wQBZI/s1600/DSC_0240.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ6YEU8OoUmlrsXiT3gFwbyUasqumQcICNMf8m_UFQEF2FdK5FZF0JKsCp-_qsdVA4YGE9-wuCUNHFDDkHNGP_uGah4-jSc6-JTy21Jx6-xJVid1mv9mjlGWk1_7F09w0vuLKfk3wQBZI/s640/DSC_0240.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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The only thing I can really compare it to, to give you an idea of how well I really have actually mastered it, is a Greek salad from Panera.</div>
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In fact, it was my inspiration.</div>
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<u><i>What you'll need:</i></u></div>
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Red leaf romaine lettuce</div>
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1 Roma tomato</div>
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1 few slices of red onion</div>
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Feta cheese</div>
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Pitted Kalamata olives</div>
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Greek salad dressing</div>
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A bowl with a lid</div>
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Take the entire bunch of romaine and chop it all at once.</div>
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This will create a mixture of sizes/shapes of all the lettuce pieces from the outside in.</div>
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Keep the onions in rings & slice the tomatoes, then into fourths.</div>
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Put everything into the bowl.</div>
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Sprinkle on the feta and throw more than a few olives on top, then pour on a light amount of dressing. You can always add more, it's harder to drain.</div>
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Put the lid on the bowl and shake it up.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3lSbHjGC5okqYzt374RYNwsMQMOBAA6Ww19cPpelccK-ka22fAzxlDMxnJCCKOdW92ju1UPg4_w0-DxeJctwcjicYYRky-LbPoN0k7G7RadSwSUkTVC1DkZf7RkYhA0yCeKy11tL_0iw/s1600/DSC_0228.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3lSbHjGC5okqYzt374RYNwsMQMOBAA6Ww19cPpelccK-ka22fAzxlDMxnJCCKOdW92ju1UPg4_w0-DxeJctwcjicYYRky-LbPoN0k7G7RadSwSUkTVC1DkZf7RkYhA0yCeKy11tL_0iw/s640/DSC_0228.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKojBjEdqo9mhWZxSH7ueZftS-y5i0_n3s7WCSDFO5EHrb9PX4rONOrSdliGr7Ancu7cDaeCIGRHOBiy0UjFEnunwU_rce4intvctCaZ0Xo_4tN1VhM9aPM82HKwTIu2j5bVvxz8bJFmg/s1600/DSC_0229.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKojBjEdqo9mhWZxSH7ueZftS-y5i0_n3s7WCSDFO5EHrb9PX4rONOrSdliGr7Ancu7cDaeCIGRHOBiy0UjFEnunwU_rce4intvctCaZ0Xo_4tN1VhM9aPM82HKwTIu2j5bVvxz8bJFmg/s640/DSC_0229.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkfOi1kZaE_0HBKZ_jgGSL626LBDu-5cKD1VYgp8S5uU0GxmbfUjsX2XEr0qioozy4fOOYXZuDL7Rv-8iyv0fmMJYwb0eR_pGdZq6eqSNGJNV42pJd4OEnc_pYk4y99F9Qj28hTY-U5kQ/s1600/DSC_0232.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkfOi1kZaE_0HBKZ_jgGSL626LBDu-5cKD1VYgp8S5uU0GxmbfUjsX2XEr0qioozy4fOOYXZuDL7Rv-8iyv0fmMJYwb0eR_pGdZq6eqSNGJNV42pJd4OEnc_pYk4y99F9Qj28hTY-U5kQ/s640/DSC_0232.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuI6Eie7eNZCgQ1BNvhqCUSOvKDPYSITtnIxeSbaHUBNTIzhApdt6Gn8bFLWe2Te0kKqloLEQeFaElR7fGTeim2NYLxNgtdkfbYKK3s44hGzF4ZOvnLtpHQTI-MqDpR2Oziaw44uda8xU/s1600/DSC_0233.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuI6Eie7eNZCgQ1BNvhqCUSOvKDPYSITtnIxeSbaHUBNTIzhApdt6Gn8bFLWe2Te0kKqloLEQeFaElR7fGTeim2NYLxNgtdkfbYKK3s44hGzF4ZOvnLtpHQTI-MqDpR2Oziaw44uda8xU/s640/DSC_0233.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT-RSdcMKeGJi378suf92NLg7aJfSuzdkjaZhBt5Z2HWtk5DdaUCCfJe_d261nu5-0kKilz-v3AfKA43QQFkvPsUdU94uZ5aMMq68GR7YX6Atd8T37a4KtoWZsJcl_XUZkOTnNubkjMI4/s1600/DSC_0238.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT-RSdcMKeGJi378suf92NLg7aJfSuzdkjaZhBt5Z2HWtk5DdaUCCfJe_d261nu5-0kKilz-v3AfKA43QQFkvPsUdU94uZ5aMMq68GR7YX6Atd8T37a4KtoWZsJcl_XUZkOTnNubkjMI4/s640/DSC_0238.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCfLWmoLopwkO9-L4sPsQ3vKz7sMB8DV0lWCQUPSakN0bA4o-leTlM4G0v515gLbWSTuUR0PFRzbmBNjqTspE1ud6FOcl398DM4SN4Em1dWjBqxBrlJU3j67fVwOb6CgYgZWhBqtpZJKs/s1600/DSC_0237.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCfLWmoLopwkO9-L4sPsQ3vKz7sMB8DV0lWCQUPSakN0bA4o-leTlM4G0v515gLbWSTuUR0PFRzbmBNjqTspE1ud6FOcl398DM4SN4Em1dWjBqxBrlJU3j67fVwOb6CgYgZWhBqtpZJKs/s640/DSC_0237.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4B4E37B6FU3yhFRTNJ2aU-zvxq2FtEu9YG7McEgA0k68HIurQ_KCxED-TioIO4CUUTX0VsFMxAkYnltMOcubQi3a6XgMWg7p7xuwn8iU9R5EvodpxkX98u1U4ATqpDvLE9DejlY17g40/s1600/DSC_0239.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4B4E37B6FU3yhFRTNJ2aU-zvxq2FtEu9YG7McEgA0k68HIurQ_KCxED-TioIO4CUUTX0VsFMxAkYnltMOcubQi3a6XgMWg7p7xuwn8iU9R5EvodpxkX98u1U4ATqpDvLE9DejlY17g40/s640/DSC_0239.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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This salad is full of flavor, but is low in calories.</div>
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A very generous portion of this Greek salad at Panera is only 370 calories (and around $8.00).</div>
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You can make it for a fraction of the price, but with all the deliciousness.</div>
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X</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01491663766987448865noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5634795339430927833.post-59942105863490733062012-08-27T08:14:00.003-05:002012-08-27T08:14:48.102-05:00Bacon-Wrapped WeeniesBecause it was a party weekend, I had to whip up a couple tasty recipes to share with friends.<br />
You already know about my <a href="http://maybecommon.blogspot.com/2012/08/cherry-chocolate-bars.html">Chocolate Cherry Bars</a>, but I also made another crowd pleaser.<br />
These Bacon-Wrapped Weenies were gone before all the food was set out and before all the guests had arrived, but that can only mean one thing.<br />
I should have made more.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3jiCKQ3ozlkI0fpGr-NM2NDSOqqpXzD2CmA5WzBvfmN0xE8xSsTGSdId5jGktpcxRXankIfBt0xeUBEBaDerV5MKYxZWABJxKN73J1_08Bqf8hCAPFFps_EvXIJ5PV9gSAvKqPFezIMY/s1600/DSC_0221.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3jiCKQ3ozlkI0fpGr-NM2NDSOqqpXzD2CmA5WzBvfmN0xE8xSsTGSdId5jGktpcxRXankIfBt0xeUBEBaDerV5MKYxZWABJxKN73J1_08Bqf8hCAPFFps_EvXIJ5PV9gSAvKqPFezIMY/s640/DSC_0221.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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These little guys take just minutes to prepare and about a half hour to bake.</div>
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My favorite part is that it takes 4 ingredients to make an out of this world appetizer.</div>
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<u><i>What you'll need:</i></u></div>
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1 package weenies (I think they're 13 oz)</div>
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1 lb regular sliced bacon</div>
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1+ cups brown sugar</div>
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1 stick of butter</div>
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Preheat the oven to 375.</div>
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Cut the bacon into thirds.</div>
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Wrap one piece of bacon around each weenie and stick a toothpick in to hold it in place. You will have a few extra bacon pieces, you can save those for breakfast or give a couple weenies some extra bacon.</div>
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Combine 1 cup of brown sugar and the butter in a small sauce pan.<br />
Cook over medium-high heat and stir until you've created a beautiful carmel glaze.<br />
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Immediately spoon the sauce over the weenies, saturating each little guy.<br />
Now (somewhat heavily) sprinkle extra brown sugar on top of the weenies, making sure to cover each one.<br />
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Pop them in the oven for 15 minutes, then turn the oven up to 400 for 10-15 minutes (or longer, depending on if the bacon looks crispy).<br />
Keep an eye on them because they can go from crisp to black quickly.<br />
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When they look like this, they're done!<br />
Set these out in a group of friends and watch them disappear.<br />
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On a side note, I'd like to ask a favor of you. If you like my blog posts, please leave a comment and tell your friends about me. If you see something "Pin" worthy, give me a shout out on Pinterest!<br />
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XAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01491663766987448865noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5634795339430927833.post-51375306470947224652012-08-24T14:24:00.003-05:002012-08-24T14:25:04.980-05:00Chocolate Cherry BarsAs my Grandma and I were going through her basement, we found a bunch of recipes mixed in with my Great Grandma's things.<br />
One of the recipes I found was for a simple, quick dessert that I couldn't wait to try.<br />
Because J and I are always watching what we eat, I've had to wait for a special occasion to make it.<br />
This weekend J and I are headed to an end of summer party with my closest friends.<br />
I thought these Chocolate Cherry Bars would be the perfect treat to share.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGPxSrY75EP8ULYjyo0RIcftIAg7BWFYHRgCvLkyOmjGBiuYoO1ANhuI0d87ACxIDsEQbeWwBsUeIZmrCXJUAJ4sr5-3xiDmx7S4_BO1xrCKO6UR0fpOet_5X_RRQrJeqJ28O-75P6Ks4/s1600/DSC_0210.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGPxSrY75EP8ULYjyo0RIcftIAg7BWFYHRgCvLkyOmjGBiuYoO1ANhuI0d87ACxIDsEQbeWwBsUeIZmrCXJUAJ4sr5-3xiDmx7S4_BO1xrCKO6UR0fpOet_5X_RRQrJeqJ28O-75P6Ks4/s640/DSC_0210.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>
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<u><i>Bar Ingredients</i></u><br />
1 box fudge cake mix (I used Betty Crocker Triple Chocolate Fudge because it was all I could find)<br />
1 21-oz can cherry pie filling<br />
1 tsp almond extract (I used vanilla extract because of someone with a nut allergy)<br />
2 beaten eggs<br />
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Preheat oven to 350 degrees.<br />
Combine all of the bar ingredients (leave the frosting ones for later).<br />
Stir by hand to mix well.<br />
Pour into a greased and floured 9x13 pan.<br />
Bake 25-30 minutes.<br />
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<i><u>Frosting Ingredients</u></i><br />
1 cup sugar<br />
5 tbsp margarine<br />
1/3 cup milk<br />
1 cup (6 oz) semi-sweet chocolate chips<br />
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When the cake has about 8 minutes left, combine all of the frosting ingredients except the chocolate chips into a small saucepan.<br />
Bring to a boil (I used medium-high heat).<br />
Remove from heat and stir in the chocolate.<br />
Keep stirring until you remove the bars from the oven.<br />
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Immediately pour the icing over the hot bars.<br />
When the finished product is cool, cut into bars. I cut them into 24, but the recipe recommends 3 dozen.<br />
Maybe 3 dozen was feasible in 1920 portion sizes, but definitely not for this girl.<br />
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These are incredibly sweet, so even though they're amazing, after one (or maybe two) you'll be willing to share with friends.</div>
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