tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-91086421591491576512024-03-18T00:04:52.183-07:00Abramyan Avenuerandom thoughts, crazy happenings, memorable moments...
a glimpse into our lifeAbramyan Avenuehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03310621182672005032noreply@blogger.comBlogger509125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9108642159149157651.post-37442061109356718242018-09-02T22:25:00.000-07:002018-09-02T22:25:39.500-07:00I'm A Grandma!!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">I always told my girls I do not want to be a grandmother before I'm 40. For some reason 40 just felt safe..a good age to be a grandmother. When my daughter told me she was pregnant...and I was only 37...I wasn't thrilled. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">It took some time, I can't lie. I thought this automatically made me "old". Little did my small minded, selfish, naïve self know... but being a young grandma only means I get more time with my little baby boy and I have the energy that is REQUIRED to keep up with him!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">We had a very small shower/lunch for CC at Zio's.</span> </div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">CC loves all things panda, so we had a Tres Leches panda cake special made for her.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">I have to say...it was one of THE BEST cakes I've ever had!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">This girl hardly gained any weight... got no stretch marks..and exercised and hiked like nothing!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">From behind you'd never know she was pregnant! I had to tell her more than once...she is NOT normal!!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">The night before the big day we did some last minute shopping. I remember when I was pregnant with CC, a local crafts store, Michael's, was having a six a.m. sale and Mom and I went and I purchased a night light.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">I had to get one pic of us before our roles as mother and daughter forever changed...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">I packed my little bag and headed over to the hospital. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">CC had a nice, big room. Dan was asleep on the couch and CC was being so strong and working her way through contractions.</span> </div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">Let me tell you, as mothers, we kiss boo boos away, hold their head and hands as they cry over their first break up, feel like poop when the grease splashes on her legs while yall are making donuts....</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">but nothing is as painful as watching contractions sweep through your baby's tiny body, see her face wince in pain...and know you can do nothing about it.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">It was awful.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">But she had her daddy, Dan, me and her little sister to support her through it!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">And it was then he was here!!!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">My first grandson, my baby's first baby was born Sept 13 at 2:33 p.m.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">and I was in love</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">I mean, everything about him was just absolutely perfect.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">As soon as he was laid down on the scale he opened his eyes and started looking around.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">He was so quiet and observant.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">I was so afraid I wouldn't remember how to change diapers and support the baby's head and calm a crying baby. It had been 15 years since I had a baby!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">I just resolved in myself that I would be calm and act confident and never let the little boy know how scared I was</span>.</div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">And what developed between him and I is something so special...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">so sweet and precious.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">And his grandpa has declared Daniel his hands down my favorite person that has ALL of his love. He tells us all the time, "Sorry guys, you're not my favorite anymore."</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">I never knew you could love like this.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">Of course you love your children more than anything in the world....</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">But there is absolutely NOTHING like the love you have for your grandchild.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaA8QxxlSJdj9ofSboliAZGkN9QcgpUIvbV58-VIXnqkc11laaTOUkalslOw47BIJyh_s52VtPTizJyNKZplbAG8XJL6sIFquFxLNZhRQhuLkOW8pkvhzsjHG53szIp-6tTQCXtr4LVu0/s1600/IMG_6423.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaA8QxxlSJdj9ofSboliAZGkN9QcgpUIvbV58-VIXnqkc11laaTOUkalslOw47BIJyh_s52VtPTizJyNKZplbAG8XJL6sIFquFxLNZhRQhuLkOW8pkvhzsjHG53szIp-6tTQCXtr4LVu0/s320/IMG_6423.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">It's so overwhelming. So intoxicating. It just takes over all of your senses and your emotions.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGhlSqH3njuFllFDjNPyokpKbtAGaM6by3nmK6z1r0FX3qhyphenhyphen5-gj4kzrTNqzG0c9MS2k-P5HMAwvKV987FwqiyHqFfQMiywg0Rn08VjgihbCrtEJpjHhsGaBlj1uVJit3LSFyKqIS-CXs/s1600/IMG_6424.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGhlSqH3njuFllFDjNPyokpKbtAGaM6by3nmK6z1r0FX3qhyphenhyphen5-gj4kzrTNqzG0c9MS2k-P5HMAwvKV987FwqiyHqFfQMiywg0Rn08VjgihbCrtEJpjHhsGaBlj1uVJit3LSFyKqIS-CXs/s320/IMG_6424.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">You heart, your mind, your time, your worries, your laughter, your tears...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">everything...</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3P0t7p2jLyqzX4dpUMksAv3oFaJuoWh5CIsqVVGpURxy4k0v1V-XRMY8j5uKkamx8zLmupm3nqUBsIgKhE6brIwGYsnc7KK5VSMiQl8vTPkzHOQC9Tm5uFAJzeNoQpQtvaZqzPFT13Tc/s1600/IMG_6460.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3P0t7p2jLyqzX4dpUMksAv3oFaJuoWh5CIsqVVGpURxy4k0v1V-XRMY8j5uKkamx8zLmupm3nqUBsIgKhE6brIwGYsnc7KK5VSMiQl8vTPkzHOQC9Tm5uFAJzeNoQpQtvaZqzPFT13Tc/s320/IMG_6460.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">Now belongs to this little person who needs you and depends on you for his every need.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCDufPOe_UtJnGkJsmidIMT6Y2O6NYX2Yenh0p8uDrzxpnfX2otH1HXOtnopCqyTdSBZgsZeW608VdN6QjN3mzpnY9X-TXbtDz5Zk9W-2Q54WLx7sWD8AHkVrUzidH_owIephtLnMIuO8/s1600/IMG_6462.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCDufPOe_UtJnGkJsmidIMT6Y2O6NYX2Yenh0p8uDrzxpnfX2otH1HXOtnopCqyTdSBZgsZeW608VdN6QjN3mzpnY9X-TXbtDz5Zk9W-2Q54WLx7sWD8AHkVrUzidH_owIephtLnMIuO8/s400/IMG_6462.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">This pretty much sums up Daniel and I for the first two years of his life... in his Ah-ma's arms, being spoiled and being told how perfect he is...</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLmxH4LR2GZoGtYrl0PUBrTw5lSVEQFrgdMC8tdaggMOIesck34ke6NV9M8jEUmA2U0gVS4uCMa_yf_tcE2oabnXNMZy0whTSkPY-uhfKDQhYYKo6Faz7IPZF7xaEvpk_ilQaLyLDttIA/s1600/IMG_6463.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLmxH4LR2GZoGtYrl0PUBrTw5lSVEQFrgdMC8tdaggMOIesck34ke6NV9M8jEUmA2U0gVS4uCMa_yf_tcE2oabnXNMZy0whTSkPY-uhfKDQhYYKo6Faz7IPZF7xaEvpk_ilQaLyLDttIA/s400/IMG_6463.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">And how beautiful he is...and special...and how in grandma's eyes he can do no wrong.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">Ever.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_sAd7qFWVxR-zWd32YcSQDw58csVG7W-6OU9dsuZ8R-ibGVLSlmZ1FxCGwqDrBQElRaCdlBfLEkpK5gYT5EOOAW7_CrJ3BAjiL3XJBbbyWAe9PkNMMvciWfEGscoT8Dcshd0cVanuKGo/s1600/IMG_6472.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_sAd7qFWVxR-zWd32YcSQDw58csVG7W-6OU9dsuZ8R-ibGVLSlmZ1FxCGwqDrBQElRaCdlBfLEkpK5gYT5EOOAW7_CrJ3BAjiL3XJBbbyWAe9PkNMMvciWfEGscoT8Dcshd0cVanuKGo/s400/IMG_6472.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">And yes, we have our own little song that I sing to him to get him to sleep.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">It started when I would rock him to sleep and we still sing it now as we lay in bed and I rub his head and eyes and back to help him fall asleep.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSNLkV1jZWZCxqEO-AhjWsH8E7OF1nlNAmb8mcd7EjDRQ4qgEwLGIItzUN-qRAdKoWArJvjgxnrWy_e3RowGorXpkVoqVTsFug4JcLBso4FgYQF2AEyKiazpLewDBf6Nq3JacGEh0gQ6g/s1600/IMG_6508.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="961" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSNLkV1jZWZCxqEO-AhjWsH8E7OF1nlNAmb8mcd7EjDRQ4qgEwLGIItzUN-qRAdKoWArJvjgxnrWy_e3RowGorXpkVoqVTsFug4JcLBso4FgYQF2AEyKiazpLewDBf6Nq3JacGEh0gQ6g/s400/IMG_6508.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">There have been times where I have even had to make a video of myself singing it and had to text it to my daughter so he'd calm down and go to sleep.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguJ1BhW3NUZol0gkbHOwVDmOiKNkAoXTQCfSe0zkjbuTUSkim6pUFLSno8woBYj7l3przHln76A8P35vQZVtDE7ACryZ0-qIIagc7tKVRyimNXCVZV007wBIJG9A2tJ8msUKdiAAztOck/s1600/IMG_6514.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguJ1BhW3NUZol0gkbHOwVDmOiKNkAoXTQCfSe0zkjbuTUSkim6pUFLSno8woBYj7l3przHln76A8P35vQZVtDE7ACryZ0-qIIagc7tKVRyimNXCVZV007wBIJG9A2tJ8msUKdiAAztOck/s400/IMG_6514.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">I am so in love with my little baby boy. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">I tell my daughter he's the best gift she could have ever given me. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">When he's here, he tires me out so fast...but when he's gone I'm missing his sweet face and sweet little hands pulling me to the living room to play soccer </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">or </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">dragging me to the front door so we can water our plants.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">He makes life so fun.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">and </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">I'm so completely in love.</span></div>
<br />Abramyan Avenuehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03310621182672005032noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9108642159149157651.post-69862177131815394172015-11-30T18:24:00.001-08:002015-11-30T18:24:43.834-08:00Home Office <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
In September I was able to move into a work at home position for my company. I had been wanting that for so long. Since we had an extra spare room I decided to get to work on it immediately.</div>
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I knew I wanted a cool color scheme...greys with black accents.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGd-Vj7ygvo40dxWT4APTZybj2CdND-7gVAOgpd9XIHiuKsua0iD3bLzeh3ZSiW3bWaByAMys914n2ttd-nDxOca74LT-atHtJ5d-RkwcWvGPOLHdCPurrPo03pmpseqKf2oHONoOJw9w/s1600/iphone+2015+068.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGd-Vj7ygvo40dxWT4APTZybj2CdND-7gVAOgpd9XIHiuKsua0iD3bLzeh3ZSiW3bWaByAMys914n2ttd-nDxOca74LT-atHtJ5d-RkwcWvGPOLHdCPurrPo03pmpseqKf2oHONoOJw9w/s320/iphone+2015+068.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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First we had the task of tackling this pink and purple room. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMZYeeeqvPfa1fcp2yF1wmX3fn3LyT3rjZ2ccnmakRgt1T3b0plaeD3_XLUHkpZ7SlCGZBcMbP58VncovK5Dt67KwVfU-3A__vaSOg66JNMrSCLrXmIrc7d4U4z3T6g5YcM5mGbLY32Nk/s1600/iphone+2015+064.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMZYeeeqvPfa1fcp2yF1wmX3fn3LyT3rjZ2ccnmakRgt1T3b0plaeD3_XLUHkpZ7SlCGZBcMbP58VncovK5Dt67KwVfU-3A__vaSOg66JNMrSCLrXmIrc7d4U4z3T6g5YcM5mGbLY32Nk/s320/iphone+2015+064.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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Next came the color. I was so happy with this grey. I actually really enjoy painting. Papa Bear and I painted our bedroom and I was more than ready to help paint my office. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihg0CvtOw5FULj5TIueaGxkbkijwxWhz9AH2ZmxOQSeSNTOXLHiL6nhwG72OOCM4TlNgn-l_s6GRhHATaVCI6iGVR_Yn_DRCRBUPdFnfolu6MJYEFLzkXJ1SDTZ5VP_CZ_eyFqX-gCZMA/s1600/iphone+2015+073.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihg0CvtOw5FULj5TIueaGxkbkijwxWhz9AH2ZmxOQSeSNTOXLHiL6nhwG72OOCM4TlNgn-l_s6GRhHATaVCI6iGVR_Yn_DRCRBUPdFnfolu6MJYEFLzkXJ1SDTZ5VP_CZ_eyFqX-gCZMA/s320/iphone+2015+073.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglZiZdZxIYxqtuwQ3C-Bmpidr0B30iMYju2UVKxrHVxXsJpBwO0-Ez_PooHhrbE_AQPKL1HUr53JtsuA9D64s2iK-v45wzeG1q_CSnlkgl6KLl8P3J3I0oUzeVAnAGtMFGAwQW34L13QY/s1600/iphone+2015+075.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglZiZdZxIYxqtuwQ3C-Bmpidr0B30iMYju2UVKxrHVxXsJpBwO0-Ez_PooHhrbE_AQPKL1HUr53JtsuA9D64s2iK-v45wzeG1q_CSnlkgl6KLl8P3J3I0oUzeVAnAGtMFGAwQW34L13QY/s320/iphone+2015+075.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrpoJJM43k_9LJ4xOymzvN0PFr-EHOFBF5s2FIG7W6CASTuAQdHSIG8_KQn8hX9lJ7rYBqjbC5YVY-QGoVIjGEC2ZR6r-YupN6cHq9LG7c83b7kYV44NN_E2Md_QcMfcMKEDXhHiOgFdA/s1600/iphone+2015+078.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrpoJJM43k_9LJ4xOymzvN0PFr-EHOFBF5s2FIG7W6CASTuAQdHSIG8_KQn8hX9lJ7rYBqjbC5YVY-QGoVIjGEC2ZR6r-YupN6cHq9LG7c83b7kYV44NN_E2Md_QcMfcMKEDXhHiOgFdA/s320/iphone+2015+078.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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Almost finished. I didn't want just a white ceiling, so we continued the grey all the way up. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMp8vPeBxknuI4VGm4LvSgLElnCCGB0pH0zxzQYcMqe0xamCS8XaYT8XNhzMIYUTkF0MykHymMqpwK_DefBgDDAbaY4r5KDKuflyHeBV1DOgEI_ws73Lr-W1txw4JNw1j6i7SRbImUg8U/s1600/iphone+2015+080.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMp8vPeBxknuI4VGm4LvSgLElnCCGB0pH0zxzQYcMqe0xamCS8XaYT8XNhzMIYUTkF0MykHymMqpwK_DefBgDDAbaY4r5KDKuflyHeBV1DOgEI_ws73Lr-W1txw4JNw1j6i7SRbImUg8U/s320/iphone+2015+080.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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And I absolutely love how it turned out. I want to change the lighting, but I do love the ceiling fan. This room is small and it gets hot really easily. Many morning I open the window and have the ceiling fan going. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBakXO_XjBqiEsoTLylUVKH0pWteFzWGgHwzxEbNplsouSHp37-UBtAQdCdVX9S6D8LNo4H9orr6ZnbbhS3lGt9vi4Vg8RkLrRw1xuVwYeMQ4WogQIPSlYoqBTBSYjkaRyQRrAo9gvzmA/s1600/iphone+2015+082.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBakXO_XjBqiEsoTLylUVKH0pWteFzWGgHwzxEbNplsouSHp37-UBtAQdCdVX9S6D8LNo4H9orr6ZnbbhS3lGt9vi4Vg8RkLrRw1xuVwYeMQ4WogQIPSlYoqBTBSYjkaRyQRrAo9gvzmA/s320/iphone+2015+082.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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I also decided to redo Mom's desk/dresser that was always in her bedroom. It was so old and just collecting "things" in the living room. I wanted to put it to use. I want to sit at it and imagine her sitting there as well. She did a lot of drawing on this desk. I turned it into my make up desk. It's on the opposite side of the room from my work desk. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtEYu0mAsctCNA11q45vIMpVKz3D0M9wy-tpzM3RiOy4Vpi-hpGikQACQHCNSM4A9SDpwSRKI83XTInO1Z6XMm1dKM8FpdmyaysZjPWTl_p1l0U4lDKgoDl9rcSoZ-IHuaZoDm9yiruFo/s1600/iphone+2015+088.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtEYu0mAsctCNA11q45vIMpVKz3D0M9wy-tpzM3RiOy4Vpi-hpGikQACQHCNSM4A9SDpwSRKI83XTInO1Z6XMm1dKM8FpdmyaysZjPWTl_p1l0U4lDKgoDl9rcSoZ-IHuaZoDm9yiruFo/s320/iphone+2015+088.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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I chose a color from the same palette as my wall color. The wall color was the third color on the swatch and the desk was the second to the darkest.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKIyrn6wMKc78eNn2O5ir_HQa49fZjX43_ycmZ_qSscckaMT1hQ9PCPyX6Ja9x2WSeclSB2nBe4zTLe5FEnmxsmuXRCjrCljebv1r0B8QNN-wsqwjNfwNbXq6wuQbz9fJ6aiEifpfmd3Q/s1600/iphone+2015+094.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKIyrn6wMKc78eNn2O5ir_HQa49fZjX43_ycmZ_qSscckaMT1hQ9PCPyX6Ja9x2WSeclSB2nBe4zTLe5FEnmxsmuXRCjrCljebv1r0B8QNN-wsqwjNfwNbXq6wuQbz9fJ6aiEifpfmd3Q/s320/iphone+2015+094.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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I knew I wanted blues incorporated in the room in very minor touches and I wanted glass knobs. A quick trip to World Market and I found exactly what I was looking for. </div>
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I have my make up in the first two drawers on each side. The top holds my mirror, perfumes, a clock, all my make up brushes and a birdcage-candle holder. </div>
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I absolutely love it.</div>
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I love that I have my own little corner that is really just mine. </div>
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And here's my work set up on the other side. In the office I had an L-shaped desk and I knew for the layout of my books I needed an L-shaped at home. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU9fI0Q7kWdbP6y5HiEtLgOQPrAyfC6Wtgs-qu_21MRRxm9gAFdJOzDOXmnySv2Uvgl3re2CCd00aPmnt8wEdyrqatrxRRtH3O-xvAybY3FzMDBOaR4RkB9pPP7jXa8SazQtDrb809clc/s1600/iphone+2015+218.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU9fI0Q7kWdbP6y5HiEtLgOQPrAyfC6Wtgs-qu_21MRRxm9gAFdJOzDOXmnySv2Uvgl3re2CCd00aPmnt8wEdyrqatrxRRtH3O-xvAybY3FzMDBOaR4RkB9pPP7jXa8SazQtDrb809clc/s320/iphone+2015+218.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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We looked online, in stores...I wasn't able to find anything that would work. I needed something that was deep enough and I just wasn't finding it.</div>
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Until we were referred to Desks Galore. I found exactly what I was looking for.</div>
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And they discounted it..And they delivered...</div>
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It was a double bonus for me!! </div>
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And I'm never alone in my office. My boys stay with me constantly. </div>
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Who really needs to use a mouse? I'm so sorry I was inconveniencing him. </div>
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And that's me most of my day... </div>
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Micah is usually the one who joins me. He waits for me to wake up and then follows me in the office and makes himself comfortable on my voice mail log. This is a daily fight with him when I try to write down my messages. He's biting and attacking the pen here. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_IvILofSj3Kc6pniUqXRcge7KRx96WemyTytDqC3YewWJd2qJ3RE9nITtKDxNgsvv4CTTnuUfRtjwaTjGbKOag5pi28BPuW-UHD25eU2mIOBZwZ4eQJrjUaH_FDkaG5UK4cU7b1JUgKU/s1600/iphone+2015+896.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_IvILofSj3Kc6pniUqXRcge7KRx96WemyTytDqC3YewWJd2qJ3RE9nITtKDxNgsvv4CTTnuUfRtjwaTjGbKOag5pi28BPuW-UHD25eU2mIOBZwZ4eQJrjUaH_FDkaG5UK4cU7b1JUgKU/s320/iphone+2015+896.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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And sometimes I have all three... </div>
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I saw this cute quote on Pinterest. It is soooo very true!</div>
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I need this on a t-shirt! </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvQkYZl2r05q6IBtfdQcFKYrEPoBS4z_fnMZiSB9z2ZVNTghQk6KWauGYyEZr4CqJbfaNIBrGIch4D2wZGNg3pRzD4qyShSqADg3nTQvBdUgYg_OpXk4o89PYtJkObKlexZULtET1a8i8/s1600/iphone+2015+123.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvQkYZl2r05q6IBtfdQcFKYrEPoBS4z_fnMZiSB9z2ZVNTghQk6KWauGYyEZr4CqJbfaNIBrGIch4D2wZGNg3pRzD4qyShSqADg3nTQvBdUgYg_OpXk4o89PYtJkObKlexZULtET1a8i8/s320/iphone+2015+123.JPG" width="220" /></a></div>
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I have become obsessed with Illy's Espresso.</div>
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I use it in my French Press. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifN9VjnrgGnKHC009kZdsYxYJDEPlDKK7JLV1_6_Qk-uYYHr2maSJDt4pOsYy2e18QQkiI_raCYqixWmeQRbauj1IR1tRjamPcZA-fOfgd0De-X22vJnNEGhchMGFTIa92hEWhMnjYejA/s1600/iphone+2015+027.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifN9VjnrgGnKHC009kZdsYxYJDEPlDKK7JLV1_6_Qk-uYYHr2maSJDt4pOsYy2e18QQkiI_raCYqixWmeQRbauj1IR1tRjamPcZA-fOfgd0De-X22vJnNEGhchMGFTIa92hEWhMnjYejA/s320/iphone+2015+027.JPG" width="180" /></a></div>
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It is some of the best coffee I have ever tasted. </div>
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I've even made affogato for the girls with it! </div>
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And I tried to make my own Con Panna. </div>
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I think I'll just let Starbucks handle that from now on! </div>
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<br />Abramyan Avenuehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03310621182672005032noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9108642159149157651.post-991845226145420002015-08-15T09:36:00.001-07:002015-08-15T09:36:21.300-07:00August 2015 - Beginning to Mid<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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It is unbelievably hard to think not only is August here...it's MID August. When did this happen? This year has gone by so fast and has brought about so many changes it is absolutely crazy.</div>
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After the meeting the first Sunday in August, Papa Bear and I went with the Meyers to <b><span style="color: #134f5c;"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/DenmanEstate">Denman Estate Park</a></span></b> to walk and talk. It was pretty darn hot, around 100, but all the trees provided shade and made the walk really pleasant. </div>
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I wasn't prepared for how beautiful the park was. </div>
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The Korean pavillion is set behind a beautiful pond and surrounded by huge towering canopy of trees. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKbrpIZqDWpPIytNhTxXv3WgxXQ9pgL4v6gqV1sgYdNFYDdQwj43TG__t7G4Owd_FrqufTwEaliJiXhgYt6yq5q3hbrRA3XpEgj_d_cneyKPGWp5ZUhdMMrhRtk24vC59l1qNTghEU4SU/s1600/august+2015+205.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKbrpIZqDWpPIytNhTxXv3WgxXQ9pgL4v6gqV1sgYdNFYDdQwj43TG__t7G4Owd_FrqufTwEaliJiXhgYt6yq5q3hbrRA3XpEgj_d_cneyKPGWp5ZUhdMMrhRtk24vC59l1qNTghEU4SU/s320/august+2015+205.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii66tbMZAYiv_NjSEsY1srZRU_rCgZj-6xoyXo-h08KfHoO2m_4Scct0xGM1DRaB4TEoKVFgIICdw6Xd6U2vzIKUsLQCfViZW_rVIls0e5VRatKk2ybsXkFIfAqAqk-7xpiak7D_5dBaM/s1600/august+2015+210.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii66tbMZAYiv_NjSEsY1srZRU_rCgZj-6xoyXo-h08KfHoO2m_4Scct0xGM1DRaB4TEoKVFgIICdw6Xd6U2vzIKUsLQCfViZW_rVIls0e5VRatKk2ybsXkFIfAqAqk-7xpiak7D_5dBaM/s320/august+2015+210.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4kE_WLjk-atzxp23_FF6CU6y4RDlOpNXzCxrkAitHyT9YXAXDYm3tJbfq8cjtDS2DaUe5qkncPBYPojjz5Ip2PDtOaEO_gBmdEyVfr42WX68q-2rRpT7ocRIyQUNJ3Xj1BUF5fPqX0Hs/s1600/august+2015+212.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4kE_WLjk-atzxp23_FF6CU6y4RDlOpNXzCxrkAitHyT9YXAXDYm3tJbfq8cjtDS2DaUe5qkncPBYPojjz5Ip2PDtOaEO_gBmdEyVfr42WX68q-2rRpT7ocRIyQUNJ3Xj1BUF5fPqX0Hs/s320/august+2015+212.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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The pond is a half mile around and there you find the cutest,fluffy ducks, which are no doubt used to people by now. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjL7ZttFWNEUMcyEP8vK6E_X6KEg0KGSt1_ER0mPIWAnRCKzWuBFj9vuL1cHNHDC2M_pCrwxXANQEd3rM1U2khKixSpkwoO_vghGkglMYoalguBinUCGX8oGEQBTzOwV-bKaJXhWN5iRTk/s1600/august+2015+203.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjL7ZttFWNEUMcyEP8vK6E_X6KEg0KGSt1_ER0mPIWAnRCKzWuBFj9vuL1cHNHDC2M_pCrwxXANQEd3rM1U2khKixSpkwoO_vghGkglMYoalguBinUCGX8oGEQBTzOwV-bKaJXhWN5iRTk/s320/august+2015+203.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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I was surprised how close they will let you get to them. I wished I had known, I would have brought some bread with me. </div>
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Some of my favorite memories are going to Victoria to the duck pond to feed the ducks. Mom and I would stop at the little bread store and load up. She usually had a picnic packed and we would feed the ducks and then feed ourselves. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQRhIslf271cmlfChWXX_f0qoLZYX_vSa4A0YfuXtOV0E1u-LxHIx5KroUQFOyzxZS6qSbC-pl-NetheMWwyDOKCijsTVqZU2kob6tl19IEPO6svFA-miMxj2LVwdIl84_gvFjgrjbqXQ/s1600/august+2015+209.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQRhIslf271cmlfChWXX_f0qoLZYX_vSa4A0YfuXtOV0E1u-LxHIx5KroUQFOyzxZS6qSbC-pl-NetheMWwyDOKCijsTVqZU2kob6tl19IEPO6svFA-miMxj2LVwdIl84_gvFjgrjbqXQ/s320/august+2015+209.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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There were also many turtles. I love turtles. </div>
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I had to snap a quick picture of the baby turtle taking a ride on it's mommy's back. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBicHYSE9ofdJcrY7aLcMnTqHPEtKTDb_ZShFC-dDvLqeXGJv0chajoL7f2_VUzMsWS2w4SqbcBRpu3HMHZoJwOgwiGC1kb9qhqNUilb6m02qEKjtGxS3iKK-K1SfzSKpzUJ3qzxOOGD4/s1600/august+2015+208.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBicHYSE9ofdJcrY7aLcMnTqHPEtKTDb_ZShFC-dDvLqeXGJv0chajoL7f2_VUzMsWS2w4SqbcBRpu3HMHZoJwOgwiGC1kb9qhqNUilb6m02qEKjtGxS3iKK-K1SfzSKpzUJ3qzxOOGD4/s320/august+2015+208.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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And as mentioned in my last post, Sierra has me hooked on the Doppio Con Panna. </div>
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Lena and I went to the mall to purchase some makeup and we had to take a break to look at our goodies....</div>
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We took our break at Starbucks, of course. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTbALYF_Uo60keKedySC8DErN7HNrnPcrEPQ8ETa3M8hV4r2yKrHXdWgJB8SKdrth3TUZNgaTB8Y3e0S76WOzFzpvWbJZyC8VjlkKst0oiOhhGTlbPvewPddBu7pKZC9krhCmJbza-Gy4/s1600/august+2015+219.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTbALYF_Uo60keKedySC8DErN7HNrnPcrEPQ8ETa3M8hV4r2yKrHXdWgJB8SKdrth3TUZNgaTB8Y3e0S76WOzFzpvWbJZyC8VjlkKst0oiOhhGTlbPvewPddBu7pKZC9krhCmJbza-Gy4/s320/august+2015+219.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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I am a sucker for matte eye shadows. Don't get me wrong, I love to have some shimmer and shine but <b><span style="color: #351c75;">NOTHING</span></b> beats a good matte!!</div>
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<b><span style="color: #660000;"><a href="https://www.toofaced.com/p/eye-shadow-palettes/natural-matte/">Too Faced</a></span></b> cosmetics came out with a <b><span style="color: #660000;"><a href="http://www.sephora.com/natural-matte-eye-palette-P393185">Natural Matte palette</a></span></b> and I <b><span style="color: red;">HAD</span></b> to have it! </div>
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Lena chose <b><span style="color: #20124d;"><a href="http://www.urbandecay.com/naked-2-palette-by-urban-decay/282.html">Urban Decay's</a></span></b> <b><span style="color: #20124d;"><a href="http://www.sephora.com/naked2-P302916">Naked 2 palette.</a></span></b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2sQJPDk9BJv_FUfKR8jV3WrWGw-4B-QUdFzAkYrLqWx1HKf084iIzj_h08ihS03siNHj-ySPbvDb0HdeUPLBUZXFVdy6MDyZCpmjbs0X6JOMUibkU8r12IRJgjNxW6-krAQlTs6r92UU/s1600/august+2015+221.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2sQJPDk9BJv_FUfKR8jV3WrWGw-4B-QUdFzAkYrLqWx1HKf084iIzj_h08ihS03siNHj-ySPbvDb0HdeUPLBUZXFVdy6MDyZCpmjbs0X6JOMUibkU8r12IRJgjNxW6-krAQlTs6r92UU/s320/august+2015+221.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Oh my goodness... I am so in love. I have never felt eyeshadow so buttery and soft. There is literally NO fall out and when combined with <b><span style="color: #4c1130;"><a href="http://www.sephora.com/eyeshadow-primer-potion-tube-original-P284716?skuId=1704402">Urban Decay's Eyeshadow Primer</a></span></b>, these shadows stay on all day!!</div>
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My work days starts at 7:30 a.m. I apply my make up around 6 am. I usually do the gym around 8 pm and get home around 11 pm. </div>
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When I apply the Urban Decay Eyeshadow Primer, my shadow stays put ALL. DAY. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggKK5t48etP-SB4vQQeRHbgBM6mU7ZRJ_cT8D6Swsldy1-YL89qR7Saz_671DnjCXgzidd1VcMdT1P4j9U10ysWzwAKTiy2uP7Tu-9PWHj9AaRV4Zxen-1nLoLDACqSR1y0WF8THct1SE/s1600/august+2015+222.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggKK5t48etP-SB4vQQeRHbgBM6mU7ZRJ_cT8D6Swsldy1-YL89qR7Saz_671DnjCXgzidd1VcMdT1P4j9U10ysWzwAKTiy2uP7Tu-9PWHj9AaRV4Zxen-1nLoLDACqSR1y0WF8THct1SE/s320/august+2015+222.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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I realize that a decluttering and reorganization of my make up drawer is in order. I'm embarrassed to post this photo even! My monthly make up subscriptions like <b><span style="color: #cc0000;"><a href="https://www.birchbox.com/invite/pm5tq">Birchbox</a></span></b> and <b><span style="color: magenta;"><a href="https://www.ipsy.com/new?refer=19sy">Ipsy</a></span></b> have really created a monster in that I am full of samples, luxury size samples and full sized items that it will take me a while to get to. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPajky6IOwFq9n-diZaZnphY0xsa7KtufRpcfDMPMsZQU46TbJmsHc3qPPERQhpd5YW5WBjTD-mMGrqe-RlMoLVAs1h2enE_58Me87n8TKn4Cef1pO0X4Tw9RVIedqeLDSg5Kq353i7Rw/s1600/august+2015+201.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPajky6IOwFq9n-diZaZnphY0xsa7KtufRpcfDMPMsZQU46TbJmsHc3qPPERQhpd5YW5WBjTD-mMGrqe-RlMoLVAs1h2enE_58Me87n8TKn4Cef1pO0X4Tw9RVIedqeLDSg5Kq353i7Rw/s320/august+2015+201.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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And as if I didn't have enough eye shadows, Papa Bear bought me another new palette...because I lost the bet. HA! That man must really love me!!!</div>
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I had a really hard time deciding earlier in the week if I wanted the Too Faced Natural Matte Palette or the <b><span style="color: #783f04;"><a href="http://www.sephora.com/semi-sweet-chocolate-bar-P392009">Too Faced Semi-Sweet Chocolate Bar</a></span></b>. I selected the Natural Matte then but when I lost the bet and he offered to still buy me something from Sephora... I chose the <b><span style="color: #783f04;"><a href="https://www.toofaced.com/p/eye-shadow-palettes/semi-sweet-chocolate-bar/">Semi Sweet Chocolate Bar</a></span></b> palette!! </div>
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<i><b><span style="color: #351c75;">~~OH~~MY~~WORD~~</span></b></i></div>
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The BEST palette ever. </div>
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Every single color in here is amazing.</div>
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And the smell.... oh my goodness, the smell...</div>
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Chocolate is actually infused in each of these shadows and when you open the palette you smell what I imagine Willie Wonka's Chocolate Factory would smell like. </div>
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It's heavenly, I tell you!!!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMM5GjW64COPhU_qvPUnUZduEQsaWcNZgZ0zGjl8awwEHUtSjlLUpVJJIkdiscdMh9HY5uVJ2Eqk8q_oLCpjKzOk8uJPqltUkqxSINQ2nfQxfFk66g-ID0QoeNRfuansXhWFl-lXU5JkY/s1600/august+2015+259.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMM5GjW64COPhU_qvPUnUZduEQsaWcNZgZ0zGjl8awwEHUtSjlLUpVJJIkdiscdMh9HY5uVJ2Eqk8q_oLCpjKzOk8uJPqltUkqxSINQ2nfQxfFk66g-ID0QoeNRfuansXhWFl-lXU5JkY/s320/august+2015+259.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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One evening Papa Bear and I decided to stop by a restaurant I used to frequent with my friend Lisa. They have delicious, authentic Mexican food.</div>
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The weather was nice, there was a slight breeze, the music was playing softly, the food being cooked outside smelled amazing... </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV-U5dJfBH1aG9P7aFy4d_Dt9LF2THbPrNohq-dfYoyuGqZdzaI-3JuZq8e0nLi2W-ja0RRRQ7dEzM7Mq4kgprQPieWYutGaHEwkZwHMbp04_ApM9Rg1CaSxQXaYLfo7V-zwSMkU0RJ-k/s1600/august+2015+257.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV-U5dJfBH1aG9P7aFy4d_Dt9LF2THbPrNohq-dfYoyuGqZdzaI-3JuZq8e0nLi2W-ja0RRRQ7dEzM7Mq4kgprQPieWYutGaHEwkZwHMbp04_ApM9Rg1CaSxQXaYLfo7V-zwSMkU0RJ-k/s320/august+2015+257.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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and the food itself did not disappoint!! It was just as good as I remembered it being. </div>
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I have no idea why we stopped visiting <b><span style="color: #660000;"><a href="http://www.marioli2go.com/">Marioli's</a></span></b> but I know without a doubt we will be stopping by regularly! </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkg2uP3nuMXou8FZODG4XCVzZxfBfaJTy8GEBTb30PSGNScc-5ShyphenhyphenVRhb_yzvryxMXf3JWDqvz3sK4Q7n1vCJhSlq2gzKS02hAqtiUraayFpBvBYUvHleMuP4iAPTNrzbsDa11uxPMojE/s1600/august+2015+258.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkg2uP3nuMXou8FZODG4XCVzZxfBfaJTy8GEBTb30PSGNScc-5ShyphenhyphenVRhb_yzvryxMXf3JWDqvz3sK4Q7n1vCJhSlq2gzKS02hAqtiUraayFpBvBYUvHleMuP4iAPTNrzbsDa11uxPMojE/s320/august+2015+258.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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Last weekend while cleaning Papa Bear opened Mom's doctors case of 45's and we listened to her favorites. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtkF0_jXGh-YYyfHU-01BIZ__T6tIJAT_17Iive7Tfk0W3DCBFbVmn_c4ZZs_cLsFYQm6h8X4bI4rr_Y0QIEl0wzoBbSN8uDEwM9HhDV1jAozniO9AfrBACAbmq8hjTVS_UncxeUCxJVk/s1600/august+2015+001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtkF0_jXGh-YYyfHU-01BIZ__T6tIJAT_17Iive7Tfk0W3DCBFbVmn_c4ZZs_cLsFYQm6h8X4bI4rr_Y0QIEl0wzoBbSN8uDEwM9HhDV1jAozniO9AfrBACAbmq8hjTVS_UncxeUCxJVk/s320/august+2015+001.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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She drew stars on some of her favorites. </div>
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I loved that she had this one. It was one of my dad's favorite songs. He could definitely relate to it. So playing her 45's made me feel like she was here again, here with us.</div>
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There may have been a minor break down or two but I am so very, very happy I have her records.</div>
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Again, they bring back sooo many, many memories.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsrBRKOyNi-jxzEnvxeYsSN83F3AE3_4P4S-YGAtbfsKVFfGXkxBK0hBQdMOOe_n8BaQXw-IvdWmULRukZL77yhNLAmiDOnmzniT9VsnEegL9CI3jtD_dQO9lyi4eW7f95ibkJCWLpszc/s1600/august+2015+002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsrBRKOyNi-jxzEnvxeYsSN83F3AE3_4P4S-YGAtbfsKVFfGXkxBK0hBQdMOOe_n8BaQXw-IvdWmULRukZL77yhNLAmiDOnmzniT9VsnEegL9CI3jtD_dQO9lyi4eW7f95ibkJCWLpszc/s320/august+2015+002.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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Last Saturday Papa Bear and I met Gloria for dinner at <b><span style="color: #660000;"><a href="http://smoketherestaurant.com/">Smoke, The Restaurant</a></span></b>.</div>
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This has got to be one of the very best restaurants in San Antonio. The flavors of the food are just unbelievable. If you want to eat inside, you will need a reservation. We enjoy eating outside and listening to the live music. The waiters are so nice and keep your glasses full.</div>
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The trees provide a soft, easy breeze and you are just in good company. </div>
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I absolutely love this place!</div>
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This was my Urban Cowboy plate. It's brisket made into a ground patty, topped with crispy onions and served with french fries.</div>
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It is mouth...watering...good!!!! </div>
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CC came over and brought Bella and Papa Bear made beignets for us when he got home.</div>
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Beignets were one of our favorite parts of NOLA, so imagine my surprise when I found you can find the mix at Wal-Mart. </div>
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Too bad they don't sell the Cafe Du Monde coffee too! </div>
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Papa sent me a text asking me what we were doing and this is the picture I sent him.... </div>
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I don't let the cats on the table but this was a special day because.....</div>
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Bella was back in the house. </div>
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When CC called that she was on her way and bringing Bella with her, I had her on speaker phone and my boys heard Bella meowing in the background. They got so nervous and started pacing and looking around. </div>
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When Bella got here the got away from her as fast as they could. I guess they thought she couldn't get them up there. So I made the exception, then I cleaned the table like a mad woman!!!!</div>
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I got accepted for the work from home position. The start date has been pushed back a week. I am so excited to get started on fixing my home office. This will be one room in the house that will be all me!!! </div>
<br />Abramyan Avenuehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03310621182672005032noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9108642159149157651.post-59741346369225136762015-08-09T17:37:00.001-07:002015-08-09T17:37:06.259-07:00July 2016: BTS in Dallas, Gelato and the Gym<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
So my Lena told me in April one of her favorite Kpop bands, BTS, was making four US stops and Dallas was one of them. </div>
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We bought tickets the day they went on sale...thankfully we didn't wait because they sold out so fast. The hardest part was the wait...three longs months of waiting....</div>
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But my mother in law lives in Dallas and we've been wanting to visit her and see her new place, so it worked out perfectly!</div>
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I miss her so much! </div>
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And she misses us too!! </div>
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I loved how peaceful and serene her courtyard was. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4jG7QxYf-6Qb2y9b_-XKLaMHaZY2xqsKYkWaMSIjo0pc89r0JvPngez0A3KT8Y0ioFNmrDMGMl85j7s8YYcOrt-wi01wKipXR_T7qWRUi0f4m73WYqehq3Ir1E7sEvgYmN5K3p8KTOjw/s1600/august+2015+042.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4jG7QxYf-6Qb2y9b_-XKLaMHaZY2xqsKYkWaMSIjo0pc89r0JvPngez0A3KT8Y0ioFNmrDMGMl85j7s8YYcOrt-wi01wKipXR_T7qWRUi0f4m73WYqehq3Ir1E7sEvgYmN5K3p8KTOjw/s320/august+2015+042.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Then came the night of the concert.</div>
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It was insane.</div>
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There was such a mix of people... </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgvdPhDCQCQuSPPaBLNdgExqeAczMZzxyyl6_A2Uk2FOGWNvgXhWwp8QjFCU_qBAcL0EYBBOtwWSrxMfEPRDKr4gH9Go8TKYJL65w9cFtz1DTsAUy-ULGlYfZo5mYOEULZl-U3Wzpk8us/s1600/august+2015+045.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgvdPhDCQCQuSPPaBLNdgExqeAczMZzxyyl6_A2Uk2FOGWNvgXhWwp8QjFCU_qBAcL0EYBBOtwWSrxMfEPRDKr4gH9Go8TKYJL65w9cFtz1DTsAUy-ULGlYfZo5mYOEULZl-U3Wzpk8us/s320/august+2015+045.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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and the girls there....</div>
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they were CRAZY!! </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGn6Tx1qiO1A2Oono-u8aI0dbYbrDSd6NvSVs7Pk-mExwEXC3gy_Dv3hxBgHXZDLSUPz0Re6M4rq1Yz_eOsPiZgHDspAOVVG_RSwjhEn3MPlcLFeLVaAxHeAzlJ3tNkLSON7HPLRS0sNs/s1600/august+2015+054.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGn6Tx1qiO1A2Oono-u8aI0dbYbrDSd6NvSVs7Pk-mExwEXC3gy_Dv3hxBgHXZDLSUPz0Re6M4rq1Yz_eOsPiZgHDspAOVVG_RSwjhEn3MPlcLFeLVaAxHeAzlJ3tNkLSON7HPLRS0sNs/s320/august+2015+054.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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We were on the balcony level and those girls were shaking the concrete balcony.</div>
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I saw lots of parents there with their children, some enjoying the concert, some waiting in the lounge area outside. </div>
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Even though I only knew a few songs, hands down it was the best concert I've ever been to.</div>
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These seven boys put on a show like nothing I've ever seen. </div>
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They danced non-stop!! </div>
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And they didn't lip sync! </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiBDU_TRQv4IhvePGUM5HVeFyMT8HZiKtWbIkmJTXz6lOUBHCs-nOnlWS55qmlRx-Yrne9xQTviGkhV1LPznSrGBbY47Bj5GgOcsy2Qx_sdGw1emA5V9gojloLOgKqRYZgWhrZAfssL1I/s1600/august+2015+088.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiBDU_TRQv4IhvePGUM5HVeFyMT8HZiKtWbIkmJTXz6lOUBHCs-nOnlWS55qmlRx-Yrne9xQTviGkhV1LPznSrGBbY47Bj5GgOcsy2Qx_sdGw1emA5V9gojloLOgKqRYZgWhrZAfssL1I/s320/august+2015+088.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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That night we relaxed in the hammocks in my mother in laws courtyard.</div>
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The next morning we enjoyed coffee on her balcony. </div>
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Our time went by too fast. I didn't have Monday off, so we had to head back home.</div>
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I've also been trying to get to the gym as much as possible. It just feels so good to burn some energy and then relax in the sauna. </div>
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CC has me hooked on the Doppio Con Panna lately.</div>
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I'm ashamed to say I drink two of these a day.</div>
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However, supposedly they only have 50 calories.</div>
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(I'm praying that's true!) </div>
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One day while looking on Instagram I found this place in San Antonio that has what is supposed to be the best and most authentic Italian Gelato, <span style="color: #4c1130;"><b><a href="http://www.alamodegelato.com/">A La Mode Gelato</a></b></span>.</div>
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I found the address, loaded up my girls and we went. </div>
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The gelato was really delicious!! The serving sizes are HUGE and it's at a really awesome price point.</div>
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The only down side was there wasn't much room to sit. It was so very hot outside...at least 100 degrees, if not over...and it would have been nice to sit down, talk and enjoy our gelato.</div>
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It's in a really cute, artsy section of town... <span style="color: #0c343d;"><b><a href="http://bluestarartscomplex.com/">The Blue Arts Complex</a></b></span>.</div>
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There is such a variety of niche shops and restaurants. </div>
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The Blue Star Contemporary Museum that I've been wanting to go to is there too!</div>
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I'm glad I finally found it!</div>
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Behind the Arts Complex is the San Antonio River and a walking trail. We sat as long as we could outside, eating our gelato and talking. It was so relaxing to hear the babbling river behind us.</div>
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It was just too darn hot!!</div>
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I am definitely looking forward to going back with the weather cools off. The area has so much to offer and I can't wait to explore it all!</div>
Abramyan Avenuehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03310621182672005032noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9108642159149157651.post-36759152153863655512015-07-13T11:39:00.003-07:002015-07-13T11:39:58.831-07:00Mid-July 2015 Post<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I have found my sickness...it's right there. I have Obsessive Coffee Disorder and I am not ashamed of it. </div>
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I have tried to switch over to hot tea, even though I fear it may stain my teeth more than coffee does, however, it just doesn't do it for me. I know hot tea is healthier, fewer calories and some delicious blends are non-caffeinated, but my day just does not <i style="font-weight: bold;"> feel </i>complete without coffee.</div>
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Lena and I even slipped away to Local Coffee one afternoon this week.</div>
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Their vanilla spice cupcakes are out of this world. </div>
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Last week Papa Bear and I went to a Russian meeting. It was so awesome. </div>
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And the fact that I was able to follow along was pretty neat too!! </div>
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After the Russian meeting we went to visit my brothers and sisters in Hallettsville. My brother made out of this world pulled pork. We all sat outside and ate, talked and laughed. It was so wonderful having the whole family together. I just wished Mom was there to see it!</div>
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The next day we went to visit my sister Stacy. She brought out Mom's old record player and her old records. The 45 vinyl that was on the turntable was Nina's 99 Red Balloons in English. </div>
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We hooked it up, sat around the player and listened.</div>
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It felt like Mom was there with us. </div>
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I interviewed for a different position this week too. It was actually fun to shop for an outfit. Since my gastric sleeve surgery shopping has become so much more fun...and expensive. </div>
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Since we are losing weight so often,we need to buy new, smaller clothes almost every month. </div>
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CC and I took Coco and Luigi to the park. Coco loved it. </div>
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My old man wore out. Three times we had to stop to allow him to cool down. It made me so sad to see his age effecting him. We used to not be able to keep up with him! </div>
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And Ms. Coco definitely did NOT like being around other dogs. Each time we passed another dog CC would pretty much have to put her weight on Coco to keep her down. </div>
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I gave Lena her first driving lesson as well. Lena was a devilish child with an evil smirk. I always imagined her first driving lesson to be horrifying. I could see her look at me with those beautiful blue eyes and give me that scary, mean little smirk and then just floor it....</div>
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Well, as I strapped myself in the passenger seat, I hear the engine rev something terrible and the RPM's go wayyyy up. Then she said, "I can't make it go. Oh wait, I was still in park." I had coached her about <i style="font-weight: bold;">lightly</i> stepping on the gas. So yes, my fear was somewhat real...thank goodness she was in park.</div>
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Overall she did great! I'm so proud of her! </div>
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And finally when Papa Bear and I were grilling out last night Coco decided to take it upon herself to <i style="font-weight: bold;">lay</i> in her water tub. This girl...she is too much! </div>
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So I've been trying to read coffee facts that will make me feel a little better about the amount of coffee that I drink. One cup of coffee actually accounts for 11% of the recommended daily amount of Riboflavin we need, as well as 3% of Potassium and 2% of Magnesium.</div>
<br />Abramyan Avenuehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03310621182672005032noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9108642159149157651.post-46488333609187993652015-06-26T14:01:00.000-07:002015-06-26T14:01:36.691-07:00Copalli's Cafe, Cappuccinos & Cats<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj372AnDQrMXrIoSbBH3EWBMAysGpdU4o3PYRycvqD82qmBRUtl5QYULBG-N0XhkUIosulqvmwKKWhdVsZ3SRBTlKZxnYoijyIcEgCmKCbMW1RZqIM5Qr3lDjlyiWltHFt5-9hnWE24H9Q/s1600/June+2015+224.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj372AnDQrMXrIoSbBH3EWBMAysGpdU4o3PYRycvqD82qmBRUtl5QYULBG-N0XhkUIosulqvmwKKWhdVsZ3SRBTlKZxnYoijyIcEgCmKCbMW1RZqIM5Qr3lDjlyiWltHFt5-9hnWE24H9Q/s320/June+2015+224.JPG" width="266" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I used to HATE coffee. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Hated the smell.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Hated the idea.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Hated the taste, even though I had never tasted it. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">All I knew, was that I would hear Mom every morning moving around in the kitchen making her morning pot of coffee.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I hated that she thought she <i><b>needed</b></i> it to get her day started.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">...Now...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">this is basically me....</span> </div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">So, after my injection last Thursday, CC found the cutest cafe for us to have lunch at....<a href="http://copallicafesa.wix.com/copalli-cafe"><b><span style="color: #990000;">Copalli Cafe</span></b></a>.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">The cafe has the coziest, most relaxing atmosphere.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I love the warm colors throughout, the reclaimed hard wood floors...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">And the food...oh my, the food....</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">is out of this world, knock your socks off, mouth watering good!!!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Everything is made from scratch, nothing store bought.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">The cafe is run by a local professor, her son and his girlfriend.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfY1zANgFgKGJA8xWF2AS4HBTYSyjIqUZeKfkAodKJvUlDWSoXidJvFClIl-mBjdSYmSm6T8JIfH650mqk0uKk9LOEjbsluDpwqnNT0FuL95WCEcyeYTCb9rvsz49v83guALoFArN5jJs/s1600/June+2015+189.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfY1zANgFgKGJA8xWF2AS4HBTYSyjIqUZeKfkAodKJvUlDWSoXidJvFClIl-mBjdSYmSm6T8JIfH650mqk0uKk9LOEjbsluDpwqnNT0FuL95WCEcyeYTCb9rvsz49v83guALoFArN5jJs/s320/June+2015+189.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">After our lunch, I had to try a pumpkin cappuccino (<i>which only made me yearn for fall)</i>...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I watched him make my drink. He did so with skill and ease and it definitely was reflected in the taste.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I was/am hooked....</span> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyHk5f-uWzysM72wTvsd7NVk6eqrOlQUufcFdSfyrruDYYRUmMZyZZK_ILGaCfX89yff0mej6YD5NQSGZwC2NewShvqHeNIk3iVLNjlLWVNbsesDLfuFk2gjPmxa6_c0jHaDZo1BgESFI/s1600/June+2015+193.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyHk5f-uWzysM72wTvsd7NVk6eqrOlQUufcFdSfyrruDYYRUmMZyZZK_ILGaCfX89yff0mej6YD5NQSGZwC2NewShvqHeNIk3iVLNjlLWVNbsesDLfuFk2gjPmxa6_c0jHaDZo1BgESFI/s320/June+2015+193.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">While we were eating this cute little squirrel came by and was peeping on us.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">The staff gave him a mini muffin to munch it. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">It was the sweetest thing!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">The staff at Copalli Cafe couldn't be sweeter. They make you feel at home. If I could see my dream job through, it would to own a cafe like Copalli Cafe. It is just THAT good!!</span> </div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">And it was soooo good, that on Saturday, I woke Lena up and told her she <i>had </i>to go with me to have lunch at Copalli. I could have easily just picked lunch up, but I wanted her to have the whole experience.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><br /></span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2ata7RbMwF8gx5fQeypjzXZK5ZcrDsgUQiWiuCIB1CnYCZi8LGvsIXgLi6xQKJ8-B0w0FvI_dy70pdlqjoN2mCXt9p0-PAyToGbzAXCcsvm-f3KVV36umZdkUGLaAe_XsbQWbfw7Wt1o/s1600/June+2015+269.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2ata7RbMwF8gx5fQeypjzXZK5ZcrDsgUQiWiuCIB1CnYCZi8LGvsIXgLi6xQKJ8-B0w0FvI_dy70pdlqjoN2mCXt9p0-PAyToGbzAXCcsvm-f3KVV36umZdkUGLaAe_XsbQWbfw7Wt1o/s320/June+2015+269.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Lena and I sat on the opposite size in a cozy little nook.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Everything about Copalli Cafe is just so perfect...right down to the jazzy art they have on the wall.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">You can come it, sit down, relax and forget about what is weighing on your mind...have a great conversation with Khalehla and Chris..</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">and enjoy <i style="font-weight: bold;">another</i> pumpkin cappuccino....</span> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzDa3vDfEsU_xu0t_fCCvy2ZTikm-cXk9riw_YVGD6ES18JKYIKWdeTZatyOalv7foLxq3OBED3tlVXr8-mp_hHPFsDW_4VPmB02AJbT-P-FLzD9H90EezYLxKtU_lhZ8FLg3g6tIcRj0/s1600/June+2015+268.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzDa3vDfEsU_xu0t_fCCvy2ZTikm-cXk9riw_YVGD6ES18JKYIKWdeTZatyOalv7foLxq3OBED3tlVXr8-mp_hHPFsDW_4VPmB02AJbT-P-FLzD9H90EezYLxKtU_lhZ8FLg3g6tIcRj0/s320/June+2015+268.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">and pair it with a homemade from scratch S'more Coffee Cake.</span> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDnznXp9Csmi01H0BN4giSh7fcvBs3yjj9-KLupc9Ukv18G95HRQkS-foHbCOYAvc2ETZWs8vfT3OMCO_7_yMhHb_fk6BGDb2Lm5nHGpvPj-xYxJrRbI7C_kKaVkKpG8Ji3nZP29tfp0w/s1600/June+2015+280.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDnznXp9Csmi01H0BN4giSh7fcvBs3yjj9-KLupc9Ukv18G95HRQkS-foHbCOYAvc2ETZWs8vfT3OMCO_7_yMhHb_fk6BGDb2Lm5nHGpvPj-xYxJrRbI7C_kKaVkKpG8Ji3nZP29tfp0w/s320/June+2015+280.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Oh yes. It's THAT good!!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">When it's my next turn to bring breakfast for work I know EXACTLY what I will be bringing.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Our Papa Bear was out of town this past weekend, so I snapped him this selfie (gosh, I HATE using that word) to send to him.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">CC ordered the Caprese sanchwhich when she and I went.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I just <i>had</i> to buy some fresh basil and mozarella and make my own sandwich. I'll just say this...the girls LOVED it!</span> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiwHP8uvyC3idwspF0tuJWKgNzQaG-yFJMEm9WL1JxcVVSnidI_dqNJ6Zl0f_NjGLo22_0K4t5GNxxYw1OVFNsE0SB-vjufQ-TVgk7tJ7JTF5oHEm6bnqShcSFZr5X96ddGP9qcB6HGPQ/s1600/June+2015+252.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiwHP8uvyC3idwspF0tuJWKgNzQaG-yFJMEm9WL1JxcVVSnidI_dqNJ6Zl0f_NjGLo22_0K4t5GNxxYw1OVFNsE0SB-vjufQ-TVgk7tJ7JTF5oHEm6bnqShcSFZr5X96ddGP9qcB6HGPQ/s320/June+2015+252.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">With all this eating out, we've been trying to counteract it by hitting the gym. The gym is my stress release. I love to go at night when there are fewer people. It's just uncomfortable to work out next to these huge bulked up body builders. I feel like I'm being critiqued for doing something wrong.</span> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjj2GxLYLAWOv5MkCNkCA5ZzOSV1yNzdPGKhe5n2Jg2dT-ij1kbr_meBbJvcEINolVe5ic1OuWLEmbmd3sYYEUda-9pjVTQWJU0WDHcEdMdfX-UtjjVVuZTiv60dZaGidG2maGYoljvQQw/s1600/June+2015+254.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjj2GxLYLAWOv5MkCNkCA5ZzOSV1yNzdPGKhe5n2Jg2dT-ij1kbr_meBbJvcEINolVe5ic1OuWLEmbmd3sYYEUda-9pjVTQWJU0WDHcEdMdfX-UtjjVVuZTiv60dZaGidG2maGYoljvQQw/s320/June+2015+254.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">After working out I usually rest my muscles in the hot tub, hit the sauna, then shower and head home. I feel so fresh and rejuvenated the next day. There is NOTHING that feels as good as working out.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">It not only does your body good, it does wonders for your mind as well!</span> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuWx4BrfEpYY-voatKNnHxaydchKKxt-Hi701m7vvQTi2biBSGH6ZadL8Y886W7rGt0Pp0bIS2Sg3nX_SVgXmlQM2HUUhRqvJJRvCKRC1KAJSt_fC1VSLcV1uliOcdyGBLcR9Ico9ZbjA/s1600/June+2015+255.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuWx4BrfEpYY-voatKNnHxaydchKKxt-Hi701m7vvQTi2biBSGH6ZadL8Y886W7rGt0Pp0bIS2Sg3nX_SVgXmlQM2HUUhRqvJJRvCKRC1KAJSt_fC1VSLcV1uliOcdyGBLcR9Ico9ZbjA/s320/June+2015+255.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I'm not sure what is going on, but my boys have been so clingy lately. Some days they want nothing to do with me, aside from feeding them....</span> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK2RI3lx9_FKOAIu5Gk7-0kqL2ozGQHEFgPvwAFNInuqIH6aXtoORpjz66OtkMWDII1CFXv7gA1hKNbnAUAtZ-ehdwmuL0VkmbYUidZuVtZeX5QxS8LcDg4dl1kV0LujprKdm7ilNkUcc/s1600/June+2015+260.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK2RI3lx9_FKOAIu5Gk7-0kqL2ozGQHEFgPvwAFNInuqIH6aXtoORpjz66OtkMWDII1CFXv7gA1hKNbnAUAtZ-ehdwmuL0VkmbYUidZuVtZeX5QxS8LcDg4dl1kV0LujprKdm7ilNkUcc/s320/June+2015+260.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">and other days I can't get them away from me. It's seriously reminds me of having a baby sometimes. I can't go to the restroom with out seeing little paws under the door and hear one or two of them crying and crying....</span> </div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Even Toby decided to be nice to CC.</span> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-trNeamgmsVhm5vGqnkd2BqkPZYPcxaMYxNrBSgHEBUtJGcF4WW2hXZjpqpWPesw-gx0K1UYUgpMs_ZZueO1EYv7aSaDdh9Pi322eDzF5Uwqh9aRlgL_xh7gi1pb3IR_qsygKjAkwlDQ/s1600/June+2015+209.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-trNeamgmsVhm5vGqnkd2BqkPZYPcxaMYxNrBSgHEBUtJGcF4WW2hXZjpqpWPesw-gx0K1UYUgpMs_ZZueO1EYv7aSaDdh9Pi322eDzF5Uwqh9aRlgL_xh7gi1pb3IR_qsygKjAkwlDQ/s320/June+2015+209.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">On a weight loss note... my hair has been falling out like crazy. It worries me but I keep reading that it will grow back. It sure better or I need to start looking for wigs!!!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">The weather is warming up and we've had no rain for a while...which is really kinda nice!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Meanwhile, I'm on the search for some high protein, low carb recipes that will be good for my Gastric Sleeve.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Pinterest has been most helpful so far!</span></div>
<br />Abramyan Avenuehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03310621182672005032noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9108642159149157651.post-13628388656123494712015-06-22T00:54:00.000-07:002015-06-22T00:54:21.468-07:001/2 THE YEAR GONE - CATCH UP<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Where in the world have I been???</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">What have I been doing???</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I've taken blogging breaks before, but never one this extended.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Too much has been happening for me to stop, think and write...some good...some bad and some just unbelievable!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">First.. I have found a new book series I am absolutely IN LOVE with!! It's the Coffehouse Mysteries by Cleo Coyle. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Oh man.. I cannot put her books down. This is not the style book I ever read, but I love all things coffee and I thought I'd give it a try. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I am so glad I did. I make sure to have a new one in the mail before I finish the one I'm reading. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDSPqsVsL1AjfSkB1aBJGulowrvfPoWXqi8ZcfelykOWsAatRyK_oiQk4zmWgHg1exglLBOi_hXAYMYN1e4VVaHG2hqfI2PeBEqN2EuM8sYihw6O3NiqbhJcY3ZXPs0weUtzyDax8-Ob4/s1600/Feb+2015+006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDSPqsVsL1AjfSkB1aBJGulowrvfPoWXqi8ZcfelykOWsAatRyK_oiQk4zmWgHg1exglLBOi_hXAYMYN1e4VVaHG2hqfI2PeBEqN2EuM8sYihw6O3NiqbhJcY3ZXPs0weUtzyDax8-Ob4/s320/Feb+2015+006.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">The extra bonus you get from reading her books are her recipes. The stories are filled with brewing and roasting details one probably has never even heard of but it also features some really great recipes...and they are all found at the end of the book! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">You can also find them on her website, <span style="color: #990000; font-size: large;"><b><a href="http://coffeehousemystery.com/">CoffeeHouseMystery.com</a>.</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><span style="color: #990000; font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><span style="color: #990000;">~~**~~~~**~~~~**~~~~**~~~~**~~</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I also enjoyed my last good burger. On Valentines Day Lena and I went to <a href="http://www.lepeepsanantonio.com/"><b><span style="color: #990000;">Le Peep</span></b></a> and had the absolute best hamburger I have ever eaten in my life. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Hands down...the best!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Emil and I often eat there for breakfast but have never gone late enough to have lunch.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">It was really, really good!</span> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCdTTP-Hk7hBTRofLkS9WaV2lWPOlkL0T0dMfiEzzkYOpqawGH87adNw0QAj8NVFvHO621mo41AN2Fo7Rt_UWLWFEPpgfPiJ5t5RSEsdzInvP_Zm4SS0QGUC4mkNawP7QkFJpnPJYpAYg/s1600/Feb+2015+032.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCdTTP-Hk7hBTRofLkS9WaV2lWPOlkL0T0dMfiEzzkYOpqawGH87adNw0QAj8NVFvHO621mo41AN2Fo7Rt_UWLWFEPpgfPiJ5t5RSEsdzInvP_Zm4SS0QGUC4mkNawP7QkFJpnPJYpAYg/s320/Feb+2015+032.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">So, why was it "<b>my last good burger"?</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Because on March 2, 2015, I began a new life.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">After ten years of back and forth, deciding and questioning, weighing the pros and cons, Emil and I decided to have weight loss surgery.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">We both had the Gastric Sleeve. Our surgeries were performed by Dr. John Pilcher...he is amazing!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">There are many reasons why a person may choose to have this surgery. Our reasons had nothing to do with vanity.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I was VERY near to 300 pounds and Emil was knocking at it's door. When I got to the point that I wasn't able to tie my shoes, I knew something had to be done. It's not that I enjoyed my size or I was too lazy to do anything about it.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I loved exercising, but my neck injury made everything hard. I hurt all..the...time.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">It if was rainy, I hurt. If it was cold, I hurt. If I moved my left side to much, I hurt. If I tried to sweep/mop/wash dishes/wash clothes, I hurt. I basically just hurt..and could nothing about it.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">And the weight piled on.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">This picture is me as I started my pre-surgery diet the week before surgery.</span> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjdYQ9LsEP-7YV_bLWsqKSN35RPR2o1nr4PE7JPQYIr3S_ChiSSwqs1-VNrxx-rQcLDy7VjWkqDT8Ri2bOJUW8V_3qt_xv1mdlAhGxe1DPQkXXNQa151HyWoxDQr5F06EYtM8j3tRT8Ns/s1600/Feb+May+2015+009.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjdYQ9LsEP-7YV_bLWsqKSN35RPR2o1nr4PE7JPQYIr3S_ChiSSwqs1-VNrxx-rQcLDy7VjWkqDT8Ri2bOJUW8V_3qt_xv1mdlAhGxe1DPQkXXNQa151HyWoxDQr5F06EYtM8j3tRT8Ns/s320/Feb+May+2015+009.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Emil was having so many health issues. I knew if I didn't get him this surgery fast, I wouldn't have him long. We are both too young to be in that condition. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">This is me in the middle of my pre-surgery diet. I had lost around 10 pounds here. I think cutting out Starbucks alone assisted with my pre-surgery weight loss.</span> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLT0rF8ZE4cGhRYvstQHhrXYzV9Scr6CGasjUHjI2KjVKIhq2Fk76BMZllwJCzCQk-B4C7dCPQ4buE9Z19A2KO85HGr1LP3tisL39OwSkw-DCGvc2Gkl_ta9sehr_No6gUk5jUHTII2QQ/s1600/Feb+May+2015+019.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLT0rF8ZE4cGhRYvstQHhrXYzV9Scr6CGasjUHjI2KjVKIhq2Fk76BMZllwJCzCQk-B4C7dCPQ4buE9Z19A2KO85HGr1LP3tisL39OwSkw-DCGvc2Gkl_ta9sehr_No6gUk5jUHTII2QQ/s320/Feb+May+2015+019.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I lost a total of 15 pounds on my pre-surgery diet. I think you can really tell it in my face here. </span> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJQKECoi6Io92lLW_Pocpz9b-NoAB2uIkDIT2ssgKcrgF1qk0prTiPWx5eW-rz0rTKRob_aMIr9NdLuSM8jBnrJEWDedvODVlM4F3_cspSU7mbx-7fkuIv9oG9-O664amJhhL9glAw1go/s1600/Feb+May+2015+027.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJQKECoi6Io92lLW_Pocpz9b-NoAB2uIkDIT2ssgKcrgF1qk0prTiPWx5eW-rz0rTKRob_aMIr9NdLuSM8jBnrJEWDedvODVlM4F3_cspSU7mbx-7fkuIv9oG9-O664amJhhL9glAw1go/s320/Feb+May+2015+027.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUEnpl5RSYN097IdZzF-DaZsHYge3Fg_kX7kvkdcyGIY_I_g_zgmWkEQ7Um3dRvGFsQbkBDssbHJ5jPugnsIoUXcVk_wUuv2f2f8Ihd_NiYZVD0sQvdoDsx1Td93mxbMcmHiCjHF3cWGk/s1600/Feb+May+2015+031.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUEnpl5RSYN097IdZzF-DaZsHYge3Fg_kX7kvkdcyGIY_I_g_zgmWkEQ7Um3dRvGFsQbkBDssbHJ5jPugnsIoUXcVk_wUuv2f2f8Ihd_NiYZVD0sQvdoDsx1Td93mxbMcmHiCjHF3cWGk/s320/Feb+May+2015+031.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">The surgery has made both Emil and me so much more active. I feel like we have a life now. This picture is Emil 4 or 5 days after his surgery. He was walking more that day than he had in years...honestly.</span> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqGys_3Y7WjsOBBJp0SqWxfcGF4jgiVXPkMMOoc5jsOx4KafL5HUqfV7yhSMHsVYDBCB0n9iAsRQcPQoDRJACydtgWjjn-eCqXICJPEirj8TQTcRjxLV1H9QEu9r68Bd37SIWElRJAOIk/s1600/Feb+May+2015+067.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqGys_3Y7WjsOBBJp0SqWxfcGF4jgiVXPkMMOoc5jsOx4KafL5HUqfV7yhSMHsVYDBCB0n9iAsRQcPQoDRJACydtgWjjn-eCqXICJPEirj8TQTcRjxLV1H9QEu9r68Bd37SIWElRJAOIk/s320/Feb+May+2015+067.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">This is me almost two weeks out.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I will not say this has been easy. Quite the opposite. No one tells you what you're really signing up for. You are told what you're new stomach will be shaped like and how you should eat once you're healed but they don't tell you what large part of this surgery is mental. For so long one comes to understand that to finish a meal is to clean one's plate. With the Gastric Sleeve that is just physically not possible. You eat until you are full...and you have to learn what "full" is. Believe me, you learn pretty quick. You have to distinguish what is hunger and what is boredom and what is emotional, etc.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">This surgery is simply a tool. A tool that you can use to your advantage or a tool you can throw to the side after you had some success and resume your old ways.</span> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoPKlFCwQBvOfLE2Yu7tpgBjLr-jmHJhs7C1OerrYxsDHSyq-fxq6qWv7QqPsGROEUefQB5rMHTwCdmNFNrXmLdRYyGNX4qprQ77vcnYadPfAl0PnFTlODLP80Gfx9PPs19-KbzZBYQCM/s1600/Feb+May+2015+073.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoPKlFCwQBvOfLE2Yu7tpgBjLr-jmHJhs7C1OerrYxsDHSyq-fxq6qWv7QqPsGROEUefQB5rMHTwCdmNFNrXmLdRYyGNX4qprQ77vcnYadPfAl0PnFTlODLP80Gfx9PPs19-KbzZBYQCM/s320/Feb+May+2015+073.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">The way I see it, we went through a major surgery, we altered our insides...but we now are more active, eat so much more healthy and have learned how to eat, when to eat and what to eat. Eating used to be the thing I looked forward to...I was planning lunch and dinner while I was eating breakfast.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Eating is now a chore for me.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Something I <b><i>have</i></b> to do...often, something I have to <i style="font-weight: bold;">remember</i> to do.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">My oldest daughter has made some very big life decisions. I won't go into detail now but as a parent, one can only hope that you've equipped your child with knowledge and skill and common sense to make wise decisions and know when to ask for help if needed. We may not agree on all of her decisions, but just like with anything else in life...you can let it wear you down or you make the best of the situation. We are making the best of the situation. It's not always easy...but it's life. It's how we handle it that determines the outcome.</span> </div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">On a lighter side note, I won<span style="background-color: white; color: #990000;"> <a href="https://www.youtube.com/user/CoffeeBreakwithDani"><b>Coffee Break With Dani</b></a></span>'s Pixi make up giveaway. I love this palette. I love all of Pixi's products. Some can be a bit pricey, so to win this was fun, fun, fun!</span> </div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Before I went to work after my surgery, Lena and I went to see the new Cinderella movie. I loved it!! It was cheesy in parts and occasionally I silently begged the movie to get to the point, but the costumes were amazing and it was really cute movie.</span> </div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">The girls and I also visited the Alamo before I went back to work. I knew I wouldn't have any time off once I was back, so we tried to get in as much as we could the last few days. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">We walked around downtown, visited cute little shops, walked around the Alamo and then did the Ripley's House of Mirrors. </span> </div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">A new park opened up not too far from our house and Emil and I have been going and walking there almost daily. It's so refreshing not only for our bodies but also for our minds! There are little bunnies that hop out. We've seen deer, spiders, bunnies, all types of birds and even a wolf.</span> </div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">To date I am 3.5 months out from surgery and have lost 60 pounds. I cannot tell you enough how wonderful this surgery has been and how it's changed my life. I actually enjoy shopping for clothes now. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I try not to buy too much because it won't fit for long. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I fell in love with the royal blue color of this tunic. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I wore it twice.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Now it's in a pile for eBay. It's just too big to wear!</span>. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrj2YrHbkjqq97ERRk13ZnKyyRoTOyeSkHhveZLHOOftt1Iexf4jv0vVlGNdkUcABHyAFEpjessJZZcaqy5C57Vp2toE46i3l92Tpai4K_xvM9vCzCRyb1E6bhjI-vMYVyOOv_jrc26rE/s1600/Feb+May+2015+182.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrj2YrHbkjqq97ERRk13ZnKyyRoTOyeSkHhveZLHOOftt1Iexf4jv0vVlGNdkUcABHyAFEpjessJZZcaqy5C57Vp2toE46i3l92Tpai4K_xvM9vCzCRyb1E6bhjI-vMYVyOOv_jrc26rE/s320/Feb+May+2015+182.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">This side by side comparison is me on the left the day I started my pre-surgery diet at 285 and on the right I am down 50 pounds.</span> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM-5XoIsqfMoXl8uPwksCupTG4XoUubXmEbINsBQW8PvrxjJbikYwxzBSTB_i5abHccpX5E0QIY9JElqXMX4xHXYF1OfXJ5fEXd69689itfikKTtmM_gmRwgVUAkUufy8qpDemueA4o6s/s1600/Feb+May+2015+187.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM-5XoIsqfMoXl8uPwksCupTG4XoUubXmEbINsBQW8PvrxjJbikYwxzBSTB_i5abHccpX5E0QIY9JElqXMX4xHXYF1OfXJ5fEXd69689itfikKTtmM_gmRwgVUAkUufy8qpDemueA4o6s/s320/Feb+May+2015+187.JPG" width="239" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I really think all the walking helped kick start our weight loss too. My Papa Bear couldn't walk from our house to the mail box (about 10 houses) with out sweating and being completely out of breath. Now when we go to the park we walk about 4-6 miles each time.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">We've had an abnormally wet, rainy spring. It's summer now and we've had rain and flash flood warnings. The plants and trees and the grass love it, but it makes for a muddy yard and breeds mosquitoes. And Texas has lost many people in these floods. It's really very sad.</span> </div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Back to a happier note... I bought a pair of shorts...and I have worn them!! This was HUGE for me. I haven't worn shorts in years. This pair here is actually getting too big for me. I don't even have to unbutton them to pull them up and down.</span> </div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">And last but not least, I cut nine inches off of my hair. I have been wanting to cut it for a while. My hair was getting too long and heavy and I really didn't know what to do with it. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">With my surgery, it's a possibility you will lose hair and the doctor said it's not as noticeable on shorter hair. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">That was my excuse.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">And I am certainly losing hair. I am scared every time I take a shower. Thankfully not bald spots yet, but I think it's only a matter of time. They say if you have a good protein intake it doesn't happen. Then I hear it's part of the healing process.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Who knows...as long as it grows back I'll be ok.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I didn't have that much hair to begin with!!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Alot of this post is/was about my weight loss, Gastric Sleeve, surgery. It's a major part of my life. It's changed my life and I have so much to say about it.<br />While it was hard at first and the first two weeks I think I thought I had made a mistake, I can now say it was the best decision I ever made. I wish I had done it ten years ago.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">It's better later than never. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I don't regret it one bit!</span></div>
Abramyan Avenuehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03310621182672005032noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9108642159149157651.post-2475927036842490462015-01-11T10:58:00.000-08:002015-01-11T10:58:01.094-08:00Closing Out 2014, Welcoming 2015<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">It's hard to believe it's 2015. Time seems to be flying by. I've made resolutions in the past...return voice mails, be a better friend, be more organized...it works great and well for a few weeks, maybe a couple of months, then I'm back to my old self. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">This year I'm forgoing any resolutions and will just make adjustments along the way. I need to be a better listener. I listen all the time at work and I think when I come home I kinda turn it off. I need to listen more at home than anything else. What can be more important than listening to your family, for issues big and small. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">That could be an entire post on it's own!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">On Christmas Eve the girls and I went to <b><span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;"><a href="https://santasranch.net/">Santa's Ranch</a></span></b>. We had gone a few years earlier with a friend but hadn't been back, mostly due to time restrictions. We didn't think we would be getting out of the car so we wore pajamas and CC only had on fuzzy socks. Well, half way there Lena and I needed a potty break and we all wanted coffee or hot cocoa. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">So into Buc-ee's we went...pj's and all. I am so super opposed to people walking about in pajama's, and now I was among them! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Then my eyes felt really dry and I rubbed them and Lena asked me, with a serious look on her face, "<i>Mom, what's wrong with your eye?"</i> I rubbed a contact out and it was folded, coming out the corner of my eye. Thankfully I found a bottle of solution and put it back in and we were on our way!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Santa's Ranch definitely expanded since we were last there. Here are a few of my favorites!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Stagecoach </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbBjUvDQgKnFV3VbSE2Auwebcm30-45ENCyS_JoeCyiXj3DgD8QdrJpqOTJUQ0R5I9QkUSO5wGGrsZuAseGpbD2K6_-ot3strWqqr9f0o0QHs6QtBzuuIBfvjj0JPc9EJP8_VDspoFP9I/s1600/January+2015+122.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbBjUvDQgKnFV3VbSE2Auwebcm30-45ENCyS_JoeCyiXj3DgD8QdrJpqOTJUQ0R5I9QkUSO5wGGrsZuAseGpbD2K6_-ot3strWqqr9f0o0QHs6QtBzuuIBfvjj0JPc9EJP8_VDspoFP9I/s1600/January+2015+122.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">This lighted tunnel has been there since the first time we went. It's so pretty and magical to drive through.</span> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7_Q_QMIGMCdoR1s2_1cO_LUAlXuTByUdFMOy_V17lmA9HW2ttBAeqmBoS6UOvMhpo9Zj16qE82uMJ9R0wkMnPG_DCiQ0B8rzorUEou4nT22RLlf7cAN5FB8jXPo7auQtKnek2_9DpE5k/s1600/January+2015+124.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7_Q_QMIGMCdoR1s2_1cO_LUAlXuTByUdFMOy_V17lmA9HW2ttBAeqmBoS6UOvMhpo9Zj16qE82uMJ9R0wkMnPG_DCiQ0B8rzorUEou4nT22RLlf7cAN5FB8jXPo7auQtKnek2_9DpE5k/s1600/January+2015+124.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">These photo's don't capture the whimsy and beauty of flickering lights.</span> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7eVrcfl_MBy1bCJYCS8LehzGZpGvFN33xXGmqq4_nMXmvr7aDqtyp-1FUNhy8v9TqsO7sNHLFbkG8jIncUIXLauuPV7-fThryGwRjB8UmiokPNan5t4W5JlUrPiKTi5VwiRwPmAXI9B0/s1600/January+2015+125.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7eVrcfl_MBy1bCJYCS8LehzGZpGvFN33xXGmqq4_nMXmvr7aDqtyp-1FUNhy8v9TqsO7sNHLFbkG8jIncUIXLauuPV7-fThryGwRjB8UmiokPNan5t4W5JlUrPiKTi5VwiRwPmAXI9B0/s1600/January+2015+125.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">There was a new scene called "In the Beginning". </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">It started with the sun, the planets, dinosaurs, Adam and Eve, Noah's Ark and so on. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I loved Moses parting the waters of the Red Sea.</span> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBBRtrN5kP7MiICqtOuDbMra-ghEeTplQJf5NLGzALiVyQM1Qy6eE1NO6qCxaHwus5NR53MA1iwv4nI5GgaQo9CztMJqPWksVMM7TtZ9723xqC1Y4Et0YJ17b9-lP-7-pYD_Z9bSnQi18/s1600/January+2015+137.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBBRtrN5kP7MiICqtOuDbMra-ghEeTplQJf5NLGzALiVyQM1Qy6eE1NO6qCxaHwus5NR53MA1iwv4nI5GgaQo9CztMJqPWksVMM7TtZ9723xqC1Y4Et0YJ17b9-lP-7-pYD_Z9bSnQi18/s1600/January+2015+137.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I also loved the Ten Commandments. </span> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf7MBD52pOOH2HJrdOgykfHDfJo5uoWRYe6QOqQld8jnKzeQZvZD0b0bN4osTp58fmLLh-2cA0NCugNmcF00mCWp4cR22Wc2sZZobFr52mM9vgSPLjdM_rVDNGp-KYcoi9NifpCgCVRBU/s1600/January+2015+138.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf7MBD52pOOH2HJrdOgykfHDfJo5uoWRYe6QOqQld8jnKzeQZvZD0b0bN4osTp58fmLLh-2cA0NCugNmcF00mCWp4cR22Wc2sZZobFr52mM9vgSPLjdM_rVDNGp-KYcoi9NifpCgCVRBU/s1600/January+2015+138.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">David and Goliath</span> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMnTEhN5OwOK5IgUZKNnAcI-88enxyBCqdAYsCKqw-q2e0wDqdG2egyK9KgTsdxs8aUQrCx1TEbjPEnCGiYaK4VQmqlaAlk_sOH_wS4a06xWbwKg5T45b6YkK71ghEOUSCz4JbqJxWrDg/s1600/January+2015+139.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMnTEhN5OwOK5IgUZKNnAcI-88enxyBCqdAYsCKqw-q2e0wDqdG2egyK9KgTsdxs8aUQrCx1TEbjPEnCGiYaK4VQmqlaAlk_sOH_wS4a06xWbwKg5T45b6YkK71ghEOUSCz4JbqJxWrDg/s1600/January+2015+139.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Jonah and the whale</span> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzDHbgjE6XwNVGCrMfBODiVTPn3Z5SmQ8xUhWTS9EAhEPT-9MxCGWStBo6r1rpfpbG9izP21-4EQXIH-ynrrLTfB5D4pHr5cghoBkj1nT-ltpabJOZT14NzDKyRm9b9nR0O0erlaSxpWo/s1600/January+2015+140.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzDHbgjE6XwNVGCrMfBODiVTPn3Z5SmQ8xUhWTS9EAhEPT-9MxCGWStBo6r1rpfpbG9izP21-4EQXIH-ynrrLTfB5D4pHr5cghoBkj1nT-ltpabJOZT14NzDKyRm9b9nR0O0erlaSxpWo/s1600/January+2015+140.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Another blue, twinkling light tunnel with trees on each side. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">It was so magical and pretty.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7rXsPpPcCL11OYnLKQOsEzlZRH2L3IGjX1pkkgg6XjbLfFXtIWmNcqO0g0-gIUvucP2BYKQt2Ug9SyxFdewa6_SraOi2eAn2-NXR0osk08YKTuxk_iAclaY84qOO6rK6T1Q0xe4Up6qI/s1600/January+2015+141.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7rXsPpPcCL11OYnLKQOsEzlZRH2L3IGjX1pkkgg6XjbLfFXtIWmNcqO0g0-gIUvucP2BYKQt2Ug9SyxFdewa6_SraOi2eAn2-NXR0osk08YKTuxk_iAclaY84qOO6rK6T1Q0xe4Up6qI/s1600/January+2015+141.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">More light wrapped trees, a windmill and even a Go, Spurs, Go sign.</span> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTn_N3Q_RJDVbT-13ciaT_Asb2aGLn6bo8KKYCFVOmnK-yd7PnDsuRpe_1902jCUlaYBhUDgqBvC-EqvGEND6N-ehddCo3beYOQ6JQIh3CTSAwTUWfUBiO9N3NkKg8YPiX81UC8A0827I/s1600/January+2015+152.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTn_N3Q_RJDVbT-13ciaT_Asb2aGLn6bo8KKYCFVOmnK-yd7PnDsuRpe_1902jCUlaYBhUDgqBvC-EqvGEND6N-ehddCo3beYOQ6JQIh3CTSAwTUWfUBiO9N3NkKg8YPiX81UC8A0827I/s1600/January+2015+152.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">On New Year's Eve we stayed in. CC worked late and it was cold. Emil and I stopped by the Russian store to pick up some bacon, drinks, cheese and wine. There is one Georgian wine I love but they were all out, as usual. It's a sweet red wine and there is nothing quite like it. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">We substituted this Armenia pomegranate wine. It was really good but really, really strong. One glass was MORE than enough for all of us!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Emil and I drove around talking about the plans and wishes we have. We made it home just in time to watch the local countdown to 2015 on TV. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">When the midnight hour strikes, they usually play oldies and do a major firework display. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">This year they played all new music and no close up of the fireworks. Lena was mad and wanted to drive around and look at fireworks. I had been up since 530 the previous morning and was in no way awake enough to take her.</span> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOqW8iJGRqxIsaOmRI7_HApRVDrH5EZBzPglO_fB9395Q0WZ8sQFLilQ6B-rCe_0ir4nLpbmQxzdYrYhC_biU44u6YmKxazExK_uaSyQrjosz60JYQcDUFsJJd6WSZdzhTBkN75ygNwZ0/s1600/January+2015+159.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOqW8iJGRqxIsaOmRI7_HApRVDrH5EZBzPglO_fB9395Q0WZ8sQFLilQ6B-rCe_0ir4nLpbmQxzdYrYhC_biU44u6YmKxazExK_uaSyQrjosz60JYQcDUFsJJd6WSZdzhTBkN75ygNwZ0/s1600/January+2015+159.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">We have had some pretty cold weather lately. I've stocked up on different coffees to keep me warm.</span> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgqUc4lzSUISzHD0eM6-CR0j2RMFC1M7bErkPiEderB9a1yFGmxvW0YRSrBTCMs4hpmnhId-B3sTPUbEpF0W4meScfwoIxisiKGzQ7-eO_YxgbgHZLz8DG1iHct74WxZ48IgyG9rUlYdM/s1600/January+2015+029.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgqUc4lzSUISzHD0eM6-CR0j2RMFC1M7bErkPiEderB9a1yFGmxvW0YRSrBTCMs4hpmnhId-B3sTPUbEpF0W4meScfwoIxisiKGzQ7-eO_YxgbgHZLz8DG1iHct74WxZ48IgyG9rUlYdM/s1600/January+2015+029.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I even woke up to ice on my car a few times.</span> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_kqKI-VyRa3toYK_7uz09ConoK89DmWGRu0iX2V9FG_Ef2nsi4mm1Y2HKjRLfw2slVs5URU54RAKW10vDc-ZGQQKXYiktOF0VHM3lcxylnaDSAjQKz6w_cX_yrT3qQyZxSry-YuK8FOI/s1600/January+2015+021.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_kqKI-VyRa3toYK_7uz09ConoK89DmWGRu0iX2V9FG_Ef2nsi4mm1Y2HKjRLfw2slVs5URU54RAKW10vDc-ZGQQKXYiktOF0VHM3lcxylnaDSAjQKz6w_cX_yrT3qQyZxSry-YuK8FOI/s1600/January+2015+021.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Papa Bear bought me a Criminal Minds calendar. I was too excited to put it up at work. I get to look at my guys all day, then come home and watch at least two dvr'd shows in the evening. I can't get enough of Criminal Minds. Some nights I even dream of them...it's usually me and Rossi catching someone. Once I dreamed I was at a garage sale trying to find Hotchner a heart...because he never smiles.</span> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE18T2btuQ3NCf-jhpr5Z9wol6Mu5A_Zxuj-7jE83gNn5i9NhTbMGH_g6Z0GBROF85ViL0zq-2PATHt5eKSGVc1H9CkMNsN0fnECSmOer9hAjBshKkzd-BL3uk2DiYh6rKLz58aAtuW98/s1600/January+2015+030.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE18T2btuQ3NCf-jhpr5Z9wol6Mu5A_Zxuj-7jE83gNn5i9NhTbMGH_g6Z0GBROF85ViL0zq-2PATHt5eKSGVc1H9CkMNsN0fnECSmOer9hAjBshKkzd-BL3uk2DiYh6rKLz58aAtuW98/s1600/January+2015+030.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">And I found this cutie on Instagram. I couldn't resist it!</span> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAESPIib70CqH8h8qSzQBFeMtJdSrspX589q0JDYMeJCbqkdKugCaMBPJp6yUjNPzAt9X75XkV8HeK2MUg5ZwkUX_lLT00A_RDWdeDkavNg8jpwOP_vcuDKhaoOvn6SE6a4OxgA_DPQJY/s1600/January+2015+033.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAESPIib70CqH8h8qSzQBFeMtJdSrspX589q0JDYMeJCbqkdKugCaMBPJp6yUjNPzAt9X75XkV8HeK2MUg5ZwkUX_lLT00A_RDWdeDkavNg8jpwOP_vcuDKhaoOvn6SE6a4OxgA_DPQJY/s1600/January+2015+033.png" height="320" width="303" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Two weeks ago Papa Bear and I were going to take a day trip but had to come home so I could pick up my pain medicine. Even trips in the car, other than running errands, causes my back and neck to hurt. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Thankfully we back because as we were leaving we noticed the back fence was broken and both dogs escaped through our neighbors back yard, who hasn't put up his back fence yet.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">They must have just gotten out because they weren't far down the street, but it's a very busy street. Emil and I pulled into the middle lane because we saw Luigi walking across the two north-bound lanes and get inches....inches...from getting hit by a car. It was like everything went in slow motion.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">But where was Coco? </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">At the same time I white suv pulled to the side of the road to our right and a truck behind that one. The two people in the white suv jumped out and looked down in the ditch. Emil ran over to the right of the road with them while I was getting Luigi from the left. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I saw Emil look down the ditch and then rub the top of his head. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I was so scared to see.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Coco was hit by the white suv but the driver said she just tapped her. We wrapped her up, got her out and went straight to the Animal ER. Her breathing was labored.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">She had a bruised lung and bleeding around it and she fractured her left back paw in two places.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjmktrcofWdr0MwduKVSlCsBTJ_VDm9b8WnGAb3YbSndsp3Gkc4O8acj60u_2uvmmdDW6DCBw48Rdu_ZynxwbRmlNpMuFEkuJBc05Sqq77Intn-B5s_s-JAu_nPpVZuwQ6xli1PHLRn0k/s1600/January+2015+016.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjmktrcofWdr0MwduKVSlCsBTJ_VDm9b8WnGAb3YbSndsp3Gkc4O8acj60u_2uvmmdDW6DCBw48Rdu_ZynxwbRmlNpMuFEkuJBc05Sqq77Intn-B5s_s-JAu_nPpVZuwQ6xli1PHLRn0k/s1600/January+2015+016.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">She had to stay in the hospital until the net day in an oxygen tank.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">She had to have a cast put on, take pain pills, anti-inflammatory pills and an antibiotic.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">But she was alive!</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixH73MVOJxd9BxJQAF7bSYSTdb2icpRiv9M1FSUBj1G7rxTHdnayhmZjIna1YDXHEUqQfY1WHSCLe7NHkvBeYJkyRHMXmeho2G1CFcQwTNRsQJ-vqDlkPDnaigL1XspJSC4wgqW8KSO50/s1600/January+2015+157.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixH73MVOJxd9BxJQAF7bSYSTdb2icpRiv9M1FSUBj1G7rxTHdnayhmZjIna1YDXHEUqQfY1WHSCLe7NHkvBeYJkyRHMXmeho2G1CFcQwTNRsQJ-vqDlkPDnaigL1XspJSC4wgqW8KSO50/s1600/January+2015+157.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">And two weeks later she chewed off her cast and decided it was time to start tormenting our cats again. I said either the vet showed me another dog's x-rays or this is a bionic girl!</span> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv-4W0uKioN8dKJsYuDePGzXHriUiMfAIbL9dhwEx15BiMW0OhovV3IlbL80A4Y9AfiweOZidxu054m-6UMPK5w7pjeHiyK3pdiBImZtRc1mTDdTH77Gz68g_UEq8DtMAdVUyLwMXLpW4/s1600/January+2015+176.mp4" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv-4W0uKioN8dKJsYuDePGzXHriUiMfAIbL9dhwEx15BiMW0OhovV3IlbL80A4Y9AfiweOZidxu054m-6UMPK5w7pjeHiyK3pdiBImZtRc1mTDdTH77Gz68g_UEq8DtMAdVUyLwMXLpW4/s1600/January+2015+176.mp4" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Lena and I wanted a warm-me-up, so we stopped by <b><span style="color: #783f04; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.localcoffeesa.com/">Local Coffee</a></span></b> one evening. I had forgotten how delicious it is. It has the charm and ambiance of a quaint, cozy coffeehouse where patrons aren't just paying customers, they're friends.</span> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqMzb_l-J-MA8OZ18o1xXCm8Tqd2ROCtVxPMXo91_olTbjr65v7r1TxYjDNTedqqwvC-Gb-29n6Pxl97i33dMx6M5bFE8j5JiZ8TqPX8AJ9246Do0V82oiBmepG9gxCl4m7hLrkZVej10/s1600/January+2015+041.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqMzb_l-J-MA8OZ18o1xXCm8Tqd2ROCtVxPMXo91_olTbjr65v7r1TxYjDNTedqqwvC-Gb-29n6Pxl97i33dMx6M5bFE8j5JiZ8TqPX8AJ9246Do0V82oiBmepG9gxCl4m7hLrkZVej10/s1600/January+2015+041.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsuUthV0YDwZi8S0Xz-sY4ziyNcbg5bg7cgIMG3Ab7Khz4FdEpy9DkdyNawiSpAafJ0EdzpnhKeYOrHMF0M6pi9S3saF44PwbHIXGSDX7uZXaDLayjGGlM8DLddJKq3YBD4PEJqzknZgY/s1600/January+2015+043.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsuUthV0YDwZi8S0Xz-sY4ziyNcbg5bg7cgIMG3Ab7Khz4FdEpy9DkdyNawiSpAafJ0EdzpnhKeYOrHMF0M6pi9S3saF44PwbHIXGSDX7uZXaDLayjGGlM8DLddJKq3YBD4PEJqzknZgY/s1600/January+2015+043.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">On this evening Lena opted for a Mexican Chocolate Cappuccino.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">It was delicious!</span> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIKfLsrmsOdDcN0WDBgYPDD99K6GQdb8LkylQAUKPztR-7IsT4pM-46ZoqRxwnLNKVJA2wHjV2nEHj9_v9yFLqsk6q4ApUUfqxzwRSm1E99I68dUh91Rj7DhdExO5LpqCtqP3ay6hfeC8/s1600/January+2015+045.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIKfLsrmsOdDcN0WDBgYPDD99K6GQdb8LkylQAUKPztR-7IsT4pM-46ZoqRxwnLNKVJA2wHjV2nEHj9_v9yFLqsk6q4ApUUfqxzwRSm1E99I68dUh91Rj7DhdExO5LpqCtqP3ay6hfeC8/s1600/January+2015+045.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">And last night, after meeting my friend Deana for coffee and cake, I took Lena back to Local Coffee to try their <b><span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/giada-de-laurentiis/affogato-recipe.html">Affogato</a></span></b>. It's two shots of espresso poured over vanilla ice cream.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I never tried anything like it.</span> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAHHL4LUmgNtZ9AuCeUF_PLPpsDORyHX5953-03Jz12eG42Zhu9Y-dvdM1Bc22m5p6iqQFL_7xxAReGl7pBR1L97xy614IG5-Y5ihHK67nogxr1Tr5579f-8uUapdqmQin2-mFz6KirDY/s1600/January+2015+170.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAHHL4LUmgNtZ9AuCeUF_PLPpsDORyHX5953-03Jz12eG42Zhu9Y-dvdM1Bc22m5p6iqQFL_7xxAReGl7pBR1L97xy614IG5-Y5ihHK67nogxr1Tr5579f-8uUapdqmQin2-mFz6KirDY/s1600/January+2015+170.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">And CC picked me up from work last week with the sweetest surprise!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">A teddy bear with a note and a penguin pen. I love, love my sweet girl!</span> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5LYIb6_CRTD259UC2qZe4e8biP6HU989YMkzPB1FhqjPtCrjeqaShSAscLBjSPqZTEKTSaZ00l-gTcYuQ0fAY2ql3kBBJUiVV66UmhYsgKWlxKxdilmcSTYE0-fgL7stS6ZHQ7ljzc7M/s1600/January+2015+051.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5LYIb6_CRTD259UC2qZe4e8biP6HU989YMkzPB1FhqjPtCrjeqaShSAscLBjSPqZTEKTSaZ00l-gTcYuQ0fAY2ql3kBBJUiVV66UmhYsgKWlxKxdilmcSTYE0-fgL7stS6ZHQ7ljzc7M/s1600/January+2015+051.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />Abramyan Avenuehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03310621182672005032noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9108642159149157651.post-20213699144406322162014-12-22T19:56:00.001-08:002014-12-22T19:56:33.846-08:00Birchbox Favorites Review<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">One of my favorite things I do is subscribe to Birchbox. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">It's like a present in the mail every month.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I have had very few boxes that were really nothing I liked/used.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Very few. Like maybe 3 in over a year.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">What is so neat about Birchbox is that you are sent samples of products that you may have never known about otherwise. Several of these items are now my must-have favorites.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">You earn points for leaving honest feedback on your products and those points can be applied towards items on Birchbox.com</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">So....some of my favorites from the past few months.</span></div>
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<span style="color: purple; font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><b><a href="https://www.birchbox.com/shop/amika-perk-up-dry-shampoo-1-fl-oz">AMIKA PERK UP DRY SHAMPOO</a></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">What I love about this dry shampoo is how easily it applies and how great my hair looks. I am used to shampooing everyday...I know it's not good for my hair but I feel nasty and dirty if I don't. But, I see that when I use this dry shampoo my hair actually <b><span style="color: #741b47;"><i>looks</i></span></b> and <b><i><span style="color: #a64d79;">styles</span></i></b> so much better!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">And the smell...oh, my, the smell. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">My husband asked me what perfume I used that morning because it smelled so good! He actually encouraged me to buy this!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">It doesn't leave a film or make you hair feel weighed down or heavy. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I absolutely <b><span style="color: red;">LOVE</span></b> it!</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQYgfpuoOqvcZ5AM7KnHtFj-pUj_7W1lY6QTjEqqOVGqQtEkbay0lCLmUK_W014AKdkMP7Es6AnJi8SOIYN59P9L6Ipth1BiQTM20ISzzhUnLcnW0KCbIKgYhBrYmxm8M3MK_tMVoOAiU/s1600/bb1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQYgfpuoOqvcZ5AM7KnHtFj-pUj_7W1lY6QTjEqqOVGqQtEkbay0lCLmUK_W014AKdkMP7Es6AnJi8SOIYN59P9L6Ipth1BiQTM20ISzzhUnLcnW0KCbIKgYhBrYmxm8M3MK_tMVoOAiU/s1600/bb1.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I'm usually not a fan of the body washes they send me. I am pretty stuck on my Bath and Body Works favorites but this particular one certainly caught my attention.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">The <b><span style="color: #134f5c;"><a href="https://www.birchbox.com/shop/spa-therapy-sea-wreck-body-wash">Gilchrist & Soames Spa Therapy Body Wash</a></span></b> was something else!<br />It didn't have a huge amount of lather and I was worried it would leave a film on my skin and make me feel tacky.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">It didn't. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">My skin was so soft and felt so refreshed and the scent is out of this world. I was so very impressed. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I can certainly see myself rotating this in my shower routine!</span> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_qG-AQIlfC5gPj6Yc0bdX7-HqqMZ2vFDnRMhzs-mS-na3-MuydPEgz1-wVJsNUafcwreuEoHNI36DMk74GBKrF9GjRNOK2-x6I2sSaYbu9ATwQ4KM0P9hC6I3Vfp1WcNEx96nhItUBZw/s1600/bb2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_qG-AQIlfC5gPj6Yc0bdX7-HqqMZ2vFDnRMhzs-mS-na3-MuydPEgz1-wVJsNUafcwreuEoHNI36DMk74GBKrF9GjRNOK2-x6I2sSaYbu9ATwQ4KM0P9hC6I3Vfp1WcNEx96nhItUBZw/s1600/bb2.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">When I first saw that I was getting the <b><span style="color: #741b47;"><a href="https://www.birchbox.com/shop/dr-lipp-original-nipple-balm-for-lips">Dr. Lipp Original Lip Balm</a></span></b> I was not too thrilled. I really didn't want to put it on my lips. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I'm so glad I did!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">A tiny dab goes a long way. It spreads easily, do not feel oily at all and lasts all day. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I purchased the full size immediately! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">It is perfect for when the weather turns cool and crisp. Your lips stay moisturized all day!</span> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEIUFHE6ZskpNZRpHgbdt4VBZJ5dVFnBo66OzXnBxOjBsWq1pgmIxEUccRxsM8YX9nFC1u_tRSfGoaVkP8I33uxTF7gUvrlODlBTuyWJ8mS7-2OYmP-o72xP11I0AdwUAg6bTGMxqcDyo/s1600/bb4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEIUFHE6ZskpNZRpHgbdt4VBZJ5dVFnBo66OzXnBxOjBsWq1pgmIxEUccRxsM8YX9nFC1u_tRSfGoaVkP8I33uxTF7gUvrlODlBTuyWJ8mS7-2OYmP-o72xP11I0AdwUAg6bTGMxqcDyo/s1600/bb4.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">This too was one product I didn't think I would use, the <b><span style="color: #783f04;"><a href="https://www.birchbox.com/shop/toni-and-guy-classic-shine-gloss-serum">Toni & Guy Classic Shine Gloss Serum</a></span></b>. Again, I couldn't have been more wrong. I use this almost every single day and will be purchasing the full size when my sample runs out. It is simply amazing.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">The serum doesn't carry much scent but my hair looks so shiny and nice! It is not heavy at all. It tames the fly-aways and split ends and truly makes my hair shiny and glossy. I am a new forever fan and this favorite will be on my bathroom counter permanently!</span> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVN9p9R_0h7WdYW5srMMCnlA0L2xbzYLGEnKuUn357NfSiSmMyeDaO8dUYggLqp-UwJqTAgzXknnRxj-DIpWh0tyFfqxHcUlz-u3BJySwISkMqc9nz-ufj5GRx4-EonSb4fbIj6jEfXFQ/s1600/bb5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVN9p9R_0h7WdYW5srMMCnlA0L2xbzYLGEnKuUn357NfSiSmMyeDaO8dUYggLqp-UwJqTAgzXknnRxj-DIpWh0tyFfqxHcUlz-u3BJySwISkMqc9nz-ufj5GRx4-EonSb4fbIj6jEfXFQ/s1600/bb5.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Oh, <b><span style="color: #b45f06;"><a href="http://www.tocca.com/collections/beauty-bath-body-hand-cream">Tocca</a></span></b>...you have stolen my heart again. I am in love with the perfumes. The compilation of scents create a classic, subtle, chic and so very feminine fragrance. This <b><span style="color: #b45f06;"><a href="https://www.birchbox.com/shop/tocca-crema-da-mano">Crema da Mano Luxe - Hand Cream </a></span></b>is honestly the best hand cream I have ever used. I will be purchasing the full size once my sample is empty. It can also be purchased at <b><span style="color: #b45f06;"><a href="http://www.sephora.com/tocca-beauty">Sephora</a></span></b>. </span> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijzj7AiYiOkSjJHjCo2g7wrwLrYjsdKir3QQUGTwinXsqtBGdMS7SFgdLQ1_gAdI0SNpXzN4qKxDQLpaF5_Ni_YytqsQQutGzcMLpaM1novLw7oHQuRqOl2QYle-IRAhqssIFSpkyhmDI/s1600/bb6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijzj7AiYiOkSjJHjCo2g7wrwLrYjsdKir3QQUGTwinXsqtBGdMS7SFgdLQ1_gAdI0SNpXzN4qKxDQLpaF5_Ni_YytqsQQutGzcMLpaM1novLw7oHQuRqOl2QYle-IRAhqssIFSpkyhmDI/s1600/bb6.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I am not a big bronzer fan but when this one from <b><span style="color: #990000;"><a href="http://www.modelcocosmetics.com/shop/bronze">ModelCo</a></span></b> came in my Birchbox my heart skipped a beat. The ModelCo bronzer is so wonderful. It gives my skin a very sun-kissed look in just the right places without leaving me looking orange and streaky.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">It's great for contouring and yet soft enough to use alone for a natural look. My sample was BIG... I think it may be full size, so it will last me a while. When it's used I will purchase a full size and this too will be a staple in my makeup drawer!</span> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgID56dZArN8FP4pC-W_vSHnCsSHgXuuV4kPwgujnIUM2RGsbSZ9Co-oWAfasOy_LrddWLtuLqN5JBaZb4afLc4jSSe4_QOCB8KC5YBJDSRHc30puP3PLOddG6LHIEnxCKq6xONHwfA980/s1600/bb7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgID56dZArN8FP4pC-W_vSHnCsSHgXuuV4kPwgujnIUM2RGsbSZ9Co-oWAfasOy_LrddWLtuLqN5JBaZb4afLc4jSSe4_QOCB8KC5YBJDSRHc30puP3PLOddG6LHIEnxCKq6xONHwfA980/s1600/bb7.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Ok, I do not select food or snacks as an option for my Birchbox because I have a few snacks that I like and I really don't deviate from them. And I just think it's gross to have snacks sent through the mail. It's me. I'm weird. And because Birchbox sends you some things that you have never heard of before I wasn't sure if these <b><span style="color: #783f04;"><a href="https://www.birchbox.com/shop/justins-chocolate-almond-butter-squeeze-packs">Justin's Chocolate Almond Butter</a></span></b> Squeeze Pack was something for my face or something to eat. So I googled it.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">....Oh...My...Word...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">The BEST snack EVER!!!!!!!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">There are no words. No words indeed. It was something like I never tasted before. Smooth. Rich. Sweet but not at all over powering.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Flavorful. Addicting.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I need to find them at Target but I haven't been able to. If I have no luck there I will just purchase on line. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">These are a MUST-TRY. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">But I'm warning you.... you will not be able to put the squeeze pack down or share it or stop until it's empty. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Goodness, it's delicious!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><b><span style="color: #783f04;"><a href="http://www.justins.com/sustainableSqueezePackJourney.php">Justin's</a></span></b> created something dangerous!</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUDgA3FKVb6TF0z5ALEn7v_LZ1B44cE1mMHRBNeR7gxtfVFd6rOZI7u1v5h10_R_wXFXOUFPVLctUDr_k5z1qgOVIkCM_KE62xwWOdDG7YtfveX2EMVxNr87w9oG6KRM7r9a5TXL6STKE/s1600/bb3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUDgA3FKVb6TF0z5ALEn7v_LZ1B44cE1mMHRBNeR7gxtfVFd6rOZI7u1v5h10_R_wXFXOUFPVLctUDr_k5z1qgOVIkCM_KE62xwWOdDG7YtfveX2EMVxNr87w9oG6KRM7r9a5TXL6STKE/s1600/bb3.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />Abramyan Avenuehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03310621182672005032noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9108642159149157651.post-6140971545882227952014-12-21T17:40:00.000-08:002014-12-21T17:40:08.279-08:00Bacon Wrapped Green Beans<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Weekends are the only time I really have to cook as much as I would like. Most nights after work I prepare us a home cooked meal...but on weekends it's certainly not as rushed.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I had taken a cornish hen out to defrost and knew we were going to have stuffing with it, but I also wanted to include something green. I immediately thought about bacon wrapped asparagus, but not everyone in the family likes asparagus.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">We've been on a fresh green bean kick lately, so I thought..."Hey, if you can wrap asparagus in bacon, you surely can wrap green beans in bacon...."</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">And so I did.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOZbNHW6YWPHqW9-eubdxYfUeeBBX2_pPvdlkCVOwLVgzdYyPfYxQznWCC2k_9aX6rtCYq4Cx_fKFYOCz64LGrBnQHG1a7_Zjsghxk4ZiFCrH5wmDATY1dSwICOyFokFzPpogX_JKYy-0/s1600/December+2014+010.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOZbNHW6YWPHqW9-eubdxYfUeeBBX2_pPvdlkCVOwLVgzdYyPfYxQznWCC2k_9aX6rtCYq4Cx_fKFYOCz64LGrBnQHG1a7_Zjsghxk4ZiFCrH5wmDATY1dSwICOyFokFzPpogX_JKYy-0/s1600/December+2014+010.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">First I rinsed and boiled a large bag of fresh green beans for about 10-15 minutes. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I added salt, pepper and garlic powder to the water. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtHJ3hqyej6qbEEECt8kwOgLidzYnSB9QC7E2hU5NESokcMca5VH7SBieSmmri9ZwEMRXoZLmC4BTgGHkk9ETLDHI0VxdWPPc5zfCZO-ZGB82AwT9m6aaonoil97jv8fcVFvxhN5k3I0Q/s1600/December+2014+001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtHJ3hqyej6qbEEECt8kwOgLidzYnSB9QC7E2hU5NESokcMca5VH7SBieSmmri9ZwEMRXoZLmC4BTgGHkk9ETLDHI0VxdWPPc5zfCZO-ZGB82AwT9m6aaonoil97jv8fcVFvxhN5k3I0Q/s1600/December+2014+001.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">In a side pan I lightly cooked long strips of bacon. I literally just let each side lightly brown before removing it. I would say each piece was left no more than one minute on each side. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9-UzuZhJwsg7x2r8r9GgB2PRKlpSnoQ0zJNUL8ajrLlc5G7nR_wsIRosfiXB_bReKClUYfmYL7W2GQttulMjQiPwbHccS61WEan_7TbpMF_gPF62orn_C4sgCztvip4uDHTZl2adnXpc/s1600/December+2014+002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9-UzuZhJwsg7x2r8r9GgB2PRKlpSnoQ0zJNUL8ajrLlc5G7nR_wsIRosfiXB_bReKClUYfmYL7W2GQttulMjQiPwbHccS61WEan_7TbpMF_gPF62orn_C4sgCztvip4uDHTZl2adnXpc/s1600/December+2014+002.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">In a small sauce pan I combined:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">4 tsps of butter</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">1/2 tsp of soy sauce</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">1/3 cup brown sugar</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">dash of salt</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Stir until melted and combined.</span> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJngXg3jpf7yXvv2Fpda09Ix39FJBKLj6PawsaXeVsv-L02nhr631fqY0TdxjiC3OdwDQGGNu_Wza2e8LDBVt2zTlyMGI9eOpPD0jaNfrrQinCEwDj-fVqn0sDKmwZetgIBXBrdlUJhFA/s1600/December+2014+003.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJngXg3jpf7yXvv2Fpda09Ix39FJBKLj6PawsaXeVsv-L02nhr631fqY0TdxjiC3OdwDQGGNu_Wza2e8LDBVt2zTlyMGI9eOpPD0jaNfrrQinCEwDj-fVqn0sDKmwZetgIBXBrdlUJhFA/s1600/December+2014+003.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I love Reyonld's non+stick foil and use it all the time. I think it's the best invention ever. It makes cleaning a snap!!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">So, I lined my pan with my non-stick foil. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I spread out each slice of bacon and placed around 15 green beans in it. I brushed my above mixture on the green beans and wrapped up my bundle. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I also sprinkled a little sea salt over each bundle. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_RhxF0qqoL_CXXRcQlrvtc7b7QyT3NdAs0PDkt6mwLDA5A9FWHbQgn0zW63-efBOTZ43dBNvQ3WNHlvejhMy-IILePup4QN77Jx4F71y7HBcfNjhJFCLWsJjMODvJhbBtCFqtWQ-wfXo/s1600/December+2014+004.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_RhxF0qqoL_CXXRcQlrvtc7b7QyT3NdAs0PDkt6mwLDA5A9FWHbQgn0zW63-efBOTZ43dBNvQ3WNHlvejhMy-IILePup4QN77Jx4F71y7HBcfNjhJFCLWsJjMODvJhbBtCFqtWQ-wfXo/s1600/December+2014+004.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I popped these babies in the over for about 20 minutes on 350 degrees. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh01YyFBURc0n1-q5xsXl938XrvehCO1hj1qCForHwrcN-W9u2F8sclCVSviOlkGEc5CmD9GLRAm1tGfPujhImaL80_vj22jfBzRUeD4dNuEwdGtbIiWcoBbN67TiBNtAZf67kcP4PsKYs/s1600/December+2014+006.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh01YyFBURc0n1-q5xsXl938XrvehCO1hj1qCForHwrcN-W9u2F8sclCVSviOlkGEc5CmD9GLRAm1tGfPujhImaL80_vj22jfBzRUeD4dNuEwdGtbIiWcoBbN67TiBNtAZf67kcP4PsKYs/s1600/December+2014+006.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Oh my goodness....</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">There are no words...seriously no words.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">It was the best part of our dinner. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Everyone loved them! </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYuymQuiD2ZPJ-ZFR2H8xm6Pfam4GUE_JPeABPUyhF-dh5OTZrjhrKpCfgQLJAGoHxtSLq7wyuMcOGXDR_EyMT92HGqLhw-iarMgaZviktsdBL3DNkNd3BhdzeLI64o_S1V3RxZm8OOyY/s1600/December+2014+010.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYuymQuiD2ZPJ-ZFR2H8xm6Pfam4GUE_JPeABPUyhF-dh5OTZrjhrKpCfgQLJAGoHxtSLq7wyuMcOGXDR_EyMT92HGqLhw-iarMgaZviktsdBL3DNkNd3BhdzeLI64o_S1V3RxZm8OOyY/s1600/December+2014+010.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Lena told me I better hide what's left or she's going to finish them. Papa Bear loved the smokey taste. They were just plain delicious!!</span></div>
<br />Abramyan Avenuehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03310621182672005032noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9108642159149157651.post-18164986162353581462014-12-21T15:11:00.002-08:002014-12-21T15:11:28.837-08:00October 2014<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; text-align: center;">Do I even remember how to blog anymore?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I used to look so forward to documenting my girls and the normal, boring things we did together and then posting them here as a way for me to look back and smile, remembering things I may have otherwise forgotten.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">When the weather gets cooler/cold or rainy, my neck/shoulder area literally stop me in my tracks. The surgery certainly stopped the 24/7 headache I lived with for almost a year and a half but when the weather changes, I feel it...days in advance...and it knocks me down.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">...Anyway....</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">When we first moved here there was a <a href="http://www.hpb.com/"><b><span style="color: #0c343d;">Half Price Books</span></b></a> close to where we lived. Mom and I would go often and just browse the aisles and aisles of books. I love being around books. I've been an avid reader as long as I can remember. I "travel" through the books I read. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I love the feel, smell and sight of a good book. I'm just not into ebooks or any sort of online version. I want the book in my hand. I want to pick a bookmark for my book. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">My Papa Bear was on the look for a certain type of book and we had searched Barnes and Noble and couldn't find it, looked online and couldn't find it, so I suggested going to Half Price Books. They didn't have the book he was looking for, but they have something....</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">....my attention....</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I fell in love with Half Price Books all over again. I selected a book by my favorite author, John Saul, and had that baby read in three days. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I've gone back a few times and took my girls with me and am now reading the <b><span style="color: #660000;"><a href="http://coffeehousemysteries.com/">Coffeehouse Mysteries</a></span></b> series.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Needless to say, I see many more visits in our future!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgz-WMOs0iRtcsDq0ACBuTD2yKxiOlDfqmLi14c82_CPm-epsHcH_ptKrcj8u2ybX2xtbVWi02NWGggBUU5yJSBpM6TRFATyA2Y5N5bpGYzwd-xuTW-Au_uLgCuXRbigPDXxlXTI_o0Yxs/s1600/oct+2014+018.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgz-WMOs0iRtcsDq0ACBuTD2yKxiOlDfqmLi14c82_CPm-epsHcH_ptKrcj8u2ybX2xtbVWi02NWGggBUU5yJSBpM6TRFATyA2Y5N5bpGYzwd-xuTW-Au_uLgCuXRbigPDXxlXTI_o0Yxs/s1600/oct+2014+018.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">My sweet CC also surprised me one night by showing up after work with the new Keurig. If you've read my blog at any time in the past, you know I am a fool for coffee and in love with my <b><span style="color: #990000;"><a href="http://www.keurig.com/Brewers/Home/Keurig%C2%AE-2-0-K550-Brewing-System/p/keurig-2-0-k550-brewing-system">Keurig</a></span></b>. My favorite feature about this Keurig 2.0 is the carafe. I love that I can cook breakfast, sit at the table as a family and a delicious smelling, sinful tasting, fresh carafe of coffee with us. She certainly picked the right machine for us!! I loved my Keurig Vue, but this one is not as noisy and has really neat options for the display screen... and it has a carafe!! </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaBFw6XJrMvKNNT0vXUp9XpahrxMjIZweMfI-c30xwTKdK_3pqIsJIzXYO2Dg-sLWMiubFuWJTsIoFokZs846F69hZKHopzXWItIVvgenDnjbb8KIv6yQ-BjLSqv-PxFBfd16BM_yThO4/s1600/oct+2014+033.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaBFw6XJrMvKNNT0vXUp9XpahrxMjIZweMfI-c30xwTKdK_3pqIsJIzXYO2Dg-sLWMiubFuWJTsIoFokZs846F69hZKHopzXWItIVvgenDnjbb8KIv6yQ-BjLSqv-PxFBfd16BM_yThO4/s1600/oct+2014+033.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Our friends, Sandeep and Crystal, rented a campfire site at the <b><span style="color: #0c343d;"><a href="http://southtexasmaize.com/">Hondo Corn Maize</a></span></b>. They also invited some of their other friends and everyone brought something to share. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Man, oh man...we had s'mores, s'mores with Reeces Peanut Butter Cups, s'mores with Giradelli chocolates...you name it! There were hot dogs, sausage links, spicy sausages, chips, drinks...it was so fun! We met some sweet people, connected with old friends and had a really great time.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2L82dYpRkurIpoNCghLW_kMrehqDiygzLQ6lU3HCuVrLTBK3nU1FcTOeelfnX9GGOR-DQnKODHS4rPMGKXkfc-yf__bZMCFyEuIwsKONy-UdnAPFvTuGxHiSPos3nSZTNmGzjrQSVsBI/s1600/oct+2014+060.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2L82dYpRkurIpoNCghLW_kMrehqDiygzLQ6lU3HCuVrLTBK3nU1FcTOeelfnX9GGOR-DQnKODHS4rPMGKXkfc-yf__bZMCFyEuIwsKONy-UdnAPFvTuGxHiSPos3nSZTNmGzjrQSVsBI/s1600/oct+2014+060.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I think the best part was how good our clothes smelled on the way home. I've always loved the smell of a wood burning campfire. It reminds me of my childhood, visiting my sister Lisa and taking in deep, long smells of her jackets. </span> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI4wj3Muz_6vurNdbAGvPf6Cyk7vT1xAFDttkcpQcKAjvS8-Awemobl43DRNjDpHYA_v7Sw7eVCeyT1IoG2QKNYWKY4qDdxF9GprjBb5N2yMA7MOvC1POz0lcXepYk3NF3plWbZzzTdIo/s1600/oct+2014+028.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI4wj3Muz_6vurNdbAGvPf6Cyk7vT1xAFDttkcpQcKAjvS8-Awemobl43DRNjDpHYA_v7Sw7eVCeyT1IoG2QKNYWKY4qDdxF9GprjBb5N2yMA7MOvC1POz0lcXepYk3NF3plWbZzzTdIo/s1600/oct+2014+028.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">So, Lena and I being the creative types...(definite sarcasm) took to Pinterest and found a <b><span style="color: #b45f06;"><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/65654107038355953/">table top "campfire"</a></span></b> for toasting marshmallows. It was fun and easy to set up..</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">1 sm Terra Cotta planter</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Line it w/foil</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Place a piece of Match-Light Charcoal inside </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">and go....</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Sorta.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">The fire didn't stay lit for very long. Out of about 12 pieces of charcoal, maybe 3 burned long enough to toast a few marshmallows.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">We ended up giving up and just using a candle....</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">CC pointed out that probably wasn't the smartest thing to do. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Probably not, but we had fun!</span> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMbnc_RUMpq1smhsXA0VbX2bDcIb14Gf0EA1URndoji6WPcp78oADvy8DGtUA8GhLYpJew6BvOYBBj5sWaQUWrU-qGyOVQX4fPod1jKwvHmjHNLtOSdZPSsT0mG-7ziTe17uj3fyv7lkI/s1600/oct+2014+037.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMbnc_RUMpq1smhsXA0VbX2bDcIb14Gf0EA1URndoji6WPcp78oADvy8DGtUA8GhLYpJew6BvOYBBj5sWaQUWrU-qGyOVQX4fPod1jKwvHmjHNLtOSdZPSsT0mG-7ziTe17uj3fyv7lkI/s1600/oct+2014+037.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I've spent a lot of time snuggling with these boys. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">The cooler weather has them in snuggly moods and I love that.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">We've been "cat" people as long as I can remember. They have such unique personalities and likes and dislikes. They really aren't just pets but family members. You know when they're in a bad mood or playful mood or sleepy. I love snuggling with them on my recliner and watching Criminal Minds. We get in at least 1-2 episodes a day!</span> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjccaGvTC27XQ5nW5uLDoYkNbrwhCBsS4bNndK29L-Npf9NO589ds2ER3yRzyChbf_bxvRzomwjxQ0q5TQajxXOY2PgQUPZvauGR171L3VnldY0z1d_qi0DbOkw4_jzrF5sfK2_8g0Qvc/s1600/oct+2014+039.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjccaGvTC27XQ5nW5uLDoYkNbrwhCBsS4bNndK29L-Npf9NO589ds2ER3yRzyChbf_bxvRzomwjxQ0q5TQajxXOY2PgQUPZvauGR171L3VnldY0z1d_qi0DbOkw4_jzrF5sfK2_8g0Qvc/s1600/oct+2014+039.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">We were invited to Hospitality for the Sunday speaker and had lunch with the congregation at Blanco BBQ. This may not be the best picture, but it has Brother Montelongo and Brother Cash. I love these two men dearly.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I can't even begin to tell you how important they are to me. I couldn't love a biological father more than I love these two. They always have time to talk, listen and give honest, Bible based advice. Never once do the judge or put you down. They giving loving advice and genuinely want to see you do well.</span> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkb18j29QzQQ-3LNZaj97-id18VoD2XbwLKrZ6w4yudpqDN5-fCgzvY0c5vZKr2V0QmiwECHwaFa-llLHvpibP7UJSsE1t4ELkuQwPW8zJd-535Rv1WflKpgVH4fhwDnR3Z5QPHefQ4cw/s1600/oct+2014+052.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkb18j29QzQQ-3LNZaj97-id18VoD2XbwLKrZ6w4yudpqDN5-fCgzvY0c5vZKr2V0QmiwECHwaFa-llLHvpibP7UJSsE1t4ELkuQwPW8zJd-535Rv1WflKpgVH4fhwDnR3Z5QPHefQ4cw/s1600/oct+2014+052.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">My Aggies didn't do their best this season but I wore an Aggie shirt every Friday to work. I love them no matter what. And, I love this shirt...my Papa Bear came home from work with it one day and surprised me.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Those are the best kind of gifts...the "just because" ones!</span> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYL6rhL6Op4shmK3byUz7QcQztc35_7n2upU7HBU-gPwhmSa4xLlohGBVSjtN0cBl5fhiqGeX3yZ5mvZFLhLNFsdPT54OoYKgjmzkSugur2ORQ4VNTuVhHJf164AUAF9tBrH2stkXBg4E/s1600/oct+2014+053.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYL6rhL6Op4shmK3byUz7QcQztc35_7n2upU7HBU-gPwhmSa4xLlohGBVSjtN0cBl5fhiqGeX3yZ5mvZFLhLNFsdPT54OoYKgjmzkSugur2ORQ4VNTuVhHJf164AUAF9tBrH2stkXBg4E/s1600/oct+2014+053.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">In October CC also confirmed what a baby she is...I came out of the dressing room to find this. I have no idea how she got in there, but I should have recorded her trying to get out...it was hilarious!</span> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEju-XB0lbLBzKGR9grHxOPQKISbEmQEYyO8WhX0-gRmUY2CH8qBmDEBNXhbcf8oyI0Q1XTlIdEfpFsAlpCbYG5bZYQb20SV9mU62QwxbsH6a8JqfPW1R8m5jRomMj-B_yKzktTSaQSU9rs/s1600/oct+2014+057.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEju-XB0lbLBzKGR9grHxOPQKISbEmQEYyO8WhX0-gRmUY2CH8qBmDEBNXhbcf8oyI0Q1XTlIdEfpFsAlpCbYG5bZYQb20SV9mU62QwxbsH6a8JqfPW1R8m5jRomMj-B_yKzktTSaQSU9rs/s1600/oct+2014+057.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Lena and I kept the tradition going...<b><span style="color: purple;"><a href="http://www.mysanantonio.com/news/local_news/article/Nightmare-on-Grayson-to-close-after-season-3889684.php">Nightmare on Grayson has moved</a></span></b> and is now in a new location (an old warehouse)and is now called "<b><span style="color: blue;"><a href="http://www.fearesta.com/">Fearesta</a></span></b>"! Let me just say, I had no voice.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I think it's just as good...if not better in some areas than Nightmare on Grayson in it's old location. I mean, there was some rooms where my heart was pounding and I felt nauseated and I had to keep reminding myself it wasn't real...I was going to make it out and these were just actors. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">My goodness...it was <b><u><span style="color: red; font-size: large;">AWESOME</span></u></b>!!!</span> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR6JSvY0bo9PU-V8FYhbn2_qHM_6BXKULQS-SMaOHmDroWsD3vkrt21ha8CgDQD587s3HODQ19Q-GGLAx38GCf9mEx5LJRRksw2dDVnSCVCXjv1iELMRSv9T5XZbB3y-h1_IGWvOWPyaM/s1600/nov+2014+030.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR6JSvY0bo9PU-V8FYhbn2_qHM_6BXKULQS-SMaOHmDroWsD3vkrt21ha8CgDQD587s3HODQ19Q-GGLAx38GCf9mEx5LJRRksw2dDVnSCVCXjv1iELMRSv9T5XZbB3y-h1_IGWvOWPyaM/s1600/nov+2014+030.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">There was an old-style magician there. He was pretty good... can't complain. And it was nice to see <b><span style="color: #cc0000;"><a href="http://brothersoftheflame.com/">Brothers of the Flam</a></span></b>e there as well. It's never a dull show with them!</span> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA1a7n6XO-SpIUYQE9wgfPRYaCPNVOLHhAKhPiM7LVmztHpt8vlw8dEv6AGzu2ff1Vxie4C93trKG70k_28GUpnHpD-0uqOjESxS849zTpkLgXZpbZIPYKwwh96K_j4WQrZzYBPKpZkLY/s1600/nov+2014+031.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA1a7n6XO-SpIUYQE9wgfPRYaCPNVOLHhAKhPiM7LVmztHpt8vlw8dEv6AGzu2ff1Vxie4C93trKG70k_28GUpnHpD-0uqOjESxS849zTpkLgXZpbZIPYKwwh96K_j4WQrZzYBPKpZkLY/s1600/nov+2014+031.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">During the month of October, Lena and I enjoyed some delicious hot cocoa at Le Madeleine. I love these moments with my sweet girl. She is growing up so fast and really becoming a young lady. She is so smart and quick to the punch and truly just a joy to be around. I love our conversations and I love every moment we get to spend together. I know that as she gets older, spending time drinking hot cocoa with her mama won't be at the top of her list of things to do, so I'm trying to soak it in as much as possible while I can!</span> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXhMHTpRv0lRxg5A86UJEyFzp3Iv1WXOzB9_UROUVvdtlDEnRD9jwnZmDvn1Hh6f6ypE4SqXid7ZdMekzmDDkz4_Ms0mT93yk59IGN8v1sX3_TJr7NZC7t-7RPbRo_zwo5elydZDe2JJ8/s1600/nov+2014+002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXhMHTpRv0lRxg5A86UJEyFzp3Iv1WXOzB9_UROUVvdtlDEnRD9jwnZmDvn1Hh6f6ypE4SqXid7ZdMekzmDDkz4_Ms0mT93yk59IGN8v1sX3_TJr7NZC7t-7RPbRo_zwo5elydZDe2JJ8/s1600/nov+2014+002.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">And apparently she's a sneaky little photographer as well...</span> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4M66J46BSoljdIlYbNVFhWZ4acLFRhtS7I50_49SoD9xjUatlKOc6K0N3OHXDt1Q0Q698XPDO10xlmCfP0UsO0dLzLthlovp3rzU6aKW8QhVa51NC4N_BmtvACeVIp4O-FTL_m0KmNQE/s1600/nov+2014+036.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4M66J46BSoljdIlYbNVFhWZ4acLFRhtS7I50_49SoD9xjUatlKOc6K0N3OHXDt1Q0Q698XPDO10xlmCfP0UsO0dLzLthlovp3rzU6aKW8QhVa51NC4N_BmtvACeVIp4O-FTL_m0KmNQE/s1600/nov+2014+036.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">It's hard to believe how fast this year has gone by. It's hard to believe that as I type this, there are only 10 days left of 2014. I remember how nervous I was when it was 1999 and we were going out of town to Dallas to spend New Years with Emil's brother. I was hugging and kissing my mom good-bye, we were both crying thinking it was the end of the world as we wouldn't see each other again...lol...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Now here we are 15 years later..still going, still making it day by day. I'm doing it without my mama, but I'm doing it. </span></div>
<br />Abramyan Avenuehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03310621182672005032noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9108642159149157651.post-55245404154061419322014-09-09T18:15:00.000-07:002014-09-09T18:15:39.593-07:00Worst Blogger in History? I think so...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Where did the time go? I think this is the longest I have ever gone with out blogging. </div>
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I wish I could say that it was because I was off doing wonderful, fabulous, fun and exciting things...</div>
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That wouldn't be true. I've gone through some of the hardest most trying months yet.</div>
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*****************</div>
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This summer brought about the blossoming of my favorite crepe myrtles. I've always wanted to have one or a few of my own..I attempted a few times, but the squirrel in my back yard decided it just wasn't going to happen. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgecsZsFaOaUNovBvCT_GGofUvP9FCRfhLCBrJwrCdos9x0aO4IBWrLgv-CU_I_AOBASYDPAwzRanpv-gCsZgb-kKdFpVrK5mGI8d_M7yKG1QO42uQawn2CTVqf3DkQUx4rz3zV8Pk4KLA/s1600/july+2014+019.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgecsZsFaOaUNovBvCT_GGofUvP9FCRfhLCBrJwrCdos9x0aO4IBWrLgv-CU_I_AOBASYDPAwzRanpv-gCsZgb-kKdFpVrK5mGI8d_M7yKG1QO42uQawn2CTVqf3DkQUx4rz3zV8Pk4KLA/s1600/july+2014+019.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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We have a new member of the family, Koko. She's supposed to be CC's puppy but CC works so much she has zero time for her. Poor Lena has become Koko's mom.</div>
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Koko is obsessed with Luigi and drives him crazy. I'm sure on some level Luigi is pissed at us for bringing her home. I like to think she keeps him young! </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdOljmhnJZTGvug4rfcF6Yr8AMk-cVRaIGbH61EygRAP6_96cDCpOIX6mpgkfN5wtJeTpyZlT9QL7f8Jdw4mWgyrndb0nLJMTq0DGLE1XSEPNVzjzWvzkFXl9U7_R2aYRde6ON4TpCnNQ/s1600/july+2014+026.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdOljmhnJZTGvug4rfcF6Yr8AMk-cVRaIGbH61EygRAP6_96cDCpOIX6mpgkfN5wtJeTpyZlT9QL7f8Jdw4mWgyrndb0nLJMTq0DGLE1XSEPNVzjzWvzkFXl9U7_R2aYRde6ON4TpCnNQ/s1600/july+2014+026.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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Though college football season hadn't yet started, I couldn't resist wearing my Texas A&M shirt. I literally had a count down timer on my phone down to the minute of kick off.</div>
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One might call me obsessed... I call it a way of life! </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin_VpNM3yavOFKdzNNVj-yBUBsaAIhNIjAQ4TiIVpm3NLdbrHSFk0LNmnX5FFQFpBIVon584VcsnD6Pt_BWl74HDXdhFkS7gNk-7tp_87QYVmZKRp7rXWQN6R7cZmPqMJ4UuBUpXyowFI/s1600/july+2014+046.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin_VpNM3yavOFKdzNNVj-yBUBsaAIhNIjAQ4TiIVpm3NLdbrHSFk0LNmnX5FFQFpBIVon584VcsnD6Pt_BWl74HDXdhFkS7gNk-7tp_87QYVmZKRp7rXWQN6R7cZmPqMJ4UuBUpXyowFI/s1600/july+2014+046.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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And I saw this watch at Charming Charlies...gosh, I loved it! </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN_Wl4Hs6coQapDz4HZj_nolv5RRBTzub17H_DXcE4bAKXCxrKv765A2yFPW4xQ-ac6Tx5xSTM60oNbXfJGemhWy2PrX4AZ4Yzyr1W-Ohd0xJeefwtSAD14_HcFlyuiDMHYa2ZHNCvdBI/s1600/july+2014+066.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN_Wl4Hs6coQapDz4HZj_nolv5RRBTzub17H_DXcE4bAKXCxrKv765A2yFPW4xQ-ac6Tx5xSTM60oNbXfJGemhWy2PrX4AZ4Yzyr1W-Ohd0xJeefwtSAD14_HcFlyuiDMHYa2ZHNCvdBI/s1600/july+2014+066.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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I also found the pretty necklaces. I would love, love, love to be able to wear necklaces again. I just feel like it would draw too much attention to the scar on my neck.</div>
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Now if my scar came about some really cool, story worthy way, I'd totally not be ashamed...but it didn't. I just took my family on a vacation.... </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinpvmhWSf8PffuCLyQH02ASMMhS_TFJE8p0LAhcIRgRyOH_TYq27owguF739mLrqtl2l9IEY_e_H6SR29FIGgfCHWz6M7K-qBWCA2Vf4xf5tCo3xAo7AhwwdTmeVCN0ULqp_K2dupbmiM/s1600/july+2014+065.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinpvmhWSf8PffuCLyQH02ASMMhS_TFJE8p0LAhcIRgRyOH_TYq27owguF739mLrqtl2l9IEY_e_H6SR29FIGgfCHWz6M7K-qBWCA2Vf4xf5tCo3xAo7AhwwdTmeVCN0ULqp_K2dupbmiM/s1600/july+2014+065.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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This summer I also enjoyed grilling some food.</div>
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I love to grill. It's just too hot here to do much of anything outside. </div>
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My sister gave me an owl Scentsy warmer shortly after Mom died two years ago. She gave one to me and our other sister, Lisa.</div>
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I finally opened mine and set it up. </div>
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I love it. </div>
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I know that it is something Mom would have loved and that makes me sad sometimes. I still have missing Mama days. </div>
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I love how it looks on my side of the bed. I just wish all those stupid wires didn't show. </div>
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I've enjoyed more than a fair share of Starbucks drinks at work. My pants and shrinking checks do not thank me! </div>
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I thought this was the cutest...and the truest!! </div>
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When I first started at my company, my first manager was Marty. She was the sweetest, kindest, most helpful, wonderful mentor, manager and friend ever.</div>
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She retired after 25 years with the company. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoS8jN2W9qdc2uHgopVyUr2t8SZa5gLkPpcnKF17j_aICxhBQ-HETpJvH_7te8KpFZh2hBsmyRbQZ_srDn6DezBnT5nLwnAI3StFVsw7udzNHGWHG0F_zSb_2xUTAhoRLhdHrqpjvjFbU/s1600/august+2014+013.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoS8jN2W9qdc2uHgopVyUr2t8SZa5gLkPpcnKF17j_aICxhBQ-HETpJvH_7te8KpFZh2hBsmyRbQZ_srDn6DezBnT5nLwnAI3StFVsw7udzNHGWHG0F_zSb_2xUTAhoRLhdHrqpjvjFbU/s1600/august+2014+013.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXCRBqbp9jNfdUDx0tGnyhFoxweB4IjlIkAhG_EBX1TsPgTmPnmjGw8I7VjWB7KT8p54YnK5e8fjoIUYF66o-ebJ3jp7oczBRLAypshVrlNVX-GfwPWZi1AuL5wDmAvlj0A5-svtGrO_g/s1600/august+2014+014.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXCRBqbp9jNfdUDx0tGnyhFoxweB4IjlIkAhG_EBX1TsPgTmPnmjGw8I7VjWB7KT8p54YnK5e8fjoIUYF66o-ebJ3jp7oczBRLAypshVrlNVX-GfwPWZi1AuL5wDmAvlj0A5-svtGrO_g/s1600/august+2014+014.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
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Our old team has since moved on to different departments and different teams, but we all got together at Grimaldi's pizza to give Marty a sweet send off.</div>
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I really do miss her!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLah5lKZHwT53vSmmG1QV2Ow1IhJRYNnSX7qGFhWqtGoF7ZYFvJd9G1KMZjXzxW-IeZouiWLQf3MIxIyuyF70TochTwGoAlNbWVMT0CwE6VRccMinXT3Cr7bUjLIQak0fR7MXpBBN-sLo/s1600/august+2014+050.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLah5lKZHwT53vSmmG1QV2Ow1IhJRYNnSX7qGFhWqtGoF7ZYFvJd9G1KMZjXzxW-IeZouiWLQf3MIxIyuyF70TochTwGoAlNbWVMT0CwE6VRccMinXT3Cr7bUjLIQak0fR7MXpBBN-sLo/s1600/august+2014+050.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
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Marty wasn't the only one leaving the company. </div>
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Erin and I went through training together and became friends fast.</div>
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This girl can make you laugh when all you want to do is cry. </div>
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She has given me some of the best advise, words I will remember and keep in my heart through out life.</div>
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Sometimes it's so hard to see what you don't want to see or you refuse to believe and it takes a real friend to break it down and slap you with the ugly truth. If you have a friend like that, keep her...I'd rather have the ugly truth than sweet lies that will end up causing me pain.</div>
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Erin's husband was sent to Alabama for military training. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfEm7u6M2R93ixI-ZoKXGDIgUkNP1xGKYe9M8J_1FLJRLv6zWRa4Xa5xIEptpQSidhOlbYsV2VsIMBmsNOUXEkBmnauE0mUYS4YF0tIRawWK5q29zcCBsCcvuhq7mimakQxBy6o-fCJBQ/s1600/august+2014+024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfEm7u6M2R93ixI-ZoKXGDIgUkNP1xGKYe9M8J_1FLJRLv6zWRa4Xa5xIEptpQSidhOlbYsV2VsIMBmsNOUXEkBmnauE0mUYS4YF0tIRawWK5q29zcCBsCcvuhq7mimakQxBy6o-fCJBQ/s1600/august+2014+024.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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My Lena and I had a girls date to the book store. That seems to be one of our favorite places to go. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYkb80TY88jPkRTmkc6VhoklWrp0rAopbd5iwndBVNr-14pw_PVIPSqR2iLJty8wMPyAMYgy9YePWF9irN37-_gi4XaskQTEp5CFlN3F2QhZIWWlyoZjFF3oteoLL3DcX0ktXu7Qj8k4s/s1600/august+2014+038.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYkb80TY88jPkRTmkc6VhoklWrp0rAopbd5iwndBVNr-14pw_PVIPSqR2iLJty8wMPyAMYgy9YePWF9irN37-_gi4XaskQTEp5CFlN3F2QhZIWWlyoZjFF3oteoLL3DcX0ktXu7Qj8k4s/s1600/august+2014+038.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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I purchased this book, which seems like it's going to be pretty good...if I can find the time to read it! </div>
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Emil and I also had dinner with friends and this cutie and I took a played and played. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQhyTl7oADLxXMe-U2PPO8_DIqls9g49Sm8iFWorwnASriB14iJNW1ztXpbDUW6l0GeyoOoXM4QYjxxlTD9Stv6zUcyQPLavDt80FOeOokWKPSHPqtXOc5bAlvXA8MVU9srrvMb1rjX54/s1600/august+2014+042.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQhyTl7oADLxXMe-U2PPO8_DIqls9g49Sm8iFWorwnASriB14iJNW1ztXpbDUW6l0GeyoOoXM4QYjxxlTD9Stv6zUcyQPLavDt80FOeOokWKPSHPqtXOc5bAlvXA8MVU9srrvMb1rjX54/s1600/august+2014+042.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
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And my Papa Bear surprised me with an A&M charm bracelet. </div>
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I am a HUGE Aggie fan and for me, this IS the most wonderful time of the year!</div>
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Everyday Saturday finds me planted to my couch or recliner soaking in every single glorious minute of SEC football!!! </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhu3z2dROcVDfNesV4PsptDMjyg0pPJFsLVEW2MZNrUbu9MMM0KY2vBNJ6vxnigAJfQiqMp-mwIMOosHl13ahWsYJ7pHpYhRjszQmy3lR0la0-qQtSjbK5vNIfENGo41FV6Iro9TXpwib4/s1600/August+2014+013.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhu3z2dROcVDfNesV4PsptDMjyg0pPJFsLVEW2MZNrUbu9MMM0KY2vBNJ6vxnigAJfQiqMp-mwIMOosHl13ahWsYJ7pHpYhRjszQmy3lR0la0-qQtSjbK5vNIfENGo41FV6Iro9TXpwib4/s1600/August+2014+013.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
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On a more serious note, this surgery has had some really terrible trickle down effects on my marriage. For the past five months I have been unable to sleep in the bed next to my husband. I have to sleep in my recliner. This has wrecked havoc on my marriage. Just missing that closeness. Having those last moments of the day to talk with each other, hold each other, listen to each other. We've missed all of that. </div>
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I've had to learn how exist on my own with out him. </div>
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He had to try to get used to <i>living</i> with a wife but not necessarily <i>having</i> a wife.</div>
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Our communication died. </div>
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Our one-on-one time died.</div>
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Our time apart increased.</div>
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We almost divorced.</div>
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It's been hell. </div>
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What seemed like an answer to all the physical pain I was experiencing resulted in an emotion and mental pain I'm not quite sure I was expecting or equipped for.</div>
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We are trying desperately to mend what's been broken.<br />After 20 years together, you really don't want to just throw in the towel.</div>
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We've identified what a big part of the problem was and we are working to fix it.</div>
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It will take time. We didn't get here over night...over months, yes...over night, no.</div>
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As a re-commitment to each other, he made me my dream ring. </div>
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Just knowing his fingers made this, makes my heart swell. </div>
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<br />Abramyan Avenuehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03310621182672005032noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9108642159149157651.post-68546656211821723092014-07-02T17:26:00.002-07:002014-07-02T17:26:26.735-07:00June 2014<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Ahhh June...where did you go?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Where is this year going?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Once again, I'm playing catch up.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">The beginning of June, I think it was June 3, my surgeon allowed me to remove my neck brace! It was a sweet, sweet moment. It did take some time getting used to not having it on. I still have restrictions...no looking up for three months, no lifting over 10 pounds, no sleeping in my bed for three months. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFIDcRVwfJt4Ta-QXUnDjwSFG4fNAcJTFuAdtUq9HPHagIUlv0heiYN6xXT5I0SmnhsdUJLTFxCMGHkyV9ttfKgYAvsZ31jOzd2qli_SqmCKv6VzZhIewqmlH94ShdSOTQFEKJyZwZyX4/s1600/June+2014+006.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFIDcRVwfJt4Ta-QXUnDjwSFG4fNAcJTFuAdtUq9HPHagIUlv0heiYN6xXT5I0SmnhsdUJLTFxCMGHkyV9ttfKgYAvsZ31jOzd2qli_SqmCKv6VzZhIewqmlH94ShdSOTQFEKJyZwZyX4/s1600/June+2014+006.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">We went to see our crazy boy graduate.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I love him, love him, love him. He's the son I never had!</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhMOrBG_I_j2Sbey4hRWE7wBrTPDApuxO-sPQ0pbkEwu1L9B-bkq1PiXM_N_bd1IQqH-vBSV35jCxKMVc0b9cQG73lJwrVsOe6-alQH9ClVr6yfusRa0M10w_J-Ef2Pc7Rs12is6_xmYk/s1600/June+2014+503.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhMOrBG_I_j2Sbey4hRWE7wBrTPDApuxO-sPQ0pbkEwu1L9B-bkq1PiXM_N_bd1IQqH-vBSV35jCxKMVc0b9cQG73lJwrVsOe6-alQH9ClVr6yfusRa0M10w_J-Ef2Pc7Rs12is6_xmYk/s1600/June+2014+503.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I stayed at my niece's home...she has chickens all over.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I woke up to this....</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">for someone who is scared of chickens, this was a bit unnerving to see first thing in the morning as soon as you step outside!</span> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAQHRD0twjEZVjEC1TawBvdjy3WvgjIHdnjC8mHCGLeQRgBBhxvBa9J1-fAOjOOW_KPb6nyyHmgE9ZscklCUoGKa_5mC2i77eE65TayLmL6RWGHVkhq9_NeWJEkGW953Hx6P2Iu2vWm2M/s1600/June+2014+519.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAQHRD0twjEZVjEC1TawBvdjy3WvgjIHdnjC8mHCGLeQRgBBhxvBa9J1-fAOjOOW_KPb6nyyHmgE9ZscklCUoGKa_5mC2i77eE65TayLmL6RWGHVkhq9_NeWJEkGW953Hx6P2Iu2vWm2M/s1600/June+2014+519.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I celebrated my first day at church without my brace by letting my hair down and putting on make up. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">For three months I had to have my hair up in buns and twists and pony tails because of the brace. I am in desperate need of a good cut due to all the split ends now!!</span> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM4pBjpubCWmP9xqThsZCIlBGpQFP8RJvaqG6iGlCS-uiZX9roOHDYAMp-Hpml3ea28tF4MVmCxMdV6Vz7m1kek3G2XnaIqnvDW2MNwI_WdrmEC1KmQ7xhWuhPrEUiB0MYqwL3zpZSGb4/s1600/June+2014+526.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM4pBjpubCWmP9xqThsZCIlBGpQFP8RJvaqG6iGlCS-uiZX9roOHDYAMp-Hpml3ea28tF4MVmCxMdV6Vz7m1kek3G2XnaIqnvDW2MNwI_WdrmEC1KmQ7xhWuhPrEUiB0MYqwL3zpZSGb4/s1600/June+2014+526.jpeg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">While we may be smiling on this picture, it was a super, super sad day.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">My 23 yr old nephew drowned in a true accident. TJ was a great swimmer, in excellent health. He drowned about 15 minutes after arriving at the lake. We think he must have suffered a cramp when he got out in the water. He went down and never came back up.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I am here with my brother, his dad, and my youngest nephew.</span> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilRO5tYvr8BxeWXbWEOvOT6Bhf5jw0AGrRsplZhj3vWw0j_jtZoKGtiiy5FGWY_HDDw4cVm1C-jRogrJDJ8Euk4ag9Iy2tAyfZi8a5elmMETLXsnoLo5gBdh2XH-1m2bIzRMealXviC5Y/s1600/June+2014+052.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilRO5tYvr8BxeWXbWEOvOT6Bhf5jw0AGrRsplZhj3vWw0j_jtZoKGtiiy5FGWY_HDDw4cVm1C-jRogrJDJ8Euk4ag9Iy2tAyfZi8a5elmMETLXsnoLo5gBdh2XH-1m2bIzRMealXviC5Y/s1600/June+2014+052.jpg" height="320" width="241" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">If you look in the back of this photo, there is TJ's grave...just yards from my other nephew Quin's grave.</span> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1oyAtPU9nrGxnkyjPRFwEFQb4diijp3WviAZkJ-llIwQsux4LJwayWmD1-RWGYyaTmPxOHRCexTzz9EmiOXPGeYmSQReE4Z3xwMUDulFqoEsC4a0RzqpOIpwJHe6ygeTOHZoNDON7xuk/s1600/June+2014+035.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1oyAtPU9nrGxnkyjPRFwEFQb4diijp3WviAZkJ-llIwQsux4LJwayWmD1-RWGYyaTmPxOHRCexTzz9EmiOXPGeYmSQReE4Z3xwMUDulFqoEsC4a0RzqpOIpwJHe6ygeTOHZoNDON7xuk/s1600/June+2014+035.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">A few days later, on a rainy Monday, we picked up the newest (and baddest and most stressful) member of our family, Koko.</span> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrHzgzAzdEipwqp80xgmC-nIMFXxr73hg_TqJHxMrnwosDEi81A6CXHY-L3g3PA7tFwebQQP1RRq4qY6BWxw82Wjbt-gke_TwZ8kbOo5lAP4L___CZYSm_VT1T-VRPGhvxfNeb7zPpKYA/s1600/June+2014+010.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrHzgzAzdEipwqp80xgmC-nIMFXxr73hg_TqJHxMrnwosDEi81A6CXHY-L3g3PA7tFwebQQP1RRq4qY6BWxw82Wjbt-gke_TwZ8kbOo5lAP4L___CZYSm_VT1T-VRPGhvxfNeb7zPpKYA/s1600/June+2014+010.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">She may look sweet...oh, she is anything but sweet.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Either I'm really old and losing patience or she is really, really bad. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I think she is just really, really bad!</span> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIzwsqJuonGuZvydNWm1YwZ-z6H9zLU3dEvh2JrMQ7Z6ZHbAYNHkxMt-BTPGXw1cHfSk-xeyTqbrFT0bJWs_decAj6e-1S5pDa4gzeK5GNQcGsApLLNXmCumJo7XWz8VLEIaMkMSrVgrU/s1600/June+2014+014.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIzwsqJuonGuZvydNWm1YwZ-z6H9zLU3dEvh2JrMQ7Z6ZHbAYNHkxMt-BTPGXw1cHfSk-xeyTqbrFT0bJWs_decAj6e-1S5pDa4gzeK5GNQcGsApLLNXmCumJo7XWz8VLEIaMkMSrVgrU/s1600/June+2014+014.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">She exhausts everyone...even Luigi complains....</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMNAuNdGXgwwNRBgAV2fcL0LEVM_27dMLY_fi_ZUKm3k7XIrEIYnLUf3ejQu98_MVUBNl1TO227fdpGFbIwC403YtzJzcff2_ZyfOE7ce7n5Sg3fx6JVTQJgwV1T72PZ22I6tCmptya84/s1600/June+2014+022.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMNAuNdGXgwwNRBgAV2fcL0LEVM_27dMLY_fi_ZUKm3k7XIrEIYnLUf3ejQu98_MVUBNl1TO227fdpGFbIwC403YtzJzcff2_ZyfOE7ce7n5Sg3fx6JVTQJgwV1T72PZ22I6tCmptya84/s1600/June+2014+022.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">A few days later we went to Yoakum to commemorate my baby boy Quin's one year since he passed away. It would have been his 21st birthday.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyEPO1dmw4OMUVhI1isI3cTKYzCkIF5BQze3LxqVTWP6NEjyXqq8idjvvkEP9fzkLb7bA_72t7DbKVAA6Ao4ZoJMqn9qfctcHdCyaobAU2gfnMQfm85oOMmCH2ZnO11Um2dK9GYoGsNfw/s1600/June+2014+060.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyEPO1dmw4OMUVhI1isI3cTKYzCkIF5BQze3LxqVTWP6NEjyXqq8idjvvkEP9fzkLb7bA_72t7DbKVAA6Ao4ZoJMqn9qfctcHdCyaobAU2gfnMQfm85oOMmCH2ZnO11Um2dK9GYoGsNfw/s1600/June+2014+060.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">His grave was decorated with balloons. I'd say close to 100 people came out. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvFet093JmQ60z_-YxaDHnYGNmMxPzf65CknWj72B0j-lt5Z0nmj0RlAVO1OocQq0jJReaZ_gIhnow31yYmA3Jv88tAG5t06giGL7nQE_NBixz9-C1tx-dLNvj6eWwo1dDWxxQ1VhINbg/s1600/June+2014+069.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvFet093JmQ60z_-YxaDHnYGNmMxPzf65CknWj72B0j-lt5Z0nmj0RlAVO1OocQq0jJReaZ_gIhnow31yYmA3Jv88tAG5t06giGL7nQE_NBixz9-C1tx-dLNvj6eWwo1dDWxxQ1VhINbg/s1600/June+2014+069.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">We wrote messages on balloons and released them into the sky. I think it was this moment that really made him being gone seem real.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I always told myself he was away playing ball. I was able to survive and function that way. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">This made it too real. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">There was no lying to myself any longer.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I miss my Quin so, so much.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXm82mX2R-62zhQLI-8NeJ5lCw-owT-uSIe0-dGEpEnCp6SrQsG35hzhv-7FwwwQnpOKKp1TZ9juM76Ti4l4_KL5b8k70ZFzG3O7GxHXrASbLBmyyof-9HBDXWpO8TDK0dg0HjEGkLcwY/s1600/June+2014+066.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXm82mX2R-62zhQLI-8NeJ5lCw-owT-uSIe0-dGEpEnCp6SrQsG35hzhv-7FwwwQnpOKKp1TZ9juM76Ti4l4_KL5b8k70ZFzG3O7GxHXrASbLBmyyof-9HBDXWpO8TDK0dg0HjEGkLcwY/s1600/June+2014+066.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I found this photo and I think it sums up perfectly how family and friends feel after a loved one commits suicide. We will never know what happened that day...or if it even was truly suicide...but we do know that now we have to make sense of a life without Quin. Sometimes it just seems so hard to do.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-uT_0jQkBNejwh90FRl_krBPZm3XuwUN3Q6FPSaMnVKm979-UEeJVDn0EBzmJi0kJ8k4DOjWj4ymHC1NIVNw_Hxid_JBh1H5kkHsrZ-e3ccJkU0MSDlcPHHKXxl0ckAuwiDWfxXm6QE8/s1600/June+2014+021.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-uT_0jQkBNejwh90FRl_krBPZm3XuwUN3Q6FPSaMnVKm979-UEeJVDn0EBzmJi0kJ8k4DOjWj4ymHC1NIVNw_Hxid_JBh1H5kkHsrZ-e3ccJkU0MSDlcPHHKXxl0ckAuwiDWfxXm6QE8/s1600/June+2014+021.jpg" height="320" width="246" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I had been feeling sick for a while...ear hurting, tired, throat hurting off and on, congestion...you name it.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">My cold turned into a nasty ear infection.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Two ear drops, an antibiotic and allergic reaction later I'm just now starting to feel better. It sucked starting work back like that.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I tried to self medicate by eating pozole at a little Mexican restaurant!</span> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgag-hD0nVrOlRe5DteG9M8O0sgYbHc_qrItA2bHiDXNhTmZwVBLgGz2Ogco1eDPwZJkX6KN0vAbvtLdeEQnfdwOVnAfikQ3HjuhBSrPsu_k4YMCn-o3EPsbP_dWQcZwHX23_P_Vbz_BNE/s1600/June+2014+025.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgag-hD0nVrOlRe5DteG9M8O0sgYbHc_qrItA2bHiDXNhTmZwVBLgGz2Ogco1eDPwZJkX6KN0vAbvtLdeEQnfdwOVnAfikQ3HjuhBSrPsu_k4YMCn-o3EPsbP_dWQcZwHX23_P_Vbz_BNE/s1600/June+2014+025.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">June also brought us our first day over 100 degrees....</span> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrn2srkeFaR1gNKVS94YNddMsfDTg-l17iKABtFZO-sqptaXdDoWtEWs0OTepporc1GcyCc3no5-Dml8hlGDtqjNkHOJ9pJhN6sIxkF2kU29BKJhdNiQdEqpEmo0CSrdv6ChcKxaj_Tfo/s1600/June+2014+018.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrn2srkeFaR1gNKVS94YNddMsfDTg-l17iKABtFZO-sqptaXdDoWtEWs0OTepporc1GcyCc3no5-Dml8hlGDtqjNkHOJ9pJhN6sIxkF2kU29BKJhdNiQdEqpEmo0CSrdv6ChcKxaj_Tfo/s1600/June+2014+018.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">The good news is that we have had some good rains and my grape vine has really loved it!</span> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji_xBYlI7xJpqKTp66ivhlRJ4RFNSSXVa1rN6IMW0-lBbv5a9tFQehLn4CMT-2xJqDCxHfyJYdE0r6DYHJIXOfc2UFMscXDYirzT0lwOIDLaCMXDF6WpiDLCpIL5mxCuVywMzU4J3cLMA/s1600/June+2014+013.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji_xBYlI7xJpqKTp66ivhlRJ4RFNSSXVa1rN6IMW0-lBbv5a9tFQehLn4CMT-2xJqDCxHfyJYdE0r6DYHJIXOfc2UFMscXDYirzT0lwOIDLaCMXDF6WpiDLCpIL5mxCuVywMzU4J3cLMA/s1600/June+2014+013.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">On my last day at home before going back to work CC took me to the Pig Stand for chocolate cake. This is where Emil took me on our first day and I took the girls there for homemade desserts and this is where she wanted to take me.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Each booth has an old fashioned music player. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">We put our money in but CC punched in the wrong number..no Otis Redding Sittin' On The Dock Of the Bay...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">and it played some other albums songs the entire time we were there</span> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYseNlEzZeDhKufLSTgi-Pl_nlNX_rJYKozCGfivzgBJ4XTX9HP0QWi3_PtendMLXt42G-ASN-WBVUevGpw0qQJ2KX7_WTmZvOqEtXeC3EnQFF-GHK5NbYKZrte6vH0HrukGfZxM9oTgA/s1600/June+2014+009.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYseNlEzZeDhKufLSTgi-Pl_nlNX_rJYKozCGfivzgBJ4XTX9HP0QWi3_PtendMLXt42G-ASN-WBVUevGpw0qQJ2KX7_WTmZvOqEtXeC3EnQFF-GHK5NbYKZrte6vH0HrukGfZxM9oTgA/s1600/June+2014+009.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Back at work and back at hitting up Starbucks. I was good the first two days..then I gave in.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I really need to get better with this temptation thing!</span> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSP07VvHzLVNgcN1CksHHqA-mFs1aaMrrThQdJks2QF_dWz0bqoCsRoPqixSJnoGJ0EWW8wQ6-vdJ-4VjXGvpzd3cx_iZUhpx-6EHxotSs1KB-IuN6DQe1Vjt_6qcoCcUcwW0OJQG2DBs/s1600/June+2014+014.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSP07VvHzLVNgcN1CksHHqA-mFs1aaMrrThQdJks2QF_dWz0bqoCsRoPqixSJnoGJ0EWW8wQ6-vdJ-4VjXGvpzd3cx_iZUhpx-6EHxotSs1KB-IuN6DQe1Vjt_6qcoCcUcwW0OJQG2DBs/s1600/June+2014+014.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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<br />Abramyan Avenuehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03310621182672005032noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9108642159149157651.post-21721969475992527352014-05-29T11:36:00.001-07:002014-05-29T11:36:44.607-07:00Influenster Viva la VoxBox Product Review<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuRKkKf5EwHce4IKzWMlWaiDJ4cvEkr9ne_5FilaRR2kt6n5KxfsN6_XIyA-Qd3OdkFWcxBy1ruQjCr5a9j94JsL95nf8C3zjtFeMoeSomnKiUKkDv4AZQLj9Il-ZvavwOnu0WrJ6Lhno/s1600/reviewed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuRKkKf5EwHce4IKzWMlWaiDJ4cvEkr9ne_5FilaRR2kt6n5KxfsN6_XIyA-Qd3OdkFWcxBy1ruQjCr5a9j94JsL95nf8C3zjtFeMoeSomnKiUKkDv4AZQLj9Il-ZvavwOnu0WrJ6Lhno/s1600/reviewed.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I was selected by Influenster to review the following products in the Viva la VoxBox. </span> <span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I was supposed to do a YouTube video, but since I recently had neck surgery I was unable to film.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">This VoxBox had lots of fun goodies. I really liked some of the products. First up is the <a href="http://www.cetaphil.com/gentle-skin-cleansing-cloths"><b><span style="color: #660000;">Cetaphil Cleansing Cloths</span></b></a>. I really liked that the cloths were gentle and didn't burn, sting or irritate my skin. The cloths removed my makeup, cleaned my face and left my skin feeling clean and refreshed. It didn't leave an oily feel or make my skin feel tight. I really liked that.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">In my opinion, the cloths were rather large and could have been cut in half. Other than that, they did their job effectively. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><i><b>A 25-count package retails for about $7.49</b></i>.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKrTeA1JifFRdQxcJkwiD2jCf42FshmAhCF_JSxISgGV36JouTrdN9zn1ht0T6wNAvFTGUg9j2BlGppI8nyfwS-K1PDw8Av1gD5VQzaDNFE3v2f7h51IwcXaNF9R9A3g_t1J7lQZyszCM/s1600/v1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKrTeA1JifFRdQxcJkwiD2jCf42FshmAhCF_JSxISgGV36JouTrdN9zn1ht0T6wNAvFTGUg9j2BlGppI8nyfwS-K1PDw8Av1gD5VQzaDNFE3v2f7h51IwcXaNF9R9A3g_t1J7lQZyszCM/s1600/v1.png" height="320" width="235" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">My box also included the new <a href="http://www.vaseline.us/product/intensive-care/sprays/cocoa-radiant-spray.html"><b><span style="color: #660000;">Vaseline Spray & Go in the scent Cocoa Radiant</span></b></a>. I loved the smell of the spray. It is perfect for summer and reminds me of the beach. The spray is very moisturizing without feeling heavy and oily. It does dry quite quickly.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">My daughter uses this spray as a daily moisturizer under her make up every day. It absorbs very fast. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I will certainly be purchasing this product on a regular basis.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><b><i>A 6.5 ounce bottle retails for $5.94 at Wal-Mart.</i></b></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXLa5MyY65YPHCuxLz640VUhiHnjx61CqoHvc77Zy2ZQfp_3GoANRu74EA_q3BA-fSWK6Lb16G3fCeeknUysdcvwrmfyFaCyi5HqYkR5QUbSEac0-5xS9AsoGU2XGkBiENOogzy6u8SGY/s1600/v2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXLa5MyY65YPHCuxLz640VUhiHnjx61CqoHvc77Zy2ZQfp_3GoANRu74EA_q3BA-fSWK6Lb16G3fCeeknUysdcvwrmfyFaCyi5HqYkR5QUbSEac0-5xS9AsoGU2XGkBiENOogzy6u8SGY/s1600/v2.png" height="320" width="105" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><a href="http://www.montagnejeunesse.com/face-masks/creams/creamy-coconut-431"><b><span style="color: #660000;">Montagne Juenesse sent a Creamy Coconut</span></b></a> face mask. I absolutely loved the smell of the face mask. It applied easily and I could have probably gotten two uses from one package. The Creamy Coconut mask is suitable for all skin types and is supposed to moisturize and hydrate the skin.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I did apply it before a shower and I feel that my face seemed hydrated and softer. I believe that it did exactly what it was supposed to.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I loved the easy application, the smell and the feel of my skin after using it.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">The best part is the price. <i style="font-weight: bold;">A one time use packet retails for about $1.49 at Wal-Mart.</i> </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIgaadhUPsCYCt_Cpmzs9bxL8I2HVFYMoyyIoTDuS0EXvRTpxW413iWpKyb2Mo3s4ZdntyqnDQLywDfo2xzSUVfTJk8qomlbnV32jQTLCNBzmIVPDudTn66GORd4u3FGJSciaN1Yz8eVw/s1600/v3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIgaadhUPsCYCt_Cpmzs9bxL8I2HVFYMoyyIoTDuS0EXvRTpxW413iWpKyb2Mo3s4ZdntyqnDQLywDfo2xzSUVfTJk8qomlbnV32jQTLCNBzmIVPDudTn66GORd4u3FGJSciaN1Yz8eVw/s1600/v3.jpg" height="320" width="277" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I also received an <b><u><span style="color: #660000;"><a href="http://newyorkcolor.com/products/lips/lipcolor/city-proof-twistable-intense-lip-color">NYC City Proof Twistable Intense Lip Color</a></span></u></b>. This one was a bit difficult for me because the color that was sent was red...very, very red. I am a strong believer that red, like blond hair, is very specific to each person. Not everyone can wear any shade of red, just like not everyone will look great in one shade of blond. I think it takes a lot of trial and error or a visit to a really good make-up artists to help you find the right shade of red. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">So...with that said..I did try the lip color. It was too red for me but I did like the way it applied. It did last through out the day with out having to reapply and the bonus...IT DID NOT BLEED!!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Had the lip color been a neutral, or even softer shade of red, I would have worn it on a daily basis.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I will be looking for a shade that is suitable for me for when I go back to work. The product is well worth the price.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><b><i>A full size lip color retails for $2.99.</i></b></span> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg292tT4z4Ggm3ZYPlSIJZlWM6yylONZdFyLSoYaQoeLVCn6FY1SrnOAFmMN7BtQ0MbUnLv2w51QhHJ_j2LILmbAarroE2ISrbC7E9oIvfVOL5g9hzdAIUfJetD9mp0xRBbGQeoruH0gxE/s1600/v4.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg292tT4z4Ggm3ZYPlSIJZlWM6yylONZdFyLSoYaQoeLVCn6FY1SrnOAFmMN7BtQ0MbUnLv2w51QhHJ_j2LILmbAarroE2ISrbC7E9oIvfVOL5g9hzdAIUfJetD9mp0xRBbGQeoruH0gxE/s1600/v4.png" height="320" width="107" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">The <b><span style="color: #660000;"><a href="https://www.fuelrewards.com/fuelrewards/welcome.html?RefId=07588971f3d844b2b3bb9128c947bad3">Shell Fuel Reward Card</a></span></b> was a new concept to me. Honestly, I am still learning about it but I will give you the overview of what I understand it to be. First you sign up for a Shell Fuel Reward Card by requesting one online or picking one up at your local Shell station. Then you link a major credit card to you Shell card and start earning points and rewards with you everyday purchases. You can earn up to $0.25 per gallon of gas that you put in and also earn rewards on when you dine at restaurants, shop at certain stores, buy groceries and make purchases in convenience stores.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Once you have enough rewards earned, you can actually pay for fuel with the earned rewards on your Shell Fuel Reward Card. This is ideal for my family since my husband drives alot for work. And I think anything you can do to earn points/rewards by purchasing things you normally always purchase is a great idea!</span></div>
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<b><i>The cost of the reward card...FREE!!</i></b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj49PyHDfXBphvdg8UITipW81KRL2-0KHeqIVdzeiMCVIJTNQLbWn-A7AIEhpOAY6kmtLE9oCbzRFX_X5escJLYazQ7HvVpjDfuwxPvXvqX4bpAY9zlXs6SquevkxpbDtXerR6igMlXxXo/s1600/v5.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj49PyHDfXBphvdg8UITipW81KRL2-0KHeqIVdzeiMCVIJTNQLbWn-A7AIEhpOAY6kmtLE9oCbzRFX_X5escJLYazQ7HvVpjDfuwxPvXvqX4bpAY9zlXs6SquevkxpbDtXerR6igMlXxXo/s1600/v5.png" height="202" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">And my personal favorite was the <b><u><span style="color: #660000;"><a href="http://www.walmart.com/tp/pure-ice">Pure Ice Nail Polish</a></span></u></b>. I received the two colors shown below.</span> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUQdZXSVMn6flLAUe89Sz-rthWlTHB-z8bawm0sv0JJHs8OPb9JYp_BxGHbTm3c_j_bvvOpNsftwSfskQyAJ5n77RUdBeGjGbKQxsmWjP9TccpmCEtNf5B0Jw_AJ0-9KD4LGAdf-LQV3U/s1600/pureice.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUQdZXSVMn6flLAUe89Sz-rthWlTHB-z8bawm0sv0JJHs8OPb9JYp_BxGHbTm3c_j_bvvOpNsftwSfskQyAJ5n77RUdBeGjGbKQxsmWjP9TccpmCEtNf5B0Jw_AJ0-9KD4LGAdf-LQV3U/s1600/pureice.png" height="185" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I've often seen these polishes but have been reluctant to purchase them because of their cheap price. I am happy to say I am very pleased with them after trying them out.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">They apply easy and do not bubble. The colors are nicely pigmented and do not require multiple coats. The only downside is that they did chip after 2-3 days and that was with a base and top coat.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I have purchased a few additional colors for spring.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><b><u>These polishes are only available at Wal-Mart and retail for $1.97</u></b>.</span> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3d-5ca0Fi-bBVwEE5UqJ3qV8CbLWFybzt2x2NYnqrtMK72l7gA0hOGijR60OEyw1pCAzdodapaN13mh8DMYn8sYp3C1WLO_O0oWaZ0Ukkp8cCfhbkWYbvYZHXPaOZwGuUkeIsMLZNQA4/s1600/010.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3d-5ca0Fi-bBVwEE5UqJ3qV8CbLWFybzt2x2NYnqrtMK72l7gA0hOGijR60OEyw1pCAzdodapaN13mh8DMYn8sYp3C1WLO_O0oWaZ0Ukkp8cCfhbkWYbvYZHXPaOZwGuUkeIsMLZNQA4/s1600/010.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Overall, I was pleased with all the of products I received. There are several products that will become staples in my household. I am still trying to figure everything about the Shell Reward Card. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">**I was not paid to write this review. I was given the products free of charge by Influenster and all opinions are my own.**</span></div>
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<br />Abramyan Avenuehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03310621182672005032noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9108642159149157651.post-79588218952159645922014-05-13T08:15:00.000-07:002014-05-13T08:15:26.271-07:00Chebureki - Meat Pastry Recipe<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Ever since I can remember, my Papa Bear has talked about this Russian meal that has ground meat inside a pastry. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I've made sausage rolls, sausage bread, sausage balls...nothing was even close.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Then my husband went out of town with his friend and ate at a Russian restaurant. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">And there it was....</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Chebureki.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgNURFvmnoJLJ8Il_1WewBZUvSAQAUpXgXjNcYbQi9v4dbTXzYrtZx8yT4YEsmxs5nd4EZaErPcOnSujEpopiypkMCNHzdIYXyrUhYOuC5gwPYTE18T0lC9tB07I7X91AxPPU1t4wPKgQ/s1600/050.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgNURFvmnoJLJ8Il_1WewBZUvSAQAUpXgXjNcYbQi9v4dbTXzYrtZx8yT4YEsmxs5nd4EZaErPcOnSujEpopiypkMCNHzdIYXyrUhYOuC5gwPYTE18T0lC9tB07I7X91AxPPU1t4wPKgQ/s1600/050.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Naturally, when he got home all he could talk about what the Chebureki. And next, naturally, he set out on his mission to recreate this dish.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">(I think there is nothing cuter than my husband, with my apron on, in my kitchen, covered in flour and spices! LOVE IT!!)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">~~~*~~~**~~~**~~~**~~~**~~~**~~~*~~~</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">For the dough he combined:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">2 1/2 - 2 3/4 cups of flour</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"> 1/2 cup water (depending of feel of dough)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">4 Tbsp of olive oil</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">1/2 tsp sugar</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">1/3 tsp salt</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">1.) Whisk together all dry ingredients, then add olive oil.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">2.) Add water and knead until the dough is no longer sticky.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">(If it's sticky, add a bit more flour. If it's stiff, add a bit more water.)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">You will see the dough no longer stick to your fingers. That's when you know it's good to go.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">3.) In a separate bowl, combine:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">1-2 lbs of ground meat</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">(We used 1 lb each of beef and lamb)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">1/2 onion finely chopped</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">finely chopped parsley, cilantro, green onions</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">salt and pepper to taste</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">4.) Roll dough flat to a thickness of about 1/10 inch.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">5.) Use small size bowl or lid to create circles, and cut.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">(For remaining dough, roll, flatten and cut until all dough used.)</span> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsFrk-9HTiKrexfkamSivPYEHCZPS6mKSd7FUVxqu8_VguF2xCJFyrXX7Ys5ZwC5PcV5cRzMzYA9zhtkqUzDQlU5TAti6hAnCi_eMv8E5luHz6k5VBU5jKIgZFuAYlWD5kJniJTtz-N5M/s1600/048.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsFrk-9HTiKrexfkamSivPYEHCZPS6mKSd7FUVxqu8_VguF2xCJFyrXX7Ys5ZwC5PcV5cRzMzYA9zhtkqUzDQlU5TAti6hAnCi_eMv8E5luHz6k5VBU5jKIgZFuAYlWD5kJniJTtz-N5M/s1600/048.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">6.) Fill one side of each circle with meat mixture. Leave a small edge. Pull the empty side of the circle over, covering meat. Press the edges together.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">7.) Place each Chebureki meat pastry pouch into a prepared pan w/hot oil.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">(We cooked ours alternating between medium and low-medium.)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Cook each about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSF2ocpJ-2v-EHIX4pUA4pc023-F0f2_7hnRopT-Sx-hBKX57S9DUeJLdpsXw0t2Ky1s5lsoPzNjzr02n9rQp2xvC-YO4FWZnGgz7lVoUKFNWycGR7OVtu0WMzyuFZOzC_1j4854AluRU/s1600/049.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSF2ocpJ-2v-EHIX4pUA4pc023-F0f2_7hnRopT-Sx-hBKX57S9DUeJLdpsXw0t2Ky1s5lsoPzNjzr02n9rQp2xvC-YO4FWZnGgz7lVoUKFNWycGR7OVtu0WMzyuFZOzC_1j4854AluRU/s1600/049.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Drain each Chebureki on a plate with a few paper towels.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Serve alone or with feta cheese or sour cream.</span> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY_2kmx7kKBXgsd46PncYuZryIFq7fTMqqxjBEFENcwlUsezSNiQGpGVq3q9FL4qnztsxYDSUsoMtyzBrm9gv7bjKcR-FVhP0FmrjGoBvRd1_qDHvZdlIzaCZu4TPFH9cxfAjyFbxMkkU/s1600/050.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY_2kmx7kKBXgsd46PncYuZryIFq7fTMqqxjBEFENcwlUsezSNiQGpGVq3q9FL4qnztsxYDSUsoMtyzBrm9gv7bjKcR-FVhP0FmrjGoBvRd1_qDHvZdlIzaCZu4TPFH9cxfAjyFbxMkkU/s1600/050.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">There are so many variations you can create with this.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">You can use ground chicken, potatoes, add feta cheese inside, use only fresh veggies inside...you name it.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">The most important thing is getting the dough down and with this recipe, the dough is super simple. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">These Chebureki were so very delicious. I can't believe they were so super simple and we waited this long (nearly 20 years) to make it!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I can certainly see this being served on a regular basis, because they are so very simple!!!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">~~~*~~~**~~~**~~~**~~~**~~~</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">We had storms all night and they are supposed to continue all day. There are flash floods warning though out the area. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">This is the perfect day to stay home and bake. My neck is still having cramps and spasms, so it will have to be my girls baking.</span></div>
<br />Abramyan Avenuehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03310621182672005032noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9108642159149157651.post-18787947246851301132014-05-08T16:02:00.001-07:002014-05-08T16:03:46.829-07:00Screen Door Memories<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Monday my girls and I took a quick adventure over to <b><a href="http://www.visitfredericksburgtx.com/attractions-activities/sauer-beckmann-living-history-farm-%E2%80%93-lbj-state-historical-park/"><span style="color: #274e13;">Sauer-Beckmann Farm</span></a> </b>on the <b><a href="http://www.tpwd.state.tx.us/state-parks/lyndon-b-johnson"><span style="color: #660000;">Lyndon B Johnson State Park</span></a></b>. I'll be sharing those photos later but for now I would like to bring attention to one thing....</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">the screen door on the front porch.</span> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWi5bepcR8fSsBP5wtloHFs93s2bLV-dI93-fHfiMHyTZvavlLhmxVPcELazuD_ZXz1Ty7lSEhsxJNpwczU2sO14u-vhb-TluodVu6Od_oBm6mMwf9xdE9ZG_43I3i8pCHKZdd7GdwOZs/s1600/May+2014+053.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWi5bepcR8fSsBP5wtloHFs93s2bLV-dI93-fHfiMHyTZvavlLhmxVPcELazuD_ZXz1Ty7lSEhsxJNpwczU2sO14u-vhb-TluodVu6Od_oBm6mMwf9xdE9ZG_43I3i8pCHKZdd7GdwOZs/s1600/May+2014+053.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I grew up in a small country town where nearly every home had at least a front screen door. I personally can't remember seeing a home without a back screen door as well. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">For me, this evokes so many wonderful memories...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">hot summer, pastel and neon colored cotton shorts and screen print t-shirts. My hair up in a high pony tail or a French Braid courtesy of my mother. White clean Nike shoes and socks that matched my shirt.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgffgKLUMLnPP-Qfo__wmXd16v5IWtMYbfnc0EQTB2hHU9Bl5jMTDg8PjZvjvomSuvyfH0NTp3sFRVtRIm6LHDCSuYjAXVLiHmnxiz_FQZ5OAQPQtknfLaeoaBPL0YKkuUnyfzRWk6ZzEw/s1600/s1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgffgKLUMLnPP-Qfo__wmXd16v5IWtMYbfnc0EQTB2hHU9Bl5jMTDg8PjZvjvomSuvyfH0NTp3sFRVtRIm6LHDCSuYjAXVLiHmnxiz_FQZ5OAQPQtknfLaeoaBPL0YKkuUnyfzRWk6ZzEw/s1600/s1.jpg" height="320" width="185" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">There is nothing like the squeak of the opening screen door and the slam behind you. Is it really a screen door without that wonderful sound? That sound meant fun was happening outside. There were stuffed animals to teach...grasshoppers to pester...cartwheels and front handsprings to do...cheers to yell...bikes to ride....</span> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilzUms7PwhMPqdbT7FZkyrkDDlJRWfF-chtdgGEmPKY7ypEvzJSUJB1itLp4675ziGvWwCj_gMYichikRmtb1MpYHG8-KHkXT2UrISWuGZD1gxEIsJvFTW5eDn5HFe_d33738lZ-yGDe4/s1600/s2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilzUms7PwhMPqdbT7FZkyrkDDlJRWfF-chtdgGEmPKY7ypEvzJSUJB1itLp4675ziGvWwCj_gMYichikRmtb1MpYHG8-KHkXT2UrISWuGZD1gxEIsJvFTW5eDn5HFe_d33738lZ-yGDe4/s1600/s2.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Standing inside, looking out the screen door, left you open to limitless possibilities. The world awaited you. Playing King of the Hill with Joshua and Jonathan or softball with Sam. Barbeque's with the Nobles and eating Mom's potato salad and drinking her homemade sweet tea.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEU6FmV8JJh5d9YuZCFB_vq6Up1H3f58hXYwoFgovufCjBOYf4r0R4n3YFKuk0N7Jq1yD2Mw97fRCU-bkx2Vumz89odKczd8KmOlStJG_dyO-ocxUJykoHX2PK5n0D5OMcqz6Y5dHJ1PE/s1600/s3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEU6FmV8JJh5d9YuZCFB_vq6Up1H3f58hXYwoFgovufCjBOYf4r0R4n3YFKuk0N7Jq1yD2Mw97fRCU-bkx2Vumz89odKczd8KmOlStJG_dyO-ocxUJykoHX2PK5n0D5OMcqz6Y5dHJ1PE/s1600/s3.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">To me a screen door means family. The louder the squeak, the more memories and love and laughter were made. Each slam welcomed friends and family over and bade goodbye to a happy evening. If the door had chipped and worn paint..even better. Screen doors are not meant to be pristine and quiet. They are not from that era. They are as much a part of me and my childhood as the scar on my left knee.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwOnWJ28GNdQJnqAwSdSlli7rxZ9wHBt8VW2oiVSSFObDXJx1GXWqXbO12RdQqkMXQqfJrJkcn6Xbl9PWuEV7_FELaWXL9eIpo1IvT4cDTpEtetd6cgJDDJH6mVVDfEV_tsZltWUQR42U/s1600/s4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwOnWJ28GNdQJnqAwSdSlli7rxZ9wHBt8VW2oiVSSFObDXJx1GXWqXbO12RdQqkMXQqfJrJkcn6Xbl9PWuEV7_FELaWXL9eIpo1IvT4cDTpEtetd6cgJDDJH6mVVDfEV_tsZltWUQR42U/s1600/s4.jpg" height="320" width="227" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">And don't get me started on front porch swings. They go hand in hand with screen doors. Open the screen door..<i>hear the slow, sweet squeak.</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Close the screen door...<i>hear that happy, knowing slam.</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Skip over to the front porch swing...<i>feel the anticipation.</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Hop up on it's welcoming bench and rusty chains...<i>smile, giddy, feeling the moment.</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Give it a swift kick....<i>feel the wind rush against your cheek, play in your hair.</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">....Lean back and relax....</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWxAyYlWX9Jyrs36KnQWMh1IO0smasgDIJEIK3Vj9IQF1cawPZmVVS4DoWYuG5NWtjlpFgGBhv4RTS3dPwPdUjUadQk108rEDGy0kjZl_u-L92h1Fjdia7oq7mg4itVigiV1tp95ttM0Q/s1600/s5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWxAyYlWX9Jyrs36KnQWMh1IO0smasgDIJEIK3Vj9IQF1cawPZmVVS4DoWYuG5NWtjlpFgGBhv4RTS3dPwPdUjUadQk108rEDGy0kjZl_u-L92h1Fjdia7oq7mg4itVigiV1tp95ttM0Q/s1600/s5.jpg" height="287" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">How many memories do I hold that were created on one of Grandpa's swings? I don't know if I can count that high.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><i>I can certainly recall the bratty-ness of me and Michael. Him pushing me high in the swing, me laughing and screaming. And Joe, my grandpa's farm hand, screaming out the window "Noooo Michael...no push her that high..."</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><i>And Michael picking up a stick and throwing it at the screen that Joe was pressing his face against. </i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><i>I knew it was wrong, but I laughed.</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><i>I also knew that we wouldn't get in trouble because my grandpa was allowing him to work the farm and live in his fruit stand.</i></span> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguq4zO8z4c93AZqCCEh0CSi8zkJoHjP0C5FrAmQDHpq-O6h20PxeGLXpqhO_yCe8JT3uihOqhG71uHijcdUsPxVTvmbQ5dj1GCo-oXicokJbGsiDvdK42UsiyqkdA9qK7BzLLDMG6K5tc/s1600/s6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguq4zO8z4c93AZqCCEh0CSi8zkJoHjP0C5FrAmQDHpq-O6h20PxeGLXpqhO_yCe8JT3uihOqhG71uHijcdUsPxVTvmbQ5dj1GCo-oXicokJbGsiDvdK42UsiyqkdA9qK7BzLLDMG6K5tc/s1600/s6.jpg" height="320" width="267" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">As a child I didn't know that homes could exist without screen doors and porch swings. I thought they were as much a part of a house as a kitchen or bathroom. Now that I'm an adult and have my own home I have neither a screen door or a porch swing. I have, instead, an annoying HOA who loves to bark about everything but actually do nothing. I have a driveway that is so slanted you injure yourself if you park on it. I have a tiny front yard that can be cut with a trimmer. My front yard is about the size of my grandpa's potato garden.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">And I think the saddest thing is that my girls will NEVER know the excitement of hearing a screen door squeak and then slam. They will never grow up telling secrets to their friends or listening to the crackly FM radio while feeling the breeze on the front porch swing. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">And me....I will never have the joy of yelling at my girls to keep the screen door shut so flies don't get in. Nor will I have the pleasure of hearing my girls giggle with their friends or hum and sing messed up lyrics to their favorite song on the radio.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">My girls missed out on something that I feel was such an integral part of my childhood. I hope that I can give those memories to my grandchildren.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I'm prepared to wait for that though...hopefully a very, very long time!</span></div>
<br />Abramyan Avenuehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03310621182672005032noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9108642159149157651.post-39058741853686621682014-05-05T11:55:00.003-07:002014-05-05T11:58:36.959-07:00Birchbox April 2014 Review<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEga8aVOMhkT65Qf6gccD9Gs7nA1Giaxl7BCucgw8KKUKTCIu7Pqpyc6tTGArWWyl7gJKR657SJmCp58x0b8KargE3gVik_9czlmxBn_f9alw91LzS-ObN4NT8Ezjn6z1PBU-rmYnwHW5WY/s1600/reviewed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEga8aVOMhkT65Qf6gccD9Gs7nA1Giaxl7BCucgw8KKUKTCIu7Pqpyc6tTGArWWyl7gJKR657SJmCp58x0b8KargE3gVik_9czlmxBn_f9alw91LzS-ObN4NT8Ezjn6z1PBU-rmYnwHW5WY/s1600/reviewed.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">My April 2014 Birchbox was really good. I'm glad that it was because I have been on the fence about whether to keep it or not. The past few months have been just ok...and that's giving it alot more credit than it deserves.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">So I told myself I would give them one more month and if Aprils box was full of lotion sample packets I was cancelling. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Thank you BirchBox for giving me something I can actually <b><i>use!!</i></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><b><i><br /></i></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I was very excited to try the <u><b><a href="http://www.birchbox.com/shop/anastasia-beverly-hills-clear-brow-gel"><span style="color: blue;">Anastasia Beverly Hills Clear Brow Gel</span></a></b></u>. This was my first time trying an Anastasia Brow product (<i>though I've always wanted to)</i> and I really, really like it.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">It is clear and went on great. It doesn't have any scent at all and the best part was that it lasted all day.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">That's saying alot for a product that held up to Texas' 100 degree day!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><b><i>Will I purchase a full size</i></b>? You betcha!</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWid6Xm4fIK5HYSxmHXPaegozmJd6jEDgKtyyI99DrfY0zsx4LevjVS7yPw9WABglPoBQVzbaNkfYAZ2dFJxGXX3rAH_slyxF7Wkj86HexWLH02c34rBLzstGpPYDPGdsIm9HZ9vYEiUg/s1600/bb1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWid6Xm4fIK5HYSxmHXPaegozmJd6jEDgKtyyI99DrfY0zsx4LevjVS7yPw9WABglPoBQVzbaNkfYAZ2dFJxGXX3rAH_slyxF7Wkj86HexWLH02c34rBLzstGpPYDPGdsIm9HZ9vYEiUg/s1600/bb1.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I'm always excited to try leave in conditioners. My hair can get really dried out in the Texas humidity, so when I see a sample of leave in conditioner in my BirchBox, I may just squeal a little.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">This sample of <b><u><a href="http://www.birchbox.com/shop/beauty-protector-protect-and-detangle-spray"><span style="color: blue;">Beauty Protector Protect and Detangle</span></a></u></b> got my heart pumping.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">.....THEN.....</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">the spray was broken and I wasn't able to use it.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">That was really disappointing because:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">A.) I love the rubberized bottle presentation</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">B.)It smells great</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">C.) It was a decent sample size</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">So, I emptied some on my hand and ran it through the ends of my hair. My hair was not at all tangle-y, which is HUGE for me, especially now, since I have to have my hair up in a bun all the time because of the neck braces. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">My hair feels soft, it's not heavy and weighed down AND when I brush my hair I get a slight whiff of that soft, sweet smell.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">LOVE THIS!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><i><b>Will I purchase a full size</b></i>? It's very likely.</span> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoR_6h9f5_gYdzNS5tb17bu7pBeH1iHTPGA9QSV-mPBshPPhy7mIocFIwHoUyyylTt3lKh9PTy0J8frQtZ_SG-AlyjSf_ORnmMa0kFm5KJwVKyNo6VNMnETJth-0YwBwbYbXDbWlLIUtE/s1600/bb2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoR_6h9f5_gYdzNS5tb17bu7pBeH1iHTPGA9QSV-mPBshPPhy7mIocFIwHoUyyylTt3lKh9PTy0J8frQtZ_SG-AlyjSf_ORnmMa0kFm5KJwVKyNo6VNMnETJth-0YwBwbYbXDbWlLIUtE/s1600/bb2.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I have had a few Supergoop samples previously and they've been fine. It is a more expensive item and honestly, if I'm going to spend that amount of money on a face cream, I'm going to need a sample that is a bit larger than just for a two-time use.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">However, I did use it and it seemed just fine. I honestly didn't notice any earth shattering differences between this and other sunscreens other than the smell. Supergoop doesn't have that "sunscreen" smell. It doesn't burn when it goes on and it never feels heavy. You could honestly apply it right before putting on your foundation and it would be just fine. It's not greasy at all.<br />This <b><u><a href="http://www.birchbox.com/shop/supergoop-spf-35-daily-correct-cc-cream" style="background-color: #eeeeee;"><span style="color: blue;">Supergoop Daily Correct CC Cream</span></a></u></b> did have a slight tint to it that would work for a wide array of skin tones. I liked that. In fact, I didn't have to add anything other than mascara and lip gloss to walk out the door. So I did like it much better than my other Supergoop super-mini samples.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><b><i>Will I purchase a full size</i></b>? Probably not. I need a larger sample to use at least for a week to see if it's worth the money.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCQnoJZqLK0R5_b6RAadaUACutjs-VspYdkrYmMGMSfmaFReAgGyKBldFFaSVzY0Qe1hOcJrvD2pElnt7VwFGbGdVrevkbcDO-peWBCoX7Tz3eMFXWZDf2wzXbDOIo8HoXcEM5tBI7WcQ/s1600/bb3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCQnoJZqLK0R5_b6RAadaUACutjs-VspYdkrYmMGMSfmaFReAgGyKBldFFaSVzY0Qe1hOcJrvD2pElnt7VwFGbGdVrevkbcDO-peWBCoX7Tz3eMFXWZDf2wzXbDOIo8HoXcEM5tBI7WcQ/s1600/bb3.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I always like when I receive nail polish samples in my monthly subscriptions because:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">A.) It's usually a color I wouldn't think of trying</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">B.) It introduces me to brands other than Essie and OPI</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">C.)The colors are right on season</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">D.) I usually fall in love</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">This month I received <b><u><a href="http://www.birchbox.com/shop/color-club-galas-gems"><span style="color: blue;">Color Club Gala's Gem Collection</span></a></u></b> in the color Breakfast At....</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">This soft emerald pearl that is JUST PERFECT for spring. I put it on immediately and like other Color Club polishes I used, it applied great. There was no bubbling or streaking and the polish lasted almost a week before I had to touch it up. I had several compliments on the color. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I was happy!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><b><i>Will I purchase a full size</i></b>? I'm not sure if the have a full size or just a mini-set...but either way YES I would!</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1bwejKaT3FcH9sWuJ3nPR76OzkbMLAVa-jJFLjrsJrG-cB8cU31BfOhlU5RzIMBeYBmjR0-QTRY3TRbQox18r1ZTtuaA8WHFLg5dh42PJsxJp3GuvxB9z9Y65-ooLgo5Q20d3m430X-4/s1600/bb4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1bwejKaT3FcH9sWuJ3nPR76OzkbMLAVa-jJFLjrsJrG-cB8cU31BfOhlU5RzIMBeYBmjR0-QTRY3TRbQox18r1ZTtuaA8WHFLg5dh42PJsxJp3GuvxB9z9Y65-ooLgo5Q20d3m430X-4/s1600/bb4.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">And last but not least was this sample of <b><u><a href="http://www.birchbox.com/shop/kind-healthy-grain-bars"><span style="color: blue;">KIND Health Grain Bars</span></a></u></b>. THIS is why I love/recommend/keep BirchBox. I would never in a million years pick up something like this to just sample and try. BUT..it was in my box and oh...my...word...It is delicious!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">The sample bar didn't have that diet, gritty, meal taste or texture.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">It was actually a very nice grain bar with a delicious taste. I will definitely have a box of these in my desk when I go back to work. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><b><i>Will I purchase a full size</i></b>? Absolutely!!</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCtWUAbUmBqwki0H6A1Sd05ckIIzzZZXSlCnRhNFVbVCPe_7Lwg2X3oV8pBvQqaZRt9h-8aEyaM4KCbmNzHe1hctUWDXpRFNzQYmRWRAbCwD8YBBgxbT7SfsT6IknoTZMqnKgklakgNis/s1600/bb5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCtWUAbUmBqwki0H6A1Sd05ckIIzzZZXSlCnRhNFVbVCPe_7Lwg2X3oV8pBvQqaZRt9h-8aEyaM4KCbmNzHe1hctUWDXpRFNzQYmRWRAbCwD8YBBgxbT7SfsT6IknoTZMqnKgklakgNis/s1600/bb5.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I was super happy with this months BirchBox.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">If you would like to try BirchBox out click <span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;"><b><i><u><a href="https://www.birchbox.com/invite/pm5tq">here</a></u></i></b></span>!</span></div>
Abramyan Avenuehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03310621182672005032noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9108642159149157651.post-22839836608566432112014-04-30T11:53:00.000-07:002014-04-30T11:53:49.028-07:00April Happenings<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">My girls have been so good at taking care of me and helping me through this recovery. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">CC brought me home this delicious peach/raspberry cupcake from GiGi's.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I loved that the icing wasn't so sweet it burned your mouth and the cake part was really moist and flavorful.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8b7sCgG0YoxHu6sQNyQ8IhU0npDVR3i0zpwvidV6CffBv9HZ1v62sK0I3J5uk_1ztwauJZ2-pGV6CzzfLbsI7NymsLRr05kYzCEfizO8uJ2Fhpeyf0j8TVHBfWIXSJhbBDzIq0EmtN3I/s1600/april+2014+002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8b7sCgG0YoxHu6sQNyQ8IhU0npDVR3i0zpwvidV6CffBv9HZ1v62sK0I3J5uk_1ztwauJZ2-pGV6CzzfLbsI7NymsLRr05kYzCEfizO8uJ2Fhpeyf0j8TVHBfWIXSJhbBDzIq0EmtN3I/s1600/april+2014+002.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">CC also brought home my favorite flowers for me...tulips.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">They just don't last long enough. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I have tried growing tulips bulbs in the past and it just never works for me. I know that I don't have the green thumb that mom and CC have, so I know that is a factor, but I think the hot, dry Texas weather is just not what the tulips like.</span> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyI9JTXN-hfk46jZwG-9shP3UPXSU0KaciruFoee0d-Nje6HnrpOnDluaOchSz1ZVtZ6m_6H6T4ZZIuzBSaM0dm5bfmkE-o3p72l1oidoKv10zO5h-JuztB7nyjcckM7YKnF_E3W_aFN8/s1600/april+2014+008.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyI9JTXN-hfk46jZwG-9shP3UPXSU0KaciruFoee0d-Nje6HnrpOnDluaOchSz1ZVtZ6m_6H6T4ZZIuzBSaM0dm5bfmkE-o3p72l1oidoKv10zO5h-JuztB7nyjcckM7YKnF_E3W_aFN8/s1600/april+2014+008.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I have certainly been having my share of coffee. I love these disposable cups Starbucks came out with. I have a few at work and before I left for surgery I picked a few up to have here at the house. They are so convenient and can be used for hot and cold beverages. </span> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFHVWZ0fkYL35Rmt9xoBEHuhn7lqZ06oZziDmO9KOQeQ8_JEp252krqFU2oVUKUpYjZ7QQUgO0u4Lkm_-miv_3CH9ZAZZWztlKE4sQlXwExL1rYd7reTZHVhKYGRVTgofzKoN84CILbXQ/s1600/april+2014+001.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFHVWZ0fkYL35Rmt9xoBEHuhn7lqZ06oZziDmO9KOQeQ8_JEp252krqFU2oVUKUpYjZ7QQUgO0u4Lkm_-miv_3CH9ZAZZWztlKE4sQlXwExL1rYd7reTZHVhKYGRVTgofzKoN84CILbXQ/s1600/april+2014+001.jpeg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Since all i can do it sit all day, I've been getting in plenty of snuggle time with this fatty. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I can't help but think of what kind of life he must have had before we found him. He was so skinny, full of worms and abandoned in a dog park. I took him home, fed him, had him vaccinated and neutered and fell so hard in love with my fat boy.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I think he was around 5 pounds when we got him. He's not over 18 lbs!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">He's still so very skittish and will lay far away so that if you want to pet him you have to put in the work. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">So when he comes and snuggles up with me like this, it is HUGE! It's a giant leap of trust for him and I treasure it!</span> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM5Fnh8sWkliPEUTz2qC8Yu9J1N509Hx54jK_ScbTGYLHOiNycEz1ulJk89Ys3GCieWy4Ckru-ic5hAJ1maTi29pBlQVR1mNQPjr_R8-Tx6kyG9kucDMWMMlAcxLPOO7W9Qq_pKHb_q2o/s1600/april+2014+006.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM5Fnh8sWkliPEUTz2qC8Yu9J1N509Hx54jK_ScbTGYLHOiNycEz1ulJk89Ys3GCieWy4Ckru-ic5hAJ1maTi29pBlQVR1mNQPjr_R8-Tx6kyG9kucDMWMMlAcxLPOO7W9Qq_pKHb_q2o/s1600/april+2014+006.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I did manage to go outside to look at my roses. My poor babies are really suffering with out. I am surprised they survived at all. Out of the five I had, only two are left. This injury has really effected every aspect of my life. Losing my Peace rose because I was unable to care for them nearly did me in. They were a gift from Emil and the girls and this injury took that away from me too. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Anyway, my knock-out roses are going wild. I love looking out my window and seeing the bush full of red and dark pink blooms.</span> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRrg-w82jnRYux4Dvhu6MlKKebJmSXGSOzgNYpBSnNZMqFK1bhhZX4r7AsyC3H4eBo_YF8LYhUVdREFILeEV31qhMTj9rRCyl5O7KndCaraqSDLuf5li4qw9QKV-9M2saq5Das0Iq90kk/s1600/april+2014+018.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRrg-w82jnRYux4Dvhu6MlKKebJmSXGSOzgNYpBSnNZMqFK1bhhZX4r7AsyC3H4eBo_YF8LYhUVdREFILeEV31qhMTj9rRCyl5O7KndCaraqSDLuf5li4qw9QKV-9M2saq5Das0Iq90kk/s1600/april+2014+018.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">No matter how hard I try, I can never capture the beauty of the color of the knock outs. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">This bush was so small when they planted it and the roses themselves were so small at first. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Over the years the blooms have gotten bigger and that bush is nearly out of control. I have heard trimming it down during winter is best, but I am too scared that I will over trim and kill it.</span> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijZhTbDewV4CF5VCXQNIbkO40RAFVnp7b-Q2vtXIMeNSmCuhZTqOa38cj9HujXAFnV_eH6s_7My7NstWYTMqCyiSqmBLl76XOprwhVgNKeRJXoDZOkr7_eZpwRH4JPxiLqnAYLabHGgNM/s1600/april+2014+019.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijZhTbDewV4CF5VCXQNIbkO40RAFVnp7b-Q2vtXIMeNSmCuhZTqOa38cj9HujXAFnV_eH6s_7My7NstWYTMqCyiSqmBLl76XOprwhVgNKeRJXoDZOkr7_eZpwRH4JPxiLqnAYLabHGgNM/s1600/april+2014+019.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">And Emil's pomegranate tree is producing what we thought were tiny fruits. I see now when I look outside that it is actually flowers blooming that have petals the exact color of the bud. I can't wait until this tree actually produces fruit. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Mom got this tree for Emil since pomegranates are the national fruit of </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Armenia....or something like that. He's Armenian and he tells us all the time how that is THEIR fruit...it's native to their land...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">So my Papa Bear has his own pomegranate tree...from my mama.</span> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfW3WNcmiN-t_PdxKcDRiUJ1PojelnomcPo8iFc-DDVN045gEb1akqsFsw4uev6izkTQAYA83EeddDgmvbDnjOTGZ9kfAJBz8sILQe0UBycj6oRX6tBhyw13ha1XTg8VJ9PK24wcUe1vg/s1600/april+2014+020.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfW3WNcmiN-t_PdxKcDRiUJ1PojelnomcPo8iFc-DDVN045gEb1akqsFsw4uev6izkTQAYA83EeddDgmvbDnjOTGZ9kfAJBz8sILQe0UBycj6oRX6tBhyw13ha1XTg8VJ9PK24wcUe1vg/s1600/april+2014+020.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">My sweet mother in law came to stay a week with us and help take care of me. It was such a treat and blessing to have her here. I miss having a mama in my life. I think I convinced myself that I really am ok without having a mom. That I am strong and can handle anything by myself, because since Mom died I have no one to fall back on, lean on and get advice from. It's me now making decisions and learning as I go.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">So, to have a mom here doting on me, cooking me soup, talking with me, hugging me, loving me, tucking me in...it felt great. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I really didn't realize how much I miss that.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I told Emil he doesn't realize how fortunate he is to have his mom and I admit, when I saw her hugging him and kissing him goodnight, I got a little jealous. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I got the same hugs and kisses from her, but she will never be <i>my</i> mom. She can love me like a mom and take care of me like a mom but she will never be MY mom. </span> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgB0XC4ZJvCQb4tJ5bMmHavKHfcOXAc2B8tLB_r5NFLi_0lZL69VCafDgIMU7-WJhLV7z0eW3Z5LcbhL7ysveW3-zYwLGfaCeCJM_3q4ZGJRTT8iMVbQSk4d3atQiwFjuNQlQuwUnf1V1o/s1600/april+2014+032.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgB0XC4ZJvCQb4tJ5bMmHavKHfcOXAc2B8tLB_r5NFLi_0lZL69VCafDgIMU7-WJhLV7z0eW3Z5LcbhL7ysveW3-zYwLGfaCeCJM_3q4ZGJRTT8iMVbQSk4d3atQiwFjuNQlQuwUnf1V1o/s1600/april+2014+032.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I did try to venture out to the park with the girls the other day. I lasted all of 15 minutes then had to sit in the car.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">All I could do was wish I was back in my recliner.</span> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLEa5L69uUbzZeqAxeho8tR7j8Reh8M8INaLEYFfJrwzCfRg_fMVc7iSNwPvdMPnCZF6-SY3viMDjf5JQrWDLCcEtEpJ-9euFRL73Y5-gyjUzb4JBKKX4JFkqUy8JcVmQNldlr5hf5054/s1600/april+2014+047.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLEa5L69uUbzZeqAxeho8tR7j8Reh8M8INaLEYFfJrwzCfRg_fMVc7iSNwPvdMPnCZF6-SY3viMDjf5JQrWDLCcEtEpJ-9euFRL73Y5-gyjUzb4JBKKX4JFkqUy8JcVmQNldlr5hf5054/s1600/april+2014+047.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">There were tons of yellow wild flowers in the park. I wish there were more bluebonnets.</span> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgKRRrFhyphenhyphenhFIb_7dNlRq2PPHOotBBMYf-q_TAGQcQ2DGWQ_7yUbsYqC7Gqv_IVp1zJwrW9PibSuikxXf1b4dCiEIu0zYNP4PxGAVHTjQOg_3hqPOEBWGRVPtSGNtdFla9RL_rpGFozim4/s1600/april+2014+056.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgKRRrFhyphenhyphenhFIb_7dNlRq2PPHOotBBMYf-q_TAGQcQ2DGWQ_7yUbsYqC7Gqv_IVp1zJwrW9PibSuikxXf1b4dCiEIu0zYNP4PxGAVHTjQOg_3hqPOEBWGRVPtSGNtdFla9RL_rpGFozim4/s1600/april+2014+056.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I also went to my surgeon's office last week to have my bandages removed. I went up to their office, down a few floors for the x-ray and then back up to the surgeon to have the bandages removed. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">As I sat and waited to be called I placed one foot behind the other while sitting and felt the stones of one shoe. Now I knew that I selected the polka-dot bow shoes because they matched the polka-dots on my shirt.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Imagine the surprise when I lifted my legs and saw I left the house AND paraded around the doctors office and xray clinic <b><span style="color: #cc0000;">WITH TWO DIFFERENT SHOES ON</span></b>!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I could have died. I told Emil we had to go straight home and get me different shoes. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">That didn't happen. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I was humiliated...so embarrassed....but, that's what happens when you can't look down!</span> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxtEguCdVkvDmHHTChRZoaSCfiSJUpyAeuJTYdkxzHfsknAJZRbr_MljpfbGkyHKB2S9kuCAlo8dtlO6tI-hRmiaVsaAHjx8ymPFBdAfTRCye8m7XlEMbrPJd1wGh8YmLxZrrBBMx1kr4/s1600/april+2014+059.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxtEguCdVkvDmHHTChRZoaSCfiSJUpyAeuJTYdkxzHfsknAJZRbr_MljpfbGkyHKB2S9kuCAlo8dtlO6tI-hRmiaVsaAHjx8ymPFBdAfTRCye8m7XlEMbrPJd1wGh8YmLxZrrBBMx1kr4/s1600/april+2014+059.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I was so ready to get that stupid bandage removed and see what it looked like underneath.</span> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgz7rGpoqWqC5tdBdx3eiHaFid_vp5RemYIkF3G35iJh6rE5aw_qmBbviMgLUJTKko9GBkOa8eMgUFFtmbBFNwRfDGOG-2XrmFq_ZtSMpJlTZh3AZjelnd32DpGBHO8dgpCksy9NMqVuwA/s1600/april+2014+004.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgz7rGpoqWqC5tdBdx3eiHaFid_vp5RemYIkF3G35iJh6rE5aw_qmBbviMgLUJTKko9GBkOa8eMgUFFtmbBFNwRfDGOG-2XrmFq_ZtSMpJlTZh3AZjelnd32DpGBHO8dgpCksy9NMqVuwA/s1600/april+2014+004.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">It's really swollen here and you can't see it that great. But I am pretty sure it's going to scar up. I am devastated about that. I won't be able to wear necklaces and I'm going to have this ugly, visual reminder everyday to look at.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">All because I took my girls on vacation. You don't know how many times I've wished we would have chosen a different flight time home or different vacation locale all together.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I'm telling you...no good deed goes unpunished.</span> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHDEDQBC8vArefG_PdHRGOTrCb8rGhXvR6sApB0JIO869z5zvmYu0xtAGn2irdYl8trMj_WZjEa4DCyjf5tD5tMpr08unXiiz97nRjU-phnsQvXcekmz2WTARc16g3UPJUJj3pAsld2KA/s1600/april+2014+060.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHDEDQBC8vArefG_PdHRGOTrCb8rGhXvR6sApB0JIO869z5zvmYu0xtAGn2irdYl8trMj_WZjEa4DCyjf5tD5tMpr08unXiiz97nRjU-phnsQvXcekmz2WTARc16g3UPJUJj3pAsld2KA/s1600/april+2014+060.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">So this is what I look like most days. This was before a bath and my hair is down. I normally have to have my hair up on the top of my head to keep it from getting in the Velcro of the soft brace...and that gives me a headache sometimes. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I've tried braiding it, putting in pony tails, buns, you name it.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I am afraid that now I'm going to have to go cut my hair short to make life with the braces more comfortable.</span> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIxG-fZ3-Za0vNbg7dyaEpigDUzEHfEbBquWz3ME_EYPwyKcuprceDdXTBp0ocm1n5b1xnAtElyUD7-BN7xaPypdve4yqaxqVEPHaT6u0lHub90dN-N4KEn-kYuTanACSG0xzCVbg7Ia4/s1600/april+2014+066.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIxG-fZ3-Za0vNbg7dyaEpigDUzEHfEbBquWz3ME_EYPwyKcuprceDdXTBp0ocm1n5b1xnAtElyUD7-BN7xaPypdve4yqaxqVEPHaT6u0lHub90dN-N4KEn-kYuTanACSG0xzCVbg7Ia4/s1600/april+2014+066.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I wear this soft brace in the house when I'm ...sitting.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I have a hard brace that I wear when I'm up for longer than 15 minutes or when I leave the house.</span> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXzG6R2_pMW4zcWYhLSh_mtFRrvjwIUOoZDQo4D8eY9dPvdFQvQgWqRuJ6ZIGcYwUjEFX49oLRfwKKckiLjJ1Q1cQSn-neZlrB4WmFWXUtmIO3PHMJhAbjgHF2VE0_cCjiI5njyWX1OK8/s1600/april+2014+068.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXzG6R2_pMW4zcWYhLSh_mtFRrvjwIUOoZDQo4D8eY9dPvdFQvQgWqRuJ6ZIGcYwUjEFX49oLRfwKKckiLjJ1Q1cQSn-neZlrB4WmFWXUtmIO3PHMJhAbjgHF2VE0_cCjiI5njyWX1OK8/s1600/april+2014+068.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">And the other night this cute little birdie was just hanging out in the salvia bush outside CC's window. He must have been injured because he didn't fly away when we got close and he/she let CC pet it.</span> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeRGeZ_-S5pnCAKbUQcud3WIJh3vcGn1aErdMGBXdQfxgNEpwZGiaJyKrAYS_cqMHyIakj62khmy5Cf2RO5bDS8rp1kJ2MlC03sloQmm90TNJtntlOraspY1xzrSlv_cCtx25GvQ7VSfQ/s1600/april+2014+075.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeRGeZ_-S5pnCAKbUQcud3WIJh3vcGn1aErdMGBXdQfxgNEpwZGiaJyKrAYS_cqMHyIakj62khmy5Cf2RO5bDS8rp1kJ2MlC03sloQmm90TNJtntlOraspY1xzrSlv_cCtx25GvQ7VSfQ/s1600/april+2014+075.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">My college course have really been troubled because of this surgery. I am just barely above water in my courses. Thank goodness the end is in sight. I think classes are over the middle of May.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">So that's about it. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I wear and a brace and I sit...all day.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I am sick of watching TV. I am sick of being on the computer. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">But I am alive and that's just fine with me!</span></div>
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<br />Abramyan Avenuehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03310621182672005032noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9108642159149157651.post-33091784994888430102014-04-27T06:33:00.001-07:002014-04-27T06:33:59.242-07:00Recovery: Life<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkuPaVKqnYAAw1UITALJS07y3_R-MFNFVrSo6xCp5xiX12v7WEEldcPZz2a2Ma7YQ4P6o__Paf5GiSNb-FOddVNnyZnpBfpvl6ZtG7vOw43Iu16S50zcYzbQ2G1cRXucSjeJy-Vt3Oob4/s1600/m1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkuPaVKqnYAAw1UITALJS07y3_R-MFNFVrSo6xCp5xiX12v7WEEldcPZz2a2Ma7YQ4P6o__Paf5GiSNb-FOddVNnyZnpBfpvl6ZtG7vOw43Iu16S50zcYzbQ2G1cRXucSjeJy-Vt3Oob4/s1600/m1.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Surviving recovery...that's what the title should be. I am simply miserable. I was worried what recovery would be like and now I know. It's hell...pure and simple hell. I am not one to just sit and be still and do nothing. But that is precisely all I can do....nothing. Absolutely nothing. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjNhWtIWLpdhGhMowDYDdhSLo2zO372iS3YeX2U45DZ7mGN_Us1wkG-pL05KozAj7jUzzsZFgLLbCjXvFYk3UjbqlGnRrjQaFtAUr01VwxEryTQAcCv10d0MSRgCrKOMkdje_OzBS4xjI/s1600/m2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjNhWtIWLpdhGhMowDYDdhSLo2zO372iS3YeX2U45DZ7mGN_Us1wkG-pL05KozAj7jUzzsZFgLLbCjXvFYk3UjbqlGnRrjQaFtAUr01VwxEryTQAcCv10d0MSRgCrKOMkdje_OzBS4xjI/s1600/m2.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Possibly the worst part of the recovery is not being able to sleep. It makes me...miserable. I don't know if it's the fact that I do nothing all day and have tons of energy in me OR if it's the fact that I practically live in a recliner and my body aches/yearns for my bed. Whatever it is...it's miserable. I usually fall asleep around 1 a.m., wake up around 5:30 a.m., then fall back asleep around 8 a.m. and wake up for the day around 11 a.m. That sucks. It messes up my night. It messes up my day. I've tried taking my medicine earlier. Doesn't make a difference. I still have trouble falling asleep and cannot STAY asleep. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I was the person up before everyone else, starting my day. Now I am usually the last one up and have NOTHING to do with my day. I've downloaded apps to help me sleep. I've tried reading, watching tv, literally counting sheep....nothing helps!</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyFO6VxKbiEnEBaQaceP6v7QT1zO3E24_Nl3hlLqNSVX5XWZz5yUDht7PJjeiisPRCPTj5b7UOODf-JYKd1acwaMOcQAryjXzNnKRQhx4yAIIr5dsLny8QYHyvI30EURNIomNw4k64tjc/s1600/m3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyFO6VxKbiEnEBaQaceP6v7QT1zO3E24_Nl3hlLqNSVX5XWZz5yUDht7PJjeiisPRCPTj5b7UOODf-JYKd1acwaMOcQAryjXzNnKRQhx4yAIIr5dsLny8QYHyvI30EURNIomNw4k64tjc/s1600/m3.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Speaking of help....that's all I need....all the time. Help to get out of my recliner. Help to take a shower. Help to make fresh ice water. Help getting dressed. Help brushing my hair. Help walking down the steps. Help walking up the steps. Help walking across the yard. Help to get in the car. Help to get out of the car. Help to bring my medicine when I'm stuck in my recliner at the end of the day and I am so beyond exhausted from doing absolutely NOTHING that I can't bring myself to walk to the bar and grab my medicine. Help, Help, Help. Ugh. I HATE it. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I have NEVER been one to ask for help. I simply abhor asking for help. Yet every single day, all day, all the time I am asking for help. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">And intimacy with my husband... You can say I forgot what that is about. Before the surgery I was always in so much pain that intimacy with my husband was pretty much non-existent. The aftermath was much too painful to even try. We used to be pretty darn good on that level. Can't say more than a few days went by without it. And now....ha! Betty White probably gets more action than me. My poor husband. I am surprised he's stayed with me. This is hard on me. However, I am the one in pain and suffering with injuries...so for me it's become easier to just accept it and and try to ignore those feelings. For him though, a healthy, young man...I can only imagine how hard and frustrating this must be for him.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Even just snuggling up on the couch watching game shows or The Big Bang Theory is not possible now with this stupid brace. I have to keep my head and neck straight. I can't look down. Don't turn to the side too fast. You know what??? I'll just go back to my recliner and sit. I have him push it as close to the couch as possible so we can at least still hold hands while watching TV.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">That's my house now. Ok, not really. But guess what else I can't do...clean my own damn house. Can't wash dishes, or clothes. Can't sweep or mop. Can't dust. Can't do a damn thing. I love to clean my house. That used to be how I destressed. Can't do it now. No, no. I have to SIT and watch my husband and daughters try to clean the house. I just SIT and watch and HATE it! It's not their responsibility. I am the mother/wife. I should be up and cleaning but I can't. All I can do is sit. Sit and think about all the things I <i>should</i> be doing but can't.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">So that is what I do all day. I sit. We had to purchase a recliner for me. Did I want to spend nearly $300 for another piece of furniture? No. Did I have the extra cash just laying around? No. However, I would not have been able to make it without that stupid recliner. I literally live in that chair. We tried walking to the mail box yesterday...something I could usually do and get back home in less than five minutes. It took me about 15 mins just to walk TO the mailbox. I was tired, couldn't breath. Everything in me hurt. My sweet papa bear asked if he needed to get the car to take me back home. I was only 3 houses from my house. All I wanted to do was get back to that stupid recliner and sit.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">When the doctor asked me what I did for Easter? I was sitting.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">What did I do for my birthday? I was sitting.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">What will I be doing for my wedding anniversary? Sitting.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">What big plans do I have for mothers day? Well, you know...I'll be sitting.</span>Abramyan Avenuehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03310621182672005032noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9108642159149157651.post-25015470236718837202014-04-10T08:25:00.001-07:002014-04-10T08:25:35.622-07:00Surgery and Recovery<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">Friday, April 4th, I went in to the hospital at 4:30 a.m. to have my first surgery ever, an anterior cervical discetomy and fusion. To say I was terrified would be an understatement.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I had so many thoughts and fears running through my head...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">would I die during surgery and my girls be without a mom?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">would I be injured during surgery and possibly paralyzed?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">would I be nicked during surgery, causing a need for a blood transfusion that I would never take (again leaving my girls without a mom)?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">would I experience complication afterward that could be life threatening, like a blood clot?]</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">will I ever be able to wear necklaces again since I will have a scar smack dab in the center of my neck?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">will the pain finally be eased or will it only bring on a new set of issues?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">will I finally get to be me again?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Weighing the benefits versus the risks were hard. Relatively it's a safe procedure with few complication. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Relatively.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Everyone knows anything can happen.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">For someone who has never had anything worse than the flu this was a majorly emotional and mental stressful situation.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">So I went in and was taken to a admittance room where they did a few basic tests, urine sample, blood pressure, temperature...got me in a hospital gown.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Then around 6 am I was moved to the holding room where they put my IV in. The anesthesiologist came in to go over what he will be doing and answer any questions I may have. My surgeon came in and went over the procedure with me and my girls and answered any last minute questions. I was terrified and there may have been quite a few tears shed.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">My poor sweet Lena kept looking at me with this longing look in her eyes...like she wanted to soak in every aspect of me...the shape of my eyebrows, the curve of my nose, where the freckles lay on my face, the crease in my neck, the rise and fall of my chest...everything...in case she didn't see me again. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">This broke my heart.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I had no control over the situation.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">And I was terrified. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh297wOuEBx263hGO9Dt4QdqaqNZ5Qmd5GHt5DJJP8KlU28XDKsHOkgJUaID7wJvtCM3XUknyuQGO1IC1kAQLq-RRLqsNf8eCBqDyznHcnaRCEEkBrpmz0laZPgO0sgpLUVpO80kUEzIlI/s1600/april+2014+029.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh297wOuEBx263hGO9Dt4QdqaqNZ5Qmd5GHt5DJJP8KlU28XDKsHOkgJUaID7wJvtCM3XUknyuQGO1IC1kAQLq-RRLqsNf8eCBqDyznHcnaRCEEkBrpmz0laZPgO0sgpLUVpO80kUEzIlI/s1600/april+2014+029.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I was wheeled into the operating room fully awake. My nurse tried to make small talk with me to stop the tears that fell unaided from my eyes.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I was then moved to the cold operating table with the large lamp ahead of me. The anesthesiologist told me he would give me some medicine now to put me to sleep and they'd wake me up later.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I closed my eyes, took a deep breath and fell asleep in prayer.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I remember hearing a nurse telling me foggily that the surgery was over. I felt an excruciating pain on the lower right side of my neck and surmised this must be the incision site. My throat hurt like hell and I felt like I was going to vomit and poo at the same time. The only word I could get out was "sick". I'm not sure how long I was in recovery or exactly where recover was. Previously I was told that I would be taken back to the holding room where I had spoken with my surgeon to recover.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I just recall having some of the weirdest dreams you can imagine.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">They got my girls and around noon moved us to my room. My throat hurt so badly. I felt a huge lump in it and it was just easier not to talk.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Most of the day I just laid in bed with my eyes closed. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">They brought me broth to sip. It felt good on my sore (from being intubated) throat but each time I swallowed it hurt from the front to the back of my throat.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">It hurt to open my mouth very wide. It felt like the entire inside of my mouth hurt. My whole neck hurt. And each time I swallowed it felt like the substance had to cross over a lump to make its way down my esophagus. At the same time, each swallow produced this pain across the back side of my neck.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">The pain was so bad it caused me to draw my shoulders up, hold my breath and almost think it easier not to even try.</span> </div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">It was miserable trying to find a comfortable position. It hurt to lay down, it hurt to sit up, walking completely winded me. I had a drainage tube coming out of my neck. My butt was numb from sitting so long. I was miserable.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">When I went home the next day I couldn't find any comfortable place to lay or sit or lounge. Finally my husband brought his beach chair into the house and fixed it up for me to sit/lounge/lay in. This worked for a while. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">At the end of the day I was in tears because I was so physically, mentally, emotionally exhausted. I felt like I just couldn't go on like this. But I was thankful to just be alive.</span> </div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">After two hard nights we had to go purchase a recliner for me to lay in. Since I'm going to be in this position for 6-8 weeks we better make it comfortable. Did we plan to have to spend money to purchase a new piece of furniture? Absolutely not. But when you can't move your neck and you have to recline 95% of your day, you do what you have to do.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">One bonus...the only real bonus...is that Micah has been spending so much time bonding with me. I'll never know what his story was before we got him, but it took two years for him to even lay close to us and he is still so skittish. I think this recovery will bring about alot of close bonding between us.</span> </div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">So while this is not a flattering picture of me...this is me...everyday...all day. Just sitting in my chair, watching tv and being loved on by my cats.</span> </div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I finally get to take my first bath today. I am beyond excited. I have never felt so dirty. The soreness of my throat is starting to subside. I don't eat as much as I used to and what I do eat takes forever to do it. Drinking still makes me wince in pain...it's just not <i>as</i> painful as it was the first few days. I think this morning was the first morning that I was able to take a drink without drawing my shoulders up all the way.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">By night I am usually in tears. I am so exhausted from doing absolutely nothing. Muscle relaxers and Hydrocodone have really helped me sleep. My sleep hours are so messed up. I wake up at all times of the night, which means I sleep at all times during the day. I guess this is good..sleep helps you heal.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I have my two week follow up next Friday. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">But most importantly...I'm alive!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">And I get to shower today!</span></div>
<br />Abramyan Avenuehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03310621182672005032noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9108642159149157651.post-22984681261476571632014-03-28T14:54:00.004-07:002014-03-28T14:54:48.413-07:00IPSY March 2014 Review<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvpiWjqsaqXGleAYBziFRNlfeU7yAJIUJKfwebVn7VdBYcSvSnnYgqhu0V0wlPE6vqhxHSMyoLreH4Rw77XmVAm4wBBU1tbxRSv0gbaxiDNHec51Os1uzk1iWBhzqsbq0Nv9EDR_5mJhw/s1600/March+2014+046.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvpiWjqsaqXGleAYBziFRNlfeU7yAJIUJKfwebVn7VdBYcSvSnnYgqhu0V0wlPE6vqhxHSMyoLreH4Rw77XmVAm4wBBU1tbxRSv0gbaxiDNHec51Os1uzk1iWBhzqsbq0Nv9EDR_5mJhw/s1600/March+2014+046.jpeg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I absolutely loved my March 2014 <span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;"><b><a href="http://www.ipsy.com/r/19sy">Ipsy</a></b></span> bag. The bag itself was super cute and the four items inside have certainly been used!</span></div>
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First up was a NYX Love in Rio palette trio in the color VooDoo Love Spells.</div>
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The shadow goes on smoothly and the pigment lasts all day with out needing touch up. I love the cute little bow detail on the closure. </div>
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I love that NYX is very affordable and available at most grocery/drug stores.</div>
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You can also purchase it <b><span style="color: #660000; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.nyxcosmetics.com/p-201-love-in-rio-eye-shadow-palette.aspx?utm_expid=42976356-14.kyEd6dHrRvuCCToSmW_Xfg.0&utm_referrer=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.nyxcosmetics.com%2F%3F1%261">here</a></span></b>.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiMvm_1X9Er-3j5lUATiuWv7TnsXI6VGz1QCw1I1RIsqDncsHnAHVNIe_I5NqHhBRgXtTc7Ms7OvrhGXRcesQtHuTPJTwO9FLJaagxWCpCD62kqN5XCg2MZnXsShQxZynW3oyd8RZYLfM/s1600/i2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiMvm_1X9Er-3j5lUATiuWv7TnsXI6VGz1QCw1I1RIsqDncsHnAHVNIe_I5NqHhBRgXtTc7Ms7OvrhGXRcesQtHuTPJTwO9FLJaagxWCpCD62kqN5XCg2MZnXsShQxZynW3oyd8RZYLfM/s1600/i2.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I also received a Marvelous Moxie Lipstick from bareMinerals. I was given the shade "Get Ready". This is a creamy, super-saturated, ulta-pigmented color that glides on like butter for full coverage in a satin finish. I love it. The shade is not bright and out there...it didn't smear or bleed and it too lasted through out most of the day.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Purchase it <span style="color: magenta; font-size: large;"><b><a href="http://www.bareescentuals.com/on/demandware.store/Sites-BareEscentuals-Site/default/Experience-Show?cgid=BE_SUB_MOXIE#shades">here</a></b></span>.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpK1F3imT3wUMu5JDkJbbCzzaQnCXC4QutzYHccHoK5zGkpfPWCTUIerW_Ah_oMcjGyWnNUXH_dEx3NJcuWwz7sbzB8WU5mB72g-zfig12dTcfnHpV6XFA_M4E-jDSts8oiQuNbecdqpQ/s1600/i1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpK1F3imT3wUMu5JDkJbbCzzaQnCXC4QutzYHccHoK5zGkpfPWCTUIerW_Ah_oMcjGyWnNUXH_dEx3NJcuWwz7sbzB8WU5mB72g-zfig12dTcfnHpV6XFA_M4E-jDSts8oiQuNbecdqpQ/s1600/i1.jpg" height="319" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">We also received a Chella Eyeliner Pen in Indigo Blue. I have never,ever found or used a more perfect eyeliner. The color is so pigmented. The shape of the tip is truly no-fail. It's a silky eyeliner that truly stays on all day, until you are ready to take it off.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">The color blue that it is is just magnificent. I don't wear blue, I feel a bit too old for that much color on my eyes, but I gave it to my daughter and she loves it!!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Purchase it <b><span style="color: blue; font-size: large;"><a href="http://chella.com/products/item/eyeliner_blue">here</a></span></b>.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3kS9-bLGJvUuUchkEHq-9uGuv40RiH6ZejxoRk2tDv8yrbCXnH2gAwNUdyCXiLpMfXsKPgc6Z-5U3K9L7muRDzGRt-VuuXpCJopbcJoRnKwfq3GBejWjD0tRV2toQ8c4R4bkbt8dR9LE/s1600/i3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3kS9-bLGJvUuUchkEHq-9uGuv40RiH6ZejxoRk2tDv8yrbCXnH2gAwNUdyCXiLpMfXsKPgc6Z-5U3K9L7muRDzGRt-VuuXpCJopbcJoRnKwfq3GBejWjD0tRV2toQ8c4R4bkbt8dR9LE/s1600/i3.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">And last but not least is the pixi flawless beauty primer.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I am new to primers and this one did not disappoint.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">What I loved about it was that it truly gives your face an illuminating appearance. You just glow.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">It's perfect for Spring/Summer and I easily see this becoming a permanent part of my daily makeup routine!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Purchase it <span style="color: #783f04; font-size: large;"><b><a href="http://www.pixibeauty.com/mini-flawless-beauty-primer">here</a></b></span>.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCU7vvNbYL0l6Pmqj-Ma8ZNNu7XE6RukAQWp4EJ8YK7CtyWCKY9TULIRRJLwT7s1DdS9lTRivM37F43o843mdGMbnvVhe74yRIsmdqBLNjDtYWm5guLB4aZ-ysNh2TdvUW7ryPnBd1Hto/s1600/i4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCU7vvNbYL0l6Pmqj-Ma8ZNNu7XE6RukAQWp4EJ8YK7CtyWCKY9TULIRRJLwT7s1DdS9lTRivM37F43o843mdGMbnvVhe74yRIsmdqBLNjDtYWm5guLB4aZ-ysNh2TdvUW7ryPnBd1Hto/s1600/i4.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">If you have not signed up for Ipsy yet click <b><span style="color: blue; font-size: large;"><u><i><a href="http://www.ipsy.com/r/19sy">here</a></i></u></span></b>!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Believe me, you won't regret it!</span></div>
<br />Abramyan Avenuehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03310621182672005032noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9108642159149157651.post-76098274701077633492014-03-28T08:13:00.000-07:002014-03-28T08:13:45.740-07:00Goings On<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE6ypp4f1UrA8eJqLidqpfOqWiWzdjm_DPWVrL3y7jDkXoMsAN_Arzvdbphs5KYwCmu6mzMVCgZt3kDzEA0A_LxIv7BTIwS-6eWC_bcE1jBiR52ozXN_qlR3UGplsmvjQR7EawoIiSN-E/s1600/spring.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE6ypp4f1UrA8eJqLidqpfOqWiWzdjm_DPWVrL3y7jDkXoMsAN_Arzvdbphs5KYwCmu6mzMVCgZt3kDzEA0A_LxIv7BTIwS-6eWC_bcE1jBiR52ozXN_qlR3UGplsmvjQR7EawoIiSN-E/s1600/spring.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I love that Spring is here. I love the pastel colors, the cooler mornings and warmer evenings.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"> I love hearing the birds sing, the squirrels play on my roof and mostly, I love seeing the flowers, shrubs, trees come to life.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I don't love the allergies.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I am somewhat of an olive oil snob. I've researched, experimented and failed in my quest to find the perfect olive oil. Not all olive oils are created equally, and if you believe they're all the same you are oh, so wrong.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I do favor Italian olive oils, naturally. But Greek and Tunisian olive oils are good too. I have been too big of a fan of Spanish olive oils.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">But this olive oil, I found at my local grocery store. It was a bit more pricey than usual...but oh, my goodness.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">It is delicious! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I am in love. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I am so much in love, in fact, that I feel I need to stock pile this stuff.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">You see that dark color?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">That's not the bottle...no...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">that's the olive oil, unfiltered olive oil.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">My dip had so much more flavor. My pasta coated so much better.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I am truly in love!</span> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu2QK3jpzShgNvJprousHtjnQUQTKG-I3cNh6HDEtXz-Yt0CMl2QrrNK9dYKznJwlCQe8oGwFXT_vMwLYk480mKBIvVgGCCMUE7rTHIZN8TEYvUkZzneaEdjUtgmiZqMdfSx4GJZWAyP4/s1600/March+2014+003.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu2QK3jpzShgNvJprousHtjnQUQTKG-I3cNh6HDEtXz-Yt0CMl2QrrNK9dYKznJwlCQe8oGwFXT_vMwLYk480mKBIvVgGCCMUE7rTHIZN8TEYvUkZzneaEdjUtgmiZqMdfSx4GJZWAyP4/s1600/March+2014+003.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a>\</div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I wanted to try out a new recipe, so I perused Teresa Guidici's cookbook and found a simple recipe, that I had all ingredients for, for baked chicken.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Basically you combine unflavored yogurt, milk and salt in one bowl and in the next bowl combine Panko crumbs and dry seasonings.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">She detailed exactly which seasonings to use. I created my own.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I used garlic powder, onion power, Italian seasoning (naturally), dried basil, cilantro and chives and cheese.</span> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhuYrNbTOT02lrxF6rdYNobHJCDnL4BugOzas_QMHySgPjcD9oBeSsaQoMdmiub__wv5A5FS1xwzkG40I-HNSRXwH8m5lCL7tx4GtTD51w4BS1rdabcIB940z6K9bfYbQAV4Abkb68ZI4/s1600/March+2014+001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhuYrNbTOT02lrxF6rdYNobHJCDnL4BugOzas_QMHySgPjcD9oBeSsaQoMdmiub__wv5A5FS1xwzkG40I-HNSRXwH8m5lCL7tx4GtTD51w4BS1rdabcIB940z6K9bfYbQAV4Abkb68ZI4/s1600/March+2014+001.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Then baked for about 10 minutes on one side, flipped and 15 mins on the other side.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">It was so good!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">And it was fast and easy..in my book that's A+!</span> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7lMKrjHxmhsa1-Em-tS9EHLLhPK35cwbHNGHket5TTL3fEMBlnfjhWx2F8EA-wwWbN-OZCgOn1xE5s72mKVp7gvYgKwxqjeO2yl04_Oy4eLIKzS7-XEm2c7KTg0zZH-6_SNHzkDqVGlQ/s1600/March+2014+004.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7lMKrjHxmhsa1-Em-tS9EHLLhPK35cwbHNGHket5TTL3fEMBlnfjhWx2F8EA-wwWbN-OZCgOn1xE5s72mKVp7gvYgKwxqjeO2yl04_Oy4eLIKzS7-XEm2c7KTg0zZH-6_SNHzkDqVGlQ/s1600/March+2014+004.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">And since Spring is here, the girls and I decided we needed to make some cupcakes.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKUcTgnWManc4hB0KTRJo7_eNWX24S3F_mOn817r_4GaSovO6p71HY3XeQvp7_5R0bnnZewqM_i1VAmx_lPKTViTBhZEXphY0MxiGd1CeKdztchzvITTlQz_koCC6-Kr9h-b8iNAVbZB4/s1600/March+2014+027.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKUcTgnWManc4hB0KTRJo7_eNWX24S3F_mOn817r_4GaSovO6p71HY3XeQvp7_5R0bnnZewqM_i1VAmx_lPKTViTBhZEXphY0MxiGd1CeKdztchzvITTlQz_koCC6-Kr9h-b8iNAVbZB4/s1600/March+2014+027.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">One thing that I have been spending a bit too much time on is watching beauty vloggers on You Tube. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I see them recommend something, that is so great and so revolutionary and of course so very necessary. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">So what does April do? She runs out to purchase each item.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">No bueno!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">This is just the eye shadow I have amassed in the past few months.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Again, no bueno!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">And truth be told, I only use the same two or three colors each day. I always hope that I will have the courage to try new colors and techniques but I am comfortable with what I know.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I have found some new items that are really good and have become part of my everyday routine.</span> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA7fHTiqd-dRgl2qa__geGtJoBP83qHsypmSOAKuUjqiHK8jxcgLwLauOtLe2y3D8nCKFS5vo_jWyDWE_HuD92o_NLZcjOwn0r49GnKghA2tYCnrUg3cNk883n2N1HDt6ANUN4Sh99wxo/s1600/March+2014+014.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA7fHTiqd-dRgl2qa__geGtJoBP83qHsypmSOAKuUjqiHK8jxcgLwLauOtLe2y3D8nCKFS5vo_jWyDWE_HuD92o_NLZcjOwn0r49GnKghA2tYCnrUg3cNk883n2N1HDt6ANUN4Sh99wxo/s1600/March+2014+014.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Two weeks ago we went to visit Quin. I never, ever imagined I would be visiting him here. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Someone made a bench right by his grave and left a marker there. Now when people go to sit with him they leave their name and a message. It's a really beautiful way to remember the love and light he shed upon each one of us. It's also a great testimony of how suicide effects everyone, forever.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Quin had such life. His love was bigger than him. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">His smile could melt your heart, make angels sing.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I look at this and wonder how that grave is even big enough to hold him.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I remember his hearty, sweet laugh.<br />I'll never hear that laugh again. No one will ever have a laugh to match his, and I wouldn't want them to.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I see how his death has hurt my girls, my sisters, my nieces and nephews.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I wonder if Quin knew how much he was loved. Did he just want to scare his girlfriend? Does the girlfriend know a lot more than she's letting on? She says they weren't arguing, but why was there a broken tea pitcher in the other room? Why did she delete messages from Quin's facebook between him and the other guy she was seeing? How did Quin get a huge know over his left eye? Blood doesn't coagulate when you're dead. She's never, ever talked about it.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Did Quin even really do it? How does someone die when they can stand up?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Too many unanswered questions but one hard, cold, piercing reality...no matter what the answers to those questions are, Quin is still not here.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">And because of that, none of us will ever be the whole.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtLWElZdE6BOxyQsJGhBoNa4vMFb_GQEUZd7XNN6aOpn2wIy0pEGHeealuGHL6zM7Cw7JFC-rF80FanMozwt1C3Xn7ykpIn9Xqefe2ZnAVvzAo0eNiR40ogO-hHfxlC7xThUjT2PDg1qI/s1600/March+2014+057.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtLWElZdE6BOxyQsJGhBoNa4vMFb_GQEUZd7XNN6aOpn2wIy0pEGHeealuGHL6zM7Cw7JFC-rF80FanMozwt1C3Xn7ykpIn9Xqefe2ZnAVvzAo0eNiR40ogO-hHfxlC7xThUjT2PDg1qI/s1600/March+2014+057.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I also stopped by to visit my dad and my favorite uncle. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I really should bring them some fresh, new flowers.</span> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijhGfZ7WAQnjbCH-D3_zSjkgRS2FdVl59ruTLV_7ZbvAF_tG_hk8gvenMIqGOzZYrae9LOdFBIYR0iglVCnO81flyGGY0rQu-6FihjlZT_8E70UdWJGZY6_sT0wyio3_zYXaPzPWLYFes/s1600/March+2014+058.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijhGfZ7WAQnjbCH-D3_zSjkgRS2FdVl59ruTLV_7ZbvAF_tG_hk8gvenMIqGOzZYrae9LOdFBIYR0iglVCnO81flyGGY0rQu-6FihjlZT_8E70UdWJGZY6_sT0wyio3_zYXaPzPWLYFes/s1600/March+2014+058.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgy9VKYhXGCyMB2i4bW_WA7uxj2XIfcdxlxVLlVJSiek_B_F_nVM95d2MPFv3nKKOSLI7vVspafhaZHb8hSm33DCgkL9wE7CmfEWtqZQ-EkvqI0Fq_apKE8hk7drWm-qUEM0Hqwg9HzUag/s1600/March+2014+001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgy9VKYhXGCyMB2i4bW_WA7uxj2XIfcdxlxVLlVJSiek_B_F_nVM95d2MPFv3nKKOSLI7vVspafhaZHb8hSm33DCgkL9wE7CmfEWtqZQ-EkvqI0Fq_apKE8hk7drWm-qUEM0Hqwg9HzUag/s1600/March+2014+001.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">And while there I made my scars from my Charlie more permanent!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Every Spring I want to change up my mantle. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I always want to put some cute, white, distressed birds and clear out a majority of the unnecessary things up there.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I've never done it, and honestly, probably won't this year either. But it would be nice for a change.</span> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVXyEC7Vk5WgpTATUvTe1fOxHjow21tYoUPl4IsbqqP5XeGzqc4BQ3S8Zy6N4trqMJUTYtrL9_3drCJeOVxETnIakfdP-OM9stJ6FeTFNRk61_DqFfYJUG23KjWnGcj09anulZ-v8dSWE/s1600/March+2014+020.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVXyEC7Vk5WgpTATUvTe1fOxHjow21tYoUPl4IsbqqP5XeGzqc4BQ3S8Zy6N4trqMJUTYtrL9_3drCJeOVxETnIakfdP-OM9stJ6FeTFNRk61_DqFfYJUG23KjWnGcj09anulZ-v8dSWE/s1600/March+2014+020.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">My papa brought home some delicious caviar.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">We used to eat this all the time. Not so much now.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">The only Russian store that sold it here is pretty expensive, but his friend found a place to order it online.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Oh my word, it is delicious!</span> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5s3qTc6ZIUSeZ7KgqJgwXKIil6gPykiYqDs7A_-OqYDWGslspFJwYnyyQvfbrSKyh9cjEYTY67bFv0iBdpeIpzxOPqLmTViHlGnnIkB-3cVN4f1LcanV1MYTfx-FQWEHEClSpAinvpqg/s1600/March+2014+039.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5s3qTc6ZIUSeZ7KgqJgwXKIil6gPykiYqDs7A_-OqYDWGslspFJwYnyyQvfbrSKyh9cjEYTY67bFv0iBdpeIpzxOPqLmTViHlGnnIkB-3cVN4f1LcanV1MYTfx-FQWEHEClSpAinvpqg/s1600/March+2014+039.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">My surgery date is set. I am extremely nervous. I have never had surgery in my life. Ever. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">This scares the crap out of me.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I can no longer sleep at night. The pain keeps me up. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I get numbness and tingling in my left arm almost daily now.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">It used to be only if I tried to do something, like sweep or wash dishes. Now I can get it at any time.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I get horrible migraines at work, looking down at my keyboard.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Driving hurts. I do it because I have to.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I know that this surgery will/is supposed to fix me.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">But I am terrified.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">This stupid injury has changed my entire life.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">And I hate it.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">But I am willing to do what it takes to be me again.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">To be a mother to my daughters again and a wife to Emil.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">They have suffered so much too through this.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">It has really effected EVERY SINGLE aspect of our family, personal and intimate life.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">At least I have a really cute snuggle buddy when I'm home in pain.</span> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAU-pM1x7RYUTWh_o_j4zC-LdRvVLrsPBFXvW6sV4hvEioI76TiTZbylUTkGa008UX8jjOPjS0hh2GuTmK7SAP5chlUAc-ed_J97yTExBUdd6UZ5yvL__ShY3CijcGKjsXyAwyRA9bAng/s1600/March+2014+047.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAU-pM1x7RYUTWh_o_j4zC-LdRvVLrsPBFXvW6sV4hvEioI76TiTZbylUTkGa008UX8jjOPjS0hh2GuTmK7SAP5chlUAc-ed_J97yTExBUdd6UZ5yvL__ShY3CijcGKjsXyAwyRA9bAng/s1600/March+2014+047.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />Abramyan Avenuehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03310621182672005032noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9108642159149157651.post-65692127331364193872014-03-06T21:30:00.000-08:002014-03-06T21:30:19.728-08:00Where Did February Go?????<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Since I started blogging, I'm not sure how many years ago, I don't think I ever went an entire month with out posting. </div>
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Now I would love to say it's because I have been so busy traveling and having fun and enjoying every minute of every day. </div>
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I would love to say that. </div>
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But that is just not true. </div>
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The weather has been cold...and I mean cold for Texas. We actually had snow and my employer actually had to have us come in late due to the icy roads.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNgkim6EdUlmW3HAzTZa21To2-MH_1Tm5rSZ-uEt_9iBTd30BPlYdOF1K3tJv8tv1cyIwmXQYJIhB1BFTK3nO1uSfthWDvX3mtL-yCUJQQdXRrZtRWMk7fxxEOhfXEAobZ2116vhoVZAI/s1600/IMG_20140206_071451.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNgkim6EdUlmW3HAzTZa21To2-MH_1Tm5rSZ-uEt_9iBTd30BPlYdOF1K3tJv8tv1cyIwmXQYJIhB1BFTK3nO1uSfthWDvX3mtL-yCUJQQdXRrZtRWMk7fxxEOhfXEAobZ2116vhoVZAI/s1600/IMG_20140206_071451.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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It was so beautiful. There is a neighborhood not far from my neighborhood that has beautiful large rock landscaping at the entrance. The fresh snow fall on those rocks was beautiful.</div>
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I had to say a prayer and thank God for that beauty that I honestly will probably not see again for many, many years. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEAOj3QmDJJPil3xFho0xMGVzo4QY7a3KplfFF5J4vexFJ2q1TL9IkUkY1K_hQHJ0yqNTRz_jZaILxxs230KUE2VaYgIQuHBegc8RaIVr3FHCovOyg-QksTBToz74Gkv8NHACSy7qt7EE/s1600/20140206_080734.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEAOj3QmDJJPil3xFho0xMGVzo4QY7a3KplfFF5J4vexFJ2q1TL9IkUkY1K_hQHJ0yqNTRz_jZaILxxs230KUE2VaYgIQuHBegc8RaIVr3FHCovOyg-QksTBToz74Gkv8NHACSy7qt7EE/s1600/20140206_080734.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
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I loved when I put my wipers on the this snow just fluffed all over my front window. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigOhIQPHdo-sxzjJOimNzlRlrX_wm718xgRJNzC8c5oMMsC5QJjqLR4FH96D1mxJYIsAGPDZSgiR9TD949WpqNNrX0asX8HostE-2Kjqwm6z78LIrpanVMZj4bmHBEgc-yXGocuCLkxTI/s1600/IMG_20140206_081710.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigOhIQPHdo-sxzjJOimNzlRlrX_wm718xgRJNzC8c5oMMsC5QJjqLR4FH96D1mxJYIsAGPDZSgiR9TD949WpqNNrX0asX8HostE-2Kjqwm6z78LIrpanVMZj4bmHBEgc-yXGocuCLkxTI/s1600/IMG_20140206_081710.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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As much as I loved the snow and the cold weather and wearing my big ugly grey boots, this weather has just been horrible for my neck. I have never been in so much pain.</div>
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Almost every night I enjoy a cup of Might Leaf tea. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFg_IgYkfDwcG94QgpsL49TiuFgONGnCpcOG10mTwSGIyBRDqHu-_gb_mSZdcCmYn3KXfhjhxiyNTt4NCXXwM8BvJrAHmrUPOfnAGyuyfkjObu71TsC9kIyHCOKgkv1G9FpGFb73WQrj8/s1600/IMG_20140209_202531.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFg_IgYkfDwcG94QgpsL49TiuFgONGnCpcOG10mTwSGIyBRDqHu-_gb_mSZdcCmYn3KXfhjhxiyNTt4NCXXwM8BvJrAHmrUPOfnAGyuyfkjObu71TsC9kIyHCOKgkv1G9FpGFb73WQrj8/s1600/IMG_20140209_202531.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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My sweet CC turned 18 on Feb 10.</div>
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She told me that she's gonna miss me because Peter Pan was going to come for her before midnight on the ninth and take her to Neverland. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiixmKXbW7okIlxs59lSqoBDBZgJLAaaHA375mR3D0Thh2yba1Uf3DEKB7wU8gsUjZuBbE6i3xf8mwD2-Dlg4uFgexz36tMfXYkj_IM1RmAxGHOzCb9oDjTQHTkyRhegAfKapj76clXnVg/s1600/Peter-Pan-To-Neverland1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiixmKXbW7okIlxs59lSqoBDBZgJLAaaHA375mR3D0Thh2yba1Uf3DEKB7wU8gsUjZuBbE6i3xf8mwD2-Dlg4uFgexz36tMfXYkj_IM1RmAxGHOzCb9oDjTQHTkyRhegAfKapj76clXnVg/s1600/Peter-Pan-To-Neverland1.jpg" height="208" width="320" /></a></div>
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So on Valentines day my baby purchased her first car.</div>
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She researched and studied and we are so happy with her choice. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRQWhDCWkv95dZ1WR8wtsdkKnNtnPCCjHw_H_WBwSBBrouyq9SNEPH-iFAvz8eKbxDHjG_fd21Jgs7ufHW-QPwdHfr8WUV-fwtyExq6ao01NK_Mrv0JcmKVLFHhLG7Cg5WqyPOff-rT10/s1600/20140214_194940.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRQWhDCWkv95dZ1WR8wtsdkKnNtnPCCjHw_H_WBwSBBrouyq9SNEPH-iFAvz8eKbxDHjG_fd21Jgs7ufHW-QPwdHfr8WUV-fwtyExq6ao01NK_Mrv0JcmKVLFHhLG7Cg5WqyPOff-rT10/s1600/20140214_194940.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
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I never take pictures of myself, but I tried it out in my car before work. </div>
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I found this on Pinterest....how appropriate is it? </div>
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The girls and I have been loving Charming Charlie. </div>
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For President's Day they had a buy one clearance item and get one free.</div>
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Who could say no to that? </div>
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Since CC has her own car now, she wanted to get a job. So, while she was interviewing at my friend Lisa's hotel, I was relaxing on one of their terraces. </div>
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One day while Papa and I were driving country roads we ended up at this little country store. There was a police scanner scanning, a sign that Blue Bell ice cream is coming soon and a small table in the front of the store. There five elderly gentlemen sat, reading the newspaper, wearing worn trucker hats and discussed local news and gossip. I could have sat and watched the scene for hours.</div>
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Despite the colder weather, Lena and I ventured out to have some frozen yogurt. CC had a job at Sushi Express as a hostess/server/busgirl/restroom cleaner. That last one did it for her. So while she was texting me that she was told to clean the men's restroom, Lena convinced me to go get yogurt. I felt so guilty doing it..but I did....and they had a Help Wanted sign on their front door. </div>
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I started an application for CC, she interviewed the next day and she loves it! </div>
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I had a spinal injection on a Wednesday and CC drove me there and drove me home.</div>
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I was still pretty out of it due to the Propofol and had to capture the moment..haha!</div>
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In one of my Ipsy bag's I received a sample of <b><span style="color: #990000; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.sephora.com/pure-marula-facial-oil-P377356">Marula Oil</a></span></b>. I thought it was just another oil claiming to be so good.</div>
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Oh my goodness....there are no words.</div>
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My skin turned around in about a week. It's smoother, less noticeable lines, even the one acne scar I had has almost disappeared. I am so in love with this product. </div>
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I am not in love, however, with it's price.</div>
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Thankfully I worked things out and purchased a bottle.</div>
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My skin is thankful! </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSkvpia-zzcfUt3UsPUHZ2_cv0YIw3A9HFp-Ae-Gl3XvPjBHzSvu0JQ2bSDbhnFRiIcqOVGZzX0SjldETSE6lGWo1WAkssckwIbQMatPxzr4TGywcdON-69iiksXUxa-Ag-mcOyQp4G8w/s1600/phone+pics+477.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSkvpia-zzcfUt3UsPUHZ2_cv0YIw3A9HFp-Ae-Gl3XvPjBHzSvu0JQ2bSDbhnFRiIcqOVGZzX0SjldETSE6lGWo1WAkssckwIbQMatPxzr4TGywcdON-69iiksXUxa-Ag-mcOyQp4G8w/s1600/phone+pics+477.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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While I was purchasing my Marula oil from Sephora I decided to try out a Sephora palette that was on sale.</div>
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I am pleased!</div>
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The pigmentation is great...it's lasts through out the day.</div>
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I really like it. </div>
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And I have been in search of matte colors. I am so sick of all this glittery, sparkly, shiny, metallic shadows. </div>
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I just wanted a nice set of matte, neutral colors. </div>
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and I got it...mostly. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2bheEsZQKUpt9JK1ZBx_p9oltlLPAp1OUAThv-GJM9-oWIfqcRKmJT54CumV9_Fk3nrIxhMk4wPIXi6AY9zPWn2KM8xai0u9opoU6zc_Zeg12xZJHfG-UaXusuznSrGK44gRv3pA0CEM/s1600/phone+pics+479.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2bheEsZQKUpt9JK1ZBx_p9oltlLPAp1OUAThv-GJM9-oWIfqcRKmJT54CumV9_Fk3nrIxhMk4wPIXi6AY9zPWn2KM8xai0u9opoU6zc_Zeg12xZJHfG-UaXusuznSrGK44gRv3pA0CEM/s1600/phone+pics+479.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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March is now here.</div>
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I am hopeful relief is in sight.</div>
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My neurosurgeon said surgery is the only thing that will help me with my neck/shoulder pain due to the herniated discs.</div>
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He's worried that it may have caused permanent damage already.</div>
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I sure hope not. I am so sick and tired of being sick and tired.</div>
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The headaches are worsening. I had leaking spinal fluid last week.</div>
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I'm tired of this. I just want my life back. </div>
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I am terrified of surgery. I have never had any surgery ever. Having the flu was the worst sickness I ever had. Now this...it's scary. But I am just wanting and needing to be me again.</div>
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<br />Abramyan Avenuehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03310621182672005032noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9108642159149157651.post-46822109775657440042014-01-10T23:51:00.003-08:002014-01-10T23:56:11.545-08:00Pink Saturday at the McNay<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaM9V7tt8VemDoIE99sbt1Bpi4o47TUHL2_MoQILIvZ97HF33qyB6NEgIYRDz2mD416VszM1W9FaxrHzrBKxEWzZDFbIfP5L0kvLw5QoG0DEcKEwx_kUeNSN4BU0TQY2XFaSXPAFLublI/s1600/Pink+Sat.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaM9V7tt8VemDoIE99sbt1Bpi4o47TUHL2_MoQILIvZ97HF33qyB6NEgIYRDz2mD416VszM1W9FaxrHzrBKxEWzZDFbIfP5L0kvLw5QoG0DEcKEwx_kUeNSN4BU0TQY2XFaSXPAFLublI/s1600/Pink+Sat.jpg" height="320" width="152" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">I cannot remember the last time I participated in Beverly's Pink Saturday fun. Oh, how I've missed it.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">This week we girls were able to visit the McNay Art Museum and see the Cuts Costume Collection before the exhibit leaves. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">They had some of the most beautiful costumes from award winning movies. It's one thing to see them on screen, but to see them up close, to admire the detail...it's amazing!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">****************</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">This first dress was worn by Keira Knightley as Georgina in the Duchess of Devonshire. This was one of the first dresses at the exhibit and certainly one of my favorites. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">All I could think of was how hot that wig must have been!</span> </div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">The rosettes we so beautiful. The color combination was breathtaking.</span> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiH9d9OdK9JNJsQbF5_95JXrS_n6gNLflc8fLp0gNwPO5uscHhyphenhyphenpHElEsPj8iMIAbKOo8pchKMp5sRWJlWLspI55BJHwYW1fimOo4VoIQ00811rK4Pm_IKQAYfumq7cDZImWQVwf_qrCfQ/s1600/mcnay+2014+january+038.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiH9d9OdK9JNJsQbF5_95JXrS_n6gNLflc8fLp0gNwPO5uscHhyphenhyphenpHElEsPj8iMIAbKOo8pchKMp5sRWJlWLspI55BJHwYW1fimOo4VoIQ00811rK4Pm_IKQAYfumq7cDZImWQVwf_qrCfQ/s1600/mcnay+2014+january+038.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">The costume designers paid attention to the smallest details...little green pom poms hanging from her sleeve. I don't know that I would have noticed that in the movie.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmJ8-RDMQoUjjnzRXIDoWvvIQIubgtFnlmiYqG3VsbpplG1F8k98yggSyUMlQrvZx7B4EXmlcmKThHi1WAl6vhmIsLxMxjpTxOd8RNSDfE5VaC6HvQ1UpRe3QkuV7lPU0UidjjxxbR4_s/s1600/mcnay+2014+january+040.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmJ8-RDMQoUjjnzRXIDoWvvIQIubgtFnlmiYqG3VsbpplG1F8k98yggSyUMlQrvZx7B4EXmlcmKThHi1WAl6vhmIsLxMxjpTxOd8RNSDfE5VaC6HvQ1UpRe3QkuV7lPU0UidjjxxbR4_s/s1600/mcnay+2014+january+040.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">I loved this elegant dress. The bottom was made to almost look quilted but it was not a super heavy material. It was certainly sewed to appear that way.</span> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrC0Io3CH6CGCLWewlu2HJdlTR8ULeGi_6wlaab_mN5jtvcQ3nH-8SkaL0nJxC2qsEsLXQWV3qoMYRZE4KnnwXS-XPcKJqnQGgh0MT6uJ9ld1eV49IRtd7xe2paCmn3WL8nbXau27IuHE/s1600/mcnay+2014+january+037.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrC0Io3CH6CGCLWewlu2HJdlTR8ULeGi_6wlaab_mN5jtvcQ3nH-8SkaL0nJxC2qsEsLXQWV3qoMYRZE4KnnwXS-XPcKJqnQGgh0MT6uJ9ld1eV49IRtd7xe2paCmn3WL8nbXau27IuHE/s1600/mcnay+2014+january+037.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">This was Heath Ledger's Casanova Costume. Not really much pink but it was there in small amounts up close.</span> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ9dNXahswNDEIqO5SklvxbMJXdl3Ec2bJ-5OuKvsi415QeEhqmZr7PNxt3MKO3ClrIPBPpEf-rRm7PPpB3cdJhCGytxeZFIzYtLr5i7_RMfywn3KkL9UWewBse6taoU9HqYOdsxA8PtQ/s1600/mcnay+2014+january+032.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ9dNXahswNDEIqO5SklvxbMJXdl3Ec2bJ-5OuKvsi415QeEhqmZr7PNxt3MKO3ClrIPBPpEf-rRm7PPpB3cdJhCGytxeZFIzYtLr5i7_RMfywn3KkL9UWewBse6taoU9HqYOdsxA8PtQ/s1600/mcnay+2014+january+032.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">This dress was worn by Renee Zellweger as Beatrix Potter in Mrs. Potter for which she was nominated for a Golden Globe.</span> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKYt8sQF7Yf-F2Oc6_rc6dMniPDK-Nz0864HsdRBgBgJkObZnGARtoA-LLJNw8Z94JQLw9dSI_hS-FlCYhCrIJo8OskJ3nYjQrlKyMeVSWAM_WrzP1p3B4AC9e0gU7e9Fp7Vr-NO7x9G8/s1600/mcnay+2014+january+059.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKYt8sQF7Yf-F2Oc6_rc6dMniPDK-Nz0864HsdRBgBgJkObZnGARtoA-LLJNw8Z94JQLw9dSI_hS-FlCYhCrIJo8OskJ3nYjQrlKyMeVSWAM_WrzP1p3B4AC9e0gU7e9Fp7Vr-NO7x9G8/s1600/mcnay+2014+january+059.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">The dress does have dusty pink undertones. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">I was so impressed by the complexity of fold and use of lace.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">I kept saying over and over, "What kind of mind must the artist have that created these designs?"</span> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj44IPCcdTrGPK1ryH4wU66mfATw2gIG-do_nJJfogcsvdqq3IzhmSEIHx-qWsglTdA7Qco7nxkXAJPTnpzAoPv4uygio4qvKXWhvKMS_PRaYael-Rn3XUxakxz22pgeJ6jjU24wpcBEMI/s1600/mcnay+2014+january+060.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj44IPCcdTrGPK1ryH4wU66mfATw2gIG-do_nJJfogcsvdqq3IzhmSEIHx-qWsglTdA7Qco7nxkXAJPTnpzAoPv4uygio4qvKXWhvKMS_PRaYael-Rn3XUxakxz22pgeJ6jjU24wpcBEMI/s1600/mcnay+2014+january+060.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">I am such a sucker for lace, especially vintage lace.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">This may be brand new lace, but it's been made to look very vintage and it is so beautiful.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAT4ya3EoDUdtCEVIRQg-2zWXg22DJQe7zWuPfh8fV4d0n1qV8OVuaIyQMCdNa6bD7a9ZbnN2Ja6AyhRcofbahA0VUt3cdsEpjHiRRuNVme781MSbFTGwNnFTKB25h6V5KVp9RHa_kHLM/s1600/mcnay+2014+january+061.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAT4ya3EoDUdtCEVIRQg-2zWXg22DJQe7zWuPfh8fV4d0n1qV8OVuaIyQMCdNa6bD7a9ZbnN2Ja6AyhRcofbahA0VUt3cdsEpjHiRRuNVme781MSbFTGwNnFTKB25h6V5KVp9RHa_kHLM/s1600/mcnay+2014+january+061.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">Again, the small rosette on the face of the lace cuff....such amazing attention to detail.</span> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvH-AZDSB8_XM9ffiP0IN-BU8pQpoM6nGB1cVB8WnKgDwd2hnOf7t0Oe_9Q9qMc8wZcbh4Y2XZUNd0ANMl0KzgQRoi5A2Xh5c12Dg9TfIqjWsdZi5e-lso_LZZKSDZngenADDOdc2eV8s/s1600/mcnay+2014+january+062.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvH-AZDSB8_XM9ffiP0IN-BU8pQpoM6nGB1cVB8WnKgDwd2hnOf7t0Oe_9Q9qMc8wZcbh4Y2XZUNd0ANMl0KzgQRoi5A2Xh5c12Dg9TfIqjWsdZi5e-lso_LZZKSDZngenADDOdc2eV8s/s1600/mcnay+2014+january+062.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">Now this dress....</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">this dress deserves a post of it's own. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">I have never seen anything quite so beautiful. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">It really almost took your breath away.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">No words that I write or photos that I take will ever do it justice.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">You simply <u>must</u> see this dress in person to appreciate the true beauty of it.</span> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibcjwRhkhc9w7Vygc7k0nlYIhbanWwdGq1aY06uqCwbFlt8PcW-13KKj7mrPculaMPDcmrJ5yNesqZvw8u9cds5mvZX86Wk0aDB0KzrSArX1zBH7gYufcoH-tzkI9t8xoWTe7xtGSmDzk/s1600/mcnay+2014+january+068.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibcjwRhkhc9w7Vygc7k0nlYIhbanWwdGq1aY06uqCwbFlt8PcW-13KKj7mrPculaMPDcmrJ5yNesqZvw8u9cds5mvZX86Wk0aDB0KzrSArX1zBH7gYufcoH-tzkI9t8xoWTe7xtGSmDzk/s1600/mcnay+2014+january+068.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">This is Emmy Rossum's dress as worn in The Phantom of the Opera. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">This two piece gown was worn by Christine at the Masquerade Ball.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1cR67KYjll2UjBIn13yzob19yN8aMmIF04HExoDT-CB3W_nD1X7Um17q00EP69r0n6FeZRmGy8chjKkmx7KYEfarR6e4p-lmAggIXSHDibLSmbov_dZFFEOY-jbhZ65M9e30RNg4gI_c/s1600/mcnay+2014+january+069.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1cR67KYjll2UjBIn13yzob19yN8aMmIF04HExoDT-CB3W_nD1X7Um17q00EP69r0n6FeZRmGy8chjKkmx7KYEfarR6e4p-lmAggIXSHDibLSmbov_dZFFEOY-jbhZ65M9e30RNg4gI_c/s1600/mcnay+2014+january+069.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">The dress itself is such a soft, delicate blush of pink. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">It reminded me of a young, fresh rose bud...that soft pink closest to the stem.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">The skirt of the dress has tiny silver/iridescent sparkles</span>. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHGr1oBZ3UyuRSH9iGd-a2Deb-cBXH1SkpS36eQB-5HSnZo83mKkjdO9zWXeKfOjMvdZ_ztzlC_HHUDWwalsW3d6uDIdWShbRHXrXxKLyAgp5bnVGEgM-bf-TY3l_U-GO1GzAsIqWEnSk/s1600/mcnay+2014+january+070.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHGr1oBZ3UyuRSH9iGd-a2Deb-cBXH1SkpS36eQB-5HSnZo83mKkjdO9zWXeKfOjMvdZ_ztzlC_HHUDWwalsW3d6uDIdWShbRHXrXxKLyAgp5bnVGEgM-bf-TY3l_U-GO1GzAsIqWEnSk/s1600/mcnay+2014+january+070.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">The top of the dress, again, has the most beautiful lace embedded with small, occasional rosettes.</span> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYu8jOi0TJ71ML-gCrII-fLBX4z0CaDVjrVcGppPRBhZ49gp5KgpQrC7ia_cZeByOFepLU_VC_OZKtxUI_l3bDuILH_mQ7G-CLTySmE52cWJy7iytBCO0LE_1yAIBXP6en9ymPkLlffPg/s1600/mcnay+2014+january+071.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYu8jOi0TJ71ML-gCrII-fLBX4z0CaDVjrVcGppPRBhZ49gp5KgpQrC7ia_cZeByOFepLU_VC_OZKtxUI_l3bDuILH_mQ7G-CLTySmE52cWJy7iytBCO0LE_1yAIBXP6en9ymPkLlffPg/s1600/mcnay+2014+january+071.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">Then you walk around and see the back....</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New;">and you have to catch your breath.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New;">I'm sure I heard several gasps.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinqZBox5sbWbCbLc0uW_sl7U4of00pT86VfvvBWw5FHMURIsEooEgofMH-zU_NYVU0I1qSGLiyUdewMe5mnOLT8Xy6t6P5GjNKIOgwt64XzWq7evtjeGpGQV9BwbzIV8gFW53vBl7nVCs/s1600/mcnay+2014+january+072.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinqZBox5sbWbCbLc0uW_sl7U4of00pT86VfvvBWw5FHMURIsEooEgofMH-zU_NYVU0I1qSGLiyUdewMe5mnOLT8Xy6t6P5GjNKIOgwt64XzWq7evtjeGpGQV9BwbzIV8gFW53vBl7nVCs/s1600/mcnay+2014+january+072.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">Oh the back....</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">there are simply no words.</span> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUGUs1dKUrycUJblC277Vw_P54wG8ic1kJveiTafu-y1iG6HdTDAN7IF5Fs_FfJrZM-JoGkxyXBQp6z28JHf_y7tGUjoAmWn6Z3oALwNfsHVtAeK0BSzu1vz8FplPVHuNoMRkAEU1ftHM/s1600/mcnay+2014+january+076.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUGUs1dKUrycUJblC277Vw_P54wG8ic1kJveiTafu-y1iG6HdTDAN7IF5Fs_FfJrZM-JoGkxyXBQp6z28JHf_y7tGUjoAmWn6Z3oALwNfsHVtAeK0BSzu1vz8FplPVHuNoMRkAEU1ftHM/s1600/mcnay+2014+january+076.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">I wish the flowers would have held up a little better. They really did have the appearance of fake flowers. Granted, the dress has probably been in storage for quite some time, but I just with the flowers would have held up a little more.</span> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUUKYLDG7_Wi976RiXrDzXlzIe3NmXHiLXdf5_AJDm8L_UxjKYAQRKoovpt57KG8veicTQqRTDH5SnRDJiO4rjk5HbNe-BqkVSOLsb_aI1b2cDWbii_tI00YJkau_fF7JQaxE9wC4NFEo/s1600/mcnay+2014+january+075.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUUKYLDG7_Wi976RiXrDzXlzIe3NmXHiLXdf5_AJDm8L_UxjKYAQRKoovpt57KG8veicTQqRTDH5SnRDJiO4rjk5HbNe-BqkVSOLsb_aI1b2cDWbii_tI00YJkau_fF7JQaxE9wC4NFEo/s1600/mcnay+2014+january+075.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">Again, the attention to detail is just extraordinary.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">It has really made me appreciate and look at costumes in movies a completely new way.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">The craftsmanship goes far beyond mere talent.</span> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2EtE-j3lU1n5Nel_knEAh6ZwH2xmTdZr1_viA04FTWNNgOyv_FQ_29lL_AmEZUl1Mpllz_RGH_tI7Tm8SAQiPZ1ZcUtNCBec9uDq27E4RRC8unOqd2wROMECxG4DcCE5GL-JPMhLYIjE/s1600/mcnay+2014+january+077.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2EtE-j3lU1n5Nel_knEAh6ZwH2xmTdZr1_viA04FTWNNgOyv_FQ_29lL_AmEZUl1Mpllz_RGH_tI7Tm8SAQiPZ1ZcUtNCBec9uDq27E4RRC8unOqd2wROMECxG4DcCE5GL-JPMhLYIjE/s1600/mcnay+2014+january+077.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">To create pieces like this you have to have a keen eye for detail, a limitless vision, a mind with the ability to transfer unseen images to paper and nimble fingers that put the designers vision into fruition.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">This dress was one of my favorites. It was certainly my favorite dress of the movie. To see it in person was unreal.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">I have so many more great pieces to show...but that will have to be for a later post.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">If I tried to get them all on here this post would take hours!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">For more great Pink Saturday fun click <strong><span style="color: #e06666; font-size: large;"><a href="http://howsweetthesound.typepad.com/my_weblog/2014/01/pink-saturday-january-11-2014.html">here</a></span></strong>!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New;"></span> </div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New;">View more photos on my Instagram <strong><span style="color: #351c75; font-size: large;"><a href="http://instagram.com/aprildr">here</a></span></strong>.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New;"><em>p.s. I love that Beverly also chose a costume from one of my most favorite shows ever, Downton Abbey.</em></span></div>
<br />Abramyan Avenuehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03310621182672005032noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9108642159149157651.post-19748161705902436332014-01-05T15:04:00.000-08:002014-01-05T15:09:33.354-08:00BIRCHBOX PRODUCT REVIEW <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIeQEU8CWf9hyphenhyphen3g5IEx0Mnpv6hjT4wPE6DCsXm6zUcSOYTyABe8A4qbhY_gXKh5WlUguSbCZbJOGotCa4KdIgeJayMiJ0rAnbD1r9zKwHhmIQQjck6oXdLHREOlrR_hTHxl9QnjOh7rUA/s1600/dec+2013+160.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIeQEU8CWf9hyphenhyphen3g5IEx0Mnpv6hjT4wPE6DCsXm6zUcSOYTyABe8A4qbhY_gXKh5WlUguSbCZbJOGotCa4KdIgeJayMiJ0rAnbD1r9zKwHhmIQQjck6oXdLHREOlrR_hTHxl9QnjOh7rUA/s320/dec+2013+160.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">I have fallen so very fall behind on my product reviews. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New;">I am taking a few minutes today to review some of my favorite Birchbox products over the last few months.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New;">Birchbox is truly a monthly sample subscription. I don't expect to receive sample items that exceed my $10 monthly subscription rate. However, Birchbox has introduced me to so many new brands and items that I otherwise would have never heard about. Lots of the items are now my new "must-haves" and I think THAT is the purpose of the Birchbox sample subscription!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New;">One item I received that I was extremely excited to try was this hair accessory to do a half-up hair bun. It's the<span style="color: #4c1130; font-size: large;"> </span><span style="color: #660000; font-family: Times New Roman;"><a href="http://www.birchbox.com/shop/sarah-potempa-half-up/"><strong><span style="color: #4c1130; font-size: large;">SARAHPOTEMPA The HALF-UP</span></strong></a><span style="color: #4c1130; font-size: large;">.</span> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New;">I am always trying to do my hair new ways and get it out of my face while growing my bangs out. This is amazing! I love it!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New;">Due to a procedure I had done on my next in October I have a constant under the skin sunburn like sensation that makes my neck/shoulder area so sensitive that even my hair brushing against my shoulder hurts like...well, it hurts really, really bad.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New;">With this half-up tool I can put my hair in a low bun. It's gets the hair off my shoulder/neck area and it looks done, like I actually spent time on it.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New;">The best part, it's only $9.00 and when you take your hair out you have a little curl!</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8tRnUL6fIAOGW21nigxpbXPGHm54npJvUPZw50tXOBdpA_bRib7M9lk2Fu0upCAB4Q_SgabU4Geijck7Rx5OnLiZeRfwJEOB1blV30h0qwVKU5ofBuF8FqeyV3Jf64z6kJhbN-nKFzts/s1600/AB1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8tRnUL6fIAOGW21nigxpbXPGHm54npJvUPZw50tXOBdpA_bRib7M9lk2Fu0upCAB4Q_SgabU4Geijck7Rx5OnLiZeRfwJEOB1blV30h0qwVKU5ofBuF8FqeyV3Jf64z6kJhbN-nKFzts/s320/AB1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">Next up is the <strong><span style="color: #274e13; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.birchbox.com/shop/juice-beauty-green-apple-peel-sensitive-strength/">Juice Beauty Green Apple Peel </a></span></strong>for sensitive skin. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">......Oh...My...Goodness....</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">This is one of those new "must-haves". </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">I absolutely love the smell. It's subtle and soft, not at all overwhelming.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">But the look and feel of my skin after using it...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">unbelievable.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">I have never seen anything like it. My skin is so soft, not tight and dry. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">My skin almost looks illuminated, so fresh and clean.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">I cannot live with out this product. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">It is a bit pricier that what I would normally use on my skin, but the benefits and results of it far outweigh the price. And I can use points I've earned at Birchbox to apply towards the cost!</span> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxBdQH2SdXXHSB4B1Wux8UC3p-4ul7AZLxk4J_TYHjU1whass9fByURmMKNCoFELKyyL7xl-a4vUz4XZJnn5Wc4S2kb2m752YgXsdoUSbSmmjeSZ8EQJxkSkfPjTfZwFpFvhuaV7kyidc/s1600/AB2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxBdQH2SdXXHSB4B1Wux8UC3p-4ul7AZLxk4J_TYHjU1whass9fByURmMKNCoFELKyyL7xl-a4vUz4XZJnn5Wc4S2kb2m752YgXsdoUSbSmmjeSZ8EQJxkSkfPjTfZwFpFvhuaV7kyidc/s320/AB2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">I really loved this <strong><span style="color: #351c75; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.birchbox.com/shop/ruffian-nail-lacquer/">Ruffian Nail Lacquer</a></span></strong>. I first noticed the nice, wide brush by which to apply the polish. It gives ample coverage and goes on very smoothly, no bubbles or wrinkles. I love that the color looks almost like a gel once on and it stays looking fresh with out dulling. It did chip on me after a couple of days, so I had to retouch. Had this polish lasted just a bit longer with out chipping it would be absolutely perfect!</span> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVvr52QR9fvIzke4ff09ArfcNZKrIKytytfnLeIixR-rzEVEbnNrbFHpyA3twVTnrv5dIXS5rtJURHN7hVIoQpFrTGdvnjv9paJ4jj9JtfLYGmlX-ampl7xbuUfn3Bw-pk5uIARWvKkIM/s1600/AB3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVvr52QR9fvIzke4ff09ArfcNZKrIKytytfnLeIixR-rzEVEbnNrbFHpyA3twVTnrv5dIXS5rtJURHN7hVIoQpFrTGdvnjv9paJ4jj9JtfLYGmlX-ampl7xbuUfn3Bw-pk5uIARWvKkIM/s320/AB3.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">Oh, the <strong><span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.birchbox.com/shop/chella-highlighter-pencil/">Chella Highlighter Pencil</a></span></strong>....my, my, my....</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">I have never used a highlighter in the past but have always wanted to try it. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">This pencil alone is $18.00 (and has free shipping right now)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">, so receiving it in my box exceeded the cost of the monthly subscription. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">I love this pencil. It applies very silky and smooth and blends perfectly. I love how it highlights the areas of my face by which I use it. I can't compare it to other highlighters since I've never used any, but I can tell you this is a pencil I plan to continue purchasing from Birchbox as long as they sell it. I love it. It's another of my "must-haves".</span> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDLYzg0y7y6SfuaikAylU4iqqdmnXZGLhqC2uRbsxHjllzTnfOftXVDuTElhzeUNM0DR1vR8uMf6iI4Xv3GjWNdz7tLqjbgRkK4HnqgkOZoJ0vm3Cs4r6q9wP4vFDQezn26REA0M8Im_s/s1600/AB4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDLYzg0y7y6SfuaikAylU4iqqdmnXZGLhqC2uRbsxHjllzTnfOftXVDuTElhzeUNM0DR1vR8uMf6iI4Xv3GjWNdz7tLqjbgRkK4HnqgkOZoJ0vm3Cs4r6q9wP4vFDQezn26REA0M8Im_s/s320/AB4.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">I received a very generous sample of <strong><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.birchbox.com/shop/lierac-paris-sensorielle-oil/">Leirac Paris Sensorielle Oil</a></span></strong>. This is a brand I had no prior knowledge of and a product I would never generally purchase for myself. However, after using this I fell in love. The floral smell is subtle and feminine. Just enough lingers behind to leave a lasting impression. You can apply this oil to your face or skin or even in your hair. I usually apply a small amount to my hands and rub it through out my hair then rub what ever remains into my hands.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">My husband gave me a hug and complemented me on how great my hair smelled. It's that kind of product. Just enough to be remember, not overpowering at all. I love it.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">Again, the price is a bit steep, $40 for 3.4 fl oz. but I plan to use my Birchbox credits to buy the full size. I can see that it will last for at least six months, if not longer!</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVbNo3A4MpFSHg0qOgl6ZVn4iE1zNKybEWBcFcVTOu90KTGesZbGoPpJUUjT4OA8L3RExK7SLutMfCtX15iEANs4-d860QGyGCH_iqTlWzw3i2YW_sZcIrCgdM-zE2aAojZd8wzoi7TxQ/s1600/AB5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVbNo3A4MpFSHg0qOgl6ZVn4iE1zNKybEWBcFcVTOu90KTGesZbGoPpJUUjT4OA8L3RExK7SLutMfCtX15iEANs4-d860QGyGCH_iqTlWzw3i2YW_sZcIrCgdM-zE2aAojZd8wzoi7TxQ/s320/AB5.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">Another product that I fell in love with and possibly one of my most favorite samples I ever received was the <span style="color: #45818e; font-size: large;"><strong><a href="http://www.birchbox.com/shop/manna-cosmetics-sheer-glow/">Manna Kadar Cosmetics Sheer Glo Shimmer Lotion</a></strong></span>. Right now it's $29 on Birchbox with free shipping. When I initially saw it I thought it was another pink nail polish. I wasn't thrilled. Then I saw that it's actually a shimmer lotion. I apply it to my cheeks and under my eyes as a highlighter. It has a soft pink hue and leaves your skin looking supple and dewy. I love it!</span> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDcollNfLoOCyv1_8uYKQW5Og87EOX8jcqQudwUb0Y6GqS5gA5oQR5TpfTxd1f2yV-tzNGDq3aBNt7yDPc7u6_jlQCD8jt4FdpYPD6ohFzg9Q2Y8sjg7ijkoSfM9FpaRNiSKfZ1Q_iCJI/s1600/AB6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDcollNfLoOCyv1_8uYKQW5Og87EOX8jcqQudwUb0Y6GqS5gA5oQR5TpfTxd1f2yV-tzNGDq3aBNt7yDPc7u6_jlQCD8jt4FdpYPD6ohFzg9Q2Y8sjg7ijkoSfM9FpaRNiSKfZ1Q_iCJI/s320/AB6.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">I am not in any way, shape or form a chocolate fan. I will be the first to tell you I hate chocolate. I don't like chocolate cookies, I despise chocolate cake and ice cream. Chocolate bars are not at the top of my list. In fact, when I'm wanting to bake something sweet I make chocolate because I know I won't eat it! So when I saw this Ghiradelli Mint Chocolate bar in my box I was almost kind of mad. I thought it was a loss of product to send me a chocolate bar when it could have been replaced by a hair or make up product I could actually use and enjoy. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">Birchbox had it right.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">The Mint Chocolate was just right.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">It hit the spot. It was creamy and smooth and delicious. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">I shared with my girls, not because I wanted to but because it was the right thing to do. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">I have since been on the lookout for the Ghirardelli Mint Chocolate in my local stores and have yet to find it. It figures...the first chocolate I actually like and I can't even buy it!</span> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib2ShBBVSnB6to62OdGvXL1dgOa-Dkz3WMEBXwpgoaqeaCoi4Qzb4a6SY07eNBjePVF5KJmjPTNMw9Hlz307hEGXwEPdcqWUrQrdC49URwnEW9CLcUYW7b053VQG8PZcEkJe8hqqNf8_c/s1600/AB7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib2ShBBVSnB6to62OdGvXL1dgOa-Dkz3WMEBXwpgoaqeaCoi4Qzb4a6SY07eNBjePVF5KJmjPTNMw9Hlz307hEGXwEPdcqWUrQrdC49URwnEW9CLcUYW7b053VQG8PZcEkJe8hqqNf8_c/s320/AB7.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">I had been hearing raves and raves about how wonderful this perfume is. I was skeptical. I really only wear a select few...any perfume from Givenchy, some Chanel, some Mark Jacobs and my <span style="color: #073763;"><a href="http://www.sephora.com/angel-P9864">Thierry Mugler Angel</a></span>. However, I do like receiving perfume samples because I know I need to branch out. I have seasonal perfumes and really don't stray from what I know. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">When I received a sample of the <strong><span style="color: #0b5394; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.birchbox.com/shop/joie-folle-de-joie/">Folle de Joie eau de parfume</a></span></strong> I was a little anxious to see what the hype was all about. Let me say.... the hype is right! I love the smell of this perfume. I can easily see it becoming one of my spring/summer staples. It has such a soft, floral, feminine, light, delicate smell. It is the way a woman should smell...in my opinion. It makes me want to throw on a summer dress and sandals. I love it! Now, the price is not cheap..it's $98.00 for 3.4 fl oz, but again, it is worth it. When I treat myself to a spring/summer perfume with my bonus check at work, I will be purchasing this. It's heavenly!</span> </div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">I also received a cute tan, plaid <strong><span style="color: #660000; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.birchbox.com/shop/twistband-specialty-pack/">twistband</a></span></strong>. I had been seeing several people post on Birchbox's Facebook page and the product page how much they loved their twistbands. I was a little jealous that I never received one. So when I had one in my December box I was ecstatic. It provides a good, solid hold. It's super cute and can be used as a bracelet as well. I don't think someone with a lot of thick hair could run a marathon or do a Zumba workout with a twistband, but they will certainly hold up for around the house work or running errands. I can't wait to buy a new pack. I wish they had maroon and white Texas A&M colors. Now THAT would be awesome!</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYDM4W_ON_MlTbdtauUd3eeGKyQfLXPsVOP34F48zj2Ck2Hcg8Ym-HBrhH3tVfbZmTqJg7rzVEt6rz_Z1rS3mQBXWuKssFD9v0lkyTLNMacewSy4Y7rANzajjytGJ6ebpQq4J2IkaNKwE/s1600/AB9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYDM4W_ON_MlTbdtauUd3eeGKyQfLXPsVOP34F48zj2Ck2Hcg8Ym-HBrhH3tVfbZmTqJg7rzVEt6rz_Z1rS3mQBXWuKssFD9v0lkyTLNMacewSy4Y7rANzajjytGJ6ebpQq4J2IkaNKwE/s320/AB9.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">I really plan to do, or at least, attempt to do, a product review each month of the items received in my Birchbox and my Ipsy bag. Again, with the Birchbox I don't go in with the expectation that I am going to receive items that will exceed my monthly subscription rate. Some months I do, other months I don't even come close. But every month I receive items that are new to me and are fun trying out. And that makes it worth it. It's like a little present in the mail each month. And if there is a product that I don't use, then my girls surely take it over. In fact, I usually get what they don't want!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">If you haven't signed up for Birchbox, click <strong><span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: x-large;"><a href="https://www.birchbox.com/invite/pm5tq">here</a></span></strong> to get started!</span></div>
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<br />Abramyan Avenuehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03310621182672005032noreply@blogger.com0