tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-75103659401831587932024-03-14T00:31:27.610-07:00PacificSpecificsthe bay area adventures of Mike & Ann E.Ann E.http://www.blogger.com/profile/03374793989103298854noreply@blogger.comBlogger517125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510365940183158793.post-19401221946723444362015-09-18T18:55:00.004-07:002015-09-18T18:55:56.265-07:00::Barkley::<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: x-small;">We're in the 4th week post TPLO surgery and Barkley has been an awesome patient. While I can't remember how she progressed with her 1st surgery on her other back leg a few years ago, she really seems to be excelling this time around. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">And you know what, I totally jinxed myself because I started this post earlier this week AND now we just came back from the vet because her leg is making noises. Yep, you read that right, she clicks as she walks. But thankfully, the vet assures me that while she may be a little bit more noisy, she's healing and doing well. PHEW! </span></span></div>
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{if you hang out with me on Instagram, you've seen this one, but I just love it so much, I had to share it again}</div>
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{pretty sure I can read her mind, and she's totally thinking ... "life is great when they let me out of the crate!" or maybe it's "Ohmigosh, Friends is so funny!" (we <i>may</i> watch a <u>LOT</u> of Friends reruns)}</div>
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{this face, oh how I love this face}</div>
Ann E.http://www.blogger.com/profile/03374793989103298854noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510365940183158793.post-61311089878613776212015-07-08T20:52:00.000-07:002015-07-08T20:52:59.243-07:00my favorite things...on sale!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Have you ever tried to get a picture of the top of your foot AND the bottom? At the SAME time? Well, it's pretty tough, which is why I had my trusty spotter Barkley nearby in case something horrible happened like I turned into a pretzel, in which case she'd lick the pretzel salt off and leave the rest (she's a fan of the salt.) </div>
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Anyway, this isn't a post on snack time, it's a post about my favorite socks -- and the fact that you should go get some as they are on sale for just a few short days!!!! yahoo! </div>
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I made a rule at the start of the first round of IVF that I would do whatever it takes to celebrate the small victories, enjoy simple moments and inject happiness in every aspect of my life that I could control. IVF is hard, really really hard and it's overwhelming and it can be sad, frustrating and you can throw any ounce of control that you <i>think </i>you might have out the window. But, you know what's awesome and they even made a movie with penguins about it? Happy Feet. That's right, happiness every time I look down? Sold. I'd pay thousands (kidding, it's still <i>just</i> a sock and the IVF doctors have taken large chucks of our money.) </div>
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So back to the happiness. I stumbled upon <a href="https://www.wovenpear.com/" target="_blank">Woven Pear </a>via <a href="http://www.merricksart.com/" target="_blank">Merrick's Art </a>on Instagram. The idea of cute socks seemed to fall right into my happiness stipulation so I decided to buy 2 pairs and I love them. The other day, I saw on Instagram that they were having a sale on <a href="http://www.groopdealz.com/invite/875121" target="_blank">Groopdealz</a>, I decided it was time to put more happiness in my sock drawer in the form of more Woven Pear socks. The sale is still going on and so I think you should check them out too. It's a great deal. The socks are so soft and comfortable, I love them! </div>
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There's a ton of different options and there's free shipping -- check it all out <a href="https://www.groopdealz.com/event/580/woven-pear-fun-for-your-feet-limited-qty-available-" target="_blank">here</a>. </div>
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<a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.blogger.com%2Fblogger.g%3FblogID%3D7510365940183158793%23editor%2Fsrc%3Ddashboard&media=https%3A%2F%2F3.bp.blogspot.com%2F-AvPS3BWomH8%2FVZ3sJthWFTI%2FAAAAAAAAEGk%2FRQKF8kFhvew%2Fs640%2FFullSizeRender.jpg&xm=h&xv=sa1.37.01&xuid=b8xXaz5mQ6np&description=" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 113px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 18px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.blogger.com%2Fblogger.g%3FblogID%3D7510365940183158793%23editor%2Fsrc%3Ddashboard&media=https%3A%2F%2F3.bp.blogspot.com%2F-AvPS3BWomH8%2FVZ3sJthWFTI%2FAAAAAAAAEGk%2FRQKF8kFhvew%2Fs640%2FFullSizeRender.jpg&xm=h&xv=sa1.37.01&xuid=b8xXaz5mQ6np&description=" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 113px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 18px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a>Ann E.http://www.blogger.com/profile/03374793989103298854noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510365940183158793.post-17421996345872639972015-07-03T11:30:00.000-07:002015-07-03T11:30:00.376-07:00Mike's birthday weekend in Napa<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
It's July, which means I would like to celebrate my birth every day of the entire month, so I better get Mike's birthday recap out of the way so that I can focus on myself. (#kiddingnotkidding) (#ilovemybirthdaysomuch).</div>
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Mike and I spent the weekend in Napa in March for his birthday. It was the first time we had ever stayed overnight in the valley. We tasted at Caymus (awesome, I'd go back there in a nanosecond), lunch at Rutherford Hill (always a good time), Rutherford Ranch (quick stop for zin upon recommendation from our driver), Duckhorn (we love the Duckhorn family of wineries but our favorite is their sister winery, Paraduxx) and Rombauer (wine is good but there's no personal experience there, it's just a "pour and leave me alone" type of place, we like to learn while tasting. There was no learning.) </div>
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So..... there you go. </div>
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We also did Inglenook which is one of Francis Ford Coppola's wineries. It was fun to see some movie paraphernalia. </div>
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Duckhorn</div>
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Picnicking at Rutherford Hill Winery. We're not merlot people, typically, but their merlot is delicious. Their picnic grounds are also unbelievable and a "must stop" for us every time we are in Napa. </div>
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Roadside pitstop to take pictures. These are merlot grapes (#icanread)</div>
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Inglenook - beautiful grounds, great tour, really really great wines. The only trouble was that the other people on our tour could NOT have been more annoying. </div>
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In my inability to put these pictures in order, here's another photo of Rutherford Hill winery with the Napa Valley behind us. I mean seriously, we count out blessings every time we are in the valley that we only need to drive 40 minutes to get to one of the greatest places on earth. It's awesome.Ann E.http://www.blogger.com/profile/03374793989103298854noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510365940183158793.post-37634735396455341872015-07-02T11:11:00.004-07:002015-07-02T11:11:59.040-07:00oh hey! let's recap the last year and a half! (or however long it's been...)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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it's been a while.<br />
Sorry about that.<br />
but to be honest, I'm pretty boring and I've probably only done a few things like sew, watch the Bachelorette and have my blood drawn daily that it's amazing my entire arms haven't just stayed a lovely color called "bruised".<br />
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But, there's also been some fun stuff like we purchased a house we don't know if we'll ever move into* (more on that in another post), a few road trips, some great books (and not so great books) read and I've started to work on some new items for the shop that should be finished soon and you know, that whole IVF thing.... but first, I know the real reason you stopped by the blog, it's to see this little human wrapped up in a white fur coat.<br />
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Hot day, happy girl</div>
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Sometimes I pretend to use Barkley as a pillow. She allows it for about 0.3 seconds, unless you put the camera into selfie mode and then she's happy to look at herself for hours. Pretty sure that either means she needs a friend or a full length mirror. </div>
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The kennel we take Barkley to takes pictures of her daily and posts them on Facebook. This one was so great I had to save it. She loves it there so much. </div>
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Kisses!</div>
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Don't you touch my Barron's Daddy. I'm not done reading *ahem, upside down, ahem* she's a really talented reader. And she loves her stocks -- DOG, SQRL, CAT, WLK -- just to name a few. </div>
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This is Barkley's favorite pet store -- <a href="http://www.mollyspup.com/index.php" target="_blank">Molly's Pup-per-ee</a> in Danville. It's such a cute store, we love to go there, the only trouble is that she refuses to leave (they give really good treats inside, I don't blamer her!) </div>
<br />Ann E.http://www.blogger.com/profile/03374793989103298854noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510365940183158793.post-87857342696258450412015-02-06T02:00:00.000-08:002015-02-06T02:00:07.593-08:00wine: Freemark Abbey<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I stopped drinking wine when I started the IVF drugs. Oddly enough, I was totally ok with that. I know. <i>shocking</i>. </div>
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Anywho, we have frozen our embryos, so we've got a bit of time while I'm not on anything that we can open a bottle of wine, watch the Bachelor and enjoy. Man oh man this crop of girls is a trip. Don't tell me what's going on, we're a week behind...</div>
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Anyway, we figured if there's only going to be one bottle of wine opened between the meds, it better be a good one. Scratch that. A wow-wee I love what Napa produces type of wine. There are a lot of options when this is what you are looking for in a bottle of wine, but hello. We're doing IVF, it's not cheap and we've yet to find that tree that produces dollar bills. (still searching).</div>
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We stumbled upon Freemark Abbey a few years ago when Mike did a project about them for his MBA program. We drive past their winery all the time when we are in Napa, and all we've done is jump out of the car and take a picture of Mike in front of their sign. Seriously, next time we need to actually do a wine tasting. So many choices, not enough time. </div>
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But until we actually grace them with our presence. We did the next best thing by going to the grocery store and buying this bottle. I imagine it was around the $30-35 range, but I'm not sure. Mike was in charge of picking out the wines that night. Anyway, you'd think that since I'm so diligent with the blogging again (yes, by diligent, I mean 2 consecutive entries in one week. baby steps people.) I would have written notes about the bottle. Well I didn't. But I can tell you examples of what we probably said when we tasted it.</div>
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MMMMmmm</div>
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Delightful</div>
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splendid </div>
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Now, they know how to make a bottle of wine. </div>
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While you may not think that list tells you enough about the actual taste of the wine, I'll go into a bit more detail:</div>
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pairs well with: The Bachelor</div>
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color: Cabernet-colored</div>
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taste: mmmm, good. </div>
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Pretty much that can be translated into a great bottle of wine with plum, dark cherry, chocolate, peppery, oak, cedar, figs, dried herbs and great full body from start to finish. I lied, I didn't gather that from my description. I googled Freemark Abbey 2011 Cab and the fine folks and <a href="http://www.freemarkabbey.com/2011-CabernetSauvignon_" target="_blank">Freemark Abbey </a>gave me those suggestions. And sure enough, I remember every single note. </div>
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Oh yes, and they also told me I was wrong on the price -- it's $44 per bottle. </div>
<br />Ann E.http://www.blogger.com/profile/03374793989103298854noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510365940183158793.post-73778594326860829562015-02-04T22:51:00.001-08:002015-02-04T22:51:10.674-08:00hey hey!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Hello! I know I know. It's been months, years, decades since I've blogged. Let me explain...</div>
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I forgot my password. Yep. That's all. </div>
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well...</div>
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Well that was <i>part</i> of it. The other part was that I felt like I would have to address the fact that for the past 2 years I haven't felt like myself. My brain and body have been on baby-making mode and I was so very sad with the hand that we've been dealt. So very sad. Like piano on my back, weight of the world, too many tears shed on Mike's shoulder type of sad. And I cry GIANT ugly tears. My husband really really loves me. :) </div>
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Well, 1 surgery, 3 failed IUI attempts and a bathroom vanity FULL of medications, we are now half way through IVF, I can say I am feeling so so so much more like myself than I have been for the past 2 years of monthly sadness. I like plans, I like lists, IVF has given me this. I get to check things off a list and watch the really expensive medications dwindle. These are the joys of my life right now and I couldn't be happier that we are making our way towards a baby. I know we aren't there yet, but I feel more positive about our journey than ever before. This is our journey, we trust that a little bundle of joy will end up in our arms exactly that the time that God decides.</div>
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This. will. happen. </div>
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So, that's why I've been avoiding you. It's not you. It's me. For 2 years, that conversation in the above would have lead to buckets of tears. Now, I don't have a single Kleenex within arms reach. Actually that's not true, I am my mother's daughter, there always seems to be a used Kleenex in my pocket. </div>
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And so now that we've got that out in the open (and I've figured out how to access ye ol' blog again) I hope to stop by more often, and I hope you do too. </div>
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Until then, Mike and I were due for new phones and finally upgraded to the iPhone 6. Hello, the cameras on these babies are amaze-balls! like, whoa-i-can't-stop-taking-selfies-I-must-be-a-teenager-again-this-camera-is-fantastic type of camera. So, because I'm totally cray cray over the selfie camera, we've been taking nightly family selfies. It might just need it's own hashtag. </div>
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<br />Ann E.http://www.blogger.com/profile/03374793989103298854noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510365940183158793.post-23131586168530104302014-09-18T00:00:00.000-07:002014-09-18T00:00:07.182-07:00yep, you could say she likes it...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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While walking through Costco a month or so ago, I saw this dog bed with a westie on the tag and thought, "OMG, Barkley would love this!" But I didn't buy it because I hate to go to Costco and come home with 12,000 extra things, typically I still do come home with 12000 extra things but the three flights of stairs and the full cart are enough to make me think twice if I really <i>really</i> need something. </div>
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This time however, I kept thinking of this bed. I knew that Barkley would love it and so I finally gave in and ordered it. The bed was delivered last week and while it took Barkley a few minutes to figure out that she should jump in, she did and you know because there are 1137 pictures of Barkley on my phone at all times, I had to take a picture of her in her new bed... you know for the grandparents. :) I'm also thinking that if the Costco dog moves onto bigger things (like the Cesar dogwood commercials) I think Barkley could stand in at a moment's notice.</div>
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{photo credit for the<a href="http://www.costco.com/Kirkland-Signature%E2%84%A2-24-%22-Snuggler-Pet-Bed--.product.100082989.html" target="_blank"> Costco dog bed</a> -- or in case you need to buy one too!}</div>
<a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/" style="background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 42px; line-height: 0; min-height: 20px; min-width: 40px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 234px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/" style="background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 42px; line-height: 0; min-height: 20px; min-width: 40px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 234px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a>Ann E.http://www.blogger.com/profile/03374793989103298854noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510365940183158793.post-25350154323266384682014-09-16T14:33:00.000-07:002014-09-16T14:33:05.544-07:00ready for a parade<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
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OK, I'm a bit late...this post was supposed to be timely for the 4th of July...however I didn't realize that I never published it. I whipped up this bandana while Mike and Barkley were napping on the couch right before we went to our local 4th of July parade. The best part is that it fits right onto her collar so she really doesn't ever realize that she's wearing it. Although who am I kidding, this dog loves to wear clothes.</div>
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...and a selfie for good measure. </div>
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Ann E.http://www.blogger.com/profile/03374793989103298854noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510365940183158793.post-71846934083281167872014-08-21T11:08:00.000-07:002014-08-21T11:08:00.289-07:00a little hometown + alma mater pride<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BqYtKLomGqk/U_Tg0jVLwcI/AAAAAAAAD0Q/zY3cpngRGPQ/s1600/FARIBAULT_WIS2_A2_large.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BqYtKLomGqk/U_Tg0jVLwcI/AAAAAAAAD0Q/zY3cpngRGPQ/s1600/FARIBAULT_WIS2_A2_large.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.tailgateclothing.com/products/wisconsin-badgers-wool-blanket" target="_blank">Wisconsin Badgers Wool Blanket </a></div>
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So I was just browsing <a href="http://www.tailgateclothing.com/" target="_blank">Tailgate</a> today to see what's new and I came across this Badger blanket that looked like something the Faribault Woolen Mills would make. So I clicked on the blanket to check it out even closer and sure enough! My hometown of Faribault MN is stamped right on the blanket! Way to go! Growing up, we always had a bunch of woolen mills blankets around the house and still today; we have a few we received for our wedding and my graduation in our apartment. They are such great blankets. The <a href="http://www.faribaultmill.com/" target="_blank">Faribault Woolen Mills</a> has been featured nationally in Martha Stewart and West Elm and every time I see it, I'm pretty excited. </div>
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(hence the need to blog about it.) </div>
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Can I also mention that UW - Madison was rated as one of the top 25 universities in the <i>world</i>!?! I'd like to point this out because Notre Dame (the school that all my siblings went to - they don't even read my blog but I still <b><u>need</u></b> to point this fact out) was NOT on the top 25 list. But just to make sure you don't feel left out of <i>everything</i>. Tailgate does feature 2 different Woolen Mills blankets for you. <br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DWcjpdxoubE/U_Tjj90Ws8I/AAAAAAAAD0Y/8NmtorjC2O4/s1600/FARIBAULT_NDM_A_large.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DWcjpdxoubE/U_Tjj90Ws8I/AAAAAAAAD0Y/8NmtorjC2O4/s1600/FARIBAULT_NDM_A_large.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.tailgateclothing.com/products/notre-dame-tartan-blanket" target="_blank">ND Tartan Blanket</a></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fzktz7KLeVk/U_Tj2qZdKdI/AAAAAAAAD0g/_rPg3LvnAAA/s1600/FARIBAULT_MIC_A2_large.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fzktz7KLeVk/U_Tj2qZdKdI/AAAAAAAAD0g/_rPg3LvnAAA/s1600/FARIBAULT_MIC_A2_large.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.tailgateclothing.com/products/notre-dame-wool-blanket" target="_blank">ND Wool Blanket</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/" style="background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 153px; line-height: 0; min-height: 20px; min-width: 40px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 964px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/" style="background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 153px; line-height: 0; min-height: 20px; min-width: 40px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 964px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a>Ann E.http://www.blogger.com/profile/03374793989103298854noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510365940183158793.post-85343270427514542272014-08-20T10:33:00.004-07:002014-08-20T10:33:58.883-07:00workout your workout (clothes)<div style="text-align: justify;">
Ok, first of all -- Hello! Seriously, in my head, I feel like I've come up with some many blog posts - like about the wineries we went to when we played hooky from work a few weeks ago or my birthday week or the books I've read or our trip to MN...but instead it's been all quiet on the blogging front. I do apologize. I am going to try to be more chatty here on the blog. </div>
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I'm a big fan of doing yoga and running. (Not at the same time... duh!)</div>
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No, I really like to run on the hottest days of the year (which are right now) for some reason I don't mind running at the late afternoon when it's still 100 degrees. It helps that we don't have high humidity but still it's hot...and I like it. While I've never tried Hot Yoga, I'd probably like that too. Especially because that would mean getting some hot yoga clothes, which are obviously different than regular yoga clothes. (I might, just might, have an addiction to lycra, but it's ok. First step is admitting it.)</div>
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To aid in my addiction, I recently tried out Kate Hudson's new line of clothing - <a href="http://www.fabletics.com/invite/52220336/" target="_blank">Fabletics</a>. I have been so impressed. When you sign up you get an outfit for 50% off and free shipping (SCORE!) so it basically runs you about $25 for a complete outfit (you can't even find a sports bra for $25 most places, and you get 2-3 pieces for $25!). I mean, c'mon, you might as well sign up just for the one outfit and then you can quit right after that (this is what I thought, but you know...ahem, <i>lycra addiction,</i> cough cough.) I am going to try not to purchase something every month, and just build out my errand running, Barkley walking, lounging nightly wardrobe with a few pieces here and there - like for instance, I might have just gone over board at Athleta with a few new pairs of capri tights for my birthday, so I'm good with the bottoms. I just need some cute tops to go along with it, which is why I also purchased a sweatshirt/sports bra combo. </div>
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<a href="http://www.fabletics.com/index.cfm?action=home.product_public_lp&ha=ACEFF50C43CAABE1B7658D2A84BCBA46&pid=3724051" target="_blank">Belize</a></div>
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I loved this green tank so much for running that I purchased it in black too. They are super light weight, and fitted but not too fitted that while you are working out you feel like you need to suck it in because your shirt is glued to you. The running skort is super cute too - the little fancy pants underneath are of the same multicolored pattern that the waist band is. Which was a fun surprise. I love running in skorts, in fact I don't think I've run in my running shorts all summer, the skorts are way more comfortable and less constricting. And as a bonus, if you need to run to your financial advisor's office before going for a run, you can, just toss a motorcycle jacket over the top of your running tank/running skort combo and you look normal...speaking from experience.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XlIH-VG_3Jg/U_TZRk6AedI/AAAAAAAAD0A/CiPDF1DJOfk/s1600/photo%2B1.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XlIH-VG_3Jg/U_TZRk6AedI/AAAAAAAAD0A/CiPDF1DJOfk/s1600/photo%2B1.PNG" height="320" width="187" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.fabletics.com/index.cfm?action=home.product_public_lp&ha=5D5A64BE1295236AE1173A4520BE0044&pid=1022551" target="_blank">Bay</a></div>
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This sweatshirt is super cute on - great length and color. And, I'm in love with this sports bra. It's not a sports bra to run in for me, it'll be more for lounging in the evenings and yoga.<br />
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Everything that I've purchased has been high quality, pretty much on par with Athleta or Lululemon (which by the way, I may have an addiction to yoga clothes, but I have to draw a line in the sand someplace, Lululemon's clothes are just plain old too pricey for me to justify an entire yoga wardrobe. That said, I did just get my first Lululemon jacket for my birthday from Mike - he's the best. Sensing a theme here? There was a lot of lycra purchased for this girl's #34 year.) Anyway, the <a href="http://www.fabletics.com/invite/52220336/" target="_blank">Fabletics</a> clothes are the right price, they have great designs, and are made well and I'll be a fan for life. </div>
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If you want to join, help a sista out! Everytime a friend (like you!) joins, the recommender (me) will get $10 to use on a future purchase. How great is that?!?! I know! Now you need to join and then tell all your friends so that they can help you buy another outfit. And because I'd feel bad if I didn't tell you all the fine print (no, I'm not long long sisters with Kate Hudson), when you join, you are then sent a monthly email with outfits picked out just for you on the 1st of the month. You have until the 5th of the month to say if you want to pass that month or if you are going to make a purchase. I don't think that you need to make that purchase within the first 5 days, but by day 6 if you haven't said you are going to pass for the month, you will be charged a specific amount -- which doesn't just vanish into thin air or sent straight to the man who invented lycra, it's applied to your next purchase. Just wanted to give you the complete 411. I (obviously) haven't cancelled my membership, but if you want to, you just have to call their customer service line. I've done this for other clothing memberships in the past and they always seem to be nice and understanding, not pushy in any way. So you don't have to worry that you are going to be stuck in a gym membership like Chandler from Friends. Aww yes, it was a great one. </div>
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Oh yes, and here's my <a href="http://www.fabletics.com/invite/52220336/" target="_blank">Fabletics link</a>. Enjoy!<br />
<a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/" style="background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 259px; line-height: 0; min-height: 20px; min-width: 40px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 968px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/" style="background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 259px; line-height: 0; min-height: 20px; min-width: 40px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 968px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/" style="background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 259px; line-height: 0; min-height: 20px; min-width: 40px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 968px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/" style="background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 259px; line-height: 0; min-height: 20px; min-width: 40px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 968px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a>Ann E.http://www.blogger.com/profile/03374793989103298854noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510365940183158793.post-63326253099329525032014-05-22T09:01:00.002-07:002014-05-22T09:01:45.262-07:00new at 52nd & Barkley {lovie blankets}Great things continue to happen in the Etsy shop. I know I've said it before and I'll continue to say it again, but the ideas of my friends/customers are always fantastic! Recently I made a custom gift set which included two lovie blankets for twin girls. I loved how they turned out and then not even a week after they were sent, a great supporter/friend/customer (she wears many hats) asked that I make one for her little guy too! I am so loving all the ideas and I love that I can bring them to life. I think the blankie holds a special place in my heart because I kept mine for so very long. (I still check on it when I go home to my mom and dad's house. Yes, I know I'm 33.75 years old, but c'mon, blankies are special! Mine was made by some ladies in my hometown and given to my mom as a baby shower gift, so I thoroughly understand the meaning behind creating something special and thus creating amazing memories.) I'm getting a bit deep here, sorry about that. Anywho, let's talk about stegosauruses. Yep, totally a normal transition in my book...<br />
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These <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/52ndandBarkley?section_id=13765696&ref=shopsection_leftnav_5" target="_blank">lovies </a>range in size from about 18 inches square to about 24 inches square...depending on the blanket, so they are great for little ones to snuggle with and carry with them (are you thinking of Linus from Charlie Brown right now too?) So these lovie blankets are smaller than my normal size blankets which usually measure around 36 - 42 inches square. <br />
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<span style="text-align: center;">{jump to<a href="http://www.52ndandbarkley.etsy.com/" target="_blank"> 52nd & Barkley</a> to check out the entire shop}</span></div>
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<br />Ann E.http://www.blogger.com/profile/03374793989103298854noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510365940183158793.post-84739810233513058642014-05-20T21:46:00.001-07:002014-05-20T21:46:25.273-07:00maui<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
Oh my goodness, we were in Maui TWO months ago! Where, oh dear, where does the time go?!? We had a fantastic time and truthfully, I've spent the last two month in denial that our paradise vacation is over. I loved it there. Absolutely loved it. I hate to admit it but part of me thought before our trip that I wasn't sure how much I was going to like Hawaii. </div>
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Oh, how wrong I was. </div>
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Seriously. I was worried that I'd be bored. Totally not the case. I have to admit I perfected the art of "doing nothing". We had high hopes of getting up early to see the sunrise at the top of the volcano and then mountain bike down. We also thought that we would zip line through the jungle. Neither of which we actually did because: you had to wake up at 2:00 am. I'm sorry but Rule #1 for my vacations are no alarm clocks. Maybe in future trips to Maui we will do adventurous things but this vacation called for a lot of book reading and relaxation. (Both of which were accomplished daily.) We did however go to a Luau, which was really cool.</div>
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The flight was a breeze - Oakland to Maui direct flight (less time than flying to Milwaukee!) and we were there. We stayed at the Westin (not the villas, the other one) in Kaanapali. I cannot say enough fantastic things about the Westin. First of all, they gave Mike food poisoning on his birthday (not a good thing) but the chef in charge of all the Westin restaurants contacted Mike himself to apologize. I love awesome customer service. You may have taken an entire day away from my husband's vacation but your customer service is the bomb dignity. I'm sold and a devoted customer for life. </div>
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Ok moving on, the Westin was great. Awesome beach, that was perfect for snorkeling (which I will talk about in a bit), and directly next door to an outdoor mall (we like malls) but more importantly, the mall had an ice cream shop and 3 great restaurants, which means we didn't get into our car for 5 full days. (This in and of itself was a vacation for my dear husband who typically spends 4-5 hours a day in rush hour traffic. For reals, I'm not exaggerating. He has highway barnacles* growing on him by the end of the work week.)</div>
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*there's no such thing as highway barnacles.</div>
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anyway, the Westin was an awesome location and it had a fantastic pool area -- Four pools in fact meant that you didn't have to be sitting next to the pool listening to kids playing Marco Polo (Well you could, if you wanted but one of the pools was for adults only. We hung out by that pool all week.) </div>
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Now let's discuss my panic attacks while snorkeling. I have panic attacks while snorkeling. </div>
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Yep. The end. </div>
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Really there isn't much to discuss but the older and older I get, the more I realize that any body of water that I swim in, must be highly chlorinated (you know, as in, no currents or rogue waves, no animals with fins, gills, teeth, with pretty tiled walls, clean and clear water and nothing evident on the floor, etc.) As it turns out, a girl that grew up in a swimming pool will only swim in a swimming pool. I'm evidence of that. It's all good though, I was a lifeguard while in college, so I could, if I wanted, swim in any sort of water. But I've decided, that nope, I don't really want to. The good thing is that I was still able to see some really colorful fish during my short time in the water and Mike really really liked it. He went out multiple times since it was so easy to see sea turtles and fish directly out from our hotel. It was a good thing for him to do while I was soaking in the sunshine. </div>
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{westin pool #1 with water slide} Ok, since I labeled this one pool #1, you might be thinking that I'm going to show you pictures of pools 2, 3 and 4...let's just pretend I took pictures of those pools. They were pretty too, just take my word for it. </div>
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{view from our room} </div>
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{i call this one, "Sunset and a boat"}<br />
original, I know!</div>
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{the best of both worlds- just down the beach from our hotel was an area that got pretty nice size waves. I thought about taking a surfing lesson, but it got in the way of napping, reading and having nothing on the agenda. next time, watch out. I'm going to do some activities...unless the "nothing on the agenda" is available because that was really, really nice. You also might say to yourself, "but AnnE, the ocean doesn't have chlorine", to which I would reply, "sometimes there are loopholes to my rules."} </div>
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{this is my view when I looked up from reading my book by the pool. it's a wonder how I read 4 books while I was there.}</div>
<br />Ann E.http://www.blogger.com/profile/03374793989103298854noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510365940183158793.post-31807405165658371272014-05-13T15:53:00.002-07:002014-05-13T15:53:28.660-07:00recipe: fishwich sandwiches aka fastest dinner start-to-finish in the "world of making dinners" categoryMike and I like to try and get fish into our<a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pacificspecific/recipes-lunch-dinner/" target="_blank"> weekly meals </a>as much as possible. Rarely, and I mean rarely is there ever a red meat meal (partly because I don't eat it and partly because Mike is slowly becoming less and less of a red meat fan - win for me!) My problem with fish dinners is that:<br />
1) I love salmon, but only salmon cooked the way my mom makes it. I haven't perfected that meal yet and it usually results in a meltdown, therefore, I unfortunately stay away from making salmon.<br />
2) Tilapia can be bland and boring and I usually over cook it...until last night when I had Mario Batali's voice in my head (more on that later).<br />
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Anywho, Rachael Ray made this fishwich sandwich once on her show (which I typically fast forward all the way until the cooking segments to see if she has any great ideas and her arm flailing while interviewing people can be a bit over the top, but she's got some good ideas in the kitchen - this sandwich was her best yet!) I've made it a couple of times, using cod, but Whole Foods didn't have any cod that was thawed out yesterday so I went with the tilapia. This is where I had Mario Batali's voice in my head... he told me (yep, just me, well...maybe more than just me, but I was keenly aware that I should be listening intently) that you should cook fish 80% of the way through on side 1, then flip fish to side 2 and cook for just a real short period of time (i.e. the other 20%, I'm <i>really</i> good at math). This eliminated the "AnnE overcooked the fish again" complaint (by me - very rarely does Mike ever complain, unless it's real real bad in which case, we usually both feel that way and find ourselves tossing out dinner and making pb&j or running to Jack in the Box for an oreo shake - because when dinner goes bad at home, you might as well skip directly to dessert, but that really doesn't happen much unless it's a new recipe that went horribly wrong.) The fish was tender, not fishy (Mario also told me that when you over cook the fish it tends to become more fishy. That Mario, he's one heck of a smart man.)<br />
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Also, can I tell you that if you want to make a salad with this meal, you should probably assign that job to someone else, or make it before you start working on the fish, because this meal is made and on the table before you can blink 77 times (i.e. pretty flippin' quick). Also good to note, if you can find a brioche bun - buy it. This fish is flaky and doesn't need to be over powered by a dense bun. The brioche hamburger buns at Whole Foods hold up well and are really delicious. <br />
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<a href="http://www.rachaelrayshow.com/recipe/12663_Fishwiches/index.html" target="_blank">Fishwiches by Rachael Ray</a> (changes made in italics by me):<br />
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<span style="font-family: Times; mso-bidi-font-family: Times;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Originally aired July 2, 2013<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: Times;">INGREDIENTS</span><span style="font-family: Times;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">For
the Slaw: <i>(we aren't "slaw" people so I have not made this, but I thought I'd include it just in case you are)</i><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 2;"> </span>1/4
cup cider vinegar<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 2;"> </span>2
tablespoons light <a href="http://www.rachaelrayshow.com/recipe/search/index.html?question=agave+syrup&lc=int_mb_1001"><span style="color: windowtext; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">agave syrup</span></a>
or acacia <a href="http://www.rachaelrayshow.com/recipe/search/index.html?question=honey&lc=int_mb_1001"><span style="color: windowtext; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">honey</span></a><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 2;"> </span>1
teaspoon celery seed<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 2;"> </span>Salt,
to taste<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 2;"> </span>2
tablespoons canola oil<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 2;"> </span>1
small head iceberg lettuce or young white cabbage, shredded</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small; text-indent: -0.5in;">For the Fish Sandwiches:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 2;"> </span>1
tablespoon olive oil or canola oil<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 2;"> </span>1 cup
flour<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 2;"> </span>Salt
and pepper<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 2;"> </span>1
teaspoon <a href="http://www.rachaelrayshow.com/recipe/search/index.html?question=garlic&lc=int_mb_1001"><span style="color: windowtext; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">garlic</span></a>
powder or granulated garlic<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 2;"> </span>1
teaspoon Old Bay Seasoning <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">(2 teaspoons ā
I really like it)</i><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 2;"> </span>2
large eggs<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 2;"> </span>1
teaspoon Tabasco <a href="http://www.rachaelrayshow.com/recipe/search/index.html?question=sauce&lc=int_mb_1001"><span style="color: windowtext; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">sauce</span></a>
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">(2 generous squirts of Sriacha)</i><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 2;"> </span><a href="http://www.rachaelrayshow.com/recipe/search/index.html?question=juice&lc=int_mb_1001"><span style="color: windowtext; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">Juice</span></a>
of 1 <a href="http://www.rachaelrayshow.com/recipe/search/index.html?question=lemon&lc=int_mb_1001"><span style="color: windowtext; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">lemon</span></a><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: 11.0pt .5in; text-autospace: none; text-indent: -.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 2;"> </span>4
filets of sustainable white fish, such as sole or tilapia<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: 11.0pt .5in; text-autospace: none; text-indent: -.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 2;"> </span>2 to
3 tablespoons butter, to saute fish and butter griddled rolls<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: 11.0pt .5in; text-autospace: none; text-indent: -.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 2;"> </span>4
brioche rolls, split and griddle-toasted<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: Times;">PREPARATION</span><span style="font-family: Times;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">For the slaw, combine dressing ingredients together
and toss with lettuce or cabbage. Chill until ready to serve.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="font-family: Times;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Heat oil over medium to medium-high heat in a large
skillet. Season the flour with salt, pepper, <a href="http://www.rachaelrayshow.com/recipe/search/index.html?question=garlic&lc=int_mb_1001"><span style="color: windowtext; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">garlic</span></a>
and Old Bay. Beat eggs with Tabasco and <a href="http://www.rachaelrayshow.com/recipe/search/index.html?question=lemon&lc=int_mb_1001"><span style="color: windowtext; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">lemon</span></a>
<a href="http://www.rachaelrayshow.com/recipe/search/index.html?question=juice&lc=int_mb_1001"><span style="color: windowtext; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">juice</span></a>.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Melt 2 tablespoons butter into the oil. When it
foams, swirl it around the pan. Coat fish in flour then eggs and add to pan,
two at a time. Saut fish until golden, 2-3 minutes on each side.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Lightly butter and griddle rolls.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Serve fish on rolls with a little slaw on top and
salt-and-vinegar <a href="http://www.rachaelrayshow.com/recipe/search/index.html?question=chips&lc=int_mb_1001"><span style="color: windowtext; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">chips</span></a>
alongside.</span><span style="font-size: 16pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
...........................................................................................................<br />
<br />
This is a really great delicious and super quick weeknight meal, especially for the summer months - it's May 13th and we are already in the triple digits, clearly Mother Nature has decided May is now a "summer month", I would beg to differ and by <i>literally</i> begging, please please, hold off on the heat! I do believe this will be one of those meals that we are going to have a LOT. Ann E.http://www.blogger.com/profile/03374793989103298854noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510365940183158793.post-18502508936659513072014-04-22T20:37:00.000-07:002014-04-22T20:37:01.416-07:00SPRING {cleaning}it's earth day! yahoo!<br />
and what's a better way to celebrate the earth than to make non-toxic cleaning supplies using recycled spray bottles! double yahoo!<br />
<br />
here's the deal:<br />
I really like making my own cleaning supplies for several reasons:<br />
1. My college minor of Environmental Science is feeling fulfilled when I reuse an old bottle and not buy a new one at the store.<br />
2. I think vinegar is a super hero in the cleaning world.<br />
3. Although I really love the smell of chlorine (and I have to admit every few weeks, I do clean with the bleach-y stuff to get that smell back), but overall I think the smell of lavender is much more lovely, and it doesn't really feel like I'm cleaning*.<br />
<div style="text-align: right;">
*yes, yes it does. I'm kidding, I just tell myself that I'm not cleaning.</div>
4. You really don't have to buy any weird ingredients to make your own cleaning products. Well, you might think that essential oils might be a little weird, but you can buy a small bottle at Whole Foods for about $8 and it'll last FOR<i>ever</i>.<br />
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I have two more caveats:<br />
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1. Tea tree oil is a great essential oil to have in your repertoire (I also have eucalyptus and lavender - both very nice too, in case you were very curious.) But the Tea Tree oil is a beast - not only that it smells minty fresh but it also kills bacteria. So I'm a big fan of adding it to any homemade cleaning supply. I mean, why not?<br />
2. Castille soap is awesome. I love the smell of the lavender version. <a href="http://www.liverenewed.com/2010/02/change-challenge-kids-other-personal-care-products.html">Castille soap </a>has more uses than I know what to do with, just click on the link, the possibilities are endless! Endless, I tell you. (Umm...I love this soap, but I do not think I will ever use it to brush my teeth. I like to be green, but I have limits.) Castille soap is super concentrated so you only need a very little bit in any of these recipes and the bottle is gigantic so it'll last forever. <br />
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OK, now that we've covered that...<br />
Here's what I use:<br />
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<u>Shower cleaning spray:</u><br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QaUOi1HJVx4/UyoU0xiAzTI/AAAAAAAADi8/dTKV-FjI8nk/s1600/IMG_3051.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QaUOi1HJVx4/UyoU0xiAzTI/AAAAAAAADi8/dTKV-FjI8nk/s1600/IMG_3051.JPG" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
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[Equal Parts Blue Dawn dish soap + Distilled White Vinegar]</div>
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We inherited some nasty shower doors when we moved into our apartment and believe you me, I tried every single shower door cleaner I could find to clean them. None of them worked nearly as well as my homemade version. Seriously, it's amazing how well it works! This was the first cleaner that I made and totally sold me on making my own cleaning products.<br />
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All you need is an empty spray bottle. Fill half of it with blue Dawn Soap (yes, blue. I have no idea why, but stop asking questions and just make it) and the other half with distilled white vinegar. This spray lasts for a long time, I think I've been making this spray for a few years and I just had to buy a new bottle of Dawn, so I might have this GIANT bottle of soap until my children (that I don't have) are 75 years old, but it was the only size that Target had. And to make matters worse, I actually already had a small bottle of Dawn hiding behind the garbage bin under the sink, so now you can count on coming over to my apartment anytime you need to make your shower cleaner because, MY GOODNESS, do I have a stash!<br />
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<a href="http://www.allthingsgd.com/2014/03/make-your-own-money-saving-cleaning-products/">Homemade Soft Scrub:</a><br />
1 2/3 cup Baking Soda<br />
10 drops of Tea Tree Oil<br />
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I found a version of this on Pinterest a year or so ago but I put it in a spray bottle (which wasn't a good idea, it's too thick.) So when I saw Dusty make her own soft scrub in a jar, my mind was blown. Hello! What was I thinking, how did I not think of that?!?<br />
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<a href="http://www.liverenewed.com/2012/10/31-days-to-green-clean-homemade-disinfecting-wipes-updated.html">Homemade Wipes:</a><br />
Mike goes through undershirts like Barkley goes through stuffed bunnies (which is fast, in case you were wondering. She'll find the weakest point in the stuffed bunny and exploit it.) So we have a lot of t-shirt rags piling up. Dusty made homemade wipes and I thought, what a perfect use up of the undershirts! Plus, we have more mason jars than we know what to do with (the local honey that we buy comes in mason jars). I did some research on the other links Dusty had about making your own wipes and decided to try the version that used Castille soap (you know, I've got a bottle of it that I'm <i>dying </i>to use.) These wipes are awesome, I've nearly finished the first batch that I made earlier this week already. One thing to note: they are really sudsy, which came to a surprise on the first use, but I just rinsed out the wipe with water and re-wiped the kitchen counters and that was all I needed to do. And using the same wipe, I was able to wash the kitchen floor. (Our kitchen is the size of a postage stamp - the 64 cent kind.) Plus, it's cutting down our paper towel usage - AWESOME!<br />
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All Purpose Spray {picture a spray bottle with clear liquids inside}:<br />
Vinegar + Water + Tea Tree Oil<br />
This one is the mecca of all sprays. All you need is another empty spray bottle and fill it up with equal parts vinegar and water. Then, add about 8-10 drops of tea tree oil. Shake, spray, clean. Vinegar and water is a good spray to clean windows and mirrors. I haven't tried it with the tea tree oil added in. We'll see, I'll let you know next time I clean the windows...just FYI, I rarely clean the windows. We can't get the outsides of any of our windows and the apartment company doesn't clean them, so this is the one area of cleaning that I say, screw it. I mean, I can clean the inside all I want and they still look dirty. When we have a house though, watch out, I've got 5 years of no-outside-window-cleaning-energy pent up and ready to burst. Actually, I'm not so sure about that. You could also say that since I haven't raked leaves in 5+ years, I'm bursting at the seams to do that too, but, I'm not.Ann E.http://www.blogger.com/profile/03374793989103298854noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510365940183158793.post-58409183641412874962014-04-18T03:30:00.000-07:002014-04-18T03:30:01.593-07:00bedazzling the deck<div style="text-align: justify;">
I've had geraniums blooming on our deck for nearly 2 years straight - same plants! But I think they've either maxed out their lifespan or the "cold" weather and loads of rain in short periods of time have really gotten to them. So now it's time to start fresh with the plants on the deck. </div>
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I've tried starting plants from seed and I don't think I'm diligent enough to water at the right times and right amounts because I always seem like I'm killing those poor little seedlings.</div>
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I'm pretty sure when walking through Home Depot's garden center that Geraniums are in the "I need full sun" category. But our deck has minimal sun and they do just fine. However, most of the other plants that I bought the first year I was planting on our deck that were in the "full sun" category actually needed full sun and died soon after. So I like to stick to the partial sun or shady plants. And since I prefer to not have our neighbors peer inside our living room every time they are taking their dog out, I like full plants that provide a bit of privacy. </div>
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Right now we are a plethora (meaning 3, sometimes I just want to use that word) of ferns. So we're good there. I like ferns, they do well in the shade but to me, they are kind of boring. We also have some herb that I have no idea what it is but I let it go to seed so I haven't used it (I'm pretty sure if you want it to keep producing the herbs you aren't supposed to let it go to seed, oops.) I think it might have been some sort of fancy oregano (not really fancy but it has some adjective describing the oregano that I can't remember.) SeƱor fancy oregano has done well in the shade but since I rarely use fresh oregano in anything I cook, I would like to actually grow herbs that would be useful in the kitchen (and hello! cheaper than buying the fresh herbs at the grocery store.) I did a little research and decided that chives, parsley and thyme are all good herbs that can handle the shade. I actually keep this planter in the one spot that gets morning sun pretty well, so i guess it usually has a good few hours of sun a day. </div>
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I just added a few succulents. Again my technique of over watering might be the death of these cute little plants. I'm going to hold back from watering in hopes that they think they are living in the Sahara. {Fingers crossed} Once summer rolls around, pretty sure they'll excel in our 112 degree dry heat - they will be the only ones excelling in that heat, while Barkley, Mike and I huddle around the air conditioning vent.</div>
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Aside from plants on the railing, I've always liked the idea of a living wall. Wouldn't it be cool to add this to the side of your house? We can't nail into our outside walls, otherwise I'd be all over something like this <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/128842071/upcycled-and-elegant-round-xl-living?ref=sr_gallery_9&ga_search_query=living+wall&ga_ship_to=US&ga_search_type=all&ga_view_type=gallery">round living planter </a>from <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/nevastarr?ref=l2-shopheader-name">nevastarr</a>. </div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UjEuwRfGRXc/UxeEGiW3g-I/AAAAAAAADbw/cA1dylgAxA8/s1600/il_570xN.364428897_6ona.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UjEuwRfGRXc/UxeEGiW3g-I/AAAAAAAADbw/cA1dylgAxA8/s1600/il_570xN.364428897_6ona.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/128842071/upcycled-and-elegant-round-xl-living?ref=sr_gallery_9&ga_search_query=living+wall&ga_ship_to=US&ga_search_type=all&ga_view_type=gallery">{photo credit and planter for sale - here}</a></div>
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Or how about this sweet planter from the Etsy shop <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/RopedOnCedar?ref=l2-shopheader-name">Roped on Cedar.</a> The dog totally sold me on this planter. :) </div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2SNXrKN7iVU/UxeDIjoay3I/AAAAAAAADbs/SET8rA-ITdw/s1600/il_570xN.441837131_1k4o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2SNXrKN7iVU/UxeDIjoay3I/AAAAAAAADbs/SET8rA-ITdw/s1600/il_570xN.441837131_1k4o.jpg" height="640" width="546" /></a></div>
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{photo credit and planter for sale - <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/124643993/2-3-or-4-36-gardening-planters-gardening?ref=shop_home_feat_3">here</a>}</div>
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And then of course you don't always have to have plants to spunk up the deck. You can add other stuff, like our turtle named Soup. </div>
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Or this little guy. I think I really, really need to find a spot for this little pocket gnome.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aWXhfu2k4aU/UxeFALbVU9I/AAAAAAAADb8/SPNhye1oTmk/s1600/il_570xN.424102437_b7ju.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aWXhfu2k4aU/UxeFALbVU9I/AAAAAAAADb8/SPNhye1oTmk/s1600/il_570xN.424102437_b7ju.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
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{photo credit and gnome sold - <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/101096338/pocket-gnome-garden-gnome-lawn-gnome?ref=sr_gallery_5&ga_search_query=garden+gnome&ga_ship_to=US&ga_ref=auto12&ga_search_type=all&ga_view_type=gallery">here</a>}</div>
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Ann E.http://www.blogger.com/profile/03374793989103298854noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510365940183158793.post-5159043249110094642014-04-17T15:19:00.000-07:002014-04-17T15:19:06.778-07:00new at 52nd & Barkley!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I have to give a <b><span style="font-size: large;">huge</span></b> shout out to <a href="http://angelltrails.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Kerri</a> for suggesting that I start making these drool pads for the <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/52ndandBarkley?ref=si_shop" target="_blank">shop</a>. I had such a great time making them. I'm not really sure why because I've used a lot of these fabrics in different ways but I think the "good things come in small packages" idea springs to mind. That, and I'm a sucker for a good tool so getting to use the snap pliers was right up my alley.</div>
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These drool pads fit any baby carrier like an Ergo or Baby Bjorn with straps up to 4 inches wide. Just snap the drool pads on, let the baby snuggle the minky side or the cotton side, or one of each - drool, nap or play with the ribbon loops. Speaking of ribbon loops, it's like having 14 extra arms to entertain baby! (ok, maybe not 14, rather 6.) Just attach a ring with their favorite toy. Sweet! </div>
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Another added benefit (other than growing more limbs) is that you don't have to wash your carrier every time they've been drooling all over it. Just unsnap the drool pads, toss in the wash and line dry and </div>
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Jump on over to my shop to check out the <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/52ndandBarkley?section_id=15325603&ref=shopsection_leftnav_9" style="text-align: center;" target="_blank">{drool pads}</a>.</div>
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Can I also just mention that there are amazing people that shop on Etsy? Occasionally I'll get a customer that's looking for something specific that I don't have in my shop yet. Their ideas are wonderful, and sometimes so incredibly simple {like making gift packs out of two separate items I have already listed in the shop}. Which is why some of the drool pad sets are now being sold with pacifier clips - for a matching baby accessory set. How fun is that?!? </div>
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So I thank you from the bottom of my heart for the suggestions -- and keep them coming! Just like I told this customer, not being a mama myself, I need to rely on the ideas of new moms to help keep making relevant baby items for 52nd & Barkley. I really and truly appreciate it. </div>
Ann E.http://www.blogger.com/profile/03374793989103298854noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510365940183158793.post-9491111123252045482014-04-17T15:06:00.002-07:002014-04-17T15:06:22.275-07:00my feeling's precisely...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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oh dear. i told you that i was going to blog daily...and I haven't. One million pardons! This Lego head from one of our Bloomberg Businessweek magazine that's been sitting in the magazine rack for quite some time* shows you my facial expressions at the moment. I <i>promise. </i>I'm working on many many posts all weekend long. Easter might be right around the corner, but I'm blogging daily from now until 2099**.<br />
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*also behind on our magazine reading.<br />
**Maybe not that long, but a really really long time.Ann E.http://www.blogger.com/profile/03374793989103298854noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510365940183158793.post-50475218611747979042014-04-03T15:11:00.003-07:002014-04-03T15:11:46.483-07:00fancifiedhi again.<br />
it's me. (yep, just in case you were confused.)<br />
I just wanted to point out to you that I figured out how to put those super-sweet-all-the-cool-kid's blogs-have-them social media icons. (ahem, look over onto the right sidebar of the page, you can find me in all sorts of different places, now!) I may not be a cool kid with 7 billion followers, but you are reading this and you are cool (hi mom) so I figured I could do a little jazzing up of the ye old blog with some social media connections for you to enjoy.
that's all.<br />
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XO, AnnE<br />
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And because every post needs a picture... I can't pass this one up.<br />
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{just your average internet-savvy westie tooling around on the iPad}</div>
Ann E.http://www.blogger.com/profile/03374793989103298854noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510365940183158793.post-46046919169859176712014-04-03T10:26:00.001-07:002014-04-03T10:26:21.649-07:00there's a new Philatelist in town<a href="http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/philatelist">Philatelist</a>: (noun) a person or studies or collect postage stamps (according to Merriam Webster)<br />
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Additionally, you could just look up my name because I might just be the newest philatelist in town...because of these babies!<br />
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Hello <a href="https://store.usps.com/store/browse/productDetailSingleSku.jsp?categoryNavIds=catBuyStamps%3asubcatS_S_45cFirstClass&categoryNav=false&navAction=push&navCount=0&productId=S_471144&categoryId=subcatS_S_45cFirstClass">Harry Potter Forever stamps</a>!</div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">I'm going to be sending so much mail it's going to be <i style="background-color: white; line-height: 19px;"><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_spells_in_Harry_Potter">Riddikulus*</a>.</i><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="line-height: 19px;"> I'm not sure I'm ever going to use Dobby's stamp...he's my fav. </span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><i style="background-color: white; font-size: 17px; line-height: 19px;">*</i><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 19px;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Yes, I'm well aware of the miss spelling of ridiculous...it's just that way I spelled it is also a spell performed in Harry Potter...and yes, I'm also well aware that I'm a huge nerd. It's all good, Harry Potter is awesome! :) </span></span></span><br />
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<br />Ann E.http://www.blogger.com/profile/03374793989103298854noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510365940183158793.post-67789359180699423102014-04-01T15:12:00.002-07:002014-04-01T15:12:55.820-07:00stream of consciousI know I know. I told you I was going to blog daily and then BAM! I got sucked into vacation mode and then back into reality mode...so here I am. My pictures have yet to be downloaded off the camera, so the Hawaii recap will have to wait for another day. Until then, let's play,<br />
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"What's going on in AnnE's head?"<br />
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{sweater and scarf not advised attire while snorkeling...good thing I wasn't actually in the water...how embarrassed would I be?}</div>
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I was walking through the dollar store the other day and I kept looking for the prices on items. I was about to walk up to the checker when I read one of the signs on the window with the title of the shop, "Everything's $1" ...and that's when I turned abruptly around and walked the other way. As it turns out no price tags needed when everything is $1. oops. It sure pays to read the name of the store on your way inside.<br />
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Today, we had a thunderstorm - can I mention the fact that this is only the 2nd thunderstorm since we moved here over 5 years ago? That's a good precursor to what I thought next...<br />
"Who in the heck is moving all that furniture upstairs?" <br />
... We live on the top floor. We don't have neighbors above us... this might also tell you how much I love living in a multifamily dwelling... clearly I've had enough, even the imaginary neighbors are driving me crazy. <br />
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I recently opened a Twitter account. I have no idea what to do with it though. Funny, I can grasp the idea of rambling on a blog but I feel as if I'm going to have stage fright with only 140 characters. <br />
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While in Hawaii we planned to snorkel - (hence the picture above of me practicing wearing my goggles in the middle of Dick's Sporting Goods.) As it turns out, I get panic attacks (who knew?! not me) but only when the waves are hitting me, goggles are on and there's a snorkel in my mouth...and fish nearby. Yep, I was all good until my thoughts swam into my brain and told me that I could indeed have a fish swim up next to me. Once I had that thought, I couldn't shake it and I made a bee line for the shore. Once settled, I did actually go back out into the water with a floaty (stop picturing arm floaties, please!...it was actually one of those swimsuits with the life jacket built in - kidding! it was an inner tube...and I was a lifeguard in college, so I shouldn't be too frightened about the water) and no snorkel...it was the snorkel not the fish that set off the panic attack. <br />
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I read 4 books while in Hawaii. This is a serious accomplishment people! I never used to read that much. I'd like to thank the iPhone for letting me borrow library books on you so that I can stay awake until the wee hours reading on you and not keep Mike awake with a book light. My eye sight probably doesn't thank you, however. BUT, the Keurig machine is loving you, I just need my 2 cup jolt in the morning and I'm good for another day.<br />
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While we're talking books - the cutest book I've read in a while, which was described to me as "Devil wears Prada" meets Wall Street was Bond Girl by Erin Duffy. Super fast and easy read but cute...especially if you had close ties to the Financial Industry and the super fun melt down of 2008. <br />
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<br />Ann E.http://www.blogger.com/profile/03374793989103298854noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510365940183158793.post-8203421274231366172014-03-26T12:37:00.001-07:002014-03-26T12:37:44.174-07:00Vacation meals (that don't break the bank)<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">The first night we got to Ka'annapali, we went to Safeway and picked up breakfast and lunch items so that the only meal we'd need to eat out would be dinners. It's amazing what a teeny tiny frig can do to turn your hotel room into a basically a studio apartment. Since Mike and I are huge fans of yogurt and granola at home, we decided to get a pack of yoplait yogurts and a box of Kashi almond, flax and honey granola. (Since I started making homemade granola at home, we've become pretty particular to the store bought varieties - most of them just have too many artificial flavors- but this Kashi granola was really really good. Totally a winner, in fact, Mike asked to take a picture of the box so thy we wouldn't forget it. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">For lunch, we bought the fixin's for pb&j, chips and Oreos (Oreos have become our indulgent vacation food - it's literally the only time we buy them.) But now that it's become such a tradition, we can't pass up the opportunity.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">And then of course we can't forget about happy hour - we bought gluten free crackers and cheese (also something we don't normally eat at home) and wine - that's a no-brainer. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-yKj7dk6_xEo/UzMshWhr31I/AAAAAAAADkw/MAXonSEo7jo/s640/blogger-image--453257194.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-yKj7dk6_xEo/UzMshWhr31I/AAAAAAAADkw/MAXonSEo7jo/s640/blogger-image--453257194.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">You definitely wouldn't need to be cheap like us - there are a ton of really good options to get your drink on or eat - Our hotel is fantastic and has a few different restaurants/bars and the hotel also sits directly next to a mall called Whaler's village but the island prices for food are a bit pricey (especially for 2 cheapskates) so having this little frig in the room really worked well for us. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">On this last full day in Ka'annapali, we decided to get breakfast sandwiches from the in house Starbucks. They were delish, but I'd have to say the view trumps everything. I'm sure going to miss this deck and view. Yesterday morning we sat on the deck and watched close to 20 whales playing pretty close to shore. It wa amazing. Today unfortunately, I must have missed the recess time for whales as I haven't seen any yet (although that might be the fault of a deliciously sinful butter croissant that kept my attention.) </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-zKWDRSgDH0w/UzMseNjLpgI/AAAAAAAADko/lSkL_NUT4wM/s640/blogger-image--260588163.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-zKWDRSgDH0w/UzMseNjLpgI/AAAAAAAADko/lSkL_NUT4wM/s640/blogger-image--260588163.jpg"></a></div>Ann E.http://www.blogger.com/profile/03374793989103298854noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510365940183158793.post-49410574947936942232014-03-22T14:42:00.001-07:002014-03-23T09:53:49.812-07:00A whale of a good time!<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-CZGvEVsncg8/Uy8Qnwa3AfI/AAAAAAAADkI/huW1ZOPnBHg/s640/blogger-image-1312700850.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-CZGvEVsncg8/Uy8Qnwa3AfI/AAAAAAAADkI/huW1ZOPnBHg/s640/blogger-image-1312700850.jpg"></a></div>It's been a bit rainy during our first few days in Maui, but it really hasn't put a damper on our sun tanning, beach walking or ocean swimming. Basically it's been like a produce mister at the grocery store - just enough rain to keep you cool but not enough rain to get your book wet - perfect in my book. (Also enough sun to burn the bejesus out of my shoulders and chest - in typical AnnE fashion, I always seem to miss a few key spots!) <div><br></div><div>Mike's birthday wish was to see a whale and while we were swimming in the ocean we watched as a whale was leaping out of the ocean and belly flopping back in. It truly was magical. </div><div><br></div><div>Today, while I wait for the lounge chairs to dry off from the morning rain, I sit here on our deck peering out over the ocean looking for whales (have not seen one, but with a view like this, it's ok.)</div><div><br></div><div>Vacation is awesome. </div><div><br></div>Ann E.http://www.blogger.com/profile/03374793989103298854noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510365940183158793.post-78655691119481286532014-03-22T04:00:00.000-07:002014-03-22T04:00:01.933-07:00Why you shouldn't text & blow dryTexting while blow drying my hair turned into a series of selfies that I couldn't resist but share. <br />
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Because, it appears that maybe I should do more useful things like contemplate the meaning of life or figure out how to end the problems in the middle east rather than be on my phone and blow drying my hair. But because I was, I thought why not share and tell you about my new favorite curly hair products? <br />
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This is what you call dorky lemons turned into lemonade...ok maybe that doesn't actually translate other than the DORKY part is totally true.<br />
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I've found that most people in California do not have curly hair...actually maybe they are closet curly hair people that straighten it every day when going out in public. This is why it's taken me 5 years to find someone that can cut my hair properly. Because I'm lazy and completely unable to straighten my hair and believe it or not, actually like the giant mop on my head to be messy and curly.<br />
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Today I was texting a friend while blow drying my hair. Since I was still holding the phone in between texts, I thought, well why not take selfies of myself?!? Totally logical. <br />
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You. Are. Welcome.<br />
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<br />Ann E.http://www.blogger.com/profile/03374793989103298854noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510365940183158793.post-44522292716832214002014-03-21T03:30:00.000-07:002014-03-21T03:30:01.382-07:00thirty-three<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Happy Birthday to my favorite person in the whole wide world! </div>
<br />Ann E.http://www.blogger.com/profile/03374793989103298854noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7510365940183158793.post-69763161930657057242014-03-20T03:00:00.000-07:002014-03-20T03:00:08.669-07:00T is for...Trains (yes, I know there is no actual train in this station, it was on it's way in behind me.)<br />
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So I took Bart to meet Mike in Berkeley and take his car back home and he was going to jump on Bart to head into the city, but then he realized he didn't have enough time to get over to Berkeley before his next meeting, so really I just took a field trip to Berkeley and back in the middle of the day to enjoy the people watching and scenery. Yep, I'm pretty cool like that. I had forgotten the prime people watching you can take in while on public transit. I may just start riding the Bart for a stop or two when bored, it's just THAT good. </div>
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PS - as it turns out some days it's probably not all that fun that I am blogging daily...as in TODAY. Sorry about that. I'm going on vacation soon which means the blog will become exciting again and less about empty train tracks. :) </div>
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Ann E.http://www.blogger.com/profile/03374793989103298854noreply@blogger.com0