tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38638736651938420082024-03-14T02:16:29.726-04:00Bitz of Melife is always about the journey...Suzanne J Deanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07454939176456822173noreply@blogger.comBlogger244125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3863873665193842008.post-51396523943027272392017-02-17T03:00:00.000-05:002017-02-17T03:00:05.241-05:00Chalk it up to....<br />
<span style="color: #45818e; font-size: large;"><i>Happy TGIFriday everyone!</i></span><br />
I hope you all had a lovely Valentine's Day this week. I ended up going to dinner with a few ladies from our neighborhood that also had husbands out of town. It was a fun evening.<br />
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Charleston just had a grand opening of Dry Bar last week and I have an appointment to try it out this afternoon. If you aren't familiar, it's a place to get your hair washed and blown out and/or curled (no haircuts or color). Even though we had humidity in Virginia, it's 100% more down here on the coast. And my fine hair does not like it so much and I think I've tried every product on the market..I've basically decided it's just user error at this point LOL! So I booked an appointment to have someone actually teach me how to blow dry my hair & use the correct products for the climate, so I can somewhat win the battle against my frizz-head. I will let you know how it works out ;)<br />
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Then Friday night, my neighborhood is having a "Stew & Brew" down at the cabana/pool we have on the water. On the menu is Frogmore Stew aka Lowcountry Boil that has corn on the cob, red potatoes, fresh shrimp, onion & sausage boiled up in some beer with seasonings. It's good! And there will be karaoke ha! I'm going and bringing my favorite wine and will enjoy it, I will be watching karaoke and not joining in though ;) We have a very small neighborhood and everyone knows everyone here, we all stop and chat to each other, have wine on each other's porches and try to have a get-together at least once a month. December's was a Christmas Crawl around to 4 homes that lasted 7 HOURS, OMGosh, but it was so much fun. It's definitely made getting to know each other a lot easier and more fun.<br />
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And Sunday it'll be in the high 70s and sunny, so I'm headed to the beach for the day. I'm taking a good book and am going to enjoy the peace and just RELAX!!<br />
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<b><span style="color: #45818e; font-size: large;">CHALK TIME!!</span></b><br />
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I love to repurpose and remake items I already own. I figure I'm giving a new life to something I chose for our home and helping the environment a bit at the same time. And hey, I'm a sucker for a beautiful makeover that turns out well.<br />
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This dresser was one that James and I bought not too long after we got married for our master bedroom. It's beautiful solid wood and it has been used in our guest room and then ended up in storage for a long time when I no longer had a place for it. I couldn't part with it, I tend to have sentimental attachments to furniture James and I've bought together. (Don't ask me about my meltdown over the desk I bought James for an anniversary present years ago that no longer fit when we moved to VA..it wasn't pretty)<br />
However, it was the perfect choice to use in Alexa's new bedroom here. We donated her old bedroom furniture that she'd had since she was 3..it was time for something new and more grown up. I mean she is getting ready to turn 21 *eek*! But it needed a makeover...so chalk paint to the rescue.<br />
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*chalk paint color: pure white*<br />
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I love Annie Sloan chalk paint. It is expensive, but one can can paint quite a few pieces of furniture because you don't need a lot to cover. I also water it down a bit in the last 2 coats to smooth everything out. This took 6 coats because I was going from a darker color to a light color...keep that in mind when painting. I cleaned it off good, no sanding needed and it took me two days to finish the entire dresser. I like to let at least the first 3 coats cure overnight before I finish it up. I replaced the old wood knobs with antique-looking porcelain knobs I ordered online. The total cost of this project was $100 for the paint and the knobs. Not too bad for a fairly large piece of furniture and I love how light and bright it looks in her room now.<br />
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After I let the paint cure for 2 days, I then go back and lightly sand to smooth out any paint lines, then put on a coat of clear wax. A few days after that I gave it one more coat of clear wax and buffed it till it was silky smooth. I also wait to distress the furniture until the paint has cured too, if that's something you want to do, just do that before you use any wax. I didn't do that on the dresser, but I did do it on the dining room chairs below. And then I use a clear wax to protect the paint finish. Annie Sloan also has a dark wax that will darken up your paint color or give it an antiqued look.<br />
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This was her old white Ikea nightstand she'd had for a few years. We decided to update it with a gray-blue upgrade. I custom mixed the color with two colors (Napoleonic Blue & Barcelona Orange). As the paint dries it does lighten up, but I did mix the last couple of coats to be a bit darker than what this photo shows.<br />
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And here it is all done. I added a fun, silver drawer knob that reminded me of a boat cleat to finish it off. Last project in her room now is to paint her bookshelf...then I'm DONE in her room...haha probably not.<br />
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*paint color: Old White*<br />
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We've had an Ethan Allen farm table and spindle chairs for over 14 years. They've held up beautifully, but the black didn't work for the new house. I wanted everything lightened and brightened up. I will not lie..these chairs were a HUGE pain the bum to paint thanks to all the spindles and legs, ugh it gives me heartburn thinking about it LOL. However I finished all 4 of them up in a day other than waxing them, which as I described above I don't do until the paint has cured a day or two.<br />
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For these chairs I wanted them to be distressed a bit like they were before, so I sanded through the paint to get a bit of the black to show through in a few areas..then I waxed them. We had end chairs that had arms and rush seats that unfortunately did not hold up as well as the table/side chairs did. So we replaced them with two new chairs from Ethan Allen (in the same style) but in robins egg blue. It definitely gave the set a more coastal vibe.<br />
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This nightstand was part of the bedroom set that the dresser at top of post came from. I needed something with storage for the guest room of this house, and this fit the bill perfectly.</div>
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And here she is all finished up. The color is French Linen and I actually bought a sample pot of it because I wasn't sure about the color. The sample pots are around $12 compared to the quart at $35. Unbelievably I was able to put 4 coats on this nightstand with just the sample pot of paint. Along with the new knobs (black ironwork), the update cost me $36.<br />
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My next big project is to paint Riley's old hutch that is a dark cherry wood. It is in it's new home in my office, but it's wayyyy too dark for my liking. I'm dreading it (lol) because I know it's going to take a lot of coats to get it done, but at least it has large areas to paint unlike the spindle chairs ugh. <br />
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I'm considering painting it in Creme de Menthe with <b><a href="http://maisonblanchepaint.com/category_1/Vintage-Furniture-Paint.htm" target="_blank">Maison Blanche Vintage Furniture Paint</a></b>, instead of a white or cream just to change it up a bit. I'm going to try the white wax instead of the clear for a different look as well. I need to get it done so it will motivate me to decorate the shelves and organize it better. Right now it's pretty much a dumping ground with things that need a different home.<br />
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You can get Annie Sloan chalk paint locally in most places. If you cannot or they don't have what you need, I HIGHLY recommend ordering online from <b><a href="http://www.thepurplepaintedlady.com/" target="_blank">The Purple Painted Lady.</a></b> They are fantastic for resources, color charts, photo galleries of colors with wax or other paint treatments, and she ships quickly.</div>
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I've tried a few other brands of chalk paint and the only other one that I liked almost as much was the Maison Blanche Vintage Furniture Paint (also a chalk paint). They just seem to have the best and easiest coverage in my opinion. I've only ordered this one<b><a href="http://www.vintagefurniturepaint.com/Vintage-Furniture-Paint_c25.htm" target="_blank"> online HERE</a></b> as I haven't found it in any local stores near me.</div>
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This old post <b><a href="http://tinybitzofme.blogspot.com/2014/06/diy-rehab-give-little-love.html" target="_blank">HERE </a></b>from 2014 shows how I used the dark wax over a lighter color chalk paint for a distressed look. Amazingly James is using this entertainment center in his apartment now and it still looks great.</div>
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So that's the latest project post-palooza for you! Have a wonderful weekend!</div>
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<img src="http://sites.google.com/site/bitzofmesuzanne/images/SuzanneSignature.png" />Suzanne J Deanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07454939176456822173noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3863873665193842008.post-3808354531929518092017-02-14T03:00:00.000-05:002017-02-14T03:00:03.560-05:00Growing Up....<br />
<span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;"><i>Happy Valentine's Day everyone! </i></span><br />
<span style="color: #666666;">My Valentine is in DC, but that's ok. I'm not big on the occasion anyway. I do always get the kids Cupid Gifts and they opened their's while they were here for the weekend. I will probably treat myself to some Pad Thai from the local Thai place up the street because it is super yummy!</span><br />
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Both the kids and James were here for the weekend to celebrate <b><span style="color: #999999; font-size: large;">Riley's 19th birthday</span></b>. Hard to believe my little man is now a grown man, I tell ya! I'm so proud of him and the man he's grown into. I love that he likes to hang out with his mom still. He calls to confide in me or to ask me to edit papers still and has been good about checking in with us regularly. I also get lots of laundry when he's home for the weekend hahaha, but I don't mind.<br />
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He's had a rough first year at college with a roommate who is more interested in doing drugs and partying...and trying to make friends with those that aren't into partying and have other interests. Riley doesn't drink or do drugs and he does not like to be around it, so he's had a bit of a struggle meeting friends. He's starting to settle in and he just signed a lease on a 5 bedroom house with Alexa's boyfriend and some other guys from the fishing team for the fall. So I'm very hopeful next year will be much, much better as far as roommates and making friends goes. He's got an A average and doing well in his classes, so he's definitely focused on the things that matter which makes us happy. And he is planning on studying abroad next Spring in either Ireland or Italy, so he's looking forward to that too. He has such a big heart, so kind and sensitive...which means I worry about him a lot, but am so proud he's stayed true to who he is and what he believes in. I've always told both the kids to focus on their futures, keep the toxic out and don't let anyone stand in the way of your dreams, nor stomp on your beliefs.<br />
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I had a local Charleston Bakery (<a href="http://www.bakehousecharleston.com/" target="_blank">Bakehouse Bakery</a>) make him a chocolate cake with chocolate buttercream frosting and chocolate mousse filling. Yeahhhh...he loves chocolate lol! It was one of the best cakes I've ever had, but so very rich. He loved it, so that's all that matters. I forgot to buy candles (brain sludge) so we had to use a few zebra ones I had (whoops)...it's the thought that counts right!?<br />
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We spent Saturday on the water...a place we all love to be. If you are looking for a wonderful boat or kayak tour, I highly recommend COA (<a href="http://www.charlestonoutdooradventures.com/" target="_blank">Charleston Outdoor Adventures</a>). The guides are all naturalists and they offer eco-adventures of the estuaries, barrier islands and marshlands. The owner is originally from VA and a Redskins fan (ha) and I've been out with them quite a few times now. They are 1 mile down the road from where I live and I've always had a wonderful time.</div>
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You will ALWAYS see dolphins, local birds and other wildlife along the way while learning something too. </div>
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My favorite trip is going out to Morris Island where the Morris Lighthouse is and spend some time walking the isolated beach...the shelling there is magnificent. We saw quite a few dolphins including a mama and her calf on Saturday. If you follow me on Instagram you can view all my daily Instastories where I post snippets of videos and pictures of my day (on your phone it's the circles at the top, or you can click on my profile & then click my round photo of me). I had videos there and one on Instagram itself of the dolphins. I'm pretty good about posting every day in case you want to ever know what I'm up to LOL.</div>
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COA sits on Bowens Island and is home to the <a href="http://bowensisland.biz/" target="_blank"><b>Bowens Island Restaurant</b></a>. I love this place because it reminds me of all the crab shacks I grew up with on the Chesapeake Bay. The building itself is nothing pretty to look at, but it has the freshest seafood and views for miles. It's very casual and laid back, so a shorts & flip-flops kinda atmosphere...everyone is friendly and it feels like you are surrounded by old friends when you are there. If you love roasted oysters (like me) or fresh seafood, this is definitely the place for you.</div>
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Riley wanted to have his birthday dinner at <b><a href="http://www.tacoboy.net/" target="_blank">Taco Boy</a></b> down on Folly Beach...it is one of our favorite places to go. I am embarrassed to say how many times we've been lol! There is another one on the outskirts of downtown Charleston too that has a larger outdoor patio. They have amazing tacos and their queso is to die for. My favorite tacos are the Grilled Mahi Mahi, Tempura Avocado, and Kimchi Beef. So many original tacos on the menu to try. Riley's favorite is the fried chicken taco and James loves the Americano and Carne Asade tacos. Their quesadillas and pineapple margaritas are pretty darn good too. They have great outdoor areas to sit outside when the weather is beautiful.</div>
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Then we capped off the birthday boy's night with a showing of the Lego Batman Movie because that was what Riley wanted to do. If you've seen the first Lego Movie then you know what to expect. It was pretty funny with a lot of older movie references in it...we all enjoyed it. We have a fantastic theater on James Island that was recently renovated and tickets before 5:30 pm are only $4, $7.50 after 5:30. All four of us can see a movie for almost the price of one ticket in Virginia.</div>
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The <b><a href="http://www.terracetheater.com/" target="_blank">Terrace Theater </a></b>is more of a retro-style themed theater with only a handful of screens also on James Island. They show a lot of independent, smaller movies along with the popular ones too. They also have gourmet concessions along with wine and beer. Parking is very tricky there though, that is the one downside. </div>
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If you like to order food from a menu and have it served to you, <b>Cinebarre Theater</b> in Mt. Pleasant is the place for you. We went there to see Batman Lego and the food choices and shakes are pretty plentiful. Very similar to an Alamo Theater if you've been to one of those.</div>
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(Speaking of movies, if you haven't seen <i>Hidden Figures</i> I highly recommend it. James & I saw it and it was excellent)</div>
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I'm planning on doing a post on James Island and Folly Beach soon with all kinds of tips and recommendations. I'm biased probably because I live here, but Folly Beach is my favorite beach area here in all of Charleston. It's more laid back, artsy and fun! Eventually I will have a tab where you can find all my Charleston recommendations easily in case you ever want to visit the area.</div>
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<b><span style="color: #999999; font-size: large;">So all in all it was a fun weekend,</span></b> and always good to spend time together as a family. I won't see the kids or James for 2 weeks when we leave for our Spring Break trip. I cannot wait for that!</div>
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<img src="http://sites.google.com/site/bitzofmesuzanne/images/SuzanneSignature.png" />Suzanne J Deanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07454939176456822173noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3863873665193842008.post-85026034636583255802017-02-05T23:01:00.001-05:002017-02-05T23:02:35.625-05:00A Beachin' Life...<br />
<span style="color: #76a5af; font-size: large;"><i>Happy Monday-after-the-Superbowl friends!</i></span><br />
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Did anyone watch the Superbowl last night? Which commercials were your favorites? I liked a few, but I think the Mr. Clean ad made me laugh the most. And the Superbowl babies were very cute too.<br />
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I've been a little MIA because I've been having some ongoing back issues that have limited my ability to do much the past 10 days. Looks like I will be having surgery soon to fix the issue, so that's no fun...boo! However I am ready to stop the pain, because it is exhausting.<br />
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Thank you for all the lovely comments on my last blog post, so happy to see so many friends again in blog land...you all made my week! I still need to reply to a few of you. I know some of you aren't on Facebook and hadn't seen the updates about the Dean family in a long while. So I thought today I'd share our 'updated life' story and a few pictures too.<br />
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<b><span style="color: #45818e;">Alexa & Riley update:</span></b> Alexa is a junior at Univ of SC studying marine biology, she's also a marine science tutor and peer leader. She will soon be the coordinator for education outreach for the college's SEAS program as well. She's been interning every summer (last summer was Maine and Cape May, NJ) and she's enjoying it all. She will be 21 in April (gasp...how'd that happen?)<br />
Riley is now a freshman at Univ of SC studying for a History degree with a possible environmental science minor and he's loving country life in the south. He loves to fish and kayak whenever he can. Riley will be 19 next month. They grew up too dang fast!<br />
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<b><span style="color: #45818e;">So, why did we move to SC?</span></b><br />
So our family has vacationed on Hilton Head Island, SC for many years...pretty much since the kids were in elementary school. We love the laid-back beaches and bike-able plantation areas where we rented homes/condos. And we always added a fews day to our vacation to visit Charleston. Whenever we crossed the state line into South Carolina I always felt like I had come back home...it was an exhale of "yes, I can relax now." And the unique smell of pluff mud and salty sea air combined with Southern friendliness always made me feel right at home.<br />
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It is no surprise to anyone (if you've known me awhile at least) that I HATE winter and cold and snow. I've lived in an area where winter could be brutal with ice, wind and blizzards for far too long. As soon as fall would come, I would go into a depression knowing that it would soon be gray skies and too cold outside to be enjoyable and that my body would be in pain for months. So our family plan had always been to move south as soon as the kids graduated high school...we're talking about a 14 year plan to move down south. Whenever I pictured where I wanted to be, it always was near Charleston.<br />
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Last winter we had a huge blizzard and I remember looking at James and saying "I can't do this anymore"...it was physically and mentally taxing me beyond what I could handle. In March he suggested I go to Charleston for a week with Alexa (on her Spring Break from college) and search for a house/neighborhood that I liked. We spent the week doing some fun activities and looking near & far for a home that I would fall in love with. I was very interested in downsizing from the 6000 sq ft home we had in Virginia to something half that size...too much house to take care of anymore with both the kids in college. The very last day we visited an area on James Island that was last on my list...it should have been first because we both fell in love with the neighborhood immediately. Southern style beach homes on a quiet inlet that was only 2.5 miles from Folly Beach and a 15 minute drive to downtown historic Charleston. Perfection!<br />
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Long story short, I found the perfect house in a newly built double-porch southern home facing the creek that leads out to the ocean. My master bedroom has an upper level porch, and I can see the beautiful water from my bed every morning. It's a 2700 sq ft, 4 bedroom 4 bathroom, 3 level home with rooms we actually use (aka no formal rooms). We have a nice screen porch on the backside and a detached 2 car garage. We actually closed on the house the day of my birthday, May 3rd. So James likes to say he bought me a house for my birthday, hahaha! We officially moved in right after Riley graduated high school in June...so you could say I didn't waste a minute! Our first purchases were kayaks for everyone and that's one of our absolute favorite things to do here.<br />
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<b><span style="color: #45818e;">Where is James?</span></b><br />
James will not be retiring for a few years, so he has a great 2 bedrm, 2 bath apartment near DC where his commute has gone from 2 hours to 15 minutes..and he can walk or metro everywhere. He comes down to SC every 2 weeks for a visit and so far it's worked out great. I'm pretty independent and don't mind the solitude this new life has given me. I find things to do everyday to stay busy including my photography, kayaking, volunteering with the animal rescue and I've also made quite a few friends as well. My one neighbor and I walk most mornings and go to the gym together. And we just sold our Virginia house...so the transition for everyone is complete and we can all breathe easily now.<br />
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And we have the BEST neighbors, seriously the sweetest people and everyone in the neighborhood is actually interested in knowing each other and chatting on the regular. NOTHING like where I lived in Northern VA outside of DC...people are too busy to even wave there for the most part. Someone is always inviting you to hang out and chat, have a glass of wine or watch a game.<br />
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Now the Univ of SC is only a 2 hour drive for us...so that means the kids can visit home more often. Before it was an almost 9 hour drive and the airfare was not always so cheap from Columbia to DC.<br />
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All in all, we all are very happy with our new home, new friends and love that we can be outside almost year round enjoying what the area has to offer. It has brought me more peace than I could imagine...life is much slower here and it's exactly what I needed.<br />
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<b><span style="color: #45818e;">A Few House Peeks:</span></b><br />
Here are some peeks inside & out of my new house which is still a work in progress, as it should be. Little by little we are getting there. Excited to get my new furniture for the porch off the master bedroom this week. We get such a nice breeze off the water and I plan on sitting out there & reading a lot and looking out at the water. I need to get more pictures..lots of times I think of it AFTER the sun has set and it's too late. Lots of pictures, but I wanted to share them all and couldn't choose any I wanted to leave out LOL!<br />
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The awesome view I get to see every morning from my bed</div>
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The house is dark navy with pale aqua trim...it's a Charleston style house so it's very long, and 3 stories high. These were taken before we moved in so things look a lot different as far as porches and landscaping.</div>
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one side of our screened porch...the cats love to be out here when the weather is nice.</div>
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The side chairs used to be black...I used chalk paint to lighten them up to a distressed cream. The end chairs I ordered in a gray-blue to replace the others I had. Table & chairs I've had from Ethan Allen for over 14 years..they've held up very well.</div>
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This is our living area...where I spend most of my time. When everyone is here we tend to sit up in the 3rd floor family room and watch the bigger tv.</div>
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A lot of these pictures of the inside were taken in September, so things have changed quite a bit. Just need to retake photos when everything is done.</div>
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The master bedroom...we have a porch off the bedroom that looks over the creek. </div>
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The guest bedroom...</div>
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The creek we live on; you can see the Sullivans Island Lighthouse light to the right from the dock & Morris Island Lighthouse is around to the right. I love watching the dolphins and their babies play and fish in the inlets. We've seen a few snakes (stepped on a few too, yikes) and some smaller sharks. I've only seen 1 small alligator so far and that's fine by me. Me no bother them, they no bother me!</div>
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A peek into Alexa's room...I will share more soon. I've done quite a few projects in here. We still need to have the ceiling painted navy and I still need to paint her bookcase. This dresser used to be mine when James & I were first married. It was honey colored & had been stored in our basement for years. It got a paint update along with new porcelain knobs. It looks great I think.</div>
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Guest bathroom is almost done...we are waiting on a new quartz countertop in here. This was a spec house so we are working to make it ours with material choices we like. I'm also painting the very long, double-sink vanity a dark gray blue.</div>
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stairs to the 3rd floor</div>
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This is the 3rd floor..I took this before we moved in. That's a full bathroom at the end, the other end you cannot see is Riley's bedroom. Right now we have a sectional and huge tv (James' pick not mine lol) up here. Plans for up here include a table/chairs for puzzles/games and 2 more club chairs and a rug. I love all the light this room gets.</div>
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Loft sectional....table & chairs will go behind the sectional near Riley's room.</div>
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A view of half of our front porch...the flower boxes were gorgeous this past summer. Can't wait to get them up in March again. These adirondack rockers are made of marine grade fiberglass..they are fantastic since they never need painting.</div>
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I love ending the day with this view....</div>
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So there you go...some peeks into our new home. Will share more as I finish up projects and rooms.</div>
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<img src="http://sites.google.com/site/bitzofmesuzanne/images/SuzanneSignature.png" />Suzanne J Deanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07454939176456822173noreply@blogger.com20tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3863873665193842008.post-49669754628973129472017-01-22T20:49:00.000-05:002017-01-23T21:45:12.470-05:00Hello Again...<br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b><span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-size: large;">Hello Again</span></b>. After many years of managing my two blogs and multiple others for companies...this girl was burnt out. It was good to get away and have a break.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">So the news is basically...I've quit Facebook. It was a long time coming actually. From when I joined almost 10 years ago, to what it's become today is a FAR CRY from why I started using it. It did enhance my life in a lot of ways, it kept me in touch with friends and family around the world and I enjoyed checking in with everyone and watching silly videos. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Unfortunately the past couple of years it became too much of a place of negativity and hate, pettiness and mean people hiding behind their keyboards because they never learned the old adage "if you have nothing nice to say, close your trap"...well that's my modern version of it anyway ;) And just to be very clear...no one drove or chased me away. Social media is meant to be fun, inspiring, informative and friendly...it is a choice...it is a form of entertainment. When you aren't entertained anymore, why stay? I made a choice to leave something that no longer fulfilled me. Staying to teach the 'haters' or 'unfriendlies' a lesson was never a fight I chose to be in, it was never my goal. If someone wants to have a respective conversation face-to-face, then I am always willing. I sure as heck didn't leave because I was afraid of interaction...I choose not to discuss a lot of things on social media...you know, as is my right and is your right. I just chose to no longer participate in something that bred so much negativity. It is not the end of the world...my life and your lives continue on.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">However, I still wanted a way to keep in touch with everyone and not be submitted to the negativity of a social media site every time I logged on. I wanted a place to share my photos and adventures for those that don't use Instagram, Instastories, or Snapchat. I wanted a safe, fun, positive place to share my stories where I wasn't dealt an onslaught of crazy every day. So that's where we are now.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">I can't promise I will post everyday or even every single week. But I will try to post when I have photos to share, stories I want to tell or just sharing things I love. So welcome back everybody....</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">And if you remember the old blog layout...yes, even that got a change. A fresh, clean starting over that reflects my new life here in Charleston, SC now.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">James has been in town for the past week so we tried to take advantage of the beautiful weather. Storms were moving in for the weekend and we like to be outside enjoying the area as much as we can. So we drove over to Kiawah Island with our bikes and spent the day biking trails, hiking and biking on the beach. It was fantastic...a good day spent feeding the soul with the beauty of nature.</span></div>
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One of my favorite shots from the day was this one. The lowcountry landscape is always changing and there is always something beautiful to shoot with my camera. I was struck by the starkness of the tree, the barrenness of the spartina grasses and the movement of clouds in the sky. </div>
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Can you smell the pluff mud...some people love it and some don't. I'm one of it's lovers because it reminds me I'm in South Carolina and near the water...it makes me happy.</div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">If you ever get to the Charleston area, Kiawah Island is about a 45-55 minute drive away. It is very secluded and treed which makes you feel like you are on an exclusive getaway. A stop at Night Heron Park is a good place to start to get a map of the island and they have a small nature center as well. There are bike/walking trails all around the island and there are a few lookout towers that you can bike and then hike to...they give you a good birds eye view of the beautiful views. You can bike on the beach but only certain boardwalks allow bike entry ramps, so make sure to note those. There are a few bike rental places on the island as well. Lots of wildlife on the island including birds, bobcats, alligators and deer. So keep a look out for those while visiting. Parking is very limited in certain areas and there are guard-gates to get into certain parts of the island. For most of the park areas and restaurants you just tell them where you are headed and they give you a pass for your vehicle. If you love golf there are 2 private courses and 5 public courses. They look lovely from my bike, but I'm not a golfer so I cannot help much with that info.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">There are a few restaurants and some cute shops in the Freshfields Town Center. In the Town Center my favorite restaurant is <b><a href="https://www.hegesrestaurantsc.com/" target="_blank">Hege's</a></b> and if you save room, stop by the old time pharmacy and have a yummy ice cream treat. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">If you want true luxury head to the <a href="https://www.kiawahresort.com/meetings/the-sanctuary" target="_blank"><b>Sanctuary Resort and Spa</b></a> for top notch service. The Ocean Room is worth every penny for a special event...amazing food and views, but very pricey. The <b><a href="http://www.andellinn.com/" target="_blank">Andell Inn</a></b> sits within the Town Center to the side and is a nice alternative if you want something a little less expensive. It's lovely inside and has great views of the marsh areas along with a nice pool/deck area. Condos & home rentals are available here too. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">For something less formal head to Seabrook Island (literally right next to Kiawah) and try out <b><a href="http://lokalseabar.com/" target="_blank">Lokal Seabar</a></b> or <b><a href="http://www.redsicehouse.com/locations/bohicket" target="_blank">Red's Ice House</a></b>. Both sit on the Bohicket Creek and Marina and they offer spectacular sunsets and good seafood choices.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Heading off of Kiawah back towards Charleston you will drive by two of my favorite Johns Island restaurants. The <b><a href="http://thefathen.com/" target="_blank">Fat Hen</a></b> is a farm-2-table place in a cute little cottage and the food is so yummy..it leans towards the French style of cooking and dishes. The menu is always changing with the seasons and they get all their meats/seafood/veggies/fruits from local farms. The other is <b><a href="http://www.wildoliverestaurant.com/" target="_blank">Wild Olive</a></b> and they serve sinfully good Italian dishes. Their pappardelle pasta dish with parmesan, arugula and local Mepkin Abbey mushrooms (from the monastery) is the stuff my food dreams are made of.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">So there's a wee bit of information for anyone interested in visiting Kiawah Island. It's a beautiful area and so much to see and do outside. Definitely worth the drive.</span></div>
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<img src="http://sites.google.com/site/bitzofmesuzanne/images/SuzanneSignature.png" />Suzanne J Deanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07454939176456822173noreply@blogger.com58tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3863873665193842008.post-88187121149629723042014-12-31T15:48:00.000-05:002014-12-31T15:48:02.885-05:00Happy New Year.....<br />
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<br class="Apple-interchange-newline" /><b><span style="font-size: large;">Wishing you the happiest of New Year's!</span></b></div>
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Don't burden yourselves with outrageous expectations but instead love yourself, love your life and live it the best that you can each day. Make your life what you want it to be, not what others think it should be and don't stress about things that don't matter in the big picture.</div>
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Every day we are the author of our own story...and each day we can change the course of that story...make it the novel you want to read and to live.</div>
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May your year be blessed with much joy, love & happiness!</div>
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<img src="http://sites.google.com/site/bitzofmesuzanne/images/SuzanneSignature.png" />Suzanne J Deanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07454939176456822173noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3863873665193842008.post-74609878768347861952014-12-19T03:00:00.000-05:002014-12-19T03:00:12.728-05:00Merry Christmas to youuuuuu.....<div style="text-align: center;">
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<span style="color: #990000; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: x-large;"><b><i>MERRY CHRISTMAS FRIENDS!</i></b></span><br />
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Hi friends! I'm just popping in here really quick! I had a few more blog posts planned and I may still get 1 or 2 up before Christmas. However my goal this month was to NOT stress or feel I had to do things instead of enjoying my family and this time. And I don't have photos edited and time to get everything typed up. Instead I'm having that time to spend with my kids and husband watching holiday movies, baking, driving around looking at holiday lights, wrapping gifts and just enjoying everything that the Season brings.<br />
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So I thought I'd share a few pics of random things our family likes to do during the Holiday Season!<br />
You can see how I <b><u><a href="http://www.tinybitzofme.blogspot.com/2013/12/our-holiday-house-tour-part-1.html" target="_blank">decorate our house HERE</a></u></b> if you wish....I haven't included all the trees in that post but the ones I did put up this year look the same minus the family room tree which is the only REAL tree we get. Family traditions are very important to me and our family..they are what makes the Season Bright & Super Special!<br />
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I wanted to share a few pics of our Christmas tree farm adventure...which is always lots of fun for our family. We've been going since they were babies and its just one of my favorite holiday traditions.<br />
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It was a beautiful but COLD day and snow was still on the ground...which meant lots of mud!<br />
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The boys chopped the tree down and dragged it to the barn to be shaken & baled!<br />
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Meanwhile Alexa & I run back to the truck to get warm and take some selfies...hahaha!<br />
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I have a "thing" for red barns and I love them....they are a must take a photo for me. Maybe one day I'll have my own red barn ;)<br />
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Here's Alexa adding her decorations to the tree...this year's tree is 14 ft so we had to use a ladder which is always an adventure of sorts.<br />
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There's just something about a real tree...smells so good and looks so nice! The tree skirt I use each year for the family room tree was made by my mom for our engagement present...so it will be a family heirloom one day for the kids.<br />
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We also went to see the ICE! Show at the National Harbor Gaylord over Thanksgiving weekend. We've been going ever since they've hosted them (7 years I believe) and it is another favorite family tradition. This year it was Frosty the Snowman and YES I did the ice slide this year too :)<br />
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We stayed at the Gaylord National Harbor for Thanksgiving & had dinner in Alexandria...I'm not a big fan of Thanksgiving and we usually go somewhere instead to celebrate as a family. We got to ride the Eye at the Harbor which was fun...if you follow me on Facebook you prob saw the video of ummm Alexa singing...loudly LOL!<br />
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You can't visit National Harbor without a stop at the Peeps store to stock up of course ;)<br />
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Then I got to go to the Ritz for a Holiday Tea with my two best girlfriends. It was so much fun and I def ate more sugar than I should've...tis the Season right?<br />
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The other night Alexa & I went to the Alamo Drafthouse for their "Elf" movie quote-sing-along with our friends. We LOVE going to quote-alongs and we've done "Dirty Dancing" and "Pitch Perfect" as well. They give you fun props and you get to eat yummy foods...always a good time!<br />
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I also have a thing for Santas...I have quite a few around my house (maybe 12, 14??). This is my newest one from Decor Steals...I loved his burlap banner. The canvas/burlap trees I made last year <b><a href="http://www.tinybitzofme.blogspot.com/2013/12/wintry-muslin-trees.html" target="_blank">HERE</a></b>.<br />
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This is the living room tree this year...see the cat in the back..yeah they can't wait to lay on the tree skirt. With 6 cats I've never had issues with them climbing the trees, but they do like to bat at ornaments now and again. And that babydoll & rocking chair are mine from my childhood.<br />
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One of our 2014 family ornaments from our trip to Disney World this summer! I love looking at photo ornaments from past years...such a treasure to have on the tree.<br />
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And this dog...Baylee loves lights...I mean she loves them. So her favorite part of the holidays is when I string lights on all the trees, she wags her tail & "helps' me LOL!<br />
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We are also very serious about our Holiday Movie Watching in the Dean house. We have a schedule we follow and usually have some "treats" while watching. This year its homemade popcorn in the Dutch Oven with different toppings and homemade hot cocoa with lots of Cool-Whip! Our holiday faves include Elf, Home Alone 1 & 2, The Grinch, National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation, It's A Wonderful Life, Rudolph, A Christmas Carol and lots of sappy Hallmark movies like Mrs. Miracle :)<br />
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The front door wreath this year...I just love it!<br />
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<span style="color: #990000; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i>So I'm not sure if I will be back before the New Year and wanted to say a big </i></span></div>
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<span style="color: #990000; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i>MERRY CHRISTMAS and HAPPY HOLIDAYS to you all!</i></span></div>
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With the kids being older and Alexa being home on break, this time of year I really want to soak it all up and not worry about things that don't need to happen for the world to keep turning LOL!</div>
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This is a slightly blurry version (thx scanner) of our Christmas card this year that I wanted to share with you all!</div>
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<span style="color: #990000; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i>Please take the time to slow down, breathe, and just enjoy all the moments.</i></span></div>
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<span style="color: #990000; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i>Wishing you lots of love, laughter, peace and joy over the holiday!</i></span></div>
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<img src="http://sites.google.com/site/bitzofmesuzanne/images/SuzanneSignature.png" />Suzanne J Deanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07454939176456822173noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3863873665193842008.post-50951519241144991092014-12-15T14:24:00.000-05:002014-12-16T20:30:04.823-05:00Soup For The Soul.......<br />
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Only 10 more days until Christmas....are you getting a little nervous or excited yet? I can't believe that December is half way over ugh....time just seems to fly these days more and more. I'm trying to slow it all down and enjoy everything as much as I can.</div>
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I will share some pics this week of holiday things, but wanted to pop in with one of my favorite cold-weather soups that is easy to make and good to put up in the freezer too. So make a big batch to enjoy on those days you just don't have time to cook or want to be doing other things ;)</div>
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F<b>or a printable version of this recipe, <a href="https://app.box.com/s/6d2uwzf7ipplmarvkvgb" target="_blank">click HERE!</a></b><br />
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<b><span style="color: #990000; font-size: large;">Have a wonderful week everyone!!!</span></b><br />
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<b><span style="color: #990000; font-size: large;">******</span></b><br />
Entering into these Linky Parties:<br />
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<b><a href="http://www.thatswhatchesaid.net/2014/christmas-mantels/" target="_blank">Monday Funday</a></b><br />
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<b><a href="http://www.mabeyshemadeit.com/tell-tuesday-54/" target="_blank">Do Tell Tuesday</a></b><br />
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<b><a href="http://justagirlandherblog.com/hit-me-with-your-best-shot-49/" target="_blank">Hit Me With Your Best Shot</a></b></div>
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<img src="http://sites.google.com/site/bitzofmesuzanne/images/SuzanneSignature.png" />Suzanne J Deanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07454939176456822173noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3863873665193842008.post-59603886069456247322014-12-11T02:30:00.000-05:002014-12-11T02:30:02.905-05:00A Few of My Fave Holiday Gift Ideas....<br />
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<span style="color: magenta; font-size: x-large;">JUST IN CASE.....</span></div>
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I just wanted to share a few fun gift ideas that I may have picked up this year for those on my gift list or things I saw that I think would make the perfect gifts. Last minute ideas and nothing is super expensive! If you have a super gift idea please leave a comment so we can all see as well....I love new ideas!<br />
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PS...my daughter flies in today from college and gets to stay home for a month..whoohoo!</div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://hipssister.com/shop-now/fitness/reversible-left-coast-sister.html" target="_blank">Hips Sister</a></span></b></div>
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I discovered these a couple months ago and quickly ordered one for myself. They are a FANTASTIC and trendy version of a fanny pack for anyone on the go. I use mine for my phone when I'm out walking or at a yoga class. They have a zippered pocket that can hold money, ID or keys and then your phone/iPod tucks in as well. They come in tons of styles and patterns (even swimming versions) and run about $24 each. So for someone on your list that loves to walk, exercise or just go anywhere really..they are perfect!</div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.thespicehouse.com/spices/" target="_blank">The Spice House</a></span></b><br />
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Love these spices...concentrated, always great in recipes and so many varieties. The spices come in so many flavors including mixtures you may have never heard of. The gift boxes make lovely gifts for your favorite chef or grill-fanatic...or just pick up a few bottles to stick in gift baskets or stockings yourself..you will LOVE them!<br />
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<b><a href="http://www.uncommongoods.com/product/sustainable-juice-boxes" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: large;">Reusable Juice Boxes</span></a></b><br />
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I love items that can be REUSED and while my teens don't drink juice boxes anymore, these are a fun idea for a mom or kid on your holiday list. After seeing what was in the bottom of some of those packaged juice boxes a couple years ago (MOLD)...I don't think I could ever drink one again. These are cute, easily replenished and perfect for your kids (or grandbabies).<br />
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<b><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00HJSCZ22/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: large;">Portable Bluetooth Speaker (splash proof)</span></a></b><br />
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These speakers are great quality, work pretty much anywhere you need to listen to your music. Great stocking stuffer for teens that you know they will love. Heck, I want one for myself too! A few different fun colors as well.<br />
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<b><a href="http://www.uncommongoods.com/product/ticket-stub-diary" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: large;">Ticket Stub Diary</span></a></b><br />
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I have a ton of tickets from events our family goes to every year in a box...baseball tix, concerts, etc. Yep, in just a big box..sitting there...but in a box. So I thought what a great idea to have a ticket book for each year. If you scrapbook or Project Life you may like to record them another way. For me at this moment in my life..I know I can handle sticking them in a book once a month and being DONE!<br />
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<b><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Primula-Tea-Bag-Buddy-Green/dp/B005M8GFFO/ref=sr_1_fkmr1_1?s=home-garden&ie=UTF8&qid=1418268608&sr=1-1-fkmr1&keywords=primula+tea+bag+caddy" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: large;">Tea Bag Buddy</span></a></b><br />
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I love this little gadget myself... perfect for anyone that loves tea, its a great gift for under $6.<br />
It holds your tea bag while steeping & keeping your tea hot.<br />
Then you can use it to squeeze the teabag and hold it afterwards.<br />
Cute little video on all the fun things it does is <b><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Primula-Tea-Bag-Buddy-Green/dp/B005M8GFFO/ref=sr_1_fkmr1_1?s=home-garden&ie=UTF8&qid=1418268608&sr=1-1-fkmr1&keywords=primula+tea+bag+caddy" target="_blank">here</a></b>...and it comes in other cute colors!<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.tenthousandvillages.com/for-women/shea-butter-cream-in-clay-jar" target="_blank">Shea Butter Cream</a></span></b><br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.tenthousandvillages.com/re-circle-hot-mat" target="_blank">Coiled Paper Trivet</a></span></b><br />
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I'm a huge fan of fair trade items, especially those made by women in other countries...those starting a business or supporting their families. And I always buy a few things every year from <b><a href="http://www.tenthousandvillages.com/" target="_blank">Ten Thousand Villages</a></b>...each product has a description of who made it, how and why. So you are buying a gift for someone AND helping someone else as well....win/win! These were the two items I purchased this holiday for some folks on my gift list. I have two of the paper trivets myself and I love them...they've held up well for over 5 years and they just look cool on the table :)<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Kootek%C2%AE-Bluetooth-Monopod-Portrait-Smartphone/dp/B00NNHGG6E/ref=sr_1_cc_2?s=aps&ie=UTF8&qid=1418269878&sr=1-2-catcorr&keywords=selfie+poles&pebp=1418269893558" target="_blank">Selfie Poles</a></span></b><br />
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Super fun idea for your teens or anyone that loves taking selfies with their phones!<br />
This one has a button on the handle to easily click a photo. I can't take credit for this idea..my friend Sally got me one for Christmas this year and I thought it was a fantastic idea!<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/213485238/personalized-cheese-board-engraved?ref=shop_home_active_11" target="_blank">Personalized Cutting Boards</a></span></b><br />
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I love personalized gifts whether they be for a wedding, Christmas, birth or just because.<br />
I got myself a small engraved bar board a couple months ago and I just love it. You can never have enough cutting boards in my opinion...use them for parties, use them everyday, or use them to display. Etsy has so many gorgeous options but I liked this store the best...fun shapes and sizes and so many ways to engrave each one. Perfect gift for someone anytime of the year.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifJUvDH7t5Mjoj9U6SvMqNnAGebb3V2_nYymLzkAbstbTsJh4iCyKL27T2wH2OslokDt3RDE_PvcLTjWlqQLs2XTuQuU8NsmWenPtM0bf0CozIwXdqe9rwoqqAZU8KcltfrwZsJO9LHlU/s1600/MAT-CBJ83.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifJUvDH7t5Mjoj9U6SvMqNnAGebb3V2_nYymLzkAbstbTsJh4iCyKL27T2wH2OslokDt3RDE_PvcLTjWlqQLs2XTuQuU8NsmWenPtM0bf0CozIwXdqe9rwoqqAZU8KcltfrwZsJO9LHlU/s1600/MAT-CBJ83.JPG" height="396" width="400" /></a></div>
<b><span style="font-size: large;">Board Games</span></b><br />
My family are HUGE fans of board/card games...we play them over the holidays, on vacations and any other time we are all together. It is a fun way to connect without technology and really have some laughs and enjoy each other. We always have a game night on Christmas Eve after we are all snuggled in our new pajammies, drinking some hot cocoa and waiting for Santa. <br />
This <b><a href="http://mattelgames.com/en-us/bounce-off/index.html?dclid=CISC-NWRvcICFVgFDAodRFcAkQ" target="_blank">Bounce Off game</a></b> is pretty popular and for under $15 a good addition to your game supply. <br />
May we also recommend a few of our family's favorites too: <b>Scattegories, The Logo Game, Wits & Wagers, Say Anything</b> and last but not least....<b>Cards Against Humanity</b> (for older teens & adults please lol).<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/204875347/sale-chapstick-holder-yellow-and-pink?ref=sr_gallery_1&ga_search_query=chapstick+holders&ga_search_type=all&ga_view_type=gallery" target="_blank">Chapstick Holders</a></span></b><br />
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I got all of Alexa's friends one of these for this Christmas. I thought they were super cute and filled them with their favorite Peppermint Chapsticks. Cute stocking stuffer gift for any age. I bought mine on a flash-steal site but found these on Etsy in the same fun patterns.<br />
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<img src="http://sites.google.com/site/bitzofmesuzanne/images/SuzanneSignature.png" />Suzanne J Deanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07454939176456822173noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3863873665193842008.post-47041305454252068922014-12-08T02:30:00.000-05:002014-12-09T22:37:24.988-05:00Bring On The Gold Trees.....<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOOZ2ADLikxshGYZGFpee2Zxy5dEDWJp9CLcdkPBSPzGcyFooZtr4IQD49Q6RCZdpdA-yfIp8-tVFTlDQlFn2r9LG_ku92Z4KDKw5yyqp3aWFsaHRy14cSRoSZX7vUKLgdanSBJNiE5-8/s1600/treering_ad.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOOZ2ADLikxshGYZGFpee2Zxy5dEDWJp9CLcdkPBSPzGcyFooZtr4IQD49Q6RCZdpdA-yfIp8-tVFTlDQlFn2r9LG_ku92Z4KDKw5yyqp3aWFsaHRy14cSRoSZX7vUKLgdanSBJNiE5-8/s1600/treering_ad.jpg" height="448" width="640" /></a></div>
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Ok I have a super easy, inexpensive and FUN DIY project for you today. Its so easy that it will amaze you...prepare to be amazed...hahahaha! Just joshin' with you a bit, but it is very easy to do and it's a fun project that kids can help with too (minus the epoxy part).</div>
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These gold napkin rings literally takes less than 30 mins and costs between $12-18 to make 6 or more, depending on what you may already have on hand.</div>
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<b><span style="color: #990000; font-size: large;"><u>Supplies:</u></span></b></div>
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<b>Wood Ornaments</b></div>
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<b>Acrylic Paint</b></div>
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<b>Glitter Paint (optional)</b></div>
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<b>Gold Floral wire (12 gauge)</b></div>
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<b>5 Minute Epoxy</b></div>
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I bought these wooden ornaments at Michaels...they are usually a $1 each but I got them for $0.59 each..BARGAIN! I got 12 of them but only made 6 napkin rings...I always have extras if I need them right? They had lots of pretty options for ornaments but I loved these swirly trees and knew they'd be beautiful on the table.</div>
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I had gold paint and gold-glitter paint already but you can usually buy them for under $3 at most craft stores. And in any color you want to match your decor or holiday table. I didn't end up using the glitter paint but it would be a fun option to add on top of your painted ornaments if you wanted more sparkle...sparkle is always a good thing!</div>
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I like to paint things like this on wax paper as the wood ornaments won't stick when they dry. I just squirt a blob of paint onto the side of the paper and paint away. I painted both sides with 2 coats so they'd look nice from any angle..they dry quickly.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKtCtYrXBZ_IjHop8i90EFwJmCYr3SD08XwKGhoBucMXqW0RN7aGRNHaen-JzCDLvPlwoTS8xoQwoblXzsH0obrMm6FEpJk8hMDzEMLc0oVBayOUghSfCuRpsvsaCxHrYDdB6Kz07Y10Q/s1600/wire.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKtCtYrXBZ_IjHop8i90EFwJmCYr3SD08XwKGhoBucMXqW0RN7aGRNHaen-JzCDLvPlwoTS8xoQwoblXzsH0obrMm6FEpJk8hMDzEMLc0oVBayOUghSfCuRpsvsaCxHrYDdB6Kz07Y10Q/s1600/wire.jpg" height="177" width="320" /></a></div>
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Now I didn't take a photo at this point....I was caught up in watching "When Harry Met Sally" and totally forgot...forgive me! This gold floral wire can be found at most craft stores and online...it also comes in lots of other bold colors too depending on what you want. But it's 12 gauge & easily snipped with wire snips. I wrapped the wire around the paint bottle (clever yes haha) 3 times and then snipped. This gives you a nice mold for the wire rings. It retails for around $5-10 depending on how big the spools are...use a coupon if shopping at Michaels, AC Moore or Hobby Lobby. My motto is "NEVER PAY FULL PRICE" :)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjD0yJrRIkQqLNxR-o3DaEoSskkWUhF8FrvriMKt97o1n_AaINQgIkSPbK-OB-78VHrncvEMIiD-rmN3AaCZefaUHsGQRuuqgtM3BrCGxUL5GCgKhFyGVT578jF1yRMbwtCoujaQI9gSmc/s1600/epxy_5min.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjD0yJrRIkQqLNxR-o3DaEoSskkWUhF8FrvriMKt97o1n_AaINQgIkSPbK-OB-78VHrncvEMIiD-rmN3AaCZefaUHsGQRuuqgtM3BrCGxUL5GCgKhFyGVT578jF1yRMbwtCoujaQI9gSmc/s1600/epxy_5min.png" height="320" width="134" /></a></div>
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Then you need some 5 minute Epoxy which most home improvement stores have and some craft stores do as well. You don't need anything stronger than this since the ornaments are super light. This part I think an adult should do if you are making these with your kids...just for safety's sake ok? Add a bit of epoxy to the backside of your ornament in a couple of places, then press on your wire ring and hold for a few seconds until the glue takes hold. Put to the side and let them dry.</div>
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<b>TA-DA!</b></div>
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And you end up with these beauties for your holiday table. Pretty easy right? You could make so many different versions, in pretty colors to mix and match as well.....lots of fun options for not a lot of money. I think a set of these wrapped prettily in a box would make a great hostess or holiday gift as well.</div>
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I set up an impromptu holiday table in my kitchen for photo reasons only...usually we eat holiday meals in the dining room. But I loved the way they turned out & am already thinking of making another set so I can mix-n-match them myself.</div>
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Nothing better than an easy & inexpensive DIY craft in my opinion!<br />
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<u><b><span style="color: #990000;">Entering into these Linky Parties:</span></b></u><br />
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<b><a href="http://www.thatswhatchesaid.net/2014/christmas-projects/" target="_blank">Monday FunDay</a></b><br />
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<b><a href="http://www.confessionsofaserialdiyer.com/get-your-diy-on-december-hand-made-holly-days/" target="_blank">Get Your DIY On December</a></b><br />
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<b><a href="http://thediydreamer.com/from-dream-to-reality/share-your-inspiring-projects-147/" target="_blank">The DIY Dreamer</a></b><br />
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<b><a href="http://justagirlandherblog.com/hit-me-with-your-best-shot-48/" target="_blank">Hit Me With Your Best Shot!</a></b></div>
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<b><a href="http://www.savvysouthernstyle.net/2014/12/wow-us-wednesdays-199.html" target="_blank">Wow Us Wednesdays!</a></b></div>
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<img src="http://sites.google.com/site/bitzofmesuzanne/images/SuzanneSignature.png" />Suzanne J Deanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07454939176456822173noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3863873665193842008.post-34570966379044412922014-12-05T18:02:00.002-05:002014-12-06T00:39:50.081-05:00Hidden Blessings.....<br />
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I'm so sorry but I will have the Christmas projects I promised up next week. This week I've been battling the horrendous flu, dealing with a husband who hasn't been well himself and trying to finish up decorating the house for Christmas before Alexa comes home next week. </div>
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Phew...suffice it to say, its been a VERY long & exhausting week. But I need to edit photos and get those typed up for you all and hoping next week is much, much calmer.</div>
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I just wanted to pop in with a little post for everyone to ponder over the weekend. Something that I've been giving lots of thought to myself and thought I'd share...because that's what I like to do is share with everyone.</div>
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I wanted to talk about <b><span style="color: #e06666;">Hidden Blessings.</span></b>...the things that happen that you don't realize until after the fact, or something that you didn't even realize was happening at the time but thought about afterwards. Something that was lifting your spirits, making you smile or easing your pain just a little. I like to think that these blessings happen to us all but maybe we aren't always so tuned in to what they are or if they even might have helped us. I think with the busy-ness of our lives, the stress, the long to-do lists, the sleepless nights, our jobs, our families, all those things that pull us that way and this way...I think sometimes we don't notice the little things that have been blessing us all along.</div>
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So my hope is that you will stop for a few moments each day or each week and think back on something that helped you in a way that wasn't entirely recognizable at first. Notice those small things that are bringing you some peace or joy, even if its much later...because when you look back and take notice...that's when the blessing becomes something more powerful in your life. Similar to a gratitude journal but these are actually blessings you realize later on...not the instant ones although those are always great too.</div>
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I notice lots of hidden blessings myself or I try to as I believe that we should focus on the positive more than the negative. It has helped me get through a lot in life..just the simple act of being thankful for the beautiful things and moments in our lives. And a lot of them are just little things like someone offering a smile & a friendly wave on a day I wasn't feeling well. Reading a book or story and then later on realizing it helped put a smile on my face or taught me a valuable lesson. Pondering what to have for dinner when you need to go get groceries and making due with what you have on hand, and later realizing what a simplified & great dish it was. Taking a quiet walk early in the day and later having a stressful evening, and really being thankful for that earlier time that helped you maintain a level of calm when it was needed most. Realizing that you ran out of time to get to the store & feeling angry about it, but then found out the next day that there was a terrible accident that closed down the highway while you were out..which would've meant you might have missed your son's school presentation. Lots of these things happen every day but I think most of us dwell on the things that didn't go well, or the stress of an event, or the sadness that we may be enduring. </div>
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Negatives always weigh more than positives....don't let yourself get weighed down by things you can change.</div>
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The hidden blessing I discovered didn't even hit me until the other evening. My husband was teaching a class at Univ of MD and Riley and I were home alone for the evening. I had the flu and hadn't been able to do much that day other than sit in my chair and sleep. Riley made me some soup and then he sat with me and watched some sappy Hallmark Holiday movies...not necessarily because he wanted to. Usually he likes to skype his girlfriend in the evening or play a video game after dinner when homework is finished or watch a hockey game. So for him to sit there with me and make me some dinner was a blessing...right then and there I SAW the actual blessing. Of course he complained about how corny the Hallmark movies were, but we laughed and watched them together and enjoyed the always-happy-endings.</div>
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But then I got to thinking later that night and guess what I realized?</div>
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I realized that he's been a hidden blessing all along. Not that he's not been a blessing in my life...that's not at all what I mean, because both of my kids have been. But with Alexa going to college there's been an emptiness in the house and our lives that I've really missed. Its really hard to explain unless you've gone through it yourself. So even though I still have a child at home there has definitely been a "shift" of emotions and things I've missed with having another girl in the house.</div>
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As I was thinking on all of this I started remembering how much TIME I've gotten to spend with Riley by myself since mid-August. Usually its just him and I till the hubs comes home, and if he's working late than Riley and I have dinner together too. We watch hockey and football games together, we get to watch Colbert & discuss it during dinner, he runs to the grocery store with me, adds more food to the cart (lol) and helps carry in the bags. He brings in the mail every day and we discuss his day at school. I talk him into taking walks around the neighborhood with me even when he groans that he's tired. We have movie dates and pizza nights. He shows me funny videos or memes on his phone. I cringe at the mess when I go down to his bedroom as he laughs and helps get it cleaned up. Without having Alexa in the house we've gotten to spend more quality time together that wasn't always available with his sister being around. With more than 1 child you are always divvying up your attention and time as much as possible and sometimes you don't get all the 1-on1 time that you want or need. So with Alexa having gone off to college now, Riley and I have been able to find that TIME which is I believe is my biggest hidden blessing. Something I hadn't really thought about much until the other evening. And as our little boys grow into teens its so hard to find that time especially with their MOM...with sports, friends, girlfriends and other things that I like to call "teen boy attitude" absorbing some of that time. For me its a way to establish a "new" relationship with him as a young man and not a little boy...for me to recognize who he is NOW and find joy in that. To hear all the stories and ideas he feels passionate about even if some of them make me groan inwardly a little hahaha! Its basically just the joy of having the TIME with him that I won't get back and to really embrace this moment in our lives without sadness.</div>
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Because in another year he's off to college as well and to start his new independent and grown-up life. But for me, in the here & now I'm so very, very thankful for this time I've been given with him. So instead of focusing on the emptiness I feel with my daughter being gone, I am instead concentrating on this hidden gem of a gift I've been blessed to have. </div>
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Even in the darkest shadows I do believe you can find some light.....</div>
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So my Christmas wish for all of you this month, which can sometimes be the most stressful time of the year....is to have many hidden blessings. And most importantly for you to have a moment to recognize them all.</div>
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<img src="http://sites.google.com/site/bitzofmesuzanne/images/SuzanneSignature.png" />Suzanne J Deanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07454939176456822173noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3863873665193842008.post-91886982649612721982014-12-02T01:00:00.000-05:002014-12-02T01:00:10.601-05:00Curl Up In Your Chair.....<span style="color: #990000; font-size: x-large;"><i><br /></i></span>
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<span style="color: #990000; font-size: x-large;"><i>Holiday Curl-Up-In-Your-Chair Books</i></span></div>
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Just popping in real quick....I promise to type up a post tomorrow on another holiday project. I've had some ongoing things that have sucked my time the past 2 days but they're coming I promise. Today I'm off with my friends for a Holiday Tea at the Ritz...so looking forward to visiting, laughing and just some good times with my girly friends :)</div>
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I wanted to post a couple of <b><span style="color: #990000;">Christmas Books</span></b> that I thought you might enjoy. These are a mix of brand new books and some oldies...and all are heartwarming, easy and light reads that will warm your soul! Enjoy!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJoBfH-g7b-0xa3AcJOJNMMf-jYq6YwGNM078J0Vp9giDPX4QLY8MOcUY1Q3cPk4HBDZZV5N9vBF3XEI0A5c5Zbi-Knh1KVal_x61RMzddBe22WeyDevNgp9xaQMHbCPLkCUiZbbOMJvM/s1600/17085293+(1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJoBfH-g7b-0xa3AcJOJNMMf-jYq6YwGNM078J0Vp9giDPX4QLY8MOcUY1Q3cPk4HBDZZV5N9vBF3XEI0A5c5Zbi-Knh1KVal_x61RMzddBe22WeyDevNgp9xaQMHbCPLkCUiZbbOMJvM/s1600/17085293+(1).jpg" height="640" width="414" /></a></div>
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<b><span style="color: #990000; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Christmas-Tin-Holiday-Novel-ebook/dp/B00AR3HOHW/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1417489650&sr=8-1&keywords=the+christmas+tin" target="_blank">The Christmas Tin</a></span></b></div>
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The "Christmas Tin" is my BookEndz bookclub pick for the month. It was my favorite holiday of the 14 I've read and its free if you are a Amazon Kindle Unlimited member...or $2.99 reg price. Worth every penny I swear. If you want to see other bookclub picks or other book recommendations you can join our club on <b><a href="https://www.facebook.com/bookendz" target="_blank">Facebook HERE</a></b>...everyone is welcome.</div>
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<b><span style="color: #990000; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/13th-Day-Christmas-Jason-Wright-ebook/dp/B009ONOH80/ref=sr_1_1?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1417488798&sr=1-1&keywords=the+13th+day+of+christmas" target="_blank">The 13th Day of Christmas</a></span></b></div>
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There are not enough words to describe how I feel about this book...I enjoyed every moment and page and was sad to see it end. A real page turner that makes you smile all the way down to your feet.</div>
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<span style="color: #990000; font-size: large;"><b><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Christmas-Diary-Elyse-Douglas-ebook/dp/B009AHT1UO/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1417489312&sr=8-1&keywords=the+christmas+diary" target="_blank">The Christmas Diary</a></b></span></div>
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This is a good, one-sitting read while curled up next to the Christmas tree and enjoying a hot beverage. Page turning and heart-warming....</div>
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<b><span style="color: #990000; font-size: large;">The Santa Letters</span></b></div>
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This is an oldie but a goodie...I found it on my bookshelf and wanted to mention it because I enjoyed it so much when I read it. Its not available on Kindle but you can probably find it at your library.</div>
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This book showcases the true spirit and meaning of Christmas. I might've teared up a couple of times but don't let that deter you because its worth the read. Filled with lots of love & Christmas joy too!</div>
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<span style="color: #990000; font-size: large;"><b><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Mr-Miracle-Christmas-Debbie-Macomber-ebook/dp/B00JNQMLF4/ref=sr_1_1?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1417489119&sr=1-1&keywords=mr+miracle" target="_blank">Mr. Miracle</a></b></span></div>
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And how can you forget a good & enjoyable read by Debbie Macomber? This time she's written a Mr. Miracle story...if you are familiar with her Mrs. Miracle books then you will definitely want to read this one as well.</div>
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<span style="color: #990000; font-size: x-large;"><i>Enjoy your holiday reading!!</i></span></div>
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<img src="http://sites.google.com/site/bitzofmesuzanne/images/SuzanneSignature.png" />Suzanne J Deanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07454939176456822173noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3863873665193842008.post-26429844020043996412014-11-27T04:30:00.000-05:002014-11-27T04:30:00.541-05:00Happy Thanksgiving.....<br />
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For those celebrating the holiday, I hope you enjoy every minute of your family, friends, football watching, food & dessert eating, holiday shopping and whatever else you may do the next few days!</div>
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We are headed to the Gaylord Resort at National Harbor for the holiday. Thanksgiving is my least favorite holiday (gasp..I know) so I prefer to spend it somewhere and just relax and be with my family. We are having dinner in Alexandria and then movies back at the resort...Friday we will see the <b><a href="http://www.marriott.com/hotel-info/wasgn-gaylord-national-resort-and-convention-center/christmas-on-the-potomac/xyjvxiz/ice.mi" target="_blank">ICE "Frosty the Snowman"</a> s</b>how before we come home. </div>
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And on Saturday we will be hunting our family room Christmas tree at our local tree farm, decorating, drinking homemade hot cocoa, and watching ELF :)</div>
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Good times.....</div>
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This girly got back on Tuesday night and we are thankful we flew her home early because of the weather and snow issues. First thing she did was come in and snuggle with all the cats...and of course Winston was first! Its her first time home in 4 mos...so that was way too long. She flies home Sunday morning and then she will be back Dec 11th for a month...yay!</div>
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Tuesday night I made Alexa's favorite dinner and there was lots of rowdiness during and after dinner....just like ole' times LOL!</div>
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Wednesday we woke up to this white stuff...yeah can you feel how thrilled I am? NOT!</div>
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Thankfully it started raining a bit and most of it is gone today but still pretty chilly.</div>
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And Wednesday Alexa's BFF Grace came over for the night. Lots of pizza eating, watching Home Alone and playing Cards Against Humanity....it was lots of fun!</div>
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<b><span style="color: #990000; font-size: x-large;">Happy Thanksgiving from the Dean Family!</span></b></div>
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<span style="color: #e69138; font-size: large;"><b><i>I hope you enjoy your holiday! I will be back on Monday with more Holiday projects for you...stay tuned. But for rest of week & weekend I will be enjoying spending time with my family!</i></b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #e69138; font-size: large;"><b><i>Hugs & Love!</i></b></span></div>
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<img src="http://sites.google.com/site/bitzofmesuzanne/images/SuzanneSignature.png" />Suzanne J Deanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07454939176456822173noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3863873665193842008.post-22158894387809157402014-11-25T03:00:00.000-05:002014-11-30T23:44:18.783-05:00Painted Snowy Mason Jars....<br />
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Over the weekend while the boys were away & I had the house to myself I worked on 7 different holiday projects...yes 7..and all but 1 are actually completed hahaha! Sometimes its easier to do a lot at once when you already have a good mess going right? And I watched "Sleepless In Seattle" and "When Harry Met Sally" while crafting....two of my most favorite movies so it was all good. I think my dogs might've gone to bed with glittery fur that night too...hmmmmm ;)</div>
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So first on my project list to share with you today are my Painted Christmas Mason Jars. I've seen these painted mason jars ALL over the web and I've been biding my time to make my own version. I had everything in my craft supplies for this project except for the paint so the total for this cost me a nice $4...can't beat that!</div>
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<b><u><span style="color: #76a5af; font-size: large;">Supplies:</span></u></b></div>
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<b>Jars</b> (cleaned & dry)</div>
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<b>Paint </b>(any acrylic or chalk paint works)</div>
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<b>Glue Gun & Glue Sticks</b></div>
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<b>Sand paper or block, emory board</b></div>
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<b>White Glitter </b>(I used Diamond Dust)</div>
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<b>Clear Glitter </b>(I used Tim Holtz Distress Glitter)</div>
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<b>Modge Podge or other thick glue</b></div>
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<b>Chipboard Letters</b></div>
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<b>Snowflake punches, thick white cardstock, or pre-made snowflakes</b></div>
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<b>Paper Dimensionals</b></div>
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<b>Twine</b></div>
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Mine aren't even mason jars...they are spaghetti jars I've saved and washed out...I cannot throw out a perfectly good jar like these ya know. I used <b><u><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Martha-Stewart-32022-2-Ounce-Acrylic/dp/B007C7WSBS/ref=sr_1_8?ie=UTF8&qid=1416877156&sr=8-8&keywords=martha+stewart+cloud+blue&pebp=1416877165468" target="_blank">Martha Stewart's paint in Cloud </a>(satin finish) </u></b>and just painted it all over the clean jars making sure to paint from top to bottom each time..no swishing it in every direction. (Chalk Paint would work great too) </div>
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Let first coat dry and then add second coat..then let them dry overnight.</div>
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After they are thoroughly dried, then you can sand them to your heart's desire. I used an emory board to get in the letters a bit more and then the sanding block for the larger areas.</div>
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I wanted the tops of my jars to have a fun, glittery & snowy look. So I used a heavy modge podge glue and dabbed it along the top and dipped each jar into some of the <b><a href="http://www.amazon.com/FloraCraft-Diamond-Glitter-Plastic-6-Ounce/dp/B0054G6LFI/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1416877325&sr=8-1&keywords=diamond+dust&pebp=1416877329085" target="_blank">Diamond Dust </a></b>(which is a thicker white/clear glitter). After dipping I patted it on to make sure it was coated well.</div>
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Then I used my snowflake punches and punched a variety of sizes out of some thick, white cardstock.</div>
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Then each snowflake got a coating of glue and both kinds of glitter as well.</div>
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The chipboard letters I painted white and then added glitter to them as well...this time I only used the Tim Holtz Distress Glitter in Clear Rock Candy.</div>
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I hot glued the snowflakes in layers and then glued them directly on my jars. But I wanted my letters to POP out a bit more from the jars & really stand out. So I used these dimensional stickies (if you are a papercrafter they look familiar)...only I hot glued them on the letters and then the jar so they'd stay stuck really well. Otherwise they would probably fall off easily on the painted jar since they are meant more for paper.</div>
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I added some twine just to the first jar and tied in a bow...I liked the contrast.</div>
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You could also punch snowflakes out of kraft paper and have a variety of colored snowflakes.</div>
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Lots of fun options....</div>
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And this is what you end up with...I just love how they turned out and the pretty soft gray-aqua color. They will look beautiful in my finished basement rec-room (its all choc brown, black, white & aqua).</div>
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I put flameless battery operated candles in each so they will glow softly when the lights are dimmed.</div>
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<b><span style="color: #45818e;">I would NOT recommend using real candles due to saftey okay...no burning stuff down folks!!</span></b></div>
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<b><u><span style="color: #45818e;">Entering into these fab Linky Parties:</span></u></b><br />
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<b><a href="http://www.mabeyshemadeit.com/tell-tuesday-51/" target="_blank">Do-Tell Tuesday</a></b><br />
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<b><a href="http://www.thededicatedhouse.com/2014/11/make-it-pretty-monday-week-121.html" target="_blank">Make It Pretty Monday</a></b><br />
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<b><a href="http://diyshowoff.com/2014/11/23/diy-party-31/" target="_blank">DIY Show Off</a></b><br />
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<b><a href="http://www.abowlfulloflemons.net/2014/11/one-project-at-a-time-112514.html" target="_blank">A Bowl Full of Lemons</a></b><br />
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<b><a href="http://www.cedarhillfarmhouse.com/2014/11/scoop-146.html" target="_blank">The Scoop #146 / Cedar Hill Farmhouse</a></b><br />
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<b><a href="http://thediydreamer.com/from-dream-to-reality/share-your-inspiring-creations-145/" target="_blank">The DIY Dreamer</a></b><br />
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<b><a href="http://www.savvysouthernstyle.net/2014/11/wow-us-wednesdays-197.html" target="_blank">Wow Us Wednesdays</a></b><br />
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<b><a href="http://justagirlandherblog.com/hit-me-with-your-best-shot-46/" target="_blank">Hit Me With Your Best Shot</a></b><br />
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<b><a href="http://akadesign.ca/weekend-retreat-link-party-95/?mc_cid=13cac6ead5&mc_eid=dac488e8d8" target="_blank">Weekend Retreat Link Party</a></b><br />
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<b><a href="http://www.dwellings-theheartofyourhome.com/2014/11/amaze-me-monday-87.html" target="_blank">Amaze Me Monday</a></b></div>
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<img src="http://sites.google.com/site/bitzofmesuzanne/images/SuzanneSignature.png" />Suzanne J Deanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07454939176456822173noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3863873665193842008.post-25290365508402226902014-11-21T03:30:00.000-05:002014-11-25T00:08:18.089-05:00Getcha In The Mood......<br />
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<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b>GET in the Christmas mood my sillies....hahahaha! </b></span><br />
I think I'm ready...I wasn't at all last week but definitely feeling the pull of the Christmas fun now. The hub's birthday is tomorrow and both he and our son left for South Carolina Thursday night. They are heading to see Alexa at UofSC, go to the last Gamecocks football game and do "guy stuff". Guy stuff for them means trips to Sonic, Cracker Barrel, Waffle House, Cabela's and Bass Pro shops...whatever floats their boat right? LOL!</div>
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I'm staying home because I wanted them to have some guy time...Riley will be off to college in another year and I felt it was important for them to have some bonding time. Plus I have a million & one projects I want to work on with NO distractions. And did I mention girlie movies and easy dinners in the evenings ;) Plus Alexa flies in on Tuesday for the holiday so I want to get a few things ready before she gets here.</div>
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So to help you get in the mood for Christmas I'm going to leave you with two holiday songs by <b>Pentatonix</b>....I friggin love them. They sing a cappella and have a beautiful Christmas album out now. So bring forth the Christmas trees, boxes of decorations, cranberry-fir candles and more. </div>
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<b><span style="color: #990000; font-size: large;">Oh and enjoy your weekend!! TGIF!</span></b><br />
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IT'S SOOO COLD HERE so I will be doing this a lot while out with the doggies.<br />
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<img src="http://sites.google.com/site/bitzofmesuzanne/images/SuzanneSignature.png" />Suzanne J Deanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07454939176456822173noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3863873665193842008.post-26018438950337989582014-11-18T22:38:00.000-05:002014-11-18T22:51:21.064-05:00The Crazy Cat Lady.....<br />
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I am the crazy cat lady...I mean c'mon...I have 6 cats and I'm slightly nuts right?? hahahaha!</div>
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If you follow me on Instagram or Facebook you know I post pics of them regularly...they make humorous subjects most days.</div>
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How did we get 6 cats when I really was more of a "dog" person?</div>
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Well I'm gonna tell you today....settle on in with some tea & a snack my friends......</div>
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The ONLY picture I have of all 6 cats...of course its dinner time so they all appear in a flash meowing and following me around. If you don't like cats don't come to my house at mealtime.</div>
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Ten years ago the kid's gold fish that they won at the FAIR and lived for FOUR years ughhh...died.</div>
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So I took them both to PetSmart to get new fish and walked out the door with 2 kitties....you know because 2+2 = 10 in my house..LOL! However both kitties came from the local cat rescue so we were doing a good deed even if I knew NOTHNG much about cats.</div>
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Those two kitties are named Poncho & Millie and they are siblings.</div>
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Poncho is all gray and Millie is pure black...both with beautiful green eyes.</div>
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They are now 10 years old and our 2 quietest cats and the two most likely to be bullied by the babies.</div>
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<i>Mimi the alien cat...hahaha!</i></div>
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I don't have a lot of pictures of Poncho & Millie. I tried to take some pics but she was very uncooperative the lil shadow she is. We call <b>Millie </b>the cave dweller because she only emerges in the evening from her dungeon in the back basement. Which shouldn't be surprising because when we brought her home she hid under a dresser for 3 days. She's the sweetest of all the cats, extremely quiet but she doesn't like to be around lots of people or noise...she also goes by the name "Mimi" or "Princess". (we have alternate names for everyone)</div>
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I took this picture of <b>Poncho</b> while I was holding him because he's very shifty...its like he knows I'm coming at him to get a picture...he smells the camera LOL! He's Riley's cat but he's also pretty much my cat. He used to be a real diva until he had surgery 5 years ago and then he became more laid back...he might've thought we would take him back to the hospital if he kept on with the diva-ish-ness! He sleeps under my side of the bed at night and goes by the name "Poncho-Pants" or "Mr. Bear-Bear"...don't ask..that's just what I call him.</div>
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Then we have the babies...not really babies anymore at 5 years old but they will forever be known as babies in our house. Tinkerbell and Tucker are our second set of sibling cats and they also came from a local rescue. I had just lost my other cat Windy (its a long story about Windy, but she basically adopted us and became my cat and was a beautiful siamese...then she passed away due to cancer) and my miniature schnauzer of 13 years had passed away as well. I decided to work with the local cat/dog rescue after I lost Windy as a way to give back and help all those other kitties that were suffering. So I went to PetSmart (do you see a theme here) to get some more cat supplies and the head of the rescue was there with a new batch of kitties. Now this was after I had fostered about 10 other cats in the meantime. Well one of those kitties looked so much like my Windy that I told her I'd foster him...well HE came with a sister...and ummm...they never really left the house for foster events because I kept them. I kept assuring the hubs that I would but they kinda stayed...yeah that's another theme in this house.</div>
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This is <b>Tinkerbell</b>...aka Tink or SmellyBella...again don't ask. The babies like to have their pictures taken...they also love people..they know no strangers. They also are the most mischievous of all the cats I have. "If it FITS, it SITS" is a good title for them because they squish into anything...baskets, drawers, bins, etc. Tink is tiny but mighty...she is the QUEEN of the house...she is the bully and she dominates everyone including her brother. I might also mention that she is my "buddy" when I'm working or crafting...I use that term very loosely. She wants to be hugging me, near me, on my head, on whatever I'm working on...basically just wanting attention at the least opportune time.</div>
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<i>Yes that is Tucker in the kitty treat door...he knows how to open it the rotten cat.</i></div>
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<i>And NO he never learned to NOT get on the counters like the other 5..sheesh!</i></div>
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Then we have <b>Tucker.</b>..aka TROUBLE or "Kitty Boy"..he's nothing but trouble so its a good thing he's so cute. He is the most personable of the cats (also my mom's fave) and he's pretty much James' cat when he's home...my cat when he's not. He's the cat you can dress up, haul around, and take 100 pictures of and he doesn't care. He also doesn't listen, never cares if he's in trouble and thinks he's part dog. Both him and his sister were dropped off at the rescue in 95 deg heat, taped up in a box...can you believe that? Their other sibling died from the heat and Tucker had a damaged voice box from being so dehydrated and sick...so he uhhhh BARKS, yeah he has a weird dolphin squeak and then a bark. Both him and Tink took to my dogs like they were their mommas...they will still lay right next to them and clean them up when they allow it LOL. </div>
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And then we have <b>Snowbell.</b>..she weighs about 4 lbs but is a fluffball of white hair that regularly rolls around the floor. She answers to Snowbella and the cracking of food cans. She followed the hubs and kids home about 4 Halloweens ago and we took her in...she was malnutritioned, she had sticks and mud in her paws and ears..she was a mess. I remember the vet saying she probably would've survived another week and then died because she was so sickly. I bathed her that night and she never moved, she just seemed so calm and quiet I thought she might pass away that night. She had been declawed so she was someone's cat although no one never claimed her in our neighborhood. I was supposed to nurse her back to good health before I put her up for adoption...and well...yeah she never left either (see that theme I was speakin' of). But for all that I did to revitalize her and get her healthy she PREFERS James...he is the King to her I swear. She comes to no one else but him unless they are the bearers of food...so basically she puts up with me until he gets home LOL. I don't have a ton of pictures of her either unless its on James' lap (like this one). We think she's about 6-7 years old by the vet's best guess.</div>
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And last but not least is <b>Winston</b>...yes another rescue. Two years ago before Thanksgiving I got a call from the head of the local rescue asking if I could "possibly" take in a cat for the holiday...just for 5 days Suzanne that's it. UH HUH...well I'm a sucker so I went & picked him up and he came home. We put all new or foster kitties in the study on the first floor for a few days to get them used to the house, noises and for my cats to look at them through the glass french doors and hiss basically LOL.</div>
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Well he strolled on in this house like he owned it...might I also say he was tubby when we got him and he was only 2 years old. PS..the top picture was him watching me do yoga...he lounges while I do all the work...its so cat-like of him..HA!</div>
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And yup you guessed it...he's now been with us for 2 years because he never left. He is such a laid-back cat, he's playful and he could care less about the other cats...it's WINSTON'S WORLD and they are all just living in it. And Alexa thinks he's hers but he pretty much loves everyone in the family. Although he did sleep in Alexa's room and he's definitely been missing her since she left for college. Well in 6 more days he will get his "Alexa Fix" hahahaha!</div>
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So there you go...the story of how we got our 6 cats. </div>
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I don't foster cats or kitties anymore because I had such issues letting them go.</div>
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And the hubs said I would be in BIG trouble if I got any more...so I don't tempt myself but volunteer for the rescue in other ways LOL!</div>
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With 8 animals in the house I feel like I'm just the human caretaker and living in their world...they are the kings & queens. And they frustrate me on a lot of days...but I can't imagine our lives without each personality...truly!</div>
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<b>Now I'm off to vacuum some furballs, clean up some cat mess and let my dogs outside......</b></div>
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<b>And remember local no-kill animal shelters are always looking for volunteers and donations all year long but especially in the winter months. </b></div>
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<img src="http://sites.google.com/site/bitzofmesuzanne/images/SuzanneSignature.png" />Suzanne J Deanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07454939176456822173noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3863873665193842008.post-62064847471884044832014-11-15T14:52:00.001-05:002014-11-15T14:52:52.942-05:00Just Steal It......<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Do you like a steal? A great bargain? </b></span> </div>
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I know I sure do. I thought I'd share a few of my favorite buys from the site Decor Steals. Its a flash sale site that emails you the "steal" each day and they are usually a good bargain compared to what you will find them in the stores for. I don't buy every steal...sheesh my husband would kill me lol. However I have bought quite a few this year that are some of my most fave things. I like the unique finds they offer.</div>
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<b>My one tip would be:</b> if you really love it, don't hesitate. I've done that a few times and lost out because they've sold out of the item. So I check right away for my email each day and if I can't live without it or will regret not having it I put it in my cart. Lots of popular items like the holiday pillows sold out within the first few hours.</div>
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If you'd like to join you can click the <u><b><a href="https://www.decorsteals.com/referafriend/?bl=c2pkZWFuQHNtYXJ0bmVpZ2hib3Job29kLm5ldA%3D%3D" target="_blank">LINK HERE </a></b></u>and once you sign up for an account you will get $5 off your first order. There is no obligation to buy a steal EVER...if you like it you buy it, if you don't then just delete the email LOL! But if you like unique finds for your home then I would suggest you try it out.</div>
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I just received these pillows this week and I ADORE them. They look like vintage feed sacks but are super soft. The backside of the Reindeer pillow has the song lyrics to Rudolph so both sides are pretty.</div>
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The blue-grayish lanterns were bought from them as well...they sit on top of my media center.</div>
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And I love my little hobby horse...they offered it in different sizes. This one is sitting near my fireplace right now, but once I get my foyer Christmas tree up it will sit with the other vintage toys in front of it.</div>
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Love these whitewashed metal baskets...the smaller one holds fruit in my kitchen, the med one will be ready for holiday greenery and the large holds magazines in my bedroom.</div>
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And I love this bucket...it will be filled with greenery & twinkle lights in a few weeks.</div>
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Those are just a few of my faves I've gotten from them this year. I have others including more holiday items that I will share as I start decorating for Christmas.</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Enjoy your weekend...it is COLD here in Virgina!!</b></span></div>
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<img src="http://sites.google.com/site/bitzofmesuzanne/images/SuzanneSignature.png" />Suzanne J Deanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07454939176456822173noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3863873665193842008.post-25940615301993571742014-11-12T02:30:00.000-05:002014-11-12T02:30:01.331-05:00Take A Load Off.....<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>A load of carbs off your daily diet that is.</b></span> I've really been watching my carbs & sugars the past month and trying to be better about substituting while cooking. And you know how you feel weighted down after a huge pasta meal? Yeah, you won't feel that way with a plate of veggie noodles that's for sure.</div>
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0007Y9WHQ/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B0007Y9WHQ&linkCode=as2&tag=biofme01-20&linkId=ITAOME6G36HA7FZ5">Tri-Blade Plastic Spiral Vegetable Slicer</a><img alt="" border="0" src="http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=biofme01-20&l=as2&o=1&a=B0007Y9WHQ" height="1" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /> </div>
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Which led me to purchase this handy, dandy machine.....may I present the Spiralizer! There are lots of different models & types out there but I read reviews diligently and this one seemed to suit me best. I liked the different blades, ease of use and easy clean up. You can use it for fruits AND veggies...so mix it up and try new things I say :)</div>
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Which led to me getting it, washing it & putting it right to use because I was super excited! </div>
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(it doesn't take much folks, trust me)</div>
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I decided to use zucchini & yellow squash to make spaghetti noodles first. I snapped in the right blade, cut the ends off of my veggies and spiraled away...its pretty fun to twirl that handle. Reminded me of the Play-Doh Hair Salon I had as a kid hahaha! The spiralizer has suction cups on each leg to keep it in place while you are twirling away...don't get too excited now..hehehe. AND keep the skins on for extra source of fiber too (after you've washed them all really well).</div>
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And I ended up with a blow of these yummy veggie noodles. I used 1 each of the zucchini & yellow squash to make enough for two servings (my veggies were med sized).</div>
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<b>Cook or Raw?</b></div>
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Now you can eat them raw if you like or to soften them a bit you can cook them up quickly.</div>
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I put a TBS of Olive Oil in my pan along with 2 diced cloves of garlic and sauteed them for about 2-3 minutes. Easy peasy. (I also drained them on paper towels because I wanted less oil on them)</div>
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<b>Don't have a Spiralizer or don't want to buy one?</b> </div>
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Use a julienne slicer or peeler and make long, thin strips instead...it may take a bit longer but results will be similar.</div>
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I also had some homemade marinara meat sauce simmering and ready on the stove. Mine has onions, mushrooms & ground turkey in it...yummmm!</div>
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<b><u>And direct from a Healthy Eating Website here is the low-down on zucchini spaghetti:</u></b></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', Times, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px; text-align: start;">Each medium zucchini provides 33 calories, 6.1 grams of total carbohydrates and 2.0 grams of fiber, which works out to only 4.1 grams of net carbs.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', Times, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px; text-align: start;">A typical plate of spaghetti can easily provides 100 to 150 grams of carbohydrate, and that is before you even consider the garlic bread and soft drink that might go with it. Most low-carb diet plans recommend limiting your daily carb intake to fewer than 100 grams a day.</span></div>
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How is that for a comparison huh? I think this girl will be sticking to her veggie noodles and feel much better after enjoying it too!</div>
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<i>And all these pics were with my iPhone..sorry..I didn't realize that BOTH my </i></div>
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<i>camera's batteries were dead until I of course needed them lol!</i></div>
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And that turned into a yummilicious dinner...I swear it was so good I could've eaten 2 bowls. The veggie noodles were softer and took on the flavor of the sauce...you'd never know if you weren't told what they were. Definitely a winner! I served it up with a field greens salad & balsamic dressing..nummers.</div>
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I will be using this Spiralizer a lot me thinks!</div>
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I also pinned quite a few recipes using a Spiralizer on my <b><u><a href="https://www.pinterest.com/scrapbitz/lose-weight-recipes/" target="_blank">LOSE WEIGHT RECIPES</a></u></b> board on Pinterest if you are interested.<br />
Oh and there is a blog dedicated to only <b><a href="http://www.inspiralized.com/" target="_blank">Spiralizer recipes</a></b>..check it out too!</div>
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<img src="http://sites.google.com/site/bitzofmesuzanne/images/SuzanneSignature.png" />Suzanne J Deanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07454939176456822173noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3863873665193842008.post-38897345118796459282014-11-10T14:11:00.000-05:002014-11-10T16:31:44.787-05:00An Apple a Day.....<div style="text-align: center;">
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<span style="color: #990000; font-size: x-large;"><b>Happy Monday to you all!! </b></span> </div>
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Hope you are enjoying the fall season quietness before the holidays set in. I told myself this year I'm not overdoing it & not stressing this season. If it doesn't get done, then it wasn't meant to get done. Just saying that to myself was a bit of a relief...holidays should be enjoyed and not so stressful you wish them away right?</div>
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Thought I'd share my Apple Orchard pictures with you all today. The hubs and I went a couple weekends ago to one out in the foothills of the Shenandoah Mountains & it was a gorgeous day. We spent a few hours there picking apples, enjoying some warm apple cider donuts and walking around enjoying the day. I'm STILL eating an apple every day from the 1/2 bushel we picked...and gave some to Alexa at college and my mom too! They are so yummy!</div>
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The hubs in the land of apples...I mean look at those loaded trees...beautiful!!</div>
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Look at this wonderful antique apple press they had...I'm not sure where I'd put it but I'd love to have one. Vintage machines that like are gorgeous works of art.</div>
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We picked a variety of apples including Granny Smith, Red Delicious, Golden Delicious, Nittany & Rome.</div>
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If I lived near or on an apple orchard like this you would find me out underneath the trees with my camera, a good book and probably enjoying an apple. It was beautiful!</div>
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I loved the red apples against the brilliant blue sky...gorgeous colors!</div>
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Gorgeousness right?</div>
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I would've loved to have brought an apple crate home but I'll settle with a picture ;)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGwPkjWs1rHzF1tcFBSkDbHOOE6mXkV_AatHII-6rmtwlGjzWRpBI5sw0M6F-PzaBFPVcO3ahbEt3deoCERDoQQjq3AistIRLRqEsxu_XPa405aGTIV0t6X2PduQeEzNn5px8DHGId8-I/s1600/photo+1-2.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGwPkjWs1rHzF1tcFBSkDbHOOE6mXkV_AatHII-6rmtwlGjzWRpBI5sw0M6F-PzaBFPVcO3ahbEt3deoCERDoQQjq3AistIRLRqEsxu_XPa405aGTIV0t6X2PduQeEzNn5px8DHGId8-I/s1600/photo+1-2.PNG" height="640" width="454" /></a></div>
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This pic was taken with my iPhone but I love it so I had to share it!</div>
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The trees were just hitting their Fall peak of color when we were there. Now half the trees have lost their leaves and are looking bare. (Winter is a'coming..sniff sniff)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV8VIO8ylla7SoOjbmzoh0PK_vwcdXID0sfaBZPT2sFkgV9rfBwrTYzuEjjuvq3ifgaSsO3hbfd8ucvnW6IXskRJAxnPdYlsIg_EDbIzJ8ifTzgREH_8hQmgaXvQttyfGB3j__upsqz0Q/s1600/photo+2-1.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV8VIO8ylla7SoOjbmzoh0PK_vwcdXID0sfaBZPT2sFkgV9rfBwrTYzuEjjuvq3ifgaSsO3hbfd8ucvnW6IXskRJAxnPdYlsIg_EDbIzJ8ifTzgREH_8hQmgaXvQttyfGB3j__upsqz0Q/s1600/photo+2-1.PNG" height="400" width="383" /></a></div>
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The fresh, warm apple cider donuts were mmmmm....need I say more!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmwrA5ooQ2ZFtIbvE-QtV_3y_FwhuQHV8V6huKI7BYlrMjXVmgKRKmoIg_L_sLvHnfRMvIrYDn536lw51Tzh1zxpE5dCxNujnO1zu4PDtAgiPPzNRxwYvfZBrFZgM_uJ5SN17N4B-7KmU/s1600/photo+3-39.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmwrA5ooQ2ZFtIbvE-QtV_3y_FwhuQHV8V6huKI7BYlrMjXVmgKRKmoIg_L_sLvHnfRMvIrYDn536lw51Tzh1zxpE5dCxNujnO1zu4PDtAgiPPzNRxwYvfZBrFZgM_uJ5SN17N4B-7KmU/s1600/photo+3-39.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
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This photo was snapped with my iPhone too but this is only a small part of the orchard and these are all baby trees. As you can see it went on and on and on!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhS9xIDlv0uZkcxrrqqnI9qEhGqSnJZnypASkt7Yq5iY2azaUHfuVF0ub8awLOzoWmYGumYm8jyZuXyicPmg-IL45qR0ntvu2fQeCnRPYHGOJbxXhpmgizhGChXbMpMrB66DH4LuBRgxIE/s1600/apples14_9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhS9xIDlv0uZkcxrrqqnI9qEhGqSnJZnypASkt7Yq5iY2azaUHfuVF0ub8awLOzoWmYGumYm8jyZuXyicPmg-IL45qR0ntvu2fQeCnRPYHGOJbxXhpmgizhGChXbMpMrB66DH4LuBRgxIE/s1600/apples14_9.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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Something about this scene made me think of the Wizard of Oz...I could so live out of the hustle & bustle and enjoy some more of the quiet life these days.</div>
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<b><span style="color: #990000; font-size: large;">Hope you enjoyed....and hey, go enjoy an apple...they're good for what ails you!</span></b></div>
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<img src="http://sites.google.com/site/bitzofmesuzanne/images/SuzanneSignature.png" />Suzanne J Deanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07454939176456822173noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3863873665193842008.post-23317506363569547262014-11-07T05:00:00.000-05:002014-11-07T14:03:29.143-05:00Friday Thoughts....<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirr-x340x541CykBxW9jE7sVYzamxm2biEpku-0XZnSB-63GTgCjBA1hm-0btGWn0A_lBjW4dDORpYU7wWURqXc4j9t21aVobI9Q6y4SDOGIggscDcOCqlYYlnjC6Wb7Keuiofki0Oq-Y/s1600/10334353_10152423748135998_8248316840486285708_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirr-x340x541CykBxW9jE7sVYzamxm2biEpku-0XZnSB-63GTgCjBA1hm-0btGWn0A_lBjW4dDORpYU7wWURqXc4j9t21aVobI9Q6y4SDOGIggscDcOCqlYYlnjC6Wb7Keuiofki0Oq-Y/s1600/10334353_10152423748135998_8248316840486285708_n.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
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<i>A pic I took on my daily walks through my neighborhood</i></div>
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<b><span style="color: #e69138; font-size: large;">Ok here we go......</span></b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAylD9PIgHx4fiYCcGdmD-YVfFYXhWytYKfQ-kFYz8ALB40AGzfKeF56SLXrD2NNHo0aqKe2QCaz04R-Gt3j3dSM33nb3CsJeQ4e_gNgGRqD8CWdWbhZHnCMaROOE4Z8nLcpCuUp-4meE/s1600/gaiamtv.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAylD9PIgHx4fiYCcGdmD-YVfFYXhWytYKfQ-kFYz8ALB40AGzfKeF56SLXrD2NNHo0aqKe2QCaz04R-Gt3j3dSM33nb3CsJeQ4e_gNgGRqD8CWdWbhZHnCMaROOE4Z8nLcpCuUp-4meE/s1600/gaiamtv.jpg" /></a></div>
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If you love yoga or want to learn more....<b><a href="http://www.prevention.com/weight-loss/weight-loss-tips/surprising-way-gentle-yoga-can-help-you-lose-serious-weight" target="_blank">read this article</a></b> which has some good & eye-opening points in it. I started with <b><a href="http://www.gaiamtv.com/" target="_blank">Gaiam's 14 Day Beginner Yoga challenge</a></b>....workouts every day along with articles to get you started off right. You can get a free trial of Gaiam TV and then its $9.95 a month...I really love the site, videos & articles. And also check <b><u><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Losing-Weight-Healing-Journey-Naturally-ebook/dp/B007JY6RKC/ref=sr_1_1?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1414542884&sr=1-1&keywords=katrina+love+senn" target="_blank">out this book</a></u></b>...its free with the Kindle Unlimited Plan!</div>
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Helped this girl out immensely!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtSa0PKBN0jT6IBkPmDdGS3MNQKrHbL54Ld0zqrXTQNjHuWcqwJGykgm1L0IMytTRdx_D2wO2JPWrZQEFkUWSGgw8J0l2VZ-68Oilq-HhKNg-ULgpqAkJWte6MEvqP6CwAVk3kCL4Ivtk/s1600/sam-hunt.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtSa0PKBN0jT6IBkPmDdGS3MNQKrHbL54Ld0zqrXTQNjHuWcqwJGykgm1L0IMytTRdx_D2wO2JPWrZQEFkUWSGgw8J0l2VZ-68Oilq-HhKNg-ULgpqAkJWte6MEvqP6CwAVk3kCL4Ivtk/s1600/sam-hunt.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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If you love country music...check out <b><u><a href="http://www.samhunt.com/" target="_blank">Sam Hunt's new album</a></u></b>. He's been an amazing songwriter for so many huge artists but he can rock it too....love "Break Up In a Small Town". (and yeah, he's easy on the ole' eyes too..hehe)</div>
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One of my favorite new home-decor blogs is <b><u><a href="http://jennasuedesign.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">"Jenna Sue"</a></u></b>....check out her before pictures of her home they've redone. It ALMOST makes me want to kick my bum in gear and finish up my home projects that are lingering hahaha!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTZcCsGPeFbIEmhpY155gxFXR5n-fL_SybSDK7TCOjmj1TzZM1P5E4ExZf0hTL4BF3R98onMxxJRjUeDcRCHmbtmbSycf7wOXp543TiKmme2G1Iv1bIlV0p2k1bo0twTlQ_1vce-i9U7U/s1600/Chef-Movie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTZcCsGPeFbIEmhpY155gxFXR5n-fL_SybSDK7TCOjmj1TzZM1P5E4ExZf0hTL4BF3R98onMxxJRjUeDcRCHmbtmbSycf7wOXp543TiKmme2G1Iv1bIlV0p2k1bo0twTlQ_1vce-i9U7U/s1600/Chef-Movie.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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If you haven't had a chance to see the movie <b><u><a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt2883512/" target="_blank">"Chef".</a></u></b>..please do. Its a really good movie with a huge ensemble cast of awesome talent (including the hot..umm fab Robert Downey Jr).<br />
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Do you like to snack but are watching what you put in your mouth but need some fresh ideas? Then check out <b><u><a href="http://graze./">GRAZE</a> - </u></b>I started a subscription to GRAZE online and they ship pre-packed, healthy snacks to me every week. I love the variety and getting to try new things...you spend a few minutes going through their foods and favoriting things so they know what you love & hate. I figured I'd try it for 3-4 months to get used to portion sizes and different snack foods and then work from there on my own. If you decide to try it...use BETTERHG as the promotional code to get your first box of snacks free.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmDtz-4K-LA0qCDdkgSoI9L8_WpyvM4AixHHolradAdQz9r_j9HX2OJ-BLeMUvnzokc3bySHWEND5VgAuAV2TSk632U3hUaQQiF7Vx7Y_xgo03eBvTywQXV7XFilMW9D7vK6gcuu_sWxA/s1600/vest.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmDtz-4K-LA0qCDdkgSoI9L8_WpyvM4AixHHolradAdQz9r_j9HX2OJ-BLeMUvnzokc3bySHWEND5VgAuAV2TSk632U3hUaQQiF7Vx7Y_xgo03eBvTywQXV7XFilMW9D7vK6gcuu_sWxA/s1600/vest.jpg" height="400" width="252" /></a></div>
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Vests are all the rage this fall/winter...I have a few that I've had for a few years but felt I needed a red one to add to the ole collection, hehehe. You can find them everywhere and some are quite pricey. But I found <b><a href="http://oldnavy.gap.com/browse/search.do?searchText=vests#department=136" target="_blank">these vests</a></b> at Old Navy for a good price and fit great...they are only $25 right now. The heavier padded ones are nice too, but both have fleece lining...see the heavier ones <a href="http://oldnavy.gap.com/browse/category.do?cid=55474" target="_blank">HERE</a> (only $20)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9NJ1trcvSRtw6kQmENrQ6GH63KdgS7PLBKsN38JEPWxi-chcEZVzzF88rHE_G4aNuqTYy3M4LFnJOt46t8X6J61b30ZfCF6DHtv0nj8jlQ96GbOGEKKM0PR8QZsAJ09vnRSkqncnyVlk/s1600/pjs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9NJ1trcvSRtw6kQmENrQ6GH63KdgS7PLBKsN38JEPWxi-chcEZVzzF88rHE_G4aNuqTYy3M4LFnJOt46t8X6J61b30ZfCF6DHtv0nj8jlQ96GbOGEKKM0PR8QZsAJ09vnRSkqncnyVlk/s1600/pjs.jpg" height="640" width="304" /></a></div>
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And now that the cold weather is starting to creep on in....its time to pull out the fuzzy & warm pjs...well at least for me. I add a new pair to my collection every year and you just can't go wrong with <b><a href="http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/pj-salvage-fall-into-flannel-pajamas/3831699" target="_blank">THESE from Nordstroms </a></b>(I got the pink cowgirl ones...yeehaw..but I see they are sold out now bummer)!</div>
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And last but not least....if you read my blog you will especially understand my need to post this:<br />
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<b><span style="color: #bf9000; font-size: x-large;">Have a great weekend everyone!!!</span></b></div>
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<img src="http://sites.google.com/site/bitzofmesuzanne/images/SuzanneSignature.png" />Suzanne J Deanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07454939176456822173noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3863873665193842008.post-78465843834246017722014-11-06T13:51:00.002-05:002014-11-06T23:04:08.887-05:00Random-ness.....<div style="text-align: center;">
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Ok I'm back...well I've been home since Monday night. However I caught a nasty cold from all those sick college kids & am just feeling good enough to actually get stuff done again...phew! Thought I'd just share some pictures of our trip with you & check in and say HI!</div>
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<b><span style="color: #3d85c6;">Also thanks to everyone that played along in my fun Paddywax Candle game.....I know you've been waiting so the winner (picked randomly of course) is:</span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">VIVIAN LINDSEY</span></b></div>
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Congrats! Please email me at sjdean@smartneighborhood.net with the choice of Paddywax candle from the "Library Collection" you'd like and your mailing address ok!</div>
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In case you didn't know the hubs & I left on Thursday morning last week to spend some time at the Univ of SC with our daughter...who we hadn't seen in 3 months. We came back Monday and now are counting down the days till Thanksgiving when we are all together again. My son stayed at home because he had other things he preferred doing LOL!</div>
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Me & my mini-me....reunited again!</div>
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Friday night was Halloween so Alexa was out with her friends. She was a flapper & her best bud Reid was "2000 Justin Timberlake" LOL! The hubs & I celebrated our 19th wedding anniversary at Cafe Garibaldi in Columbia, SC (highly recommend it) instead...I had a glass of wine, some yummy food and oh! they MAKE their mozzarella & ricotta cheeses...to die for!</div>
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My son & his girlfriend were back at home at a costume party. They dressed up as Squints & Wendy Peffercorn from "The Sandlot" movie. She looks about 12 next to him, not 17 LOL!</div>
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Saturday night was the Gamecocks game against Tennessee...my first SEC college game & it didn't disappoint...really fun...minus the 38 deg temps & wind.</div>
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This is me freezing my patootie off....I was frozen by half-time. We left at the end of 3rd quarter because it was miserable...oh and we were winning when we left...then they lost...guess I should've stayed huh? LOL!</div>
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<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dyO5HdPOdlXj_tPYr4rAXO9xaTVwqj9PLDMVNRXZVnpZeDPF_54966fMoVXi76OS7eLFGAZCj5F5wpIZVtqvg' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
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Here's a little video of the pre-game madness...I particularly love the student section and their choreographed dance LOL! And NO that is not me screaming, I was too cold...the student section is on the right and that stadium holds like 85,000 people and the cement risers were SHAKING. Even with the cold temps it was a sold-out game...craziness like I've never experienced!</div>
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The tailgating at SEC games is out of this world...like nothing I've seen before. Univ of SC has multiple tailgating lots and they were filled with tents, food, tvs, couches...you name it. This is the "Cockaboose" that they have next to stadium and you can rent each one for your pre-game party...insanely cool!</div>
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Alexa was at game with her 2 best guy friends in the student section...none of the other girls wanted to come because of the cold. But my daughter is a die-hard football fan like us so she was there...but they left in the 3rd...wimps...hehehe!</div>
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Meanwhile back at home, Riley was at the Notre Dame vs Navy game in DC with our neighbor. It was actually warmer at home than in SC...c'mon now. I woke up to SNOW in SC on Saturday....last week my daughter was at the pool....sheesh!</div>
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The last night there we took Alexa & her friends out to dinner...with real food apparently...because they are sick of dining hall food. Although said dining hall food is pretty darn delicious from when I went to school. But we had a good time, lots of laughs & it was nice to meet her new friends...good kids!</div>
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<b><i>Alexa's Room</i></b></div>
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<b><i>her roomie's room</i></b></div>
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And I'd be remiss if I didn't show you my daughter's dorm apartment...well her and her roomie's bedrooms. Alexa's wasn't too bad although I know she cleaned before we got there LOL...her roommates room is more what I expect my son's to look like in college. </div>
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Have a wonderful week y'all!</div>
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<img src="http://sites.google.com/site/bitzofmesuzanne/images/SuzanneSignature.png" />Suzanne J Deanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07454939176456822173noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3863873665193842008.post-45971432944343985382014-10-28T18:01:00.001-04:002014-10-28T22:48:11.909-04:00Let's Get Real.....<div style="text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b><i>Stripped Down & Brutally Honest......</i></b></span><br />
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I have had a crazy year...tumultuous you could even say. Lots of changes hit me all at once along with the fun of being sick and recovering from surgery. I can't say that 2014 has been a real treat to me and my body...however as always I feel its made me grow and change in positive ways, even through all the pain.</div>
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As most of you know I turned 40 this year, saw my daughter graduate high school and head to college, and I have spent many months recovering from illness and surgery. Its been rough..I'm not going to lie to you and paint a pretty picture. I know people tell me all the time that I am an inspiration or that I have such a great attitude about the roadblocks I've hit in my life...while I thank you for the praise I can't say that's truthful all the time. </div>
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I am human, I have crappy days and moods and sometimes I put the "pity party" label on myself. Then of course I usually smack myself and shake it off if I can. But it does occur...I'm not some super human form of a woman...I'm just like everyone else doing the best I can in each day I've been blessed to be given. </div>
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For me its been a lot of self-reflection on who I am, what I want to do and what can I accomplish in this crazy world. Because for so long I've been "the wife" and "the mother".and "the crafter/blogger"...roles I would never change nor do I regret but roles I have gotten very comfortable in. And I'm a girl that likes comfort...I struggle with change...I love routines...the sameness of my days is comforting. </div>
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And I've had a lot of changes lately. With my kids leaving the nest (my son will be a senior in HS next year) I've been really questioning myself. </div>
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<b>WHO AM I? </b> </div>
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When you strip out the mom, wife, daughter, friend, crafter/blogger roles...who am I really? And I came upon the answer that I just wasn't sure anymore. I spent years focused on the mom and wife role and was comfortable with it. My husband works late hours and with the kids gone so much of the day now and soon to be for good, I was suddenly left with lots of time with just ME. Then in my 30's I found blogging and papercrafting and focused on that when I could or while the kids were at school. I've always had art in my life in some form...I'm creative and its always been a great outlet for my spare time. And for a few years I built my online classroom and traveled teaching art and made it my business and I loved it....until I didn't. </div>
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It hit me that I was filling my extra time with chores, and extreme to-do lists, stressed out craziness and pushing myself constantly to the point that I guess I just broke. </div>
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Yup, Suzanne broke late last year and I knew for my own health I had to make a huge change. Couple that with turning 40, my kids growing up and my fairweather health it was a HUGE WAKE UP CALL for this girl. And I spent a few months just miserable in pain, depressed in this fog that wouldn't lift. I had days upon days where I didn't get out of my pjs, could barely brush my teeth and was so physically and mentally exhausted I didn't care if I saw the next day..I really didn't. So I started taking all that "down-time" analyzing what was happening. I'm a big fan of psycho-analyzing myself...why do I do this, why do I say this, why, why, why? And it came down to one clear point for me:</div>
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<b>WHO AM I and WHAT CAN I DO TO FIND MYSELF AGAIN & Be Happy?</b></div>
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And some may call it a mid-life crisis but it was so much more than that for me. For my entire life I have focused on being the best at anything and everything put in front of me. Seeking perfection at every step of life can drive a person mad...its an endless quest that you just may never achieve. And I've been the one that people go to for cheering up, for a laugh, for a good time....grab Suz and we'll have a good time...it'll all be good! She's the most positive person I know..if she is smiling then its all good....right?? RIGHT?</div>
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I've spent so much of my life mediating and trying to make everyone around me happy....but in that quest I lost how to really make myself happy. I literally had no clue who I was and how to be truly happy anymore...and it scared the living day lights out of me. So how do I find out the answers to those questions while still taking care of those around me...because stopping that wasn't an option for me at any point.</div>
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<b>So I set two immediate goals to focus on: </b></div>
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(1) focused on planning a beautiful graduation party for my daughter & being present for all her senior moments...because I am very goal oriented and I knew that wasn't about to change.</div>
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(2) strip everything off of my to-do list except living and planning the party and enjoying each moment until we sent her off to college</div>
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<i>And then along the way I slowly started breathing again....</i></div>
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I had lots of talks with my husband and thank god for him....he's been so supportive, I really can't say enough about how much he has helped me this year with just listening and reasoning. He's always been my rock but this year he really helped me through some tough things.</div>
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He said something to me that was so simple yet so profound and really resonated with me.</div>
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He told me to just take some time off...that just because the kids are leaving the house doesn't mean I have to fill in all that time with STUFF because that's what I thought I should do. Because that's what I THINK the world is expecting me to do. He told me to take the time to enjoy it and figure out what it is that I WANT to do with no deadline in place.</div>
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<b>PHEW......lightening bolt moment right there folks.</b></div>
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I've been so afraid of losing the "mom" role at home that I was stressing myself out trying to figure out what I would do once they were gone. What would I do and be?</div>
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<b>WHY??? </b></div>
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<b>Why do we put so much pressure on ourselves all the time for this quest to be BUSY...if every minute isn't filled with an activity to produce results we feel defeated. </b> <b>Not good enough...a loser...lazy...weak...all these toxic words.</b></div>
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I felt so "unaccomplished" many days if I didn't check off everything on my very long, never ending to-do list. If I didn't finish the laundry, cook a 4 course meal, run errands, reorganize a closet, mop the floors, go through 1000 emails, post 5 blog posts and make 10 projects in a day I felt defeated...like I was worthless. I didn't succeed in my day. Sounds crazy right? Sure it does...but that's how I've lived my life since I was 10 years old...perform, perform, perform, perfect everything and get results. I'm just surprised that my body and mind survived the craziness the past 30 years...I have not been very kind to myself and now I was paying for it.</div>
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<b>So I started doing CRAZY things every day just to test the waters! Yup I did crazy stuff y'all!</b> </div>
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I sat down to read a book in the middle of the day, I didn't fold my laundry the day it was washed, I called for takeout food for dinner, I didn't vacuum everyday, I didn't produce 10 projects, I ignored some emails, my to-do list got lost....and you know what? </div>
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My life didn't change for the worse...the world didn't stop revolving...no one really cared that I didn't do those things. At first I apologized to my family..."I'm sorry but I just don't have dinner ready tonight"..."I'm sorry but the laundry won't be done today"..."I'm sorry there is cat hair on the stairs". And my husband looked at me one night and asked me why I kept apologizing..no one was mad at me, everyone knew that I would probably get those things done at some point...NO ONE was punishing me except for myself. </div>
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<b>I still was punishing myself.....</b></div>
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<b>Again another light bulb moment! DING DING DING.....</b></div>
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I started reminding myself that no one that matters to me will punish ME for taking some time to be happy..to find things that make me happy...to just take time to breathe and enjoy.</div>
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And that's when everything started to change for me....right there in that moment I knew I could change and not make it a race to the happiness finish line. Its not a marathon for me to find ME or find what makes me happy...its all about the journey because its meant to be a journey throughout my life till the very end. I'm so used to rushing from one chore to the next, one thought to the next that I never really focused on each thing put in front of me. </div>
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So I'm still on a quest to find myself and to just be happy. So much unhappiness in this world and I was contributing to it unknowingly. NO MORE! So I still keep my house clean but I try not to apologize or stress because a few kitty-fur-balls are rolling on the floor or some dust is on my dining room table. If dinner isn't perfect and just consists of eggs and pancakes, well that's fun too. Instead of rushing through dinner prep I started listening to music and taking my time enjoying the act of cooking. If I want to go on a long walk and take photographs and then come back and read my book...I do it. I started listening to what my body AND mind needed. And some days I still rush around and yes I'm still stressed about certain things because that's just part of life...but I know that in the next moment or day I can attempt to quiet everything again. </div>
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<b>Slow & steady is my mantra these days. Be present....breathe....relax...enjoy.</b></div>
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I'm exercising without stressing about it so much these days. I found that I enjoy working out because its time I can focus on myself...that time is spent of making my body healthy..that body has taken a beating and it needs this time and commitment. To learn that I'm not being selfish for taking that time...because if I'm relaxed and happy each day I am only making the day BETTER for those around me as well. Yoga has become more than a fun thing to try...its become a way of life for me at a moment in my life when I really needed it. Perhaps yoga won't be your outlet but for me its helped me really focus and be a little selfish. I meditate before yoga and I clear out the negative thoughts, I breathe, I check in with myself and work through the issues in a mindful manner.</div>
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I ignored by body and mental health for so long that I cannot expect it to all change over night...I have to relax and know that I can change one day at a time.</div>
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And I cleaned out the toxic things that were cluttering up my life the best I could....no more toxic people, no toxic activities whatever it may be, and no more toxic thoughts. Reading the news without becoming consumed with the bad news. Supporting friends and family without taking on their load completely. Loving my family with all my heart but not obliterating my soul while doing it. Getting rid of all the darn to-do lists and just getting done what gets done without any crazy expectations. Taking some time each day to focus on things that are important to me.</div>
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<b>Most of all....just learning to be a friend to myself. </b> </div>
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I'd lost my friend to the craziness of life and I have to say I'm really enjoying finding her again...I missed her.</div>
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Because she's important, she's really fun, she is stronger than she thought, she is loyal and loving, she is finding peace, she is enjoying both the bad & good moments, she is creative and she has learned how to breathe again.</div>
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<b>She is ME.</b><br />
<b>And she continues to be a work in progress.....</b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWIED2v9iw0NvI864MdMN8pm3j7jH0_Vetvb80LxN99qIE8ThP2Ro2YTmzN5fGJ3dVjFXAx7nR2lp8Ab1r5eKgi6jVecTvLdcst8Z65l0DihmAsj_BTJgaV8cIHAi8wB8VAq1MNtslg14/s1600/photo+2-59.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWIED2v9iw0NvI864MdMN8pm3j7jH0_Vetvb80LxN99qIE8ThP2Ro2YTmzN5fGJ3dVjFXAx7nR2lp8Ab1r5eKgi6jVecTvLdcst8Z65l0DihmAsj_BTJgaV8cIHAi8wB8VAq1MNtslg14/s1600/photo+2-59.JPG" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
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<b><a href="http://justagirlandherblog.com/hit-best-shot-42/" target="_blank">Hit Me With Your Best Shot</a></b></div>
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<img src="http://sites.google.com/site/bitzofmesuzanne/images/SuzanneSignature.png" />Suzanne J Deanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07454939176456822173noreply@blogger.com47tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3863873665193842008.post-8208279371141148062014-10-27T04:00:00.000-04:002014-10-27T04:00:08.515-04:00Healthy Helpers....<br />
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<b><span style="color: #3d85c6; font-size: x-large;">HELP ME, HELP YOU.....</span></b></div>
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I'm on week 8 of my healthy living, exercising and eating and I'm down 15 lbs...whoot whoot! Slow & steady and I'm feeling so much stronger. I've increased the time of my workouts and the pace...but still doing cardio/weights 6 times a week and yoga 7 days a week. I can see muscles in my arms and I'm soooo LOVING that...these arms can hold a plank and do push-ups for a long time now. Remember meal plans for each week are linked under the HEALTHY LIVING tab at top of my blog (I have to add in last week & this week's...I promise to have it done this week lol).</div>
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I thought I'd share a couple of my "helpers" that I've found enable me to put in the best workout I can and some videos/workouts I'm loving right now.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYLyc9a63MyRP1ncI2t0LApLEa2L-mvtBN4fdAfTBui5rvAU_Ctj99qlgiFvkk24rJA_KVI-KPDlnfi4W287z09rOi_XbinHyiu_fn-Iu2hCQTSXGtqcKCx6j4LGpguL6g3ZU_ipUi8Xk/s1600/Ultra_3-Colors-M.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYLyc9a63MyRP1ncI2t0LApLEa2L-mvtBN4fdAfTBui5rvAU_Ctj99qlgiFvkk24rJA_KVI-KPDlnfi4W287z09rOi_XbinHyiu_fn-Iu2hCQTSXGtqcKCx6j4LGpguL6g3ZU_ipUi8Xk/s1600/Ultra_3-Colors-M.png" height="380" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.wristassuredgloves.com/" target="_blank">WAG Gloves </a></span></b></div>
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I got these gloves after several recommendations from yoga instructors and I must admit they weren't cheap but they were worth every dang penny. I have funky joints especially in my hands and wrists and sometimes I simply couldn't hold a pose because my wrists were in so much pain. Well these babies have a gel insert in them that keep your wrists from overextending themselves and makes holding the poses a bit easier...they don't decrease the amount of strength you can get..they simply help your wrists FEEL better. So if you have any issue like me, they are worth the investment. And they can be used for any workout...I don't just use them for yoga but for pilates and any floor/core work. (they also help with grip issues if you are sweaty or on a slippery surface)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6iIWGOsZJqQlIBp4TNVkumFr082NYSEKiWmMTlWpArG-eehP8rr5vQxARE92Si11vGqPYfczgmF3ZkTV3hIU2FY7LLWTjZ1CLhgozAzBbIXYilscuhGa2MzC0YcaA6PxZ4A_Y8wy56KE/s1600/sox.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6iIWGOsZJqQlIBp4TNVkumFr082NYSEKiWmMTlWpArG-eehP8rr5vQxARE92Si11vGqPYfczgmF3ZkTV3hIU2FY7LLWTjZ1CLhgozAzBbIXYilscuhGa2MzC0YcaA6PxZ4A_Y8wy56KE/s1600/sox.jpg" height="400" width="348" /></a></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.toesox.com/half-toe-bella-grip-socks.html?color=227" target="_blank">ToeSox</a></span></b></div>
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There are ALL kinds of yoga socks and wraps out there...just research what works best for you. I alternated between the wraps and socks but figured I'd START with the socks and see how they do. I got them for grip reasons, not to hold in my ankles or anything. I slide even on my Gaiam yoga mat so thought these would help a bit. They are only $16 and come in all different colors and styles (and full-toe versions too). The <i><a href="http://store.nike.com/us/en_us/pd/studio-wrap-2-training-shoe/pid-971107/pgid-10211516?cp=usns_kw_AL!1778!3!51461088825!!!g!!76702805145!c&ef_id=U7RYTgAAAaAHn0Ak:20141026232713:s" target="_blank">Nike studio wraps are here </a></i>if you want to compare.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzdkQP3nANybhzq7TG3UawwLeHBAkniaMFNEjGPfgH20WwF_nqGprsoEspvfpeWGFg7FffvYaNGF7wDfLAHoDTr6KqINdcZ7q4CMXunaodpVNSXgy4TN3VvmfDv4iOdbKxQqhwPKHA0vA/s1600/water.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzdkQP3nANybhzq7TG3UawwLeHBAkniaMFNEjGPfgH20WwF_nqGprsoEspvfpeWGFg7FffvYaNGF7wDfLAHoDTr6KqINdcZ7q4CMXunaodpVNSXgy4TN3VvmfDv4iOdbKxQqhwPKHA0vA/s1600/water.jpg" height="640" width="350" /></a></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00B9DJWTM/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00B9DJWTM&linkCode=as2&tag=biofme01-20&linkId=4DDCZ4L2BMXOBOJW">Lifefactory Glass Bottle </a><img alt="" border="0" src="http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=biofme01-20&l=as2&o=1&a=B00B9DJWTM" height="1" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /></span></b>
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I have a weird quirk...I have a few actually but we'll only talk about one today LOL! I hate drining out of anything plastic..HATE IT! If its the only choice then I will deal with it but I prefer glass. (hate that crinkling noise & I know those bottles are made with all kinds of chemicals..yucky) My family knows that I will only drink out of our glass glasses and my older water bottles were stainless steel which isn't terrible but I don't like it much either. So a few months ago I saw these in one of my exercise magazines and knew I had to order it. I drink A LOT of water these days and I love that this is a glass bottle and you can use a straw, I just pour it in my mouth lol..I keep it filled up all day with ice-cold water. They come in different colors and what not...but I really do love it.<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00LXZE7SC/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00LXZE7SC&linkCode=as2&tag=biofme01-20&linkId=TIBTLR5PJHH5MONH">Empower Fingertip Grip Medicine Ball with DVD</a><img alt="" border="0" src="http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=biofme01-20&l=as2&o=1&a=B00LXZE7SC" height="1" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /> </span></b><br />
I also am really liking adding a medicine ball routine to my workout 1-2 times a week along with the kettle bell. The medicine ball really works your core out and is great lo-impact exercise to get you in shape fast. This ball comes with a DVD and I went with the 6lbs (they have 4 & 8 lbs as well). You can find lots of other medicine ball workouts on Youtube and Amazon to mix it up. I like to use different videos regularly so I don't get bored and my body doesn't get complacent...its a win/win!</div>
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YouTube has some amazing workout videos...and they're FREE..nothing better than that. Make sure you read the reviews on the videos and make sure that they are getting fairly good feed back. You don't want to watch a video where the wrong form is used or they do something that isn't safe for your body. </div>
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Right now I'm loving the short 15-30 minute yoga videos put out by <b><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2_SE2gQwXoo" target="_blank">Meera Hoffman</a></b> and <b><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Em3dqR1IlRw" target="_blank">Erica</a></b> on youtube...both are certified yoga instructors. They have great, lean bodies..nice voices..and good explanations of all the moves and range from beginner to intermediate. I do 30 minutes of stretch & energizing yoga in the morning and another 30-45 minutes of calorie burning yoga in the afternoons. Jillian Michaels Yoga Meltdown is on youtube too and its a workout. But just enter yoga, beginner yoga, 30 minute yoga and go through the videos. Everyone likes different versions, voices and techniques so you have to find one you really like. <br />
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Like I said before I was never a yoga lover...but at this moment in my life its exactly what I needed. I cannot express how much better I feel after I do yoga...my body feels stretched, relaxed and out of pain and my mind is lighter and freer. The hubs asked me the other day if I was going to turn into a yogi because everytime he's around I say "I gotta go do some more yoga" hahaha! I'm committed to it now and if I miss a workout I feel slightly out of sorts. So no matter what I get in at least 30 mins of yoga and 30 mins of cardio/weights six times a week whenever I can.<br />
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<span style="color: #3d85c6; font-size: x-large;"><b>Do you have any exercising helpers to share??</b></span></div>
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<img src="http://sites.google.com/site/bitzofmesuzanne/images/SuzanneSignature.png" />Suzanne J Deanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07454939176456822173noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3863873665193842008.post-82998726352677827902014-10-25T03:00:00.000-04:002014-10-25T03:00:04.104-04:00Let's Play a Game......<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #990000; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: x-large;">Let's play a game.....</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">if you copy and paste the questions at bottom of post and leave answers in the COMMENTS section...</span></div>
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<span style="color: #990000; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b><u>you will be entered to win a Library Paddywax Candle from me. </u></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I'm obsessed with these soy candles and have them all over my house...they have long burn hours and are gorgeous too! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b><i>my new fave is "Mark Twain"</i></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">So c'mon...take a minute and play! And please leave your email in your comments too please! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b><i>Have a wonderful weekend!</i></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Here are my answers for you:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>Best gift you’ve received:</b> my kids, my dogs and my Tiffany earrings from the hubs</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>Last book you read:</b> Goodnight June by Sarah Jio</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>Last movie you saw: </b> Chef (LOVED it)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>Last time you laughed: </b>at my dog using the cat's litter box..seriously</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>Last song you listened to: </b>Florida Georgia Line's new album</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>Last thing you did for YOURSELF:</b> took a walk in the woods with my dogs </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>Something on today’s to do list: </b>visit apple orchard & trim back rosebushes</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>Something you’re really bad at: </b>going to bed at a decent hour & procrastinating</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>If you came back as a famous person who would it be:</b> Oprah or Jennifer Garner</span></div>
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<img src="http://sites.google.com/site/bitzofmesuzanne/images/SuzanneSignature.png" />Suzanne J Deanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07454939176456822173noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3863873665193842008.post-17182214886177116372014-10-23T02:30:00.000-04:002014-10-26T19:13:52.611-04:00Paper Scrap Pumpkins..DIY!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNKICEzNxYwfA4sxL9kfAu7lDnh2VC72bTXDnhA8JBTKpHqAxWhv-L0rCry7jAclYKBH_OZUysqeI94xVGPOXzzOggZMZRLJVmJNHNKUGV3GFTJd-rAa0EWf5CXbDj5S3S1a0xC_NndBY/s1600/paperpump8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNKICEzNxYwfA4sxL9kfAu7lDnh2VC72bTXDnhA8JBTKpHqAxWhv-L0rCry7jAclYKBH_OZUysqeI94xVGPOXzzOggZMZRLJVmJNHNKUGV3GFTJd-rAa0EWf5CXbDj5S3S1a0xC_NndBY/s1600/paperpump8.jpg" height="456" width="640" /></a></div>
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This is a fun little project to do in your spare time to dress up your home this Fall. You can use things found around (and outside) the house. Everything I used were scraps from my craftroom...a great way to recycle and reuse! And just by changing the colors/patterns of your papers you can change the theme of your pumpkins. So if you want creepy scary, bright & sassy or rustic and vintage...that's all up to you! Have fun with it!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg28OCOyy4mtsL34Om9doc8Y4Evax5dn_DwemJFhlIfZWliRASX0wrlst05hPl15ebVMKzOeZp9sqnBZ_WlbnBCFskfncFrULAj2bI2V55iitzlhCsVXxzUtF9b8TLM4ChLvk1PR9qRd4w/s1600/paperpump9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg28OCOyy4mtsL34Om9doc8Y4Evax5dn_DwemJFhlIfZWliRASX0wrlst05hPl15ebVMKzOeZp9sqnBZ_WlbnBCFskfncFrULAj2bI2V55iitzlhCsVXxzUtF9b8TLM4ChLvk1PR9qRd4w/s1600/paperpump9.jpg" height="452" width="640" /></a></div>
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I went with more rustic colors and papers that fit in well with my home decor so I could move them from room to room if I wished. </div>
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<span style="color: #e69138; font-size: x-large;"><b><u>SUPPLY LIST:</u></b></span></div>
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<b>Empty Toilet paper or Papertowel rolls</b> (OR) rolled construction/craft paper </div>
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<b>Strips of scrapbook paper or other papers </b></div>
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<i>(use a paper with a good weight)</i></div>
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<b>Glue for paper</b> (I use Scotch 3M Quick Adhesive)</div>
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<b>Embellishments or accessories of your choice</b></div>
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<b>Tree bark, thick sticks, or some other item for the stem</b></div>
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If you are squeamish about using toilet paper rolls for any reason just use a paper-towel roll or create a tube roll with thick construction paper. I don't have any issues with using toilet paper rolls from my bathroom...my son's however, ummmm NO....lol!</div>
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Cut a "trial" strip of paper to see how long you want each for your pumpkins. If you want a more squat pumpkin then make the strips longer, for a taller/thinner pumpkin cut them shorter.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQK4RxaiRkTf7CXZy8OVPIVdImCAPkg8qxeY1AdA790nHG8SdiHF028E6OGKTtoDFvkWjYN0TPvxrmWIJmQtKfAXmL6VIa6jp4N8Av-NHY_14GXzDFk_Xf7grOY_u-bfuaKtsED6oQG90/s1600/paperpump11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQK4RxaiRkTf7CXZy8OVPIVdImCAPkg8qxeY1AdA790nHG8SdiHF028E6OGKTtoDFvkWjYN0TPvxrmWIJmQtKfAXmL6VIa6jp4N8Av-NHY_14GXzDFk_Xf7grOY_u-bfuaKtsED6oQG90/s1600/paperpump11.jpg" height="277" width="400" /></a></div>
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I made two different sizes of pumpkins...for the smaller one I cut about 1/3 off the toilet paper roll.</div>
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I used the whole roll for the larger pumpkin. I wrapped both rolls with coordinating paper so that it looks nicely through the strips of paper.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirqH1vCuD788duI5Ev4d_EvIVy4iKeJkbl6Z1RnBiWjxa6EHgPa_acVpzschbvPlDC1_CsQiCQzkYBkqIpdH5eodq4caWHIv-KGljvD4K39siHbR7sXXpUB92qo4SnpLIv1HOWl5aYLa0/s1600/paperpump13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirqH1vCuD788duI5Ev4d_EvIVy4iKeJkbl6Z1RnBiWjxa6EHgPa_acVpzschbvPlDC1_CsQiCQzkYBkqIpdH5eodq4caWHIv-KGljvD4K39siHbR7sXXpUB92qo4SnpLIv1HOWl5aYLa0/s1600/paperpump13.jpg" height="311" width="400" /></a></div>
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All my papers were from an older My Minds Eye line...I used a mix of Halloween papers and just regular everyday patterns that fit my scheme. Because I used two patterns per pumpkin I spaced the strips out as I worked and then filled in varying the pattern so it was even around the pumpkin. When you use a thicker paper it holds the "curve" of the pumpkin better than a lighter weighted paper will.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivrMbkqrcUSvIze4KZCyiFtQ7Ccw9DcUe8gW8gvQlClx8VgqsqLBvCwReQbYRjiMkP9qumn0d3Gh2M1-N9YZMAlJlHeALdua_uD-u_28FU-lCJmmuV479xKrKfi0ITzxLtf3MApNnJwHY/s1600/paperpump12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivrMbkqrcUSvIze4KZCyiFtQ7Ccw9DcUe8gW8gvQlClx8VgqsqLBvCwReQbYRjiMkP9qumn0d3Gh2M1-N9YZMAlJlHeALdua_uD-u_28FU-lCJmmuV479xKrKfi0ITzxLtf3MApNnJwHY/s1600/paperpump12.jpg" height="346" width="400" /></a></div>
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I cut a circle of paper for the bottom of each pumpkin and glued it once I was done adding all my strips. This gives the pumpkin a nice base to stand on evenly when you are finished.</div>
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Then you add your decorations as you see fit. I got sticks and thick bark pieces from my woods for my stems...I liked the more rustic look. And I used burlap and tulle for the "leaves". The toilet paper roll give you a nice area to add you elements to...I stuffed the bottom of the roll with tissue paper and then added the stem and burlap/tulle to the top so it didn't sink.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijzlUXg9C7W_SXuje022Q-HYANzY_lyP3v1G0dsCJZ76EEcTNHrKJJnGW6KshbLs05JVcjw5bbILD0AgibPa7oVvIcmv-KsuBbusoSh3UEvbCxXmGQaD14U5hLj7zIb6yPzbPCRm7OuQE/s1600/paperpump1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijzlUXg9C7W_SXuje022Q-HYANzY_lyP3v1G0dsCJZ76EEcTNHrKJJnGW6KshbLs05JVcjw5bbILD0AgibPa7oVvIcmv-KsuBbusoSh3UEvbCxXmGQaD14U5hLj7zIb6yPzbPCRm7OuQE/s1600/paperpump1.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
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I love the way they turned out & they cost me a total sum of $0.00...can't beat that!!</div>
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Also a fun project to make with your kids....pre-cut the strips of paper and let them have fun with it!</div>
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<span style="color: #e69138; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: x-large;">Happy Scrappy Fall!!</span></div>
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<span style="color: #b45f06; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><u>Entering in these Linky Parties:</u></span></div>
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<span style="color: #b45f06; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b><a href="http://www.savvysouthernstyle.net/2014/10/wow-us-wednesdays-192.html" target="_blank">Wow Us Wednesdays</a></b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #b45f06; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b><i><a href="http://diyshowoff.com/2014/10/19/diy-party-27/" target="_blank">That DIY Party</a></i></b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #b45f06; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b><a href="http://justagirlandherblog.com/hit-me-with-your-best-shot-41/" target="_blank">Hit Me With Your Best Shot</a></b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #b45f06; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b><i><a href="http://thediydreamer.com/from-dream-to-reality/share-beautiful-creations-140/" target="_blank">The DIY Dreamer</a></i></b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #b45f06; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b><a href="http://sandandsisal.com/2014/10/inspire-me-monday-30.html" target="_blank">Inspire Me Monday</a></b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #b45f06; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b><i><a href="http://www.homestoriesatoz.com/tutorials/tutorials-tips-link-party-180.html" target="_blank">Home Stories A-Z</a></i></b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #b45f06; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b><a href="http://www.cedarhillfarmhouse.com/2014/10/scoop-141.html" target="_blank">The Scoop #141</a></b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #b45f06; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b><i><a href="http://akadesign.ca/weekend-retreat-link-party-90/" target="_blank">Weekend Retreat Link Party</a></i></b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #b45f06; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b><a href="http://domesticsuperhero.com/2014/10/24/the-pinworthy-projects-link-party-39/" target="_blank">Domestic SuperHero</a></b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #b45f06; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b><i><a href="http://lovegrowswild.com/2014/10/time-sparkle-link-party-83/" target="_blank">Time To Sparkle Link Party</a></i></b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #b45f06; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b><a href="http://www.the36thavenue.com/best-diy-projects-and-giveaway/" target="_blank">36th Avenue</a></b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #b45f06; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b><i><a href="http://www.littlemisscelebration.com/2014/10/24/best-weekend-28/" target="_blank">Best of The Weekend/ Little Miss Celebration</a></i></b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #b45f06; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b><a href="http://www.dwellings-theheartofyourhome.com/2014/10/amaze-me-monday-82.html" target="_blank">Amaze Me Monday</a></b></span></div>
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<img src="http://sites.google.com/site/bitzofmesuzanne/images/SuzanneSignature.png" />Suzanne J Deanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07454939176456822173noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3863873665193842008.post-21864569621125425342014-10-20T02:30:00.000-04:002014-10-20T02:30:02.140-04:00Look Ma, NO Electricity......<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="color: #990000; font-size: x-large;">Happy, Happy Monday Y'all! </span></b></div>
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I'm headed to my mom's for the day to see my Aunt who is in town. I haven't seen her in almost 10 years and she's my favorite Aunt...soooo I'm taking the day off to visit! I will share Pumpkin Patch pictures with you all this week along with a fun project I finally finished up!</div>
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I had to share this with you all in case you haven't yet seen or heard about them. I thought it was such a cool invention with so many uses, that I couldn't not share it on the blog.</div>
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It's called the <b><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Wonderbag-Non-Electric-Portable-Cooker-Cookbook/dp/B00ESI96SW/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1413773935&sr=8-1&keywords=wonderbag+portable+slow+cooker" target="_blank">Wonderbag</a></b>....and you can get your own at Amazon.com!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhF1oCPIomz8h_SgZrO1A3gMVOGePtgYVmeQj3gJK_s0I9ShUr9GMkFVKqotbbj0Gs8carKwyR63WK69_kM3OzCt5ihCuAJeRWc4wq9p2kqql-YiH5-M61tQhMKDenSjxtEFguCW7XSVSc/s1600/61sNJU+FRiL._SL1500_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhF1oCPIomz8h_SgZrO1A3gMVOGePtgYVmeQj3gJK_s0I9ShUr9GMkFVKqotbbj0Gs8carKwyR63WK69_kM3OzCt5ihCuAJeRWc4wq9p2kqql-YiH5-M61tQhMKDenSjxtEFguCW7XSVSc/s1600/61sNJU+FRiL._SL1500_.jpg" height="540" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #660000; font-size: x-large;"><b>Why is it so cool?</b></span></div>
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Its basically like a crock pot but without the electricity. It cooks & keeps foods warm for up to 12 hours. </div>
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And best part is...if you buy one, they donate one to someone in need in Africa.</div>
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So if you are like me and afraid to leave your crockpot plugged in while you are gone this is a great solution.</div>
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Or if you like to camp and RV...boil your food in your pot and place in Wonderbag to cook while you enjoy the day doing other things.</div>
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Use it to take to dinners and BBQs to keep your food warm...or on a buffet when you don't want to or can't plug anything in.</div>
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Like to Tailgate? This is great for keeping the food warm while heading to your game so its ready before kick-off!</div>
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Or you may just like to save electricity and help out Mother Earth</div>
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<b>INGENIOUS!!</b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3jMnAU3rw-c3b7XfDeTV65qWrHh04lMIUwJwmCAPApL84clXVuOApEcbRrQHBJbDUSaCDqer1NjfcZbQXcxjYq76v0f1tSrdVtLTAbptVKo4Vkt09nGnuEIvEvVRIEe1drkogsLI4KQU/s1600/71Y3i7DJWOL._SL1500_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3jMnAU3rw-c3b7XfDeTV65qWrHh04lMIUwJwmCAPApL84clXVuOApEcbRrQHBJbDUSaCDqer1NjfcZbQXcxjYq76v0f1tSrdVtLTAbptVKo4Vkt09nGnuEIvEvVRIEe1drkogsLI4KQU/s1600/71Y3i7DJWOL._SL1500_.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
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It comes in 3 color/pattern options I believe...red, blue and yellow.</div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; line-height: 19px; text-align: left;"><i>"One Wonderbag per year saves 1.7 trees, 1000 liters of water, and 1,248 hours not spent collecting firewood."</i></span></div>
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<b>And I love that one is donated to a family in need in Africa for every one bought here in the US.</b></div>
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Get Your Own <b><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Wonderbag-Non-Electric-Portable-Cooker-Cookbook/dp/B00ESI96SW/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1413773935&sr=8-1&keywords=wonderbag+portable+slow+cooker" target="_blank">Wonderbag HERE!</a></b></div>
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<img src="http://sites.google.com/site/bitzofmesuzanne/images/SuzanneSignature.png" />Suzanne J Deanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07454939176456822173noreply@blogger.com1