tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27318589844456353952024-03-06T04:06:16.521-05:00Caffeine & CocktailsAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02312789950847055390noreply@blogger.comBlogger346125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2731858984445635395.post-76878363735911962852012-12-06T07:36:00.000-05:002012-12-06T07:36:00.435-05:00Always Be ClosingI think because of my father, I'll always be a sales(wo)man. I'm always looking for the BBD (bigger, better deal) and also manage to get what I want...although that might be in part due to the fact that I am an only child.<br />
<br />
But that's a rabbit hole for therapy, not my blog. I digress.<br />
<br />
Granted, I also studied marketing in college, so I get it. There are tips and tricks to make consumers buy your goods. Although I haven't figured out Target's. That place must pump a mix of meth and heroin into their store because, without fail, I managed to load up my cart. Every. Single. Time.<br />
<br />
Again, I digress.<br />
<br />
Marketing, sales, I get it.<br />
<br />
Here's where rubber meets the road: I dream about it.<br />
<br />
Even though I'm not in a marketing or sales role anymore, although I believe those also entail herding cats which is part of my job now, I still look at campaigns, pricing, product placement, etc. For example, my cousin complained about the K-Mart commercial that played <i>The Lights</i> because it got stuck in her head. That's a genius - albeit evil genius - campaign because she remembered that it was a K-Mart. I tweeted that whenever I hear an instrumental version of <i>Carol of the Bells</i>, I get "Give a, give a, give a Garmin" with the ending of "Garmin dot com. Garmin dot com." Now that, is true marketing genius. I not only think about giving a Garmin, I repeat the website.<br />
<br />
So anyway, about my dream.<br />
<br />
The setting: A conference room with dry erase boards about.<br />
The people: Me and a half dozen indiscriminate faces.<br />
The topic: Meeting about Cinnabon cinnamon rolls.<br />
<br />
Yes. I dreamt about being in a marketing Cinnabon gender roles. The guy leading the meeting said, "So, if the cinnamon roll is the father figure, how can we draw in the mother?"<br />
<br />
Here's where I come in: "The frosting. It's warm, the best part, and it smothers everything."<br />
<br />
Yes. I likened a mother to frosting because it smothers.<br />
<br />
I'm amazing.<br />
<br />
Oh, and just as my alarm was going off, the rest of the indiscriminate faces were giving me accolades for my brilliance.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/58/3BA7E8D72245328F3876C5E5A3AF306C.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02312789950847055390noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2731858984445635395.post-17268105568067006052012-12-05T07:10:00.000-05:002012-12-05T07:10:00.788-05:00So What WednesdayIt's that time of the week where I link up with Shannon at <i><a href="http://www.lifeafteridew.com/">Life After I "Dew"</a></i> and say SO WHAT!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i909.photobucket.com/albums/ac293/munchkin_land_designs/BlogDesigns2/LifeAfterIDew/SoWhatButton.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://i909.photobucket.com/albums/ac293/munchkin_land_designs/BlogDesigns2/LifeAfterIDew/SoWhatButton.png" /></a></div>
<br />
<b><i>So WHAT if...</i></b><br />
<ul>
<li>I am still stoked that I managed to get a week's worth of meals on $11 and what I already had? I blogged about it. Enjoy.</li>
<li>I waited until I was down to cheese & booze before going to the store? You gotta do what you gotta do.</li>
</ul>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6bXyR_I-Dac2FPN3lRTNJawPI605nBtJN-GKBODJQnaYahku5ZOBFUSyvu9_GNyU2G1bq-ShdXV24rzDIa6MvWGHZOQfJFz_Pdm6fYQ-boQHZU3-FHUWYT8cRRl1wbQBxPLef8EMYEKM/s1600/IMG_2734.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="display: inline !important; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6bXyR_I-Dac2FPN3lRTNJawPI605nBtJN-GKBODJQnaYahku5ZOBFUSyvu9_GNyU2G1bq-ShdXV24rzDIa6MvWGHZOQfJFz_Pdm6fYQ-boQHZU3-FHUWYT8cRRl1wbQBxPLef8EMYEKM/s320/IMG_2734.JPG" width="238" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The left side is my roommate's side.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<ul>
<li>I now have Broncos jerseys in all three color combinations? My mom surprised me with a white jersey. Trifecta.</li>
</ul>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl7OO9nR7PY75MoABfrvBcGdryysk-VDaM_iLc08Bax4AeDquzLDV3B4zfP2OnmR9cdcPSY5XlHhXnmd_SEQI8WQwbbcLjyM1KDlios40Q5XcRvT8kfgYlHJt9wbtO-ie2f04FAnbZYCA/s1600/IMG_2736.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl7OO9nR7PY75MoABfrvBcGdryysk-VDaM_iLc08Bax4AeDquzLDV3B4zfP2OnmR9cdcPSY5XlHhXnmd_SEQI8WQwbbcLjyM1KDlios40Q5XcRvT8kfgYlHJt9wbtO-ie2f04FAnbZYCA/s320/IMG_2736.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Miller - Lynch - Miller.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<ul>
<li>I feel like some sort of genius for draining my black beans by cutting two slits on opposite sides? Lets air in while the bean juice drains.</li>
</ul>
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXQ6jcH3WlibTzWlddsH-tnEx1h98W8PVuabUy-5pty8iIb8EHIzuM5VC8ddfhiJcRzikmXGZPOQGJe2xHhctHAoc-MxWxEW6UuU5Wqx5-XyqlR2L_QMjkjyv2tG1fIH1AN15FI6ABxFg/s1600/IMG_2735.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXQ6jcH3WlibTzWlddsH-tnEx1h98W8PVuabUy-5pty8iIb8EHIzuM5VC8ddfhiJcRzikmXGZPOQGJe2xHhctHAoc-MxWxEW6UuU5Wqx5-XyqlR2L_QMjkjyv2tG1fIH1AN15FI6ABxFg/s320/IMG_2735.JPG" width="238" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Opposite sides make sure it doesn't spout all over you.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<ul>
<li>I shed a tear when I spilled my Crystal Light fruit punch on my diploma? Let's not talk about how it's also four years later and I haven't framed it.</li>
</ul>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWOMZpZSDB_keflpiCpcR0IizrKHdPDp-5DgjyLWHzpD6Sokrd8pDodfxGqAywMPxDcaFnCmqzxmCGKPRXIz0pxrc23oWnq2WBH2aWy8vNXjGKA77vaFtlwOHXtOStDGQARzHA5UzoNbU/s1600/IMG_2737.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWOMZpZSDB_keflpiCpcR0IizrKHdPDp-5DgjyLWHzpD6Sokrd8pDodfxGqAywMPxDcaFnCmqzxmCGKPRXIz0pxrc23oWnq2WBH2aWy8vNXjGKA77vaFtlwOHXtOStDGQARzHA5UzoNbU/s320/IMG_2737.JPG" width="238" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>I made this SWW post look longer with pictures? You dug it. Admit it.</li>
</ul>
<div>
What are you saying So WHAT to? Link up with Shannon and tell the world!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<br />
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/58/3BA7E8D72245328F3876C5E5A3AF306C.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02312789950847055390noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2731858984445635395.post-63030595941744564002012-12-04T07:03:00.000-05:002012-12-04T07:37:02.766-05:00Frugal For OneAlright. Let's face it. I'm not the best at budgeting. Before, I had talked about $20/week for groceries and with coupons, smart shopping, and holdovers in your "stock" from previous weeks, I think that, for a single lady, it's possible.<br />
<br />
Well, thanks to an unexpected bill for Harry's double pink-eye, I found myself with $11 in my checking account for this first week of December. (Granted, I have credit cards, but that's a slippery slope and savings is SAVINGS.)<br />
<br />
How did I manage? Well, prior to December 1, I had purchased a pound of rice, a 4-pack of Greek yogurt, and a bag of shredded cheese for a total of $7.05 at Target. That held me through Saturday and Sunday (with some sausage I already had) since most of Saturday was spent with Grape Flu.<br />
<br />
Now, how am I going to make it from December 3 - December 7? Monday, I had a yogurt from my 4-pack, and some leftover chicken in the office from the boss that was going to go bad. Then I ventured to the grocery store.<br />
<br />
<b><u>Here's what I needed:</u></b><br />
<ul>
<li>4 Breakfasts </li>
<li>4 Lunches (Between the chicken on Monday and two servings of rice, I had 3 covered)</li>
<li>5 Dinners</li>
</ul>
<b><u>Here's what I had:</u></b><br />
<ul>
<li>Brown N Serve Sausage ($1 at Safeway)</li>
<li>Shredded Cheese ($2.49 at Target)</li>
<li>EVOO/Spices/Condiments, etc.</li>
<li>2 yogurts left from my 4-pack ($3.69 for 4-pack)</li>
<li>2 c. cooked rice leftover from the rice ($.87 at Target)</li>
</ul>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6bXyR_I-Dac2FPN3lRTNJawPI605nBtJN-GKBODJQnaYahku5ZOBFUSyvu9_GNyU2G1bq-ShdXV24rzDIa6MvWGHZOQfJFz_Pdm6fYQ-boQHZU3-FHUWYT8cRRl1wbQBxPLef8EMYEKM/s1600/IMG_2734.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6bXyR_I-Dac2FPN3lRTNJawPI605nBtJN-GKBODJQnaYahku5ZOBFUSyvu9_GNyU2G1bq-ShdXV24rzDIa6MvWGHZOQfJFz_Pdm6fYQ-boQHZU3-FHUWYT8cRRl1wbQBxPLef8EMYEKM/s320/IMG_2734.JPG" width="238" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I have the right side of the fridge. Which has cheese, booze & baking soda. I am literally on empty.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
<b><u>Here's what I bought at Safeway:</u></b></div>
<ul>
<li>2 Southwest Ranch Salad Kits (On sale at 2/$5)</li>
<li>3 <i>Pineapple</i> Greek yogurts (Flavor - overstock - on sale for $.69)</li>
<li>1 can seasoned black beans (Reg. price at $.89)</li>
<li>1 can Swanson's chicken broth (On sale $.88 until 12/25)</li>
<li>16 oz brown rice ($1.99 - boo to paying $1.02 MORE than Target)</li>
</ul>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR914mUGv8pyuaNo8-ADZ9Cwv3i91u0LDai0aXesrYx61h9NMl8GkMSQ321uIApEj7j8uUokniagIxRkcMuwED4gqe5__63KU7eWs6ZD3x08bDUK8_xRRpR2aqORUh4JmHFfFzoBQNEWY/s1600/IMG_2738.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR914mUGv8pyuaNo8-ADZ9Cwv3i91u0LDai0aXesrYx61h9NMl8GkMSQ321uIApEj7j8uUokniagIxRkcMuwED4gqe5__63KU7eWs6ZD3x08bDUK8_xRRpR2aqORUh4JmHFfFzoBQNEWY/s320/IMG_2738.JPG" width="238" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">BOOM. $10.83 for a weeks' worth of meals. AND I saved 26%.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
Now, how do you menu plan on so little?</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Here's my plan. (Not accounting for office coffee & candy.)</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b><u>Monday</u></b></div>
<div>
<i>Breakfast</i></div>
<div>
Greek yogurt</div>
<div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<i>Lunch</i></div>
<div>
Boss' chicken</div>
</div>
<div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<i>Dinner</i></div>
</div>
<div>
1/2 Salad Kit<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
</div>
<b><u>Tuesday</u></b><br />
<i>Breakfast</i><br />
Greek yogurt<br />
<br />
<i>Lunch</i><br />
Black Beans & Rice<br />
<br />
<i>Dinner</i><br />
Remaining 1/2 of Salad Kit<br />
<br />
<b><u>Wednesday</u></b><br />
<i>Breakfast</i><br />
Greek yogurt<br />
<br />
<i>Lunch</i><br />
Pantry Clean Out Rice (Literally picking random spices & sauces I like)<br />
<br />
<i>Dinner</i><br />
Black Beans & Rice<br />
<br />
<b><u>Thursday</u></b><br />
<i>Breakfast</i><br />
Greek yogurt<br />
<br />
<i>Lunch</i><br />
1/2 of second Salad Kit<br />
<br />
<i>Dinner</i><br />
Black Beans & Rice<br />
<br />
<b><u>Friday</u></b><br />
<i>Breakfast</i><br />
Greek yogurt<br />
<br />
<i>Lunch</i><br />
Other 1/2 of the second Salad Kit<br />
<br />
<i>Dinner</i><br />
Sausage & Cheese Rice (just like it sounds, but with onion & chili powders)<br />
<br />
After I've typed this out, I think I'll even have leftover rice. With the chicken stock, water, and a full bag of rice, there was close to 10 cups of cooked riced.<br />
<br />
Basically, I feel like a champion for finding deals and sticking to my budget. I think that if I increased my weekly budget to $15, I could even get some chicken in there to "beef up" the menu, too.<br />
<br />
Have you ever challenged yourself to a budget for groceries?<br />
<br />
p.s. Pro tip: Non-processed foods are not taxed. Look at my receipt, I didn't pay tax on any of that.<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/58/3BA7E8D72245328F3876C5E5A3AF306C.png" style="background-color: transparent; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border: 0px !important;" /></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02312789950847055390noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2731858984445635395.post-652132545340188922012-11-28T09:24:00.001-05:002012-11-28T09:24:56.893-05:00So What Wednesday<br />
I haven't linked up in a couple of weeks, but I'm here! Shannon's weekly link-up at <i><a href="http://www.lifeafteridew.com/">Life After I "Dew"</a></i> makes my life a little easier to blog in bullet point.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i909.photobucket.com/albums/ac293/munchkin_land_designs/BlogDesigns2/LifeAfterIDew/SoWhatButton.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://i909.photobucket.com/albums/ac293/munchkin_land_designs/BlogDesigns2/LifeAfterIDew/SoWhatButton.png" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<i style="font-weight: bold;">So WHAT if...</i><br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>Feel like hammered dog shit today? I've had a tad of a cold with sinus pressure and a post-nasal drip caused sore throat that culminated in me waking up at 5:30am today with a raging headache.</li>
<li>I managed to not look like hammered dog shit? Thankfully I laid out my clothes last night and popped in the shower this morning hoping the steam and heat would make me look a little better.</li>
<li>I am done decorating for Christmas? Not by choice, but my only decorations I got from Colorado pertained to my tree. Whatever. It's done.</li>
<li>I <u>have</u> to stop working at 5:00pm tonight? They are doing maintenance on some IT stuff, so that means I have an excuse to duck out.</li>
<li>I need a nap at 9:30am? See the first bullet point.</li>
</ul>
<div>
Go link up with Shannon and say your SO WHATs!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<br />
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/58/3BA7E8D72245328F3876C5E5A3AF306C.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02312789950847055390noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2731858984445635395.post-19444865133128078962012-11-16T17:17:00.003-05:002012-11-16T17:34:40.164-05:00Sometimes I Don't Get My Mom...<div class="tr_bq">
...but my mom <u>always</u> gets me.</div>
<br />
Case in point:<br />
<br />
While I'm back in Colorado for Thanksgiving, I decided that a night on the town was in order. I didn't go out while I was in town in September, so a Rio margarita <u>must</u> be consumed on this trip. In addition, BFFL (best friend fo liiiiifeee) Daisy celebrated her final year in her 20s since I last saw her. Clearly, there should be a celebration.<br />
<br />
That led to this email string:<br />
<br /><span style="color: #45818e;"><b>From: </b>Ana<br /><b>To: </b>Daisy <br /><b>Subject: </b>Hitting Up Both of Your Emails…<br /><b>Message:</b></span><div>
<span style="color: #45818e;">...since I don't know what one you'll check most often whilst working.<br /><br />Anyway, I'm going to be in town the 18th - 23rd. I have two goals that week: 1) to celebrate your birth with a meal and possible cocktail, and 2) to see people that I want to (which includes you, the mister, and others).<br /><br />With that in mind, I propose a dinner with at least you and, if you would like, a handful of other people. THEN, invite more people out for drinks, hangout-ness after. One-stop-shop, if you will.<br /><br />What do you think? What night is best for you? Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday? I know the bars are hoppin' on Wednesday night... </span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: cyan;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: purple;"><b>From: </b>Daisy<br /><b>To: </b>Ana<br /><b>Subject: </b>Hitting Up Both of Your Emails…<br /><b>Message:</b></span></div>
<span style="color: purple;">Yes, liking it…as always.</span><div>
<span style="color: purple;"><br /></span><div>
<span style="color: purple;">Let’s do Wednesday night, actually. Night before a holiday may actually produce a somewhat rowdy crowd. Who doesn’t want to be hung over on Thanksgiving day?</span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: purple;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: purple;">How about you pick who you would like for dinner so you can have one-on-one time. The rest we’ll invite for drinks afterwards. </span></div>
<div>
<br /><span style="color: #45818e;"><b>From: </b>Ana <br /><b>To: </b>Daisy<br /><b>Subject: </b>Hitting Up Both of Your Emails…<br /><b>Message:</b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #45818e;">For Wednesday dinner, I was thinking you, me, Jess. Yes, that limited. Then we can meet up with people for margaritas to start at Rio. Hell, we could do dinner at the Rio. I want chips and guac. We can even do post-work to get more of a crowd. Call it Boozegiving. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #45818e;"><br />Screw it. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #45818e;"><br />We're doing Boozegiving. Everyone's invited, only your attendance is compulsory. I'll be there. And maybe with my mom as DD for me. No joke.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #45818e;"><br />It's happening. Look out for the facebook invite.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #45818e;"><br />That's how I roll.</span></div>
<div>
<br /><span style="color: purple;"><b>From: </b>Daisy<br /><b>To: </b>Ana<br /><b>Subject: </b>RE: Hitting Up Both of Your Emails…<br /><b>Message:</b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: purple;">At first I was only thinking of suggesting Jess as the other invitee for dinner, but your plan for Boozegiving sounds good too – how you roll is how I roll. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: purple;"><br />BTW, if I sent my mom an email like the one you did Momma Jane wouldn’t even know how to respond…especially since she doesn’t have an email address!!!! Hahahaha!</span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: purple;"><br />Love all your plans – Rio in a week!!!</span><br /><br /><div>
Now, you're fine and dandy with Boozegiving, right? Well did any one read this line, <b>"...We're doing Boozegiving. Everyone's invited, only your attendance is compulsory. I'll be there. And maybe with my mom as DD for me. No joke..."</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
Yes.<br />
<br />
That happened.<br />
<br />
As evidenced by this email string:<br />
<br />
<span style="color: #45818e;"><b>From: </b>Your Daughter<br /><b>To: </b>Mama Sandy<br /><b>Subject: </b>So, I know I’m almost 30, but…<br /><b>Message:</b><br />...a taxi from Denver is $40...</span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #45818e;"><br />Feel like being my DD on Wednesday? I'm going to meet up for drinks with people and wanted to make sure that I get home, obvio. If you're working that day, I can take you to work and switch out when you're ready to go home.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #45818e;"><br /> In fact, join us for a round. Who can say no to tequila? Or at least chips & guac?</span></div>
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<br /><span style="color: purple;"><b> From: </b>Mama Sandy<br /><b>To: </b>Favorite Daughter<br /><b>Subject: </b>RE: So, I know I’m almost 30, but…<br /><b>Message:</b><br />I’m taking the whole week off with an occasional conference call thrown in. DD is fine and dandy and will carry Tupperware in case you feel the need to vomit!</span></div>
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This?<br />
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Is why she always gets me.</div>
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The Tupperware is because there have been a couple of days that succeeded drinking nights with family events. It's a little rough. Tequila shots es no bueno.</div>
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Also, I somehow have found that if I travel for Thanksgiving, the night before I leave is some sort of celebration. <i>See</i> Friendsgiving, Sherer's Wedding. Sunday? Is gonna be rough. But that's a whole other blog post.</div>
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<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/58/3BA7E8D72245328F3876C5E5A3AF306C.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02312789950847055390noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2731858984445635395.post-81073949188625709782012-11-14T07:00:00.000-05:002012-11-14T07:00:06.985-05:00So What WednesdayLinking up with Shannon at <i><a href="http://www.lifeafteridew.com/">Life After I "Dew"</a> </i> and saying SO WHAT!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i909.photobucket.com/albums/ac293/munchkin_land_designs/BlogDesigns2/LifeAfterIDew/SoWhatButton.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://i909.photobucket.com/albums/ac293/munchkin_land_designs/BlogDesigns2/LifeAfterIDew/SoWhatButton.png" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<b><i>So WHAT if...</i></b><br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>I am UHB. Sessed. with <i>Made in Chelsea</i>? It's a British import that is basically The Hills, but with accents. So, naturally, I'm in love.</li>
<li>I am mentally packing for my trip to Colorado? Packing takes some thought to coordinate space allotments for carry-ons.</li>
<li>In mentally packing for Colorado, I immediately have <u>NOTHING</u> to wear? I don't want to have to do laundry before I leave.</li>
<li>I got a pair of orange, suede, shearling "loafers"? I use loafers loosely since they rang up as slippers.</li>
<li>I am not ashamed to wear my slipfers? They have a sole and when they are on, you can't tell that they are comfortable, shearling heaven shoes.</li>
<li>I took to the Twitter for shopping advice? It's the fastest way to find the best deal for whatever I'm looking for...HELLO $23 jewel-tone leggings.</li>
<li>I'm uber nervous about cooking the turkey for Friendsgiving? The turkey has been in the fridge defrosting for <u>three</u> days and this sucker is rock solid still.</li>
<li>I decided I needed a Boozegiving in Colorado? I'm missing the Colorado Edition of Friendgiving, so I'm getting together on the other traditional holidays for a random Wednesday night adult beverage night out.</li>
<li>I'm obsessed with a makeup blog I found on Pinterest? Do yourself a favor and go to <a href="http://www.maskcara.com/">MaskCara</a> and watch all of her tutorials, read her tips, and work your own magic.</li>
<li>I'm perfecting <a href="http://www.maskcara.com/2012/11/hac-yourself-flawless/">HACing</a>? Her blog is evidence enough, but once you try it on your own, you're hooked.</li>
</ul>
<br />
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/58/3BA7E8D72245328F3876C5E5A3AF306C.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02312789950847055390noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2731858984445635395.post-57384652536378426692012-10-31T11:58:00.001-04:002012-10-31T11:58:48.201-04:00So What Wednesday<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i909.photobucket.com/albums/ac293/munchkin_land_designs/BlogDesigns2/LifeAfterIDew/SoWhatButton.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://i909.photobucket.com/albums/ac293/munchkin_land_designs/BlogDesigns2/LifeAfterIDew/SoWhatButton.png" /></a></div>
<br />
Linking up with Shannon at <i><a href="http://www.lifeafteridew.com/">Life After I "Dew"</a></i> for a little Sandy themed SO WHAT.<br />
<br />
<b><i>So WHAT if...</i></b><br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>I'm over hurricanes? I mean, c'mon. Blizzards are way more fun because you can go outside and play in the snow. I don't want to go puddle jumping when the 'hood smells like a gerbil cage.</li>
<li>I never lost power? Don't hate if you did. I have a brick row house from 1880. I win.</li>
<li>I'm glad to back in the office? I mean, I love me a long weekend, but I was getting a little stir crazy.</li>
<li>I drank during the day? I wasn't driving, no one was working, and what else do you do in a natural disaster?</li>
<li>I kept making jokes about Hurricane Sandy being like my mom Sandy? C'mon. We all know that when she gets cold, she gets bitchy (mixing with a cold front). And she was 15 minutes ahead of the forecast (my mom is <u>always</u> early), and messing up Halloween plans (my mom's birthday is Halloween).</li>
<li>I called to wish my mom a happy birthday at a suitable hour and still woke her up? It's for all the years she woke me up in college for my birthday.</li>
<li>I'm not handing out candy this Halloween? I'm turning of the porch light and hiding for two reasons: I'm cheap and I would eat more than I handed out.</li>
</ul>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://sphotos-a.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash3/522337_10100704660841013_484546819_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://sphotos-a.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash3/522337_10100704660841013_484546819_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Difference? Less leaves.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
*I know I fared so well that it sounds like I'm bragging, but for people not directly impacted, there are rays of sunshine. I do sympathize with those who fared worse, so don't go hating. I don't have time for that.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<br />
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/58/3BA7E8D72245328F3876C5E5A3AF306C.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02312789950847055390noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2731858984445635395.post-6354162579621042162012-10-29T08:41:00.000-04:002012-10-29T08:41:00.532-04:00Pinterest Bedroom Makeover - Part 4Oh Sandy, you make this post perfect. And no, Mom, I'm not talking to you. Granted, we're both known to watch the boob tube a lot, I'm talking to the Sandy of the Hurricane variety. I digress.<br />
<br />
I'm home today as Sandy merges with a Nor'Easter over the District. the wind and rain haven't really kicked up, but since all mass transportation and office building closed, I'm going rock yoga pants and watch movies while I work today. Oh, and since I'll be looking at the boob tube, I'm glad I got to Part 4 of my Pinterest makeover.<br />
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Let's face it. I'm addicted to TV.<br />
<br />
And I need my Real Housewives in HD.<br />
<br />
And I need them out of the way.<br />
<br />
Enter: My Dad and Madre Dos' housewarming gift.<br />
<br />
The 32" 780p LCD gem.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://pisces.bbystatic.com/image2/BestBuy_US/images/products/4550/4550361_sa.jpg;canvasHeight=500;canvasWidth=500" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://pisces.bbystatic.com/image2/BestBuy_US/images/products/4550/4550361_sa.jpg;canvasHeight=500;canvasWidth=500" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Minus the stand. Ain't nobody got time for that.</td></tr>
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Because my dad is handy and hung the TV (first time not so level), I'm not going to post about it. Other than the anchors and nails used here went through the drywall and the brick that's 3" back, I also acquire spackle and a putty knife which will be handy when I move out.<br />
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Anyway, with the DVR and DVD, we had to mount a shelf to the side. If I chose below the TV, I would have to duck walking around the bed or hang everything higher. Not. Happening.<br />
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Here's what I was left with:<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKKU98uEP4wdEQgRcQbgmAAcWIJ-1QbKyLIUOf8qOzcDAyA37aToNfyTgUNBysnEzaU04jet_nGQJAcN5fRcXwtbM6NK_43lUOvbDnQv553ZZhfDhUcjaFCr4DN-XE7tUzHur2hpMYSJ4/s1600/TV+wall+BEFORE.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="362" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKKU98uEP4wdEQgRcQbgmAAcWIJ-1QbKyLIUOf8qOzcDAyA37aToNfyTgUNBysnEzaU04jet_nGQJAcN5fRcXwtbM6NK_43lUOvbDnQv553ZZhfDhUcjaFCr4DN-XE7tUzHur2hpMYSJ4/s640/TV+wall+BEFORE.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Black cords es no bueno on a light wall.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipxKtuYcxSXo9zEMd7RnLNCZWaQsyBYRl1zA7ziDrqeOTBWjwS7yzSa_3wgmxLEABLjkP09Wr586Ga8R1u5ui81p1sbF_hkrABTXqZdTzqxL78wU1wzbmPerfTHSfruGNa9aN-IMO2Rks/s1600/cords.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="478" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipxKtuYcxSXo9zEMd7RnLNCZWaQsyBYRl1zA7ziDrqeOTBWjwS7yzSa_3wgmxLEABLjkP09Wr586Ga8R1u5ui81p1sbF_hkrABTXqZdTzqxL78wU1wzbmPerfTHSfruGNa9aN-IMO2Rks/s640/cords.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lots of messy cords in the way.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Yes. I lived with it this way for several months. Deal. I was busy. Or whatever.<br />
<br />
Anyway, I set out to make some upgrades by covering the cords and hiding them on top of the cable box.<br />
<br />
Enter, leftover fabric from my curtains and some pop up mini-boxes from Closetmaid at Target.<br />
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First, I tidied up the area a little bit with cable ties and coax staples found at your local hardware store.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi944Q4mbj43TmCseiDDyD-2L4vzeCzAKaxBjZLwgPwPpDCDr1ib4hy75sy3gk93WRDqjuFlLZIffb4dPKLn79G2YVocK2dmcy9bxUlzKfM5dvvQ8BrMhlJ9AqSPnbYIQN8ucMhR2IiqRo/s1600/staples+and+ties.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi944Q4mbj43TmCseiDDyD-2L4vzeCzAKaxBjZLwgPwPpDCDr1ib4hy75sy3gk93WRDqjuFlLZIffb4dPKLn79G2YVocK2dmcy9bxUlzKfM5dvvQ8BrMhlJ9AqSPnbYIQN8ucMhR2IiqRo/s640/staples+and+ties.JPG" width="478" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Legit amazing.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf08BDWSP241LR0qiXMrSo2Z0WrdyRr-Il6OE1N3dUhrLhw_2pfewC2FC5guexp6-TdOGLQCHLN4XvV9KjyOYda1yhBuA1-NJ7n8rkTmQ1e_9jKOgbwdN9KfACMe2TSzcidUokmdXJ29M/s1600/tidy+cords.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf08BDWSP241LR0qiXMrSo2Z0WrdyRr-Il6OE1N3dUhrLhw_2pfewC2FC5guexp6-TdOGLQCHLN4XvV9KjyOYda1yhBuA1-NJ7n8rkTmQ1e_9jKOgbwdN9KfACMe2TSzcidUokmdXJ29M/s640/tidy+cords.JPG" width="478" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Coax staples kept the extension cord and coax cable neat and trim against the wall and blending in.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxpxoSvUTOw7_LzXVKWYEB0gztg1qucAu_pwYzKKM5Pwr7_LlkueJmetmiHD7g_ZLpD-z8Jrvi4yv8e-1T5eQdX6oWq7gH37jyB_MQio7IqzQpwgrAjTv_iZRBkruRcI3kBValBw-Q9UQ/s1600/tied+cords.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxpxoSvUTOw7_LzXVKWYEB0gztg1qucAu_pwYzKKM5Pwr7_LlkueJmetmiHD7g_ZLpD-z8Jrvi4yv8e-1T5eQdX6oWq7gH37jyB_MQio7IqzQpwgrAjTv_iZRBkruRcI3kBValBw-Q9UQ/s400/tied+cords.JPG" width="298" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cable ties tightened up the mass of power, HDMI, and video cords to the TV.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Then I set to making the cord sleeve with left over fabric.<br />
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What you'll need:<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<ul>
<li>Fabric (at least double the width of the cords your covering and a little longer than what is seen so it can be tucked away.)</li>
<li>Velcro squares or strip</li>
<li>Scissors</li>
</ul>
<div>
For my cords, I already had a stretch of fabric a little longer that the cords from the TV to the cable box and since it was 8" wide, I didn't trim any excess.</div>
<div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgthxI5YcQbETXz30rnavXGqFrOCzoG2gQ8MvrH9CoQ3-SPc1rQJH_8EhbHsvk5m_uvm_GSVOHCO_LTfW7vLFgxdbkRNOoZkAonmolCbYcDfiIaTQzLZrj88AteFmKZJueak5nFLDaLpgo/s1600/making+cord+pocket.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgthxI5YcQbETXz30rnavXGqFrOCzoG2gQ8MvrH9CoQ3-SPc1rQJH_8EhbHsvk5m_uvm_GSVOHCO_LTfW7vLFgxdbkRNOoZkAonmolCbYcDfiIaTQzLZrj88AteFmKZJueak5nFLDaLpgo/s640/making+cord+pocket.JPG" width="478" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">With my fabric folded in half, right side out, I can tell that it will hold my cords.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil12V4FjwFto0JrjA9Uu345I0vrMckQORICJ2MZ-wFxkC9yvqphkoTJxy0s44mJ0VqDtVUT1XOBoVfpqmvWPme_YYBdYnQvPa23v7j_F-fQmoFpggwztvPjzVHEcFPx-KfSXRG8fztxeU/s1600/making+cord+pocket+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil12V4FjwFto0JrjA9Uu345I0vrMckQORICJ2MZ-wFxkC9yvqphkoTJxy0s44mJ0VqDtVUT1XOBoVfpqmvWPme_YYBdYnQvPa23v7j_F-fQmoFpggwztvPjzVHEcFPx-KfSXRG8fztxeU/s640/making+cord+pocket+1.JPG" width="478" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Right side down, I fold the top over and affix half of the velcro (right side). Just below it, I place the other half of the velcro (wrong side). When you bring the two together, you will have a tube right side out.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhS44J0fYir7svOJoosESvNp4jLRvsKFybRnnuhTsoU4l354weV9Nb5O_kkjIcJnwZyIay50fCJx0FiiPdTVEXkhyphenhypheng8LDuAq6-TIKqk3g8DgkVQ9pT4sp-QeC2_7753TW7o8aQZYaf8TTg/s1600/cord+pocket+done.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhS44J0fYir7svOJoosESvNp4jLRvsKFybRnnuhTsoU4l354weV9Nb5O_kkjIcJnwZyIay50fCJx0FiiPdTVEXkhyphenhypheng8LDuAq6-TIKqk3g8DgkVQ9pT4sp-QeC2_7753TW7o8aQZYaf8TTg/s640/cord+pocket+done.JPG" width="478" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Continue the length of the fabric to complete your cord cover.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
Once you're ready to cover the cords, you simply un-velcro, then re-velcro over the cords.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
After everything was back in order, I tucked the cords into the pop-up boxes.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOr88slnW90rdW6IQ7D5VXfxD3qd01PLvxn5uecQseS_pl7wKqHQzOzP-jYlW1xsd7X72mtbG0-2WMRkKdj3mgXei-5VZKVxKaJeloo03csVb5Bltj43iXHeZSh9nfuqWSpFbLeI8q06w/s1600/TV+wall+AFTER.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOr88slnW90rdW6IQ7D5VXfxD3qd01PLvxn5uecQseS_pl7wKqHQzOzP-jYlW1xsd7X72mtbG0-2WMRkKdj3mgXei-5VZKVxKaJeloo03csVb5Bltj43iXHeZSh9nfuqWSpFbLeI8q06w/s640/TV+wall+AFTER.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Voila! Cords are camouflaged with come creativity!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Now for the all-too-important Before & After Shot!!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV241Q8zQghcy7noMrhOGm1zO9qQlkl2ElJNDMfd6cSI2jV6IUz9Vluq0RC0zJYDc7Ui_-VY4JqPRwfR5WzSuu_knR7GA1NuQD3onuZvqAxzMQ8dAF0-hTb9__UGAlgnuybDHPLVnrHOg/s1600/TV+wall+collage.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV241Q8zQghcy7noMrhOGm1zO9qQlkl2ElJNDMfd6cSI2jV6IUz9Vluq0RC0zJYDc7Ui_-VY4JqPRwfR5WzSuu_knR7GA1NuQD3onuZvqAxzMQ8dAF0-hTb9__UGAlgnuybDHPLVnrHOg/s640/TV+wall+collage.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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With a little creativity, you can take the drab to fab with how to cover unsightly cords or a general mess. And, as you can see from the time on the cable box to staple the cords to the wall, cable tie the cords together, and make and install the cord cover. For 50 minutes worth of my time to clean up that mess, it was well worth it! Granted, I wasn't inspired by any actual pins, but someone has got to go out there and make new ones, right?<br />
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Now I can cozy up and get down with all of my Real Housewives.<br />
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<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/58/3BA7E8D72245328F3876C5E5A3AF306C.png" style="background-color: transparent; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border: 0px !important;" /></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02312789950847055390noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2731858984445635395.post-965626886616739802012-10-25T15:06:00.001-04:002012-10-25T15:06:22.853-04:00Pinterest Bedroom Makeover - Part 3Now that you've seen the final product of the back corner and the closet wall, I'm going to talk to you about the curtains.<br />
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And then for a tutorial about how I (and by I, I mean my Aunt Marsha) sewed the panels. First, I will tell you that I'm sure that I could have done it with a lot more patience, time, and a sewing machine...with her supervision. There is no way I could have done this without frustration and wasting material.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4uAnc_uEzaJemBo4a1duHvjuJAud7PDqTMhnO5awiayABzXLYoTbg8bnoSw5XSMyPTgPbrKy5dkVY_ch8ocUcaYoZtjIClWvhzOXM0byMDZaUEn2ju9e7pBfW5OFKOT0TIc7O1sMQc7Y/s1600/full+back+wall+BEFORE.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4uAnc_uEzaJemBo4a1duHvjuJAud7PDqTMhnO5awiayABzXLYoTbg8bnoSw5XSMyPTgPbrKy5dkVY_ch8ocUcaYoZtjIClWvhzOXM0byMDZaUEn2ju9e7pBfW5OFKOT0TIc7O1sMQc7Y/s640/full+back+wall+BEFORE.JPG" width="478" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Don't you just love the look of the bars and brick? Me too. Now you know why a whole wall of curtains had to be done. </td></tr>
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In short, my Aunt Marsha rocks.<br />
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Anyway, here's how I went about choosing my fabric with guidance from my aunt.<br />
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<ol>
<li>Hunker down at the computer with my glasses so you can see clearly.</li>
<li>Go through thousands of swatch samples from JoAnn's Fabric. Don't limit yourself and click on every sub-category. If you have a color idea in mind, make sure that you look at your primary and secondary colors, i.e. primary: purple, white, gray, secondary: blue, dark gray, etc.</li>
<li>To see how the colors would go together, I saved the swatches as pictures and stitched them together with Picasa Collage Maker. Very simple and helped me start to visualize what I was about to do.</li>
<li>Since I had a long wall (8 feet) I knew that I would need at least 1.5 times that in width to get a "casual" hang in the fabric. For a dense look, you would double the width.</li>
<li>The panels of fabric helped me decide on what came to be about 1.5 times the amount of fabric in width.</li>
<li>For length, you need to measure the height that you want to hang. I was somewhat limited by the height by my reach from a 6 foot ladder. And the top of the window is already at 9 feet. I don't think I need 12 foot high curtains, thankyouverymuch. Remember this gem pin?</li>
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<a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/215750638369960843/" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="414" src="http://media-cache-ec3.pinterest.com/upload/47639708528775780_6896u4Wi_c.jpg" width="554" /></a></div>
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Source: <a href="http://honeyandfitz.blogspot.ca/2012/06/home-decor-tips-infographics-cheat.html" style="color: #76838b; font-size: 10px; text-decoration: underline;">honeyandfitz.blogspot.ca</a> via <a href="http://pinterest.com/anaosb/" style="color: #76838b; font-size: 10px; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Ana</a> on <a href="http://pinterest.com/" style="color: #76838b; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Pinterest</a></div>
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For the rod, that was pure math and really only based on the finials. Basically, I already had the brushed silver look going on my furniture. And they are rectangular, so boom. Choices made. And Target had it.<br />
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Once the fabric came in, you basically have to create a hem, fold down a bit at the sides, and then create a rod pocket which is really just fancy talk for not sealing the edge of what is essentially a hem. Make sure that the rod pocket is also big enough for your rod in case you choose something thick.<br />
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Iron those suckers before you hang them.<br />
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Once you're ready to hang the rod, make sure that you measure & level twice, drill once. The end of the rod should be about three inches out from your windows. In my case, I put the ends of the rod 3 inches in from the wall.<br />
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Be prepared to go up and down the ladder. A lot. Like, annoyingly a lot. Especially if you're hanging these by yourself. Actually, make sure someone is around to hand you things. That would reduce the number of trips up and down the ladder.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFzuCagOSjA0BVHB4Cu_8Ac61sm5x5XT8xiYWV7BdMGfxsq_n-RVt2RnRYk7HL5VaoXRmlS7tlDikyllIEgmv5xdU6_uKqrO07uhfgnRT0f9_W85NRkafjLwCWXyxcVi-f4MbzyVKF3PM/s1600/back+wall+lit+AFTER.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFzuCagOSjA0BVHB4Cu_8Ac61sm5x5XT8xiYWV7BdMGfxsq_n-RVt2RnRYk7HL5VaoXRmlS7tlDikyllIEgmv5xdU6_uKqrO07uhfgnRT0f9_W85NRkafjLwCWXyxcVi-f4MbzyVKF3PM/s640/back+wall+lit+AFTER.JPG" width="524" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">You can see the top edge of the window and the window about the door. That? Determined the height of my drapes. Well, that and the height I could reach from a 6 foot ladder.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo8F8dIuX5FDckDngNKW9t69zx3XvdvGfMZ5WynGI8nRtATLpTwRqpNifFPqkNC_7jf3ui6SaSAZlNVil0h6eMpPGgN38l124fHTh60gFk1udtNm2VJDhthU-YKBV0mKmMFje2nmmwTQ0/s1600/full+back+wall+AFTER.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo8F8dIuX5FDckDngNKW9t69zx3XvdvGfMZ5WynGI8nRtATLpTwRqpNifFPqkNC_7jf3ui6SaSAZlNVil0h6eMpPGgN38l124fHTh60gFk1udtNm2VJDhthU-YKBV0mKmMFje2nmmwTQ0/s640/full+back+wall+AFTER.jpg" width="478" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">With the finials and the body of the fabric, you can see how the curtains really fill the space. </td></tr>
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I love how my curtains turned out. They cover a mucky, random door, filter light so I have a little bit more of a cave to sleep in, and adds a HUGE pop of color. BOOM.<br />
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<br />
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/58/3BA7E8D72245328F3876C5E5A3AF306C.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02312789950847055390noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2731858984445635395.post-77224171690911636472012-10-22T10:31:00.004-04:002012-10-22T11:12:02.882-04:00Pinterest Bedroom Makeover - Part 2<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><i>Closet Wall Edition</i></b></span></div>
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Now that you're hooked on my <a href="http://caffeineandcocktails.blogspot.com/2012/10/pinterest-bedroom-makeover-part-1.html">mad skillz</a> on <a href="http://pinterest.com/anaosb/">Pinterest</a> and my bedroom, I thought that I would showcase the other half of my bedroom for the real deal ingenuity that would make my mom say that I should have been an <strike>enginerd</strike> engineer.<br />
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First, let's start with the BEFORE picture so you can see what I was working with.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo_OUeX_NNKBlwiB5sEXv7a3tmwozGJ9WRfS1zn_eCEbaVUQvlmchlozLibEKVtYwbnZXg0-89WGAzvmhrzgUWoLJ806jlYuoD_I16_Qtt7aJEdab_saTCKJD6mKqpAgjqwhwFj02k7Kc/s1600/closet+BEFORE.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo_OUeX_NNKBlwiB5sEXv7a3tmwozGJ9WRfS1zn_eCEbaVUQvlmchlozLibEKVtYwbnZXg0-89WGAzvmhrzgUWoLJ806jlYuoD_I16_Qtt7aJEdab_saTCKJD6mKqpAgjqwhwFj02k7Kc/s640/closet+BEFORE.JPG" width="478" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: start;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">No center support and no shelf. LAME. Obvious a boy lived here before me. And? Let's talk about the second rod 6" above that rod (barely visible here). WTF?</span></span></td></tr>
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Somehow, I found the extra support bracket that should be upholding the rod and installed that sucker with drywall screws and my screw driver. (Yes, every adult should own one. Go get yours.)<br />
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Then, with the help of my dad, we picked up a laminated piece of particle board found at Home Deport or Lowes in various widths and lengths. Lucky for me, they had one in the (almost) right length and width.<br />
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After a stop at Target to get literal bargain bins ($5.54/each) for the above closet storage and some cloth Closetmaid collapsible bins ($7.99/each), I managed to create storage and minimize the clutter.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwX4idk896uV8qu8J0G1ZdepjZ_urHaN-qxEkI1Mg1mzMV037DUs3ewdUC1eRNkrEuteupMr9zmwRR-UDQ-8ue_aACBZ9fdCnMMfjZ1VLuzjhpL4_vWiiWjTbveorIBmJR3LMlYRb-T7I/s1600/closet+with+shelf+and+support.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwX4idk896uV8qu8J0G1ZdepjZ_urHaN-qxEkI1Mg1mzMV037DUs3ewdUC1eRNkrEuteupMr9zmwRR-UDQ-8ue_aACBZ9fdCnMMfjZ1VLuzjhpL4_vWiiWjTbveorIBmJR3LMlYRb-T7I/s640/closet+with+shelf+and+support.JPG" width="506" /></a></div>
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Now, I knew that I needed something major to cover that stupid, random storage space. I had mulled over an idea to have floating canvases, a tension rod with cafe curtains...but I settled on oversized canvases that would hide the bins, but be a piece of art.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge8IzfNXlDuGnMqTidODYabGvo19tMuRGglZE0KR3Jmy6SFvPhz98UP-WEfPYc7TBFb9IDquumLI35D7yzQH22SSqAf4XRNJGt-fFiL8p4CmiexdtzoDfUTkn9OxRJqctwsyQx5zY-Ksw/s1600/closet+with+canvas+cover.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge8IzfNXlDuGnMqTidODYabGvo19tMuRGglZE0KR3Jmy6SFvPhz98UP-WEfPYc7TBFb9IDquumLI35D7yzQH22SSqAf4XRNJGt-fFiL8p4CmiexdtzoDfUTkn9OxRJqctwsyQx5zY-Ksw/s640/closet+with+canvas+cover.JPG" width="478" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ta Da! Clutter is hidden!</td></tr>
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Then I had to decide what to do with the canvases. To leave them white? What about a coat of paint from the Colorado Gray to match the other wall? Create a piece of wall art?<br />
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To the Pinterest!<br />
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<a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/215750638369949076/" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="1547" src="http://media-cache-ec3.pinterest.com/upload/24277285461730182_xEYbQoWl_c.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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Source: <a href="http://www.duitang.com/people/mblog/20562142/detail/" style="color: #76838b; font-size: 10px; text-decoration: underline;">duitang.com</a> via <a href="http://pinterest.com/anaosb/" style="color: #76838b; font-size: 10px; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Ana</a> on <a href="http://pinterest.com/" style="color: #76838b; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Pinterest</a></div>
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<a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/215750638369949060/" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="1199" src="http://media-cache-ec5.pinterest.com/upload/44965696249959512_QsEv7voI_c.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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Source: <a href="http://pinme.ru/pin/4fcb457ec004707718000094/" style="color: #76838b; font-size: 10px; text-decoration: underline;">pinme.ru</a> via <a href="http://pinterest.com/anaosb/" style="color: #76838b; font-size: 10px; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Ana</a> on <a href="http://pinterest.com/" style="color: #76838b; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Pinterest</a></div>
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From these two pins, I liked the idea of a blossoming tree as I already have the flowers and cherry blossoms through the seasons on my bed wall. I liked the idea of the leaves, but wasn't sure I could incorporate them into the canvases.<br />
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I settled on a hybrid of the two pins. I would try to make flower buds from the fabric plus paint tree limbs. For my background? I used the leftover Colorado Gray from the bed wall! Score!<br />
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(I was better about taking pictures this time.)<br />
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What you'll need:<br />
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<ul>
<li>Sponge brushes (varying sizes - paint & Mod Podge)</li>
<li>Brushes (I used a 1 1/2" for the tree)</li>
<li>Paint</li>
<li>Fabric</li>
<li>Scissors</li>
<li>Mod Podge</li>
<li>Patience</li>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-GUKNZSy9nPYOqrvP5vNhqHWVIFvBImRHgdRTSCp_WhhCcowAXG6zl_1E96VZf4V5jR76dsyqpuD6UIBH4Bjti6D_WoISFGr85zE3ZlGo5TEYeqKwkBbk7ndHfn9aJiZ8EeUzfLR0n_c/s1600/wall+paint+canvas.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-GUKNZSy9nPYOqrvP5vNhqHWVIFvBImRHgdRTSCp_WhhCcowAXG6zl_1E96VZf4V5jR76dsyqpuD6UIBH4Bjti6D_WoISFGr85zE3ZlGo5TEYeqKwkBbk7ndHfn9aJiZ8EeUzfLR0n_c/s320/wall+paint+canvas.JPG" width="239" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Give your canvases a couple of solid coats of your background color.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxv0epb10t7bvzRp8mCzTmFHEoeX5muqBrsbmIY_mp-asYSJAYKJTTKWyAUCVzq23D8z8L1glm7SSStvgUc4042RzF4KaeLnWqytAG7sB0xsCaCcGZaH6F_Fz4iNJTqplC_NncXEtLeO0/s1600/prepping+leaves.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxv0epb10t7bvzRp8mCzTmFHEoeX5muqBrsbmIY_mp-asYSJAYKJTTKWyAUCVzq23D8z8L1glm7SSStvgUc4042RzF4KaeLnWqytAG7sB0xsCaCcGZaH6F_Fz4iNJTqplC_NncXEtLeO0/s320/prepping+leaves.JPG" width="239" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">While the paint dries on the background, go ahead and make some leaves. *I made circles believing I could make something similar to my canvas flowers, but it looked poopy.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi95sXqD8ZBrX2vB5_e_4YRGmngKvRJvZUFoIFU8ubhKeeqOIxGXsRF1AWS8TzEvlEFbrRu_Isa3dM1NifE7tlsk_TVAr693KuSNBE2Rw2XZta3cATf18mGWOx6ViojfV9S5sRHnX5VHFI/s1600/background+color.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi95sXqD8ZBrX2vB5_e_4YRGmngKvRJvZUFoIFU8ubhKeeqOIxGXsRF1AWS8TzEvlEFbrRu_Isa3dM1NifE7tlsk_TVAr693KuSNBE2Rw2XZta3cATf18mGWOx6ViojfV9S5sRHnX5VHFI/s320/background+color.JPG" width="239" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Watching paint dry.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRr1z0SxMAxWxOOIRTuHfsfKLaumc5XoJJvPhF37IwlN32ppXcaN57a44TsRBJtacJ5_NsQFZ8FWz-bobcbGAB7DW2kWmUNfcBMKjkaZx_W5dC0wkDnY8Gjy_JSnlfSF-hEPiFf47efos/s1600/tree+outline.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRr1z0SxMAxWxOOIRTuHfsfKLaumc5XoJJvPhF37IwlN32ppXcaN57a44TsRBJtacJ5_NsQFZ8FWz-bobcbGAB7DW2kWmUNfcBMKjkaZx_W5dC0wkDnY8Gjy_JSnlfSF-hEPiFf47efos/s320/tree+outline.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I assembled the canvases as they would hang. Taking my brush, I gooped up a lot of paint and swirled the tree branches out from the trunk. I like twisty branches.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2j_FM4St5CQBHTDBpVOicNlK1O5UoXaMsK4sz5vTqOpiMtw0FOGz2c7vctzf5V_E6DUXHZrdkS5UDb9gO2z_G5qPZBR9PermJY2Ty7X22xCzg91hpj8zc6viom_mQFC2-KJ1MGCInEdY/s1600/tree+details.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2j_FM4St5CQBHTDBpVOicNlK1O5UoXaMsK4sz5vTqOpiMtw0FOGz2c7vctzf5V_E6DUXHZrdkS5UDb9gO2z_G5qPZBR9PermJY2Ty7X22xCzg91hpj8zc6viom_mQFC2-KJ1MGCInEdY/s320/tree+details.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">To add some depth to the branches and trunk, I added brown shading to show that the branches stemmed from all parts of the tree, not just the top & bottom.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
After trying to place the circles, I decided that I needed to make proper leaves.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4R0deJfRoYJvYeKw6YszVqK_pLB3EZ-Ws4zZ4fdIGpdn8B2ztGBSSFwsawqgfthdKr3psvBwYw-wk7GClaFRPN0ksRvxspVbYCvKFHf9ecD02Xo5auTMnQ5cnPW9v-HUubZra_VPnyS4/s1600/making+leaves.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4R0deJfRoYJvYeKw6YszVqK_pLB3EZ-Ws4zZ4fdIGpdn8B2ztGBSSFwsawqgfthdKr3psvBwYw-wk7GClaFRPN0ksRvxspVbYCvKFHf9ecD02Xo5auTMnQ5cnPW9v-HUubZra_VPnyS4/s320/making+leaves.JPG" width="239" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I made a form to trace with scissors to make a good looking leaf shape.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkfWi7o678T4kolq-AIg8k8XR0NUNfcjq8QHHpFIG8YmmA66LmlQJirMQ6L9Qv1RHEjs5ev2kgnZXMiizaWJ1zqeNW3fQcB_LSwcAUJf6ticf5uDtuTG6Jzo_SLqZB4RduiDCMvxXZtQU/s1600/leave+placement.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkfWi7o678T4kolq-AIg8k8XR0NUNfcjq8QHHpFIG8YmmA66LmlQJirMQ6L9Qv1RHEjs5ev2kgnZXMiizaWJ1zqeNW3fQcB_LSwcAUJf6ticf5uDtuTG6Jzo_SLqZB4RduiDCMvxXZtQU/s320/leave+placement.JPG" width="239" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">As I made a batch of leaves, I started to place them on the canvas to see what looks good so the colors are distributed evenly and logically on the limbs.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKFQMKOQOMr2diJcZxByQLoPLJx_3_81QsmjL6fGDUP83Zuij1JVCb7PVJdXGg_wwkNTTCUWYJnva5MhMvOzCfvJPtsuLc2PTNaKLoQunuSY9jFdXLjM2a7FkePS_Oneqc1YAO_oVr784/s1600/overall+leave+placement.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKFQMKOQOMr2diJcZxByQLoPLJx_3_81QsmjL6fGDUP83Zuij1JVCb7PVJdXGg_wwkNTTCUWYJnva5MhMvOzCfvJPtsuLc2PTNaKLoQunuSY9jFdXLjM2a7FkePS_Oneqc1YAO_oVr784/s320/overall+leave+placement.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Overall, the tree looks balanced and like an ethereal tree from the depths of Pinterest.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Now, get to Mod Podging!<br />
<br />
I suggest working methodically from the closest leaves to the farthest so you're not sweeping them out of place as you move about the canvas. And don't forget the overall coat to the canvases to make sure the sheen is consistent.<br />
<br />
Once dry to the touch (which is about 30 minutes), go ahead and hang those suckers to start enjoying your craftiness and cover your clutter.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf6ln3t7GDHgT6qUkoy7f6yExlgZkqlPDo5k-TNBrKTpXlfLCq8Ga9vPX0ZOCK3SndVKpSUUKG7baR8VPsnAGsck9yOM-Ipu2-JviW7nhm5L-6r9442ONUWGJYH6SarzxQwLVQQoyTxd0/s1600/closet+AFTER.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf6ln3t7GDHgT6qUkoy7f6yExlgZkqlPDo5k-TNBrKTpXlfLCq8Ga9vPX0ZOCK3SndVKpSUUKG7baR8VPsnAGsck9yOM-Ipu2-JviW7nhm5L-6r9442ONUWGJYH6SarzxQwLVQQoyTxd0/s640/closet+AFTER.JPG" width="478" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Glorious!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
And now for the big wow in a side-by-side comparison.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJbGa_DrkF9EVeRcdWs8HgcbkbcXd_V7J7HhfgJvbog17aG52SoHTxcZC6evCbn-23J5RvL3a3Lb4m4ZmhdRZtfQgG4-n05VaFHvQ3yeJd73RWxexuNwK2nsP9ozuT12xal2y4vJMjPjw/s1600/Closet.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJbGa_DrkF9EVeRcdWs8HgcbkbcXd_V7J7HhfgJvbog17aG52SoHTxcZC6evCbn-23J5RvL3a3Lb4m4ZmhdRZtfQgG4-n05VaFHvQ3yeJd73RWxexuNwK2nsP9ozuT12xal2y4vJMjPjw/s640/Closet.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Stay tuned for Part 3 where I talk about how to make those curtains from Part 1 and leave enough for other decorations around the room *cough* artwork *cough*<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/58/3BA7E8D72245328F3876C5E5A3AF306C.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02312789950847055390noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2731858984445635395.post-79484728820187851652012-10-18T14:04:00.001-04:002012-10-18T14:04:09.580-04:00Pinterest Bedroom Makeover - Part 1<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><i><span style="font-size: large;">Back Corner Edition</span></i></b></div>
<br />
First, I need to thank Pinterest for my ridiculous obsession with sprucing up my room. I'm not usually one to have lots of things on the walls...until Pinterest came along.<br />
<br />
Oh, Pinterest, how you inspire me.<br />
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<div style="line-height: 0px; padding-bottom: 2px;">
<a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/501095896008748795/" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="414" src="http://media-cache-ec3.pinterest.com/upload/47639708528775780_6896u4Wi_c.jpg" width="554" /></a></div>
<div style="float: left; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
<div style="color: #76838b; font-size: 10px;">
Source: <a href="http://honeyandfitz.blogspot.ca/2012/06/home-decor-tips-infographics-cheat.html" style="color: #76838b; font-size: 10px; text-decoration: underline;">honeyandfitz.blogspot.ca</a> via <a href="http://pinterest.com/carseatcozy/" style="color: #76838b; font-size: 10px; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Marsha</a> on <a href="http://pinterest.com/" style="color: #76838b; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Pinterest</a></div>
</div>
<br />
<br />
This is how I came to choose my height of curtains for my back wall. Which is difficult since my ceilings are 12' high. And the window? The top of it is at 9'. Yeah. It's tall. Not to mention, I have this ugly door. It's my fire escape. Which is highly complicated for an escape seeing as on the other side, I have an iron bar door which I have to unlock with a key. And then once that's open? I have to choose to jump down 10 feet into the basement apartment entrance or step onto the iron bar door and swing over to the fence and shimmy down like Spider Man. But I digress. It's an ugly door.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1OfHUXIpZ5upveBTorCj4X7CQ0yb_wKmcve9c6Qq7ucb2LWEj_slutXtMaIJ4L2o9RG8DYnarFv3JRyAV_WHCEGA5-CXGoRedzq44T_wpScRuT5e_F7TIqyQITzfI74uFjOO9OhB3N1o/s1600/back+wall+BEFORE.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1OfHUXIpZ5upveBTorCj4X7CQ0yb_wKmcve9c6Qq7ucb2LWEj_slutXtMaIJ4L2o9RG8DYnarFv3JRyAV_WHCEGA5-CXGoRedzq44T_wpScRuT5e_F7TIqyQITzfI74uFjOO9OhB3N1o/s640/back+wall+BEFORE.JPG" width="476" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yeah. Like I said. U-G-L-Y.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Before moving in, my awesome landlord not only agreed to let me paint the right wall, he also painted it! (Well, he had someone paint it and it was getting painted anyway.) I chose "Colorado Gray" from Benjamin Moore. Which is really a gray-blue as you'll see below.<br />
<br />
Once I had my curtain fabric picked out, I went to the "gallery space" above my bed. I already had some random canvases from wanting to be artsy fartsy, a mirror I got on the cheap, and a picture I got from Eastern Market that was the progression of a cherry tree about the Tidal Basin with the Thomas Jefferson Memorial in the background.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYkZkLt_geA164FhjBUd3htHvFpWwsDTswP-0gFMRK-8dukPxl328uFwn7M44LjGelNsz4X5l7ohlY6T-9xo1ZvUj2mf338Mkd78bslWBgVrKURCXz8UGs9GTItbAl2mDQnp-g2u0CHAI/s1600/painted+wall+BEFORE.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYkZkLt_geA164FhjBUd3htHvFpWwsDTswP-0gFMRK-8dukPxl328uFwn7M44LjGelNsz4X5l7ohlY6T-9xo1ZvUj2mf338Mkd78bslWBgVrKURCXz8UGs9GTItbAl2mDQnp-g2u0CHAI/s640/painted+wall+BEFORE.PNG" width="636" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cheap poster frame for the pics? OK! And you'll see the Colorado Gray is blue.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
From my <a href="http://pinterest.com/anaosb/artsy-fartsy/">Artsy Fartsy board</a>, I hybridized these two pins:<br />
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<div style="line-height: 0px; padding-bottom: 2px;">
<a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/215750638369960362/" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="497" src="http://media-cache-ec2.pinterest.com/upload/148055906470085152_MOAh7Gzf_c.jpg" width="550" /></a></div>
<div style="float: left; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
<div style="color: #76838b; font-size: 10px;">
Source: <a href="http://www.cluckclucksew.com/2008/09/petal-pillow-tutorial.html" style="color: #76838b; font-size: 10px; text-decoration: underline;">cluckclucksew.com</a> via <a href="http://pinterest.com/anaosb/" style="color: #76838b; font-size: 10px; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Ana</a> on <a href="http://pinterest.com/" style="color: #76838b; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Pinterest</a></div>
</div>
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<br />
<div style="line-height: 0px; padding-bottom: 2px;">
<a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/215750638369728465/" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://media-cache-lt0.pinterest.com/upload/218495019392329321_YgtF5F0H_c.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<div style="float: left; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">
<div style="color: #76838b; font-size: 10px;">
Source: <a href="http://jhsmith88.tumblr.com/post/25449246805/i-think-im-going-to-start-craft-blogging" style="color: #76838b; font-size: 10px; text-decoration: underline;">jhsmith88.tumblr.com</a> via <a href="http://pinterest.com/anaosb/" style="color: #76838b; font-size: 10px; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Ana</a> on <a href="http://pinterest.com/" style="color: #76838b; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Pinterest</a></div>
</div>
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<br />
Enter: The Fabric Flower Mod Podged Wall Art.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUWYPxTQLR3mwfapQdF3kYVC-PaPzbhIViYSaTPto1A7kd1KegvDr-WFQxXnLb9zHxZplvaFvL_hHgCnor16Mf3vZvqQY4cuCP9TBvAd7cmdcNmM48hdZ_QssPCqUs7WSbZXnlVZMiqB4/s1600/Getting+ready+for+canvases.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUWYPxTQLR3mwfapQdF3kYVC-PaPzbhIViYSaTPto1A7kd1KegvDr-WFQxXnLb9zHxZplvaFvL_hHgCnor16Mf3vZvqQY4cuCP9TBvAd7cmdcNmM48hdZ_QssPCqUs7WSbZXnlVZMiqB4/s640/Getting+ready+for+canvases.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Assemble your goods:<br />
Canvas<br />
Fabric<br />
Mod Podge<br />
Sponge brush<br />
<br />
Here's I Frankensteined my way through this project:<br />
<br />
<ol>
<li>Instead of using math or a string, I outlined glass bowls I had to choose the size of the circles to draw on the canvases.</li>
<li>Again without using math, I traced circles onto fabric that were about 3" and 2" in diameter. Pro tip: If you fold your fabric, you can cut out more than one circle at a time. I cut about 30 each of the two sizes total for my three fabric choices (leftover from my curtains...see how I did that?)</li>
<li>Cut all those circles in half. Boom. Doubled your petal count.</li>
<li>From there, I lined up the edge of the 3" gray fabric along the circle outline (sorry I didn't take pics because my hands were a little glue-y.)</li>
<li>By applying Mod Podge to the backside of the fabric, it's like gluing paper down. Pro tip: apply a layer of Mod Podge directly to the canvas to make sticking easier.</li>
<li>Once I completed the circle, I went over top of the pieces with Mod Podge because I knew that I would be irritated as hell if even one petal started to wilt.</li>
<li>The next layer, I used the 3" purple and offset those petals from the gray by half.</li>
<li>I continued with the white fabric and offset it from the purple. </li>
<li>I then used another round of the 3" circles in all three colors.</li>
<li>Switch to your small cirlces and continue to fill in the circle.</li>
<li>Once you're to the middle and a small circle fits nicely in the center, spackle that sucker down. Pro tip: Don't be afraid of Mod Podge. It dries clear.</li>
<li>Repeat on other circles.</li>
<li>Since the Mod Podge will create a subtle sheen on the canvas, I did one thin layer over the whole canvas to keep the appearance uniform once they were hung on the wall.</li>
</ol>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3BIjUSyPL2SOD4diSgcM2V2pjvyWMQZ74zLrgVVrfoGEKNDexqUg2LJA5Sp2pNnRnL20HYETYpvTeKQF_zqJ1jdbnefz30bu2AJOThsSyeReqm8aXxw2IAhF7d0wh1kyFQ-Jl9ppYlN8/s1600/Canvas+finished.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3BIjUSyPL2SOD4diSgcM2V2pjvyWMQZ74zLrgVVrfoGEKNDexqUg2LJA5Sp2pNnRnL20HYETYpvTeKQF_zqJ1jdbnefz30bu2AJOThsSyeReqm8aXxw2IAhF7d0wh1kyFQ-Jl9ppYlN8/s640/Canvas+finished.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Boom. Hybrid pins.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
To finish up my wall, I slapped some purple paint on the frame of that cheapo mirror to add another pop of color.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Now onto the part of the post that you really care about: the AFTER photos!</div>
<div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglv8LeocBl9LW_xrZmJSEj_TcAabLee9aWbX36NG4aMCN6Sx3eoL2IV5OxQ8a_YhQ-HdlPRcEVb-XrqqS9m6wocZt4nxNyz_UvffglnxNRi40zzRy7cia0O4A_6t0iP1apMTAc2MPpRH0/s1600/back+wall+AFTER.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="478" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglv8LeocBl9LW_xrZmJSEj_TcAabLee9aWbX36NG4aMCN6Sx3eoL2IV5OxQ8a_YhQ-HdlPRcEVb-XrqqS9m6wocZt4nxNyz_UvffglnxNRi40zzRy7cia0O4A_6t0iP1apMTAc2MPpRH0/s640/back+wall+AFTER.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tall curtains? Check. Wall collage? Check.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDWhGdwcqr3qV-_z1FNII0hyphenhyphenzCdPNg8aZZ_usMzL1XQH57wXCOCqMeq6CbkcvKfHIO61b22_mV8pjwL74remNqbOliYgGNWe3rM3chvnuhOZ9rE3amZlk9XtjcSIV8d_L-03nM3_Sp4sg/s1600/painted+wall+AFTER.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDWhGdwcqr3qV-_z1FNII0hyphenhyphenzCdPNg8aZZ_usMzL1XQH57wXCOCqMeq6CbkcvKfHIO61b22_mV8pjwL74remNqbOliYgGNWe3rM3chvnuhOZ9rE3amZlk9XtjcSIV8d_L-03nM3_Sp4sg/s640/painted+wall+AFTER.JPG" width="478" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lighting is not great because I also realized my overhead light is not centered.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Now, for the comparison photos for an even BIGGER impact!<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitKYdKje5L-3kB8GFPaX3BT6jL26TUH3M5icaS8s3RjnYaNmThpxEoKGMVylhG90V-FdS6LY6BvZOfSxtzB74N7LkLqqiwYYa0z8AG5HI49LH5S4GS0lgy9yaP-MMOASqDUa6sJuvSGX0/s1600/Apartment+Makeover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitKYdKje5L-3kB8GFPaX3BT6jL26TUH3M5icaS8s3RjnYaNmThpxEoKGMVylhG90V-FdS6LY6BvZOfSxtzB74N7LkLqqiwYYa0z8AG5HI49LH5S4GS0lgy9yaP-MMOASqDUa6sJuvSGX0/s640/Apartment+Makeover.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">BOOM! Big reveal!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9e7EuoZ91FqMSVk2kGhvDzbMHrl6j8zhR_oPPqD9Gd8mqlxs-MKOTSEwC6-8awljJsCY6saZ8UmQG4wSbGWgz7e7-42KIyGAFAyqnfIbhbBbDVtZnOp4hIIkU0iYYTIZ-wrwvy_EssiQ/s1600/Apartment+Makeover1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9e7EuoZ91FqMSVk2kGhvDzbMHrl6j8zhR_oPPqD9Gd8mqlxs-MKOTSEwC6-8awljJsCY6saZ8UmQG4wSbGWgz7e7-42KIyGAFAyqnfIbhbBbDVtZnOp4hIIkU0iYYTIZ-wrwvy_EssiQ/s640/Apartment+Makeover1.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">BAM! Look at the difference!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ9x0bTyk8ie9p2Tn25u09KQA5zBejCVmIo9ymdA6UC2bftjeXsQsMkgae0o_Eymdpcm_MeXP3lDmLiJMMjCoyMSA-9kdMVknq7FYxo4lah2n3JF7ih24jwMR9Q7VWWINJSU3e78K6hCM/s1600/back+wall+before+and+after.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ9x0bTyk8ie9p2Tn25u09KQA5zBejCVmIo9ymdA6UC2bftjeXsQsMkgae0o_Eymdpcm_MeXP3lDmLiJMMjCoyMSA-9kdMVknq7FYxo4lah2n3JF7ih24jwMR9Q7VWWINJSU3e78K6hCM/s640/back+wall+before+and+after.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Buh-bye ugly door! (But not forever in case I was in need of escape from an inferno...but that's beside the point.)</td></tr>
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<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<br />
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/58/3BA7E8D72245328F3876C5E5A3AF306C.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02312789950847055390noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2731858984445635395.post-80255936677084084262012-10-17T10:01:00.002-04:002012-10-17T10:01:33.278-04:00So What Wednesday<br />
Yep. It's Wednesday. And it's caught me by surprise again.<br />
<br />
OK, well. Not completely by surprise, but yeah. You know.<br />
<br />
I'm linking up with Shannon <i><a href="http://www.lifeafteridew.com/">Life After I "Dew"</a> to say <b>SO WHAT?!</b></i><br />
<i><b><br /></b></i>
<b><i>So WHAT if...</i></b><br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>I still haven't recapped Colorado? I mean, it happened. It was awesome. I'm back to real life.</li>
<li>I chopped my locks? I'll get around to taking a picture when I'm not frustrated with the miscommunicated bang situation.</li>
<li>I do have a couple of Pinterest inspired posts in the works? They will become pins themselves. </li>
<li>I've had frosting for dessert? It's good for the soul.</li>
<li>I had pizza for dinner Friday through Monday? It's good when you find a good GF crust. And banana peppers. You <u>must</u> have banana peppers.</li>
<li>I'm pretty sure Aviva on Real Housewives of NYC is not crazy for developing anxiety? I think I'm getting up there.</li>
<li>I sleep with my door closed at night? Every. Night. I had to really gear up just to crack it for air flow in the summer heat.</li>
<li>I typically drink the majority of my eight eights (64 oz) of water from dinner to bedtime? Now you know why footie pajamas are not realistic for me.</li>
</ul>
<br />
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/58/3BA7E8D72245328F3876C5E5A3AF306C.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02312789950847055390noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2731858984445635395.post-60482912007130477512012-10-10T07:35:00.000-04:002012-10-10T07:35:00.195-04:00So What WednesdayLinking up with Shannon at <i><a href="http://www.lifeafteridew.com/">Life After I "Dew"</a></i> for a long awaited So What sesh.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i909.photobucket.com/albums/ac293/munchkin_land_designs/BlogDesigns2/LifeAfterIDew/SoWhatButton.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://i909.photobucket.com/albums/ac293/munchkin_land_designs/BlogDesigns2/LifeAfterIDew/SoWhatButton.png" /></a></div>
<br />
<b><i>So WHAT if...</i></b><br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>I took a mini-hiatus? I always take these breaks and always come back with a "what of it?" statement. It's why you love me and I love you.</li>
<li>I have contemplated two posts about my trip home? I need a good little wedding recap and a general catch up from my homeland.</li>
<li>I have yet to write said posts? I had to hit the ground running at work and I was zapped until this long weekend.</li>
<li>I had a long weekend because of a syphilitic man who got lost on his way to India? I tell myself it's for Chris Columbus who wrote <i>The Goonies</i>, directed <i>Adventures in Babysitting,</i> and produced the first three Harry Potters. Legit reasons for a national holiday.</li>
<li>I am so excited to get out my fall & winter wardrobe? I love layers!</li>
<li>I have no idea where I'm going to store said wardrobe? Right now, they are in tubs, but I need a massive clean out of spring/summer if I have any hope of space.</li>
<li>I can't handle post-a-day/pic-a-day challenges? I mean, this is my first post in how long? Let's not put deadlines on me.</li>
<li>I really want footie pajamas? Like, ridiculously bad. Although the lynch pin in the purchase is the zippering out to pee in the middle of the night have asleep.</li>
</ul>
<br />
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/58/3BA7E8D72245328F3876C5E5A3AF306C.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02312789950847055390noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2731858984445635395.post-9201212126568780792012-09-13T08:02:00.000-04:002012-09-13T14:26:39.227-04:00An Open Letter to Red Vines<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://encrypted-tbn1.google.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcRZmR7Dv_EckGVtphmKlhDIyovEqQqI3Ri-m6U6uZU_U_eUPNCs8A" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://encrypted-tbn1.google.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcRZmR7Dv_EckGVtphmKlhDIyovEqQqI3Ri-m6U6uZU_U_eUPNCs8A" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://encrypted-tbn1.google.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcRZmR7Dv_EckGVtphmKlhDIyovEqQqI3Ri-m6U6uZU_U_eUPNCs8A">via </a></td></tr>
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<br />
Dear Red Vines,<br />
<br />
I do love your delicious licorice. I have fond memories as a kid of your <i>Original Red Twists. </i>I had them at movies, at birthday parties, and sleepovers. They are a delicious treat mixing corn syrup, citric acid, your own secret flavoring, red dye number 40, and <span style="font-size: x-large;"><u style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">WHEAT FLOUR</u>.</span><br />
<br />
Wait. Let me get this straight. My beloved confectionery is made using wheat flour?!<br />
<br />
Where, why, how, who, what could possibly possess you to take something as innocuous as corn syrup and throw in gluten in there? Why not corn starch?<br />
<br />
Why you gotta hate on people with auto-immune sensitivity to gluten? Seriously. Not cool, Red Vines. Not. Cool.<br />
<br />
All a girl wants is to bite off both ends of a Red Vine, stick it in their soda and have a fun little straw. Then maybe eat said straw because it's extra sugary from your soda.<br />
<br />
Or maybe you want to twirl a Red Vine like a helicopter while you're standing around chatting with your mom because you both love Red Vines.<br />
<br />
So again, Red Vines, I have to ask why do you use wheat flour? Have you experimented with rice flour? Almond flour? Corn starch? Quinoa flour? Millet flour?<br />
<br />
Please, for the love of everything holy, get your chemists, scientists, and resident Betty Crockers together to brain storm and try new recipes so the major allergen group that you're discriminating against can enjoy your delicious candy.<br />
<br />
That would be great, thanks.<br />
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/58/3BA7E8D72245328F3876C5E5A3AF306C.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02312789950847055390noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2731858984445635395.post-2484433307973931692012-09-12T07:30:00.000-04:002012-09-12T07:30:00.460-04:00So What Wednesday<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i909.photobucket.com/albums/ac293/munchkin_land_designs/BlogDesigns2/LifeAfterIDew/SoWhatButton.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://i909.photobucket.com/albums/ac293/munchkin_land_designs/BlogDesigns2/LifeAfterIDew/SoWhatButton.png" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It's that time of week where I link up with Shannon at <i>Life After I "Dew"</i> and say SO WHAT!</div>
<br />
<b><i>So WHAT if...</i></b><br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>I have several posts in the hopper, but can't get them posted? I mean, I have some attention issues. And some internet issues.</li>
<li>I got rid of internet for a week? We cancelled out Comcast because it wasn't working at all. And then we had a week before we got our new internet. It was a little liberating, a little scary.</li>
<li>I have no idea what I'll do when Real Housewives of New Jersey and New York City have their season finales? I love their particular brand of crazy.</li>
<li>I am legitimately freaked out by Frankenweenie, but want to see The Possession? I think that Tim Burton in general gives me the heebee jeebees.</li>
<li>I love me some Broncos? Welcome to Denver, Peyton. Thank you, Indy for drafting Luck. </li>
<li>I have been taken of the Watch List? The heat wave known as summer in DC has broken for a bit. I can wear jeans and a blazer and not sweat through every layer designed to keep boob sweat, low back sweat, pit sweat, and swamp ass at bay. That, and I don't get all stabby while I get ready in the morning.</li>
<li>Speaking of feeling stabby, I can't help but get all stabby when I see Kristin Stewart? I mean, I can get through a Twilight because I fell in love with the books (a la Hermoine in HP), but I see previews for Snow White, and all those stabby feelings come back.</li>
<li>I realize I am not a 14 year old Twihard or Potter lover? I just like good books that are so engrossing I can't wait to find time to read.</li>
</ul>
<br />
<br />
p.s. You really need to check out Shannon's new blog design. Amazeballs.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/58/3BA7E8D72245328F3876C5E5A3AF306C.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02312789950847055390noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2731858984445635395.post-2018671056409925612012-09-05T09:56:00.001-04:002012-09-05T09:56:13.734-04:00So What Wednesday<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i702.photobucket.com/albums/ww29/katieballa/Life%20After%20I%20dew/SoWhatButton.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://i702.photobucket.com/albums/ww29/katieballa/Life%20After%20I%20dew/SoWhatButton.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
It's that time of the week where I link up with Shannon at <i><a href="http://www.lifeafteridew.com/">Life After I "Dew"</a> </i>and say SO WHAT!<br />
<br />
<b><i>So WHAT if...</i></b><br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>I nearly forgot to write my SWW post? It's a holiday week and it feels like Tuesday.</li>
<li>I cancelled our high-speed internet? Before you keel over, let me just tell you that we live in an old house (like, 1880s old) where the landlords used cheap wiring throughout the house for cable. That means we don't really get internet, so we were paying for a service that we didn't really even have.</li>
<li>The roommate is in charge of finding an alternative? She's good at looking things up and becomes obsessive over things, i.e. apartment search, so why not have her look into this, too.</li>
<li>I am about to fly off the handle about this humidity? Seriously. You can't apply makeup to a wet face. You can't dry your face and then put on makeup because the millisecond in between still produces sweat.</li>
<li>I don't know how I'm going to get through the rest of this godforesaken heat? In case you couldn't tell from my rant yesterday or my previous so what, I AM OVER IT.</li>
</ul>
<div>
Go link up with Shannon and say your SO WHAT!</div>
<br />
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/58/3BA7E8D72245328F3876C5E5A3AF306C.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02312789950847055390noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2731858984445635395.post-60968458246076830222012-09-04T12:55:00.002-04:002012-09-04T12:55:26.471-04:00Layers, Long Sleeves, and Jackets...Oh My!Y'all. Packing is tough.<br />
<br />
Packing is tough when you're going for 10 days and have special events that require their own shoes.<br />
<br />
Packing is tough when it's fall and you want to wear your boots and bring another pair for good measure.<br />
<br />
Packing is tough when you're thinking about it three weeks in advance. (Because you're an obsessive list maker.)<br />
<br />
Packing is tough when it's 88 degrees with 70% humidity which equates to a wet heat somewhere between "Balls Hot" and "So Effing Disgusting You Take Multiple Showers Everyday and Change Your Sopping Wet Clothes A Lot."<br />
<br />
Packing is tough when the climate that you're going to, while it does still approach 80 degrees, it truly is a dry heat, and when the sun goes down or is obscured by clouds, the day star's heat actually stops heating the earth.<br />
<br />
Packing is tough when you know that you're going to check a bag and have already rationalized a carry-on wheeled suitcase and perhaps even the Vera Bradley Grand Traveler (the size of a carry-on wheeled suitcase) for good measure. You know, because, well, you might need that outfit or you might acquire a new outfit.<br />
<br />
Granted, I have three weeks. I have plenty of experience packing. I know that I'll start laying out my clothes by outfit (including accessories) so I will get everything I need. I know that I will make endless lists on my phone and in paper to keep track. I know I will consult my social events with the weather reports leading up to the trip incessantly to be prepared.<br />
<br />
But really? I am just so stinking excited to go back to my homeland! This is the longest I've ever been out of the state of Colorado in the past 29 years, so it's a bit of a change.<br />
<br />
Also? Next summer, I need to get out of DC because this heat is killer. Or rather, it makes me want to become a killer.<br />
<br />
There's something the be said about homicide rates increasing and hot weather. I digress.<br />
<br />
Happy holiday week!<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/58/3BA7E8D72245328F3876C5E5A3AF306C.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02312789950847055390noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2731858984445635395.post-65583327820143367182012-08-31T09:40:00.001-04:002012-08-31T09:40:31.468-04:00Football Fridays<br />
I know that I posted about the Bad Ass Unicorns yesterday and how awesome they are, but since it's kickoff weekend for regular season college football, I thought I would write a little about everything I'm excited about this weekend in football...so here goes...<br />
<br />
<b><i>Football Friday Faves</i></b><br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>All the adorable posts I'll see from the SEC bloggers for their game day outfits and their amazing tailgates slash goodies. Seriously, Colorado State needs to get on that. There's nothing wrong with looking cute AND watching football.</li>
<li>That fall is around the corner which means this heat (which, it's supposed to top 90 in DC today) can take a hike.</li>
<li>The Rocky Mountain Showdown! CSU Rams take on the CU Buffs in the interstate rivalry game...and also the only game I care about for the Rams during the season.</li>
<li>Cowboy Classic: Michigan v. Alabama. These are two powerhouse teams meeting up the first week. It's gonna be good.</li>
<li>And last, Wyoming at Texas. Even though I can't handle the Longhorns, I don't like the Cowboys much more. That, and Texas (as in any team from the state) is always good to watch.</li>
<li>This is really just a warm-up week to the first week of regular season play for the NFL and the Bad Ass Unicorns to take shape.</li>
<li>And even though it's not football, I'm excited to see the Nats play tonight to keep in the hunt for first place in the National League.</li>
</ul>
<div>
What are your Football Friday Faves? Let's hear it!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<br />
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/58/3BA7E8D72245328F3876C5E5A3AF306C.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02312789950847055390noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2731858984445635395.post-14017901099210043922012-08-30T08:00:00.000-04:002012-08-30T08:00:04.530-04:00Bad Ass UnicornsI'm in a fantasy football league.<br />
<br />
And I'm the only girl.<br />
<br />
So, naturally, my draft is half based on math and half based on cute players.<br />
<br />
But I do have some sense. Like I picked up Aaron Rodgers for QB and San Francisco's defense.<br />
<br />
But picking Eric Decker for wide receiver? A totally emotional pick for the Broncos and a two-syllable day-yum for his hotness.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://encrypted-tbn3.google.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcRkse265eFxMEIaqQ0EDOpBuF_Z_fyelzEUtedDL0nyg3gJCV4R" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="223" src="https://encrypted-tbn3.google.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcRkse265eFxMEIaqQ0EDOpBuF_Z_fyelzEUtedDL0nyg3gJCV4R" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Don't fail me, Eric. <br />
Although your performance with the 49ers holds promise.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Where do Bad Ass Unicorns come in?<br />
<br />
Well, being the only girl in the league, I had to make it uber girly.<br />
<br />
Enter, the unicorn.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgknBpMaLgRUcKl0aMDsSKFc8FHR043ZCES5zkRfw1gQRu7l74gADCCqtDjPYo-Cf7l_7bX2RlH7bxrlihB2hg9ilKaXmBQwGY6_RG3eMZ9QBQu_D8S9GeqjxF2HIYuxp3uw3GuWLTbykQ/s1600/BA+Unicorn.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgknBpMaLgRUcKl0aMDsSKFc8FHR043ZCES5zkRfw1gQRu7l74gADCCqtDjPYo-Cf7l_7bX2RlH7bxrlihB2hg9ilKaXmBQwGY6_RG3eMZ9QBQu_D8S9GeqjxF2HIYuxp3uw3GuWLTbykQ/s320/BA+Unicorn.jpg" width="253" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Handing out rainbows and ass kickings.<br />
And we're all out of rainbows.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Here's to a successful season where I can smack talk the Spandex Camel Toes, Gangreen Guatemalans, Fearless Iranians from Hell. and White Ron Mexicos to the point where my sickeningly sweet glitter and sparkles emasculates them, I count this season as a win.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/58/3BA7E8D72245328F3876C5E5A3AF306C.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02312789950847055390noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2731858984445635395.post-71113466245561610812012-08-29T07:16:00.000-04:002012-08-29T07:16:00.496-04:00So What Wednesday<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i702.photobucket.com/albums/ww29/katieballa/Life%20After%20I%20dew/SoWhatButton.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://i702.photobucket.com/albums/ww29/katieballa/Life%20After%20I%20dew/SoWhatButton.jpg" /></a></div>
I may have been out of the rotation for awhile, but I'm back!<br />
<br />
Linking up with Shannon at <i><a href="http://www.lifeafteridew.com/">Life After I "Dew"</a></i> and saying SO WHAT!<br />
<br />
<b><i>So WHAT if...</i></b><br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>I have managed to log and schedule posts this week? I have decided that I need to stay busy to stay on track. I mean, it sounds like a great idea to nap all day, but it really effs with your sleep cycle during the week.</li>
<li>I have managed to <u>not</u> buy any Broncos gear? I am <b>in love</b> with the return of the orange jerseys. It's all that I have in will power to wait until I can hand pick my beauty at the team store next month.</li>
<li>I am oh so sick of the heat? I need layers. I need boots. I need sweaters. I need scarves. I need cozy reads with a Pumpkin Spice Latte. I need cooler temps stat.</li>
<li>I'm ready to break out the crock pot? Nothing says fall like football on Sundays and green chile or regular ol' chili? It's amazing what you can get done here on the East Coast when football doesn't start until 1pm.</li>
<li>I have a love/hate relationship with Pinterest? I mean, great inspiration for everything from workouts to cinnamon rolls with extra butter, but I can't deal with the holiday posts that are six months in advance of the holiday, i.e., STOP. WITH. THE. CHRISTMAS. ALREADY.</li>
<li>I'm still kinda in love with Robert Downey Jr. slash Tony Stark? You know why he plays a good Iron Man? Because he is Tony Stark without the Ph.D. and global dominating company. But you get the point. Swoon.</li>
<li>I'm a little all over the place today? Isn't that like one big SO WHAT?! I mean, really. This is a clearing house for my brain.</li>
</ul>
<br />
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/58/3BA7E8D72245328F3876C5E5A3AF306C.png" style="background-color: transparent; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border: 0px !important;" /></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02312789950847055390noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2731858984445635395.post-22133838724695532172012-08-28T08:13:00.000-04:002012-08-28T08:13:00.106-04:00Trader to My GenderLet's first get this straight. Women are bad ass.<br />
<br />
As Beyonce said, "Strong enough to bear the children / Then get back to business."<br />
<br />
I mean, our bodies are engineered to get a watermelon out of a hole the size of a lemon, so we're pretty well built to handle anything. Especially if you've ever dealt with a man that has a cold and is immediately regressed to an toddler incapable of words and communicating past grunts and whines.<br />
<br />
Anyway, here's where I throw vajays under the bus.<br />
<br />
I hate female, on-field football reporters.<br />
<br />
I can't even call them sportscasters.<br />
<br />
OK, Erin Andrews, you're dating George who may or may not be gay, so there's a chance that you're a dude, but I digress.<br />
<br />
Case in point, on Sunday, the Broncos took on the 49ers. On the field? A female reporter. Problem with the "reporter"? She chose a color of green that was the same as the blend of four Kentucky Bluegrasses at Invesco. That color may make your skin tone pop! honey, but you look like a floating head.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgx55jJw5KAnxjqmOBHpSYncTBkGIK6a__7qpMAkAWXQOC5L3LWFpF0iOQOO3bE2MLXffKTRs4Kgxxlx77mGQoJV5Zjw1xWpQhQjXNJgmc3YGXCU5wbhiA9U9sT0-Uo_SpBidVqiUNl7mc/s1600/IMG_6052.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="238" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgx55jJw5KAnxjqmOBHpSYncTBkGIK6a__7qpMAkAWXQOC5L3LWFpF0iOQOO3bE2MLXffKTRs4Kgxxlx77mGQoJV5Zjw1xWpQhQjXNJgmc3YGXCU5wbhiA9U9sT0-Uo_SpBidVqiUNl7mc/s320/IMG_6052.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">You need a new stylist, honey.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Now, let's move onto the fake lashes. I get that falsies will help open your eyes, but when you're squinting into the sun, it's lost. And then there's your choice. You're rocking a hybrid Snooki/Kardashian look that only should happen after sundown, on the red carpet, or on the the dirty Jerz shore.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiryb6HokbYPZ0ltvuEKov8vwFVzFPla6RfNZuvRkgt9XXGPXFnh0ogrTrePyd3x_7rFTTD9SiVUhrBiwmN4WoUrCaNWi0cqObpJypPZ7BxU4KxhXenm0vaBf1h-uQxspwqicq_smYl3Q8/s1600/Desktop.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="228" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiryb6HokbYPZ0ltvuEKov8vwFVzFPla6RfNZuvRkgt9XXGPXFnh0ogrTrePyd3x_7rFTTD9SiVUhrBiwmN4WoUrCaNWi0cqObpJypPZ7BxU4KxhXenm0vaBf1h-uQxspwqicq_smYl3Q8/s320/Desktop.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://cdn2-b.examiner.com/sites/default/files/styles/image_full_width_scaled/hash/2e/0e/2e0e1a638dc2bee1299770d86850d3af.jpg">via</a> / <a href="https://encrypted-tbn0.google.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcTOe9CrQdRswlOu15swJq-C9IOspx5P2nySd3jAIwY4MxCYO6U8NA">via</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Now, get off the grass in your stilettos because you're making the grounds keeper cringe at the out of schedule aerating you're doing.<br />
<br />
Let's get Tebow off the roster and on the mic. I could watch that all day.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/58/3BA7E8D72245328F3876C5E5A3AF306C.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02312789950847055390noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2731858984445635395.post-53256399155131513722012-08-27T08:00:00.000-04:002012-08-27T08:00:17.419-04:00Century ClubY'all!<br />
<br />
I broke the 100 <strike>stalker</strike> follower count! Welcome to the newbies and a whattup to my long time lovers.<br />
<br />
I guess with so many people declaring via Google Friend Connect that they read what I write slash think that I post something relevant, I should step up the blogging game.<br />
<br />
But don't hold your breath.<br />
<br />
I mean, I got my jam together when I noticed this, I was watching the Broncos game, so I could multi-task.<br />
<br />
This means that I should probably give a good excuse as to my whereabouts our mental meanderings.<br />
<br />
First, let's talk about this damn heat. I'm done. I'm done with sweating just standing still in the shade for 5 minutes. I'm tired of having to wash everything after one wash because you pit out everything. Pit sweat, knee sweat, crotch sweat, boob sweat, lower back sweat...it. never. ends.<br />
<br />
I'm looking forward to the trip to my homeland at the end of September. I should be able to dress in layers and be comfortable. And, if I manage to get up to the high country, even experience temperatures that can start to freeze water.<br />
<br />
Oh, lawd, do I need some cooler temps.<br />
<br />
And here's where it really bothers me: all the stores have the back-to-school-fall-layering looks on display. The <i>thought</i> of cable knit makes a bead of sweat appear on my lower back, much less a fleece jacket.<br />
<br />
And don't even get me started on scarves. (Endless Summer Sale from Lilly Pulitzer, I'm looking at you.)<br />
<br />
Granted, my Century Club post probably drew you in for some drinking game fun, I have grown up a little from that. I only play Power Hour.<br />
<br />
Happy Monday, poodles!<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/58/3BA7E8D72245328F3876C5E5A3AF306C.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02312789950847055390noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2731858984445635395.post-18034600650427267692012-08-17T08:46:00.000-04:002012-08-17T08:46:00.249-04:00Enjoying Those MomentsDo you ever stop, look around, and ask, "Is this real life?"<br />
<br />
Because I do.<br />
<br />
I mean, how lucky can a girl be?<br />
<br />
I have a loving family, friends that make me laugh, a great job, a cute roof over my head, and clearly enough cupcakes in my life.<br />
<br />
I have stopped being so camera happy because I have seen that, while seeing life through a lens is awesome, living life in the moment is oh so much better.<br />
<br />
But because I'm completely detached from reality or instagram, I do have some moments captured here for you my sweet little potential stalkers. (p.s. Welcome to all of you new kids from my <a href="http://www.lifeafteridew.com/2012/08/so-what-wednesday_15.html">guest post</a> over at <i>Life After I "Dew!!)</i><br />
<br />
<b><u>Little Baby Jesus...or Bearded Sweet Jesus</u></b><br />
My mom helped pack up and ship out my stuff from Colorado once I found that cute roof over my head. Well, somehow, Jesus made the journey with my dresser. And yes, he's still in that drawer. Every time I catch a glimpse of him while I grab a pair of socks, I start a giggle fit.<br />
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqQPfHeg3vaoLJLdxLl4uhCHp3PsUw64yWK-YA8VQSs-_N7FeqpK7llY7Ygd6_ziaIy9oagiZlmaGdQwobFFQOwasRY6CX_N3cF8qKpxPBKkxZw5ysRzdCyvjJLipHTuBbl8CSx2KQCcs/s1600/jesus.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqQPfHeg3vaoLJLdxLl4uhCHp3PsUw64yWK-YA8VQSs-_N7FeqpK7llY7Ygd6_ziaIy9oagiZlmaGdQwobFFQOwasRY6CX_N3cF8qKpxPBKkxZw5ysRzdCyvjJLipHTuBbl8CSx2KQCcs/s320/jesus.jpg" width="239" /></a></div>
<br />
<b><u>Who's Rocky Marciano?</u></b><br />
For a short weekend trip to Philly, we went by the statute and the famous steps. I would have taken a picture at the top of the stairs if we didn't a look a tad haggard. Hence the artful cropping here.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBTEYGTsnfgVNwWEKF-NGN72iamOIIfQ4iEiCauBG8WSs0y9rMIb2cdPzXPFVilx9YMGMnyZ5i_MMEXs90deEr5kvnGiNCMAJU36K5VODhiByKdVceBeEBqMbb-wqXcCK4-sopzBIjWiw/s1600/photo+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="309" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBTEYGTsnfgVNwWEKF-NGN72iamOIIfQ4iEiCauBG8WSs0y9rMIb2cdPzXPFVilx9YMGMnyZ5i_MMEXs90deEr5kvnGiNCMAJU36K5VODhiByKdVceBeEBqMbb-wqXcCK4-sopzBIjWiw/s320/photo+1.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<b><u>Shipping Up to Boston</u></b><br />
I spent a weekend up in Beantown to celebrate my <strike>oldest</strike> most tenured friend. We snuck off to a Red Sox game where we lasted 3 innings before the heat and BO of those around us was unbearable. Of course there was copious amounts of beer and cider consumed, but that's what we do when we're together and celebrating a whole new decade.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTBVd9J-Blj5O4leGKpE4wcV5uMDiaiMN0w-QlApwQ32eoKYvOriAi-KYEYMN3RMRJYAumt0RPABk3H2-nbDaipdOujChDl7B7pZ8HQcylboaDqMKUrwdSnQNiSOjyeMKzxb_KX3FP3sE/s1600/photo+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTBVd9J-Blj5O4leGKpE4wcV5uMDiaiMN0w-QlApwQ32eoKYvOriAi-KYEYMN3RMRJYAumt0RPABk3H2-nbDaipdOujChDl7B7pZ8HQcylboaDqMKUrwdSnQNiSOjyeMKzxb_KX3FP3sE/s320/photo+2.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<b><u>On Point Office</u></b><br />
Once in awhile, I get to head out to the Chesapeake Bay and do a little work and a lot of relaxing. Since it's work related, I count these as wins when I work until 6:30pm or later. I'll take it.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGV_FNIbadbcUqWVwdI6VpLeKZqEK4_BwJ9ACvSzvawDpcgVRC9QiI9XLj_DkuiwejB9NF3cprGEuhmjouXLlwdkN4RlLqFQUSlMhziEfN2xEAVZvGm7Hx5AjW09xs0sOi3UMwnyg-tDI/s1600/photo+3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGV_FNIbadbcUqWVwdI6VpLeKZqEK4_BwJ9ACvSzvawDpcgVRC9QiI9XLj_DkuiwejB9NF3cprGEuhmjouXLlwdkN4RlLqFQUSlMhziEfN2xEAVZvGm7Hx5AjW09xs0sOi3UMwnyg-tDI/s320/photo+3.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<b><u>Crab Cakes and Football! It's What Maryland Does!</u></b><br />
Granted, crab cakes have gluten and football is a couple of weeks away, I still get freshly-caught Maryland crab regularly enough that it's delicious and not a pain in the ace to get the meat out of the shell. And of course, I needed the photographic evidence that I wore a bib in public.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjkwR76cO4gBCH3R9Mr-tyhV90mAJgdPcTwM-gPA9kb6_ptXCGaPA2cYhyphenhyphen2O8wjSoAeMXHatNCW6bVotUHhQ0hoPCiQi5ZpDCBKiF_w4mIgWKwxtzYhvCCE881kLlYF90WbEE3fCXLmIE/s1600/photo+4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjkwR76cO4gBCH3R9Mr-tyhV90mAJgdPcTwM-gPA9kb6_ptXCGaPA2cYhyphenhyphen2O8wjSoAeMXHatNCW6bVotUHhQ0hoPCiQi5ZpDCBKiF_w4mIgWKwxtzYhvCCE881kLlYF90WbEE3fCXLmIE/s320/photo+4.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<b><u>Nobody Puts Baby In A Corner</u></b><br />
I'm going for breezy here, and I think that I pulled that off...if it were the 60s, I was at some all-inclusive resort with my parents and "dancing" with the dance instructor with the intent to join the Peace Corps. Whatever. I matched. I felt cool in the breezy sense. I can't wait for fall. But aside, I cracked myself up when I took one glance and said, "Nobody puts baby in the corner."<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieo1C5jeefBTwxYyELyP7DVeMLOMLSeIGyYZEPxjEc8dlkoOtKAc86kOf7fpcwP7w8TyS-W5UOAbyEXtr-KECNvFb9z0yTx729qZoa8Uuc1kxHMo8EQaswtKzWAyg8ayCmJLhqMa6BQco/s1600/photo+5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieo1C5jeefBTwxYyELyP7DVeMLOMLSeIGyYZEPxjEc8dlkoOtKAc86kOf7fpcwP7w8TyS-W5UOAbyEXtr-KECNvFb9z0yTx729qZoa8Uuc1kxHMo8EQaswtKzWAyg8ayCmJLhqMa6BQco/s320/photo+5.JPG" width="239" /></a></div>
<br />
What are your little moments?<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/58/3BA7E8D72245328F3876C5E5A3AF306C.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02312789950847055390noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2731858984445635395.post-62277849908596815202012-08-16T12:45:00.003-04:002012-08-16T12:45:49.213-04:00Summer NightsWhat have I been up to that I've been so lack-a-daisical about blogging?<br />
<br />
Other than my usual laziness?<br />
<br />
Well, I've been to Philly, Boston, and a little concert know as the Brothers of the Sun Tour.<br />
<br />
Haven't heard of it?<br />
<br />
Well, if you're obsessed with country music like I am or think Kenny is the second coming of Jimmy, then you know that I'm talking about Tim McGraw & Kenny Chesney are on tour this summer.<br />
<br />
And lemme tell you. They tour.<br />
<br />
I'm talking <u>FOUR</u> straight hours where Tim and/or Kenny are on the stage.<br />
<br />
Ah. Maze. Zing.<br />
<br />
And my abs and legs were sore like I worked out. That could have been from standing for so long, singing my lungs out, or just that beer does that to a girl.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhezd9vivmieKMVXxvmVDORoRvq19183sNCIDpgu2VsRJeku-SAxo1s1KGh_gAM4QqDZ05TxrUBxtValQeY3XKyqc9vZoY0ajQGrbDSEKO-7P4wv_vtoyc6Yvnt0g2vOrTzf7MUOxcfK1A/s1600/photo+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhezd9vivmieKMVXxvmVDORoRvq19183sNCIDpgu2VsRJeku-SAxo1s1KGh_gAM4QqDZ05TxrUBxtValQeY3XKyqc9vZoY0ajQGrbDSEKO-7P4wv_vtoyc6Yvnt0g2vOrTzf7MUOxcfK1A/s320/photo+1.JPG" width="286" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yep. We're rocking the boots.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0yHAxKk7T7CnRfxskiFW_fRW3zfS6-kudUzPcT6Nz2v0QRIxXXfUdjHaMWhdk86nbHiBsj0KsDdH6C3T953RfEPq0LJByI1t5kQtfx3PB1hucephnzrd_jh61QGSxvvT2-tx29sRhSHk/s1600/photo+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0yHAxKk7T7CnRfxskiFW_fRW3zfS6-kudUzPcT6Nz2v0QRIxXXfUdjHaMWhdk86nbHiBsj0KsDdH6C3T953RfEPq0LJByI1t5kQtfx3PB1hucephnzrd_jh61QGSxvvT2-tx29sRhSHk/s320/photo+2.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">That would be the sun shining down on Mr. McGraw.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoj-QX7oR1AKCgkICQQK2GR-zknWgBkz_vwTh-xmFRehOdM7X6eco8HNsdWlxw_u2uVTUmPp_ECwuImH4rBQkCZFRhbDHyS13I__6TAYtmn35aVGX5da_3NjCjUboxToXVdmdhrMCb7IA/s1600/photo+3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="310" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoj-QX7oR1AKCgkICQQK2GR-zknWgBkz_vwTh-xmFRehOdM7X6eco8HNsdWlxw_u2uVTUmPp_ECwuImH4rBQkCZFRhbDHyS13I__6TAYtmn35aVGX5da_3NjCjUboxToXVdmdhrMCb7IA/s320/photo+3.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Obligatory selfie.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAfx6AqWV_Vm7jg685EnQYpxP38OVeivhoCdXIIFU6vuVm4qDfM5CDJM7aBLuDwAxpf8a7_9BTdjBFkFHpPjH1w54_OHW-HGGOOsCceBoqOP7oVYR3dUgcxFmvuwkMXcMuCNjVFJXnVvc/s1600/photo+4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAfx6AqWV_Vm7jg685EnQYpxP38OVeivhoCdXIIFU6vuVm4qDfM5CDJM7aBLuDwAxpf8a7_9BTdjBFkFHpPjH1w54_OHW-HGGOOsCceBoqOP7oVYR3dUgcxFmvuwkMXcMuCNjVFJXnVvc/s320/photo+4.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Waiting for Kenny.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/58/3BA7E8D72245328F3876C5E5A3AF306C.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02312789950847055390noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2731858984445635395.post-3160266136878979712012-08-15T08:43:00.004-04:002012-08-15T08:43:57.443-04:00SO WHAT! Wednesday<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://i702.photobucket.com/albums/ww29/katieballa/Life%20After%20I%20dew/SoWhatButton.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://i702.photobucket.com/albums/ww29/katieballa/Life%20After%20I%20dew/SoWhatButton.jpg" /></a></div>
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This is usually the day that I link up with Shannon at <i>Life After I "Dew"</i>, but today, I'm taking over!!<br />
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Shannon is sunning herself on vacation, so she let me do a SWW post. I know you're <u>dying</u> to read it, so head over to my post <a href="http://www.lifeafteridew.com/2012/08/so-what-wednesday_15.html">here</a>.<br />
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Yes.<br />
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I'm making you click a <a href="http://www.lifeafteridew.com/2012/08/so-what-wednesday_15.html">link</a>.<br />
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Just <a href="http://www.lifeafteridew.com/2012/08/so-what-wednesday_15.html">do</a> it.<br />
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Yes.<br />
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Those all go to the same <a href="http://www.lifeafteridew.com/2012/08/so-what-wednesday_15.html">place</a>.<br />
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<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/58/3BA7E8D72245328F3876C5E5A3AF306C.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02312789950847055390noreply@blogger.com2