tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-56812206069453805332024-03-14T03:18:46.815-04:00Express the Jessjessexpressedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01139846047873878628noreply@blogger.comBlogger152125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5681220606945380533.post-40806935503486485272014-03-17T08:57:00.000-04:002014-03-17T08:57:09.261-04:00Happy Snow Patrick's DaySaint Paddy's is always one of my favorite holidays--everyone wears green, there's a feel of spring in the air, and everyone has a jolly good time celebrating their actual or pretend Irish roots. This year, however, we woke up to six-ish inches of snow and yet another snow day for the DC region.<br />
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Don't worry, he's wearing his green collar so he can't get pinched</div>
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Happy Saint Patrick's Day, I hope your celebrations are livelier than ours (although Charlie is pretty excited about the snow)!<br />
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jessexpressedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01139846047873878628noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5681220606945380533.post-2532498295796795852014-03-12T07:09:00.000-04:002014-03-12T11:49:41.808-04:00Jamaican Babymoon, MonAfter considering many fabulous looking locations, we ultimately decided to head to Jamaica for our final vacation before baby boy makes his appearance this summer. We chose Jamaica for several reasons: short flights, an abundance of all inclusive options, and a promise of a good time.<div><br></div><div>We chose to take a private shuttle directly to our hotel since the cost was comparable to the shared option, but we wouldn't have to stop at multiple resorts along the way. Our driver did stop so that we could check out his favorite spot along the way though:<br>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAAcPRWlLoZ0L50cMbF_o5mQY4MA1G1CstdsCnE5tv6VAMcArysrkDUVaAsSevRiEoCR7qxoMnUVAEGjl7nVxhLF5YoU1QD9ibD1JzqOXv3XESny-3sCIDELajrDz1gOXGjKhbuBeoQ9x4/s1600/IMG_0434.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAAcPRWlLoZ0L50cMbF_o5mQY4MA1G1CstdsCnE5tv6VAMcArysrkDUVaAsSevRiEoCR7qxoMnUVAEGjl7nVxhLF5YoU1QD9ibD1JzqOXv3XESny-3sCIDELajrDz1gOXGjKhbuBeoQ9x4/s1600/IMG_0434.jpg"></a></div>
<div align="center"><br></div><div align="center">Our resort was in the town Runaway Bay, which is about an hour drive from the main airport on the island. After an early morning flight (6 am, yikes), we were just ready to get to the hotel and relax. And eat (mostly I wanted to eat). Luckily, the hotel did not disappoint once we finally arrived.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh55hfka4TbT-cIYfA1KSluk-YldsJytKM1iYY85IWkJlbcSgZ34IjzOe_QcPshU1Y433Axela34mAcqLn1rqRBdadXut2b16yq7LjTF9X65L3SN3g1M7RVa1_CksNwNdPoGNOvmsBDrWA_/s1600/IMG_0435.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh55hfka4TbT-cIYfA1KSluk-YldsJytKM1iYY85IWkJlbcSgZ34IjzOe_QcPshU1Y433Axela34mAcqLn1rqRBdadXut2b16yq7LjTF9X65L3SN3g1M7RVa1_CksNwNdPoGNOvmsBDrWA_/s1600/IMG_0435.jpg"></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz6DiKC-s4UthM70JDFtJ7Lo3B-7i1unz-46UtBOFbWCB-SBYyqNRb773UwOPhuY5KWfbOz9aoHx6Dt7Z5EhXYuh_tsgU-wpaTxi0Ea531l688rSRDf6LqpeHZioyzLILvL3bp3thvLwCB/s1600/IMG_0436.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz6DiKC-s4UthM70JDFtJ7Lo3B-7i1unz-46UtBOFbWCB-SBYyqNRb773UwOPhuY5KWfbOz9aoHx6Dt7Z5EhXYuh_tsgU-wpaTxi0Ea531l688rSRDf6LqpeHZioyzLILvL3bp3thvLwCB/s1600/IMG_0436.jpg"></a></div>
<div align="center"><br></div><div align="center">The resort was huge, although we opted for the 'exclusive' package that gave us access to adults only restaurants, pools, bars, and beach section. The main thing our exclusivity got us was better beach chairs and drinks brought to us on request, aka the important things.</div><div align="center">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUi0FWPFfKtyz200fbiYnyaBb2OGpHNweQQXUNC50zq_dZcZvz8ogzquChEYmouev5kUQwmgG4jCzicuZlagYQKVgW4_4rQyfOgrw-e6bCjWMvTnBxBgAb0GvHRLntwImMwWhtkHxWj7f2/s1600/IMG_0456.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUi0FWPFfKtyz200fbiYnyaBb2OGpHNweQQXUNC50zq_dZcZvz8ogzquChEYmouev5kUQwmgG4jCzicuZlagYQKVgW4_4rQyfOgrw-e6bCjWMvTnBxBgAb0GvHRLntwImMwWhtkHxWj7f2/s1600/IMG_0456.jpg"></a></div><div align="center"><br></div><div align="center"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); ">The view from our room was pretty fantastic, including plenty of ocean. We even had a view of the wedding chapel, where we spied on a couple of weddings from our balcony:</span></div><div align="center"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); "> </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_eBXsZTUtAXq3Za42GM3OkxCvUiyshhOnSx9Tzr9xhzFOexjLqW1XwtmYsEinYXIiS8ahiUBN2kRmNs1xB__4ANcMQAT30p9eae4vaAKoPt7KDgcI8ECLHHKrlLBxbQPjQOxMRZZ4vTb6/s1600/IMG_0458.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_eBXsZTUtAXq3Za42GM3OkxCvUiyshhOnSx9Tzr9xhzFOexjLqW1XwtmYsEinYXIiS8ahiUBN2kRmNs1xB__4ANcMQAT30p9eae4vaAKoPt7KDgcI8ECLHHKrlLBxbQPjQOxMRZZ4vTb6/s1600/IMG_0458.jpg"></a></div><div align="center"><br></div><div align="center">We spent the majority of our time enjoying this view however:</div><div align="center">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLo_0PIShgyL-LeEoL3GkZ40VpCvzUqdIoXIz9RPue2A1mxVvhiOPVSBKDhLzkX9drNZIXEcDO204iFt2t3KBFYBlhzIr66S3l-U7ak0CkYGcjJw57OZ4m2-3e6x87sN1WVTpcTN1jy0rr/s1600/IMG_0390.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLo_0PIShgyL-LeEoL3GkZ40VpCvzUqdIoXIz9RPue2A1mxVvhiOPVSBKDhLzkX9drNZIXEcDO204iFt2t3KBFYBlhzIr66S3l-U7ak0CkYGcjJw57OZ4m2-3e6x87sN1WVTpcTN1jy0rr/s1600/IMG_0390.jpg" height="640" width="478"></a></div>
<div><br></div><div>The main goal of our babymoon was to relax and enjoy ourselves before life becomes constantly chaotic and crazy. So we didn't do any excursions or tours, but we made up for it with plenty of naps, fueled by sun, jerk chicken, and delicious drinks (yes, mine were non alcoholic, much to the confusion of many a bartender and waiter).</div><br>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMzPmVCpiFw4_Y6qud6lqzhYms0poYLrW7Gz_zMSiO5sbPF9JnEglHwtZkSGW8ADf4UC9BXdO-6bH0k1d-NZcIkLdCboF3v_ezO0jXRm5NJAmjEl8KlYJmXSwGaaD6Ch3HQqWepmLdOBgR/s1600/IMG_0393.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMzPmVCpiFw4_Y6qud6lqzhYms0poYLrW7Gz_zMSiO5sbPF9JnEglHwtZkSGW8ADf4UC9BXdO-6bH0k1d-NZcIkLdCboF3v_ezO0jXRm5NJAmjEl8KlYJmXSwGaaD6Ch3HQqWepmLdOBgR/s1600/IMG_0393.jpg" height="400" width="299"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Rocking his purple armband and sunburn</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQZACOFhJDz5MLwtRh6wyOHOzrnZsCXH6T1Qci6EyBfnvehqEEKQXG3aMQ0Juuv2VDd-yEQ-bJD5nx1VmyLnDsu52NE5XTEzi82w2vcLHcQ8J6vXSwfEdTHLfNUlAiIHgbFgkg3rASwHUl/s1600/IMG_0396.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQZACOFhJDz5MLwtRh6wyOHOzrnZsCXH6T1Qci6EyBfnvehqEEKQXG3aMQ0Juuv2VDd-yEQ-bJD5nx1VmyLnDsu52NE5XTEzi82w2vcLHcQ8J6vXSwfEdTHLfNUlAiIHgbFgkg3rASwHUl/s1600/IMG_0396.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Obligatory feet by the ocean shot<span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); "> </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisITairr8q96UiqoHMuIGyVsCtHjAOG0H2KRuPJ7rj-0V6JCxTp6u0DiTT5IcT5PlEjlch2CnFmQVanBEDrUNCaR1NCYBA9cosNgRB3NsMaZd9B9q6N-UlUsEbdxXB_1L9LzsPeD-jIYHL/s1600/IMG_0454.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisITairr8q96UiqoHMuIGyVsCtHjAOG0H2KRuPJ7rj-0V6JCxTp6u0DiTT5IcT5PlEjlch2CnFmQVanBEDrUNCaR1NCYBA9cosNgRB3NsMaZd9B9q6N-UlUsEbdxXB_1L9LzsPeD-jIYHL/s1600/IMG_0454.jpg" height="640" width="426"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Baby bump alert!</div><div><br></div>As much as I loved getting away from the cold and snow for a while, I was is ready to return home to our little pup and get our lives ready for baby!</div><div><br>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg_SG64UuJQ9PPEvWi6x-vwCtqo9z54YHVZGu26eSbgZHR-WkeILQf7m3aCNRLuwWPMjl8pPcFCF9eJJIUQ6tbWkXidmZrHT8febjdks6fsQ61tv97krredTnuteUVxCT_ccr_Exd-6mo5/s1600/IMG_0461.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg_SG64UuJQ9PPEvWi6x-vwCtqo9z54YHVZGu26eSbgZHR-WkeILQf7m3aCNRLuwWPMjl8pPcFCF9eJJIUQ6tbWkXidmZrHT8febjdks6fsQ61tv97krredTnuteUVxCT_ccr_Exd-6mo5/s1600/IMG_0461.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I do miss this view though </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Have you been to Jamaica? Did you enjoy all the delicious rum?</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">*sorry for the wonky text justification, I cannot for the life of me figure out how to correct it on my mobile device!</div>
</div>jessexpressedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01139846047873878628noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5681220606945380533.post-26877061674121527622014-03-09T21:13:00.002-04:002014-03-10T10:05:16.099-04:00Charlie: 7 Month Update<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">So, I kind of made a huge announcement and then dropped off for a week, sorry about that and thank you for all the kind words! I have a good reason though-we went on a lovely and relaxing babymoon (post coming this week) and I am not together enough to actually schedule any posts beforehand. I'll work on that. In the meantime, please accept my apologies and an update on our adorable pup.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwlDNulovkl-z7532tTb4oOZ1eBxm_U6e-6Lm9RNMrA3ObrlxrsCpOacHjZgo4VvwqBhaJGRzzwpgasSJBDtk5thfTwjHIfIpf4ojzqkvd21SfceNLG3T-PO5GQsaAdMvl86QFibOMrH3Q/s1600/2014-01-16+21.25.20.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwlDNulovkl-z7532tTb4oOZ1eBxm_U6e-6Lm9RNMrA3ObrlxrsCpOacHjZgo4VvwqBhaJGRzzwpgasSJBDtk5thfTwjHIfIpf4ojzqkvd21SfceNLG3T-PO5GQsaAdMvl86QFibOMrH3Q/s1600/2014-01-16+21.25.20.jpg" height="300" width="400"></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">His Favorites: going anywhere in the car, destroying his fabric toys, spooning and/or sleeping on us, looking at himself in the mirror (I'm still hoping to snap a picture of this happening because it is so hilarious, we like to make up things he's thinking while he's staring at himself)</span></div>
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<span style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; font-family: inherit; "><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4SD8eGnBLjPI3Pv0HpKaq8pniZrovEDULWTzeEbeHV1_tgD5Zf5oKoz1n5gAjrkfbeGGsL1Q8XoX64Q4XOrRu1aNSnw2eBiJvklCkjaf05nEdVacVObfos3VO2kXT54Sw0RJMgeQdAC_w/s1600/2014-02-05+08.05.01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4SD8eGnBLjPI3Pv0HpKaq8pniZrovEDULWTzeEbeHV1_tgD5Zf5oKoz1n5gAjrkfbeGGsL1Q8XoX64Q4XOrRu1aNSnw2eBiJvklCkjaf05nEdVacVObfos3VO2kXT54Sw0RJMgeQdAC_w/s1600/2014-02-05+08.05.01.jpg" height="300" width="400"></a></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Napping on my lap</div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">His Least Favorites: being brushed (he's learning to tolerate it since we try to do it every day to cut down on the excess hair around our house), being wrapped up in blankets, being blown on</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhFZP3U09YJ6BXedEGIZ6o4gldxA0u1FSdY4VCnTD99ypPvXHMVWyuL80E4BKD3i17Q7PcXvj1PBkhUhdPmGQRRtcn87VOU6GCCLqLKM-ZlD7jvJnBzpc0b7WrfDUjgpOIH_kTdJ6qkYoO/s1600/2014-02-07+10.27.27.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhFZP3U09YJ6BXedEGIZ6o4gldxA0u1FSdY4VCnTD99ypPvXHMVWyuL80E4BKD3i17Q7PcXvj1PBkhUhdPmGQRRtcn87VOU6GCCLqLKM-ZlD7jvJnBzpc0b7WrfDUjgpOIH_kTdJ6qkYoO/s1600/2014-02-07+10.27.27.jpg" height="400" width="300"></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Failed selfie attempt on a snow day</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Personality: I was afraid that neutering him would change his personality, but almost a month post op he is still the happy, energetic pup we love. Now that he has matured ever so slightly, we are able to enjoy him much more, rather than worrying what ‘bad’ thing he’s going to do next. He makes us laugh on a daily basis as his fun personality continues to develop.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">We have a running joke that Charlie is actually part cat due to his many feline-like habits. He always wants to chase birds (although his breed was created for hunting ducks), he stretches and puts his paws up on us as cats do when they want to be picked up, he likes laying in the sun, chasing things, and gets spooked very easily.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri,sans-serif; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri,sans-serif; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">New to Him: The biggest thing was definitely the surgery to have him neutered. We have also been working really hard on fully housetraining him. He uses puppy grass when we’re at work and I think he is so accustomed to using it throughout the day, he developed a preference to it over going outside. We’ve cut off access to it while we are home though and he has adjusted rather quickly. He still doesn't understand that he actually has to <em>bark</em> when standing by the door so we know to take him outside.</span></span></span><br>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirttozhJL2wRKls9LIUDGxtkRac1PzC9RQZAG1CIuDy5OJlR5wahZ0M91Vqi7oIjtIpe5QxFxbf1OOaa7Cw55eZvsIuK_-dzE3AmM1zo-szskf2Eu_aJbYZtr_IC73Ol-wfDnCuHSrJhmZ/s1600/20140222_180951.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirttozhJL2wRKls9LIUDGxtkRac1PzC9RQZAG1CIuDy5OJlR5wahZ0M91Vqi7oIjtIpe5QxFxbf1OOaa7Cw55eZvsIuK_-dzE3AmM1zo-szskf2Eu_aJbYZtr_IC73Ol-wfDnCuHSrJhmZ/s1600/20140222_180951.jpg" height="225" width="400"></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri,sans-serif; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri,sans-serif; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">The oddest new 'habit' he has picked up is lifting his leg....to poop. He doesn't do it every time and we don't know <em>why</em> he thinks he needs to lift his leg, but it gives us a good laugh just because it is so bizarre.</span></span></span><div><span style="font-family: Calibri,sans-serif; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri,sans-serif; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br></span></span></span></div><div><span style="font-family: Calibri,sans-serif; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri,sans-serif; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Happy Monday and a fantastic week to all!</span></span></span></div>jessexpressedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01139846047873878628noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5681220606945380533.post-34732970442784847042014-02-27T21:54:00.001-05:002014-02-28T11:22:34.609-05:00Pre-weekend UpdateI'm excited to share...<br>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzSap_WTSNTb2bpvMZLOaQTyk9UC05OslK5BxVJ8bhlhILTvclR9goZuorbXdosCAoH1LSv73_xwC0em9V5CW7OUpW7ULdt7Ds8QFRHa34qg-SlhvW1Kg4EIosfw46BHV44nGgIQPJEQnc/s1600/announce.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzSap_WTSNTb2bpvMZLOaQTyk9UC05OslK5BxVJ8bhlhILTvclR9goZuorbXdosCAoH1LSv73_xwC0em9V5CW7OUpW7ULdt7Ds8QFRHa34qg-SlhvW1Kg4EIosfw46BHV44nGgIQPJEQnc/s1600/announce.gif" height="430" width="640"></a></div>...we're having a baby!<div><br></div><div>As if buying a house and bringing home a puppy in a matter of months isn't crazy enough, we decided to ad a baby into the mix. That's just how we roll (do people still say that? Am I already embarrassing my kid by using outdated catchphrases? May as well get used to it).</div><div><br>
I plan to share more about my pregnancy since all things baby are currently taking over my life (not to mention my body),<span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); "> but hopefully I won't let it take over this blog too!</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); "><br></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); ">Happy weekend!</span></div><div>
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</div>jessexpressedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01139846047873878628noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5681220606945380533.post-28952874536217008632014-02-26T10:10:00.001-05:002014-02-26T11:52:46.649-05:00Ten Things That Are More Difficult with a DogAs much as I love Charlie (I think that is evident from all the posts and pictures I put on here), there are many ways in which he makes life more difficult than pre-puppy days.<div><div><br></div><div>1. Sleeping-this is probably our fault for letting him sleep on the bed with us from a young age, but we just couldn't say no. Now Charlie <i>owns</i> the bed. His preferred place is right in the middle, stretching his legs as far as possible. When that gets old, he plops down on top of one of us, usually when we're completely zonked and he lands in the most inconvenient place possible (ie: a sore arm, full bladder, or groin). And sleeping in is a thing of the past since he paws at my face (only mine, not Brian's) as soon as it starts getting light out on the weekends.</div><div><br></div><div>2. Painting my toenails-I actually woke up half an hour early this morning so that I could paint my toenails before a certain pup would be out of bed and insanely curious about what I was doing. Plus, with all the dog hair floating around, I had to make sure to stay in a closed room to limit the possibility of hair landing in my freshly painted toes. Oh, the things you take for granted.</div><div><br></div><div>3. Taking a shower-he either wants to be in the shower with me (and then drink soapy water and make himself sick), or he whines incessantly outside the door until you let him in.</div><div><br></div><div>4. Doing any sort of home improvement project-we have been trying to paint and decorate our house, but it is so much harder with Charlie wanting to sniff and explore every single thing we do. Plus he thinks drywall dust is a magical treat that falls from above and doesn't understand when we yell at him as he tries to eat it.</div><div><br></div><div>5. Watching a movie or tv show without interruption-whether he wants our attention to play, we fear he is getting into something, or he needs to go outside, our tv time (and dinner time and free time) are never just ours anymore. One more reason to be thankful for our dvr and the ability to pause live tv.</div></div><div><br></div><div>6. Keeping our house clean-it's a constant battle against dog hair on the floor, on the furniture, and on our clothes. Except the dog hair always wins. Always.</div><div><br></div><div>7. Being spontaneous-we can't really take a weekend trip or attend a last minute happy hour anymore (although if we're being honest, we didn't do that a whole lot before). We always consider how such plans will affect Charlie and whether they really need to be done before committing.</div><div><br></div><div>8. Buying any decor for our house-since Charlie is still very much a puppy with some of those terrible puppy behaviors, we have to find things for our home that are indestructible or easily replaceable. Charlie is a chewer and is particularly fond of all things bedding: pillows, sheets, and blankets are his guilty pleasures. So, when buying linens for our brand new bed, we went for cheap and functional, knowing it will most likely end up stained and with bite marks until this phase passes and we can replace it.</div><div><br></div><div>9. Opening the freezer-Charlie loves ice, so much so that of you open the freezer drawer he comes bolting towards the kitchen, regardless of where he was or what he was doing. It's actually pretty adorable, except when you just want to get some ice without being accosted by a very excited puppy.</div><div><br></div><div>10. Leaving him-I mean, who wants to be away from this??</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZ-uDRh8yqRWmVgdR7HxqhiFBXaZQxPOhzqyuehdaMKN8orplss-92aGuc-o9e5Mu9EUCCm024Q4QffrT4oCMhr79TC2kvZSxHQ8Bt2fkdR2fqKguMY9byLMrZBxekwmleHiY4_OV7rppO/s640/blogger-image--407638543.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZ-uDRh8yqRWmVgdR7HxqhiFBXaZQxPOhzqyuehdaMKN8orplss-92aGuc-o9e5Mu9EUCCm024Q4QffrT4oCMhr79TC2kvZSxHQ8Bt2fkdR2fqKguMY9byLMrZBxekwmleHiY4_OV7rppO/s640/blogger-image--407638543.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div>Even with all these difficulties, I wouldnt change a single thing.</div><div><br></div><div>How does your pet make life more interesting?</div><div><br></div>jessexpressedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01139846047873878628noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5681220606945380533.post-72641999193951891862014-02-20T21:53:00.000-05:002014-02-21T11:08:35.151-05:00Redecorating: Picking the Perfect BedAfter realizing how crazy expensive furniture can be, we knew we had to prioritize what we wanted to buy lest we completely deplete our savings. I wanted to start in our master bedroom. Brian wanted to start with a dining set. So, we started with the bedroom. Just kidding, we bought both at the same time, but I'm going to start with the bedroom since it's what I wanted.<br>
<br>For our bedroom, I wanted a real, grown-up bed. Our previous bed was a mattress and box spring that sat on a cheap metal frame. Absolutely devoid of style and functionality since it actually rolled all over our hardwood floors thanks to the casters. The metal bed was necessary though because Brian can't fit his ridiculously long body on a queen bed without laying diagonally and thus entering my precious sleep zone. I was ready for an upgrade. A California King sized upgrade.<br>
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I started gathering inspiration and pinning all sorts of beautiful upholstered headboards.<br>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfH6Ueb1JDz1gFt2lrGEBCwEKJ5jD2X_VSzfkmk7C9hdqVsgysYo7JRHlw17vVSO0L-RcndY65eAyL7RbnGR0HVJENTmhG8h_xeflGOdKC7YkV75cBr8Y2vnl1eawGdsqh963kfYBVs4k/s640/Screen+Shot+2011-12-20+at+8.04.05+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfH6Ueb1JDz1gFt2lrGEBCwEKJ5jD2X_VSzfkmk7C9hdqVsgysYo7JRHlw17vVSO0L-RcndY65eAyL7RbnGR0HVJENTmhG8h_xeflGOdKC7YkV75cBr8Y2vnl1eawGdsqh963kfYBVs4k/s640/Screen+Shot+2011-12-20+at+8.04.05+PM.png" height="325" width="400"></a></div>
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DIY Tufted Headboard via <a href="http://www.schuelove.com/2011/12/tufted-headboard-tutorial.html">Schue Love </a></div>
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<a href="http://www.laylagrayce.com/thumb.aspx?size=400&path=images%2fLili-Alessandra%2fLili-Alessandra_LALB807.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.laylagrayce.com/thumb.aspx?size=400&path=images%2fLili-Alessandra%2fLili-Alessandra_LALB807.jpg" height="400" width="400"></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.laylagrayce.com/Products/Lili-Alessandra-Battersea-Quilted-IvoryStone-Coverlet-or-Set__LALB807.aspx">Layla Grace</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.roomservicestore.com/PDGImages/hollywood_bed_kelly_green_543.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.roomservicestore.com/PDGImages/hollywood_bed_kelly_green_543.jpg" height="266" width="400"></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.roomservicestore.com/PDGImages/hollywood_bed_kelly_green_543.jpg">Modshop</a> </div>
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Not only are these beds gorgeous (what I wouldn't give for that Modshop one, I'm obsessed you guys), but, as I explained to my husband, these would also be practical since you can lean against them to read or lounge in bed. He wasn't buying it. He <em>hates</em> upholstered headboards. Reluctantly, I gave up my dream and searched for something that would work with both of our styles.<br>
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<a href="http://ab.pbimgs.com/pbimgs/ab/images/dp/wcm/201405/0181/img37o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://ab.pbimgs.com/pbimgs/ab/images/dp/wcm/201405/0181/img37o.jpg" height="360" width="400"></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.potterybarn.com/products/valencia-two-sleigh-bed/?pkey=cwood-beds-headboards&">Pottery Barn Valencia II Sleigh Bed</a></div>
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I've always liked sleigh beds and I thought this one's simple design could work for years. Unfortunately, I was afraid that the curved design would take up too much space in our cramped room, so it was eliminated rather quickly.<br>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2tDaV2PrYMeznUFc-NMT1nWvSuzUwZ0Y4mipeJbzfraNhWl_3z_j9-ZCry5AsEZwk77r6Fu3djRrqmsiU4VnW19-S-RuhDesA1FZvCB2eZKkeQ4kL8UUZvKRWPYIDfg0NjVaH-wMdhEQf/s1600/bed1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2tDaV2PrYMeznUFc-NMT1nWvSuzUwZ0Y4mipeJbzfraNhWl_3z_j9-ZCry5AsEZwk77r6Fu3djRrqmsiU4VnW19-S-RuhDesA1FZvCB2eZKkeQ4kL8UUZvKRWPYIDfg0NjVaH-wMdhEQf/s1600/bed1.png" height="376" width="400"></a></div>
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<a href="http://www1.macys.com/shop/product/yardley-california-king-bed?ID=650926&CategoryID=35380&LinkType=#fn=BED_SIZE=California%20King&sp=1&spc=93&ruleId=54&slotId=60">Yardley Bed from Macys</a></div>
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I really liked the simplicity of this bed's design. It can work in any house and could work for many years to come, I don't have any experience with Macy's furniture though, and I wasn't sure the quality was as good as others we were considering.<br>
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<a href="http://ab.pbimgs.com/pbimgs/ab/images/dp/wcm/201405/0529/img75o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://ab.pbimgs.com/pbimgs/ab/images/dp/wcm/201405/0529/img75o.jpg" height="360" width="400"></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.potterybarn.com/products/hudson-bed/?pkey=cbeds-headboards&">Pottery Barn Hudson Bed</a></div>
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This traditional style would fit right into our house and wouldn't go out of style any time soon. Unfortunately, this bed is about double the others we were considering, so we would have to live with it for a really, really long time.<br>
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So, what did we choose?<br>
<br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEZHU165N972ItfkR9GSzBvnJVlkL-Qd9AshrVF-cceEzjNVP57oeQvT3lPCDqaw1Mz7Gf5tTSA9BuTkZW7EfRJHlMBVNHSZ4Pus2sBGVR_siANrupDEJKsyVDroI2qsa9a19ZoiAHmW3A/s640/blogger-image-1504574170.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEZHU165N972ItfkR9GSzBvnJVlkL-Qd9AshrVF-cceEzjNVP57oeQvT3lPCDqaw1Mz7Gf5tTSA9BuTkZW7EfRJHlMBVNHSZ4Pus2sBGVR_siANrupDEJKsyVDroI2qsa9a19ZoiAHmW3A/s640/blogger-image-1504574170.jpg"></a></div>
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The Hudson bed from PB (not that you can tell that from this terrible picture)! While the cost was really hard to accept, we tried to keep in mind that we would be using this bed every. day. for many years to come. <br>
<br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbapN9ZqZ7F5H0s2LxtSfafqgnVXpuH7IIqawoovf1gv-I1tTGVL0Te1rNxOb_qzvVmvaUUVj90WE_cm9PXm5ZLBoG8DFD0JpLjOhTct3aSChFGGqVhX4U8xCCgwwaiXloBhgy3f7NbEmE/s640/blogger-image-987732122.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbapN9ZqZ7F5H0s2LxtSfafqgnVXpuH7IIqawoovf1gv-I1tTGVL0Te1rNxOb_qzvVmvaUUVj90WE_cm9PXm5ZLBoG8DFD0JpLjOhTct3aSChFGGqVhX4U8xCCgwwaiXloBhgy3f7NbEmE/s640/blogger-image-987732122.jpg"></a></div>
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And Charlie approves, so obviously we made the right choice!<div><br></div><div>How do you handle differences of opinion on design with your partner?</div>jessexpressedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01139846047873878628noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5681220606945380533.post-12246710031975269382014-02-18T21:27:00.002-05:002014-02-19T10:25:43.527-05:00Furniture is ExpensiveWhen we moved from a ~800 square foot apartment to a three bedroom house, we knew we would need to buy some new furniture. My parents had always given me furniture (they're antique dealers, so they always had something) or built me pieces, so I was excited to buy new furniture for the first time ever. Until I saw the prices of new furniture. <br>
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Who knew furniture was so damn expensive? Obviously not me, since I was appalled by some of the prices I saw out there.<br>
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<a href="http://media.restorationhardware.com/is/image/rhis/prod2480773_av1?$l-pd1$" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://media.restorationhardware.com/is/image/rhis/prod2480773_av1?$l-pd1$" height="390" width="400"></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.restorationhardware.com/catalog/product/product.jsp?productId=prod2480773&categoryId=cat2390168">Restoration Hardware</a></div>
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This table starts at $2025 on sale. It is made from lovely reclaimed materials which is awesome and beautiful, but that price hurts!<div><div>
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<a href="http://i.c-b.co/is/image/Crate/Atticus5StackWBsCrwn3QS13/$web_zoom$&/1308302308/atticus-base-crown-and-five-stacking-cabinets.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://i.c-b.co/is/image/Crate/Atticus5StackWBsCrwn3QS13/$web_zoom$&/1308302308/atticus-base-crown-and-five-stacking-cabinets.jpg" height="400" width="400"></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.crateandbarrel.com/atticus-base-crown-and-five-stacking-cabinets/s531979">Crate and Barrel</a></div>
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I have wanted barrister bookcases forever. They were originally used by lawyers to store their legal volumes (why normal bookcases didn't work<span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); ">, I don't know), but the style and practicality (less dusting!) is what sold me. Plus these are named Atticus, which makes me happy and reminds me of my favorite book, <i>To</i> <span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); "><i>Kill</i> <i>A</i> <i>Mockingbird</i>. At $1600 though, these will remain a dream for quite a while longer.</span></span></div><div>
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<a href="http://ballarddesigns.scene7.com/is/image/ballarddesigns/T_WithoutZoom?$w400$&$src=UD047_main&$B1=blank" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://ballarddesigns.scene7.com/is/image/ballarddesigns/T_WithoutZoom?$w400$&$src=UD047_main&$B1=blank" height="400" width="400"></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.ballarddesigns.com/louis-xvi-oval-back-side-chair/furniture/category/dining-kitchen/dining-chairs/195177">Ballard Designs</a></div>
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I just love this style of chair; it's classic and a bit feminine while still being functional. With each chair costing at least $330 though, my dream dining chairs were out of grasp.</div><div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisD9x6lQ_ZDZhR0fEcwNXtGkhAUxjViGxPKKRQuT8TpOuvG24qOvoT6P6ZlVHk8ezwe4ITIyvsu2i3yQNMVUSjxcjrEQ7nGWqayEj2mG_wmmg_M7cdEAifqLGZTDcfHVg4kTvHLgKkpf5s/s1600/arhaus.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisD9x6lQ_ZDZhR0fEcwNXtGkhAUxjViGxPKKRQuT8TpOuvG24qOvoT6P6ZlVHk8ezwe4ITIyvsu2i3yQNMVUSjxcjrEQ7nGWqayEj2mG_wmmg_M7cdEAifqLGZTDcfHVg4kTvHLgKkpf5s/s1600/arhaus.png" height="358" width="400"></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.arhaus.com/furniture/living-room-furniture/media-centers/hyland-center-unit/">Arhaus</a></div>
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The awesome thing about this media center is that the faux drawer fronts slide together to hide your television when you don't want it seen. We actually saw this piece in person a few months back and were impressed with the ingenuity, even if the style or size doesn't fit in our house. Plus, at a whopping $4900 (on sale from originally over $7000), there is no way we would be bringing this thing home any time soon.<br>
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After getting a reality check about furniture prices, we decided to prioritize what we wanted to invest in immediately and what could wait a few months (or more).</div></div><div><br></div><div>Are you shocked sometimes by the cost of furniture or am I just cheap?</div>jessexpressedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01139846047873878628noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5681220606945380533.post-65798474485197728832014-02-13T11:26:00.000-05:002014-02-13T11:26:02.572-05:00Dear Winter,We need to talk.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgazwEBOPGsPsCu1xIFRPm7eUPfbVtnz1Sg8f3HuTgOpGCUP-06aI8NKhNWHe1BmhXkO9CgAOEV4V_nAhmQJin2M27JNZYnKmUvrMiYtUJUOn9Xs7ouu94ABAEnX4EcYYn8oomLT-kXY0Yh/s1600/2014-02-13+08.05.09.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgazwEBOPGsPsCu1xIFRPm7eUPfbVtnz1Sg8f3HuTgOpGCUP-06aI8NKhNWHe1BmhXkO9CgAOEV4V_nAhmQJin2M27JNZYnKmUvrMiYtUJUOn9Xs7ouu94ABAEnX4EcYYn8oomLT-kXY0Yh/s1600/2014-02-13+08.05.09.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
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There's a car under there somewhere.</div>
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Things just aren't working out. I think we should see other people.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgndbsMGHelx6bgCymUhzuIVxwoOYX4smxzoJEmBnafDbaj3Bxt9a2jSaoPCb7H8tuls1SaCNWzWp3WXA1O74xclMtrPlHAf_cpYehyO4K-HSnD1gAQH1KR-DvzD5_OUPl6pVewqX78y8qj/s1600/2014-02-13+08.05.24.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgndbsMGHelx6bgCymUhzuIVxwoOYX4smxzoJEmBnafDbaj3Bxt9a2jSaoPCb7H8tuls1SaCNWzWp3WXA1O74xclMtrPlHAf_cpYehyO4K-HSnD1gAQH1KR-DvzD5_OUPl6pVewqX78y8qj/s1600/2014-02-13+08.05.24.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
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This took Brian two hours. Husband award for sure.</div>
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Also, it's not me. It's you. <em>Definitely</em> you.jessexpressedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01139846047873878628noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5681220606945380533.post-16864013938429185022014-02-12T11:34:00.001-05:002014-02-12T11:36:53.452-05:00Puppy Parent WoesThis was a difficult week for us as puppy parents; we took Charlie to the vet to get neutered.<div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYZKjFBZCXzSCAJ4xw4oBjdQ_uH-2fjWquM8P4-A6Zlshd-7xv4s4G7MJBaweyuIheE6br2TybBtS86dKx7g3fBLlHWf3D_QjKMLQHlz7b-PjIMU58bx2px2KRtDLocODkMc-ITxNugSXu/s640/blogger-image--967734055.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYZKjFBZCXzSCAJ4xw4oBjdQ_uH-2fjWquM8P4-A6Zlshd-7xv4s4G7MJBaweyuIheE6br2TybBtS86dKx7g3fBLlHWf3D_QjKMLQHlz7b-PjIMU58bx2px2KRtDLocODkMc-ITxNugSXu/s640/blogger-image--967734055.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">See his shaved leg where they put the IV? Breaks my heart!</div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Although I am definitely pro-spaying and neutering pets, I had a lot of anxiety about having Charlie undergo the procedure. I was afraid, of course, that there may be medical complications, especially since he had to be put under general anesthesia. And I was afraid (and sad) that we would be leaving him at the vet overnight. He has never spent the night away from both of us and I thought he might be scared or resentful that we 'abandoned' him.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div>I was also afraid that having him neutered would fundamentally change his personality. I love that he is ornery and playful and happy and I didn't want those things to change.</div><div><br></div><div>Luckily, my fears have turned out to be unfounded. Charlie physically handled the surgery wonderfully and had no complications. He is obviously a bit groggy and not as active since coming home, but he has moments he wants to jump and play. He still seems to love us despite what we just made him go through. </div><div><br></div><div>Most importantly, he is happy, healthy, and back at home.</div><div><br></div><div>Did you have anxiety about getting your pet fixed?</div>jessexpressedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01139846047873878628noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5681220606945380533.post-71314233130665601992014-02-06T10:02:00.000-05:002014-02-06T10:02:06.964-05:00Finding the LightAs I posted a while back, one of my Christmas dreams came true when my father in law and husband installed a light fixture in our living room. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin2ymkJtkzvywkNF1LzVvv46T3icl43iR_PsewRcC0hXqaYrD2o6ALAtdiJ259yHPTjwPb6ruo-4_YAFJC-Z5vSl3cQY96xySvq8Iih7bPjQx-gafoQ4DwJJlyTRkLr4bbpotrilqvP8Xh/s1600/IMG_0148.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin2ymkJtkzvywkNF1LzVvv46T3icl43iR_PsewRcC0hXqaYrD2o6ALAtdiJ259yHPTjwPb6ruo-4_YAFJC-Z5vSl3cQY96xySvq8Iih7bPjQx-gafoQ4DwJJlyTRkLr4bbpotrilqvP8Xh/s1600/IMG_0148.jpg" /></a></div>
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I still love it, but it is past time to find a replacement fixture for this space. I can't say I have a ton of experience shopping for lighting fixtures, so I am turning to you to guide me in the right direction. <br />
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Our house is fairly traditional, as are most of the furnishings, so most contemporary styles won't work. Our ceilings are also on the short side--8'--so a flush or semi-flush mount are probably going to be the our best options since we don't want to run the risk of running into it (Brian hits his head on lights all the time). We also want to avoid the 'boob light'. You know what I'm talking about:<br />
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<a href="http://www.homedepot.com/catalog/productImages/1000/62/62cadcce-1e2d-4a3c-9d5d-fe2d5cafb9a2_1000.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.homedepot.com/catalog/productImages/1000/62/62cadcce-1e2d-4a3c-9d5d-fe2d5cafb9a2_1000.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.homedepot.com/p/Hampton-Bay-Oil-Rubbed-Bronze-2-Light-Flush-Mount-FZP8012A-ORB/202786700?N=5yc1vZc7nk">Home Depot</a> - definitely mammary-esque, no?</div>
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With these requirements in mind, here are a few I'm liking:</div>
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<a href="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51aCs8fpjbL._SL1500_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51aCs8fpjbL._SL1500_.jpg" height="238" width="400" /></a></div>
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Murray Feiss from <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Murray-Semi-Flush-Ceiling-Fixture-Heritage/dp/B0042C0TVM/?qid=1388888643&s=lamps-light&sr=1-12&keywords=feiss&ie=UTF8&ref=sr_1_12">Amazon</a></div>
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I like the oil rubbed bronze finish, the low overall height, and the simple design. My main worry is that it only uses two bulbs and I'm not sure that is enough for the entire living room.</div>
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<a href="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41yuMyyDTdL.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41yuMyyDTdL.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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Progress Lighting on <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Progress-Lighting-P3939-20-Collection-Semi-Flushmount/dp/B0071K48KK/ref=pd_sim_hi_1">Amazon</a></div>
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This light fixture is borderline modern or transitional to me, but it's not so much so that it will be out of place in our home. The simple design is perfect for our living room, but I fear the shade will really hinder lighting up the entire space.</div>
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<a href="http://www.homedepot.com/catalog/productImages/1000/ac/ac4469db-e272-4d79-9ad9-931dc0235984_1000.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.homedepot.com/catalog/productImages/1000/ac/ac4469db-e272-4d79-9ad9-931dc0235984_1000.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
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Sea Gull Lighting from <a href="http://www.homedepot.com/p/Sea-Gull-Lighting-Pratt-Street-Metal-3-Light-Autumn-Bronze-Pendant-65087-715/204148324?N=5yc1vZc7nr">Home Depot</a></div>
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I love this pendant style of light, even though I don't think it works for our living room at all since we have zero room to let the light hang from the ceiling. I'm hoping we can find somewhere else in our house to incorporate this classic style though.</div>
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<a href="http://www.homedepot.com/catalog/productImages/1000/d6/d6f28a30-52c2-4332-ac9f-9f64e1c01388_1000.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.homedepot.com/catalog/productImages/1000/d6/d6f28a30-52c2-4332-ac9f-9f64e1c01388_1000.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
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Hampton Bay Light from <a href="http://www.homedepot.com/catalog/productImages/1000/d6/d6f28a30-52c2-4332-ac9f-9f64e1c01388_1000.jpg">Home Depot</a></div>
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This light has good reviews, is very inexpensive ($30?!), and would fit the style of our house. I just worry that it might look a little too cheap. </div>
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Where do you go for lighting fixtures? Do you find searching for the right one as overwhelming as I do?</div>
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jessexpressedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01139846047873878628noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5681220606945380533.post-14521457724136140192014-02-04T14:21:00.000-05:002014-02-04T14:21:09.214-05:00Charlie: 6 MonthsSo, I haven't posted a Charlie update in quite a while. The truth is, now that he is a little older, he isn't changing very much and I thought weekly updates might be a little much. But, I couldn't just stop updates completely, so here is Charlie at six months. A <strong>lot</strong> of Charlie since I have some catching up to do.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIWTkMVcxiZrOSeErbJUQQnuBcLP3A6gNSfwHEHMvoNq_d6kFznjM1DV8Jy8QUEZ_dow_q5ynFxhp6-y2n9q5fKvs6jfXtB3EiqBjsKns0K2LeTuIjefoEN5n5Xi3SoR4yKnvQHnzeh4jp/s1600/IMG_0066.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIWTkMVcxiZrOSeErbJUQQnuBcLP3A6gNSfwHEHMvoNq_d6kFznjM1DV8Jy8QUEZ_dow_q5ynFxhp6-y2n9q5fKvs6jfXtB3EiqBjsKns0K2LeTuIjefoEN5n5Xi3SoR4yKnvQHnzeh4jp/s1600/IMG_0066.jpg" /></a></div>
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Trying to fit in a tiny dog bed at Christmas</div>
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His favorites: ice-he has a Pavlovian response whenever we open the freezer, playing with other dogs, chewing all the things, chasing birds<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOTVBTYQ4XXUJbww7ksrHfh_Jc_v8CBwU3RiVlWcnSqe0iOMaSoJsnxOjhgMqDrhmL4cDA1PCv6QtzoNDxx1QnKFCtdMuqRgx80uewMYUcBUAS1t1Hb9-_Xm8kpRMJeN_hEWAGxxcxrsnW/s1600/IMG_0079.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOTVBTYQ4XXUJbww7ksrHfh_Jc_v8CBwU3RiVlWcnSqe0iOMaSoJsnxOjhgMqDrhmL4cDA1PCv6QtzoNDxx1QnKFCtdMuqRgx80uewMYUcBUAS1t1Hb9-_Xm8kpRMJeN_hEWAGxxcxrsnW/s1600/IMG_0079.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ4-bLVMDLkL6GYkiMUY07m8JEoWmU1mkrcsClJfhUGI4_yk_NzYpQOFTUhxps9w_8uDiM3OHkhQCTjuI4oTJ1BCZJK_C9Bh44UB2jXeQz7VY6GGOlz3Se-6IlPKI4f06VzpX1KYPCycaO/s1600/IMG_0094.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ4-bLVMDLkL6GYkiMUY07m8JEoWmU1mkrcsClJfhUGI4_yk_NzYpQOFTUhxps9w_8uDiM3OHkhQCTjuI4oTJ1BCZJK_C9Bh44UB2jXeQz7VY6GGOlz3Se-6IlPKI4f06VzpX1KYPCycaO/s1600/IMG_0094.jpg" /></a></div>
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Meeting one of my FIL's cows-the cow licked his nose right after I took this</div>
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His Least Favorites: getting his nails clipped, people going by the house, unexpected noises<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6QdKkp49sA3Wd8tcVbxMx-3Lsg99x4Gt62GYTSXSuoLkXekNKp8hj7ywHzHOhRFedzsegGWsNWQTkjDP5p50MICiDHNbS_K5PjQzovx4wPEfWtx9AwqrJpilGFeRMS8O_ry6GvuTOUiyt/s1600/IMG_0108.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6QdKkp49sA3Wd8tcVbxMx-3Lsg99x4Gt62GYTSXSuoLkXekNKp8hj7ywHzHOhRFedzsegGWsNWQTkjDP5p50MICiDHNbS_K5PjQzovx4wPEfWtx9AwqrJpilGFeRMS8O_ry6GvuTOUiyt/s1600/IMG_0108.jpg" /></a></div>
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Tollers are supposed to love the water, so we tried in Tennessee (above) at my FIL's house and at a local park (below) to get Charlie to swim. He would only go so far as putting in his legs, but we couldn't blame him, it was cold.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrVgXp-w9gqWmBDqXnulmwfq0ycQrz39pgDkJ3oWILyqgKcnguHegMgWAinFREbhcGz0FO4LtG9wh4ivg52mxtln6w6N4Gw2XWEwvzF0SXebxzUJucBBqMxEUsdt6onzZJ1FHeJUKm77bY/s1600/IMG_0113.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrVgXp-w9gqWmBDqXnulmwfq0ycQrz39pgDkJ3oWILyqgKcnguHegMgWAinFREbhcGz0FO4LtG9wh4ivg52mxtln6w6N4Gw2XWEwvzF0SXebxzUJucBBqMxEUsdt6onzZJ1FHeJUKm77bY/s1600/IMG_0113.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTWeUstn2lOd4rKxlazfnQ6H_hXPVWbx_N49_YCFQyaGEgs0b2F-0CJNdHQ4TZPwZR1qY7byqsAofEm5d-8Rj0UMpO4WTnaFWr-oSkLT94UAGM0lJJ2lGTaq24y174tYmpgEglH9C3e45O/s1600/IMG_0123.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTWeUstn2lOd4rKxlazfnQ6H_hXPVWbx_N49_YCFQyaGEgs0b2F-0CJNdHQ4TZPwZR1qY7byqsAofEm5d-8Rj0UMpO4WTnaFWr-oSkLT94UAGM0lJJ2lGTaq24y174tYmpgEglH9C3e45O/s1600/IMG_0123.jpg" /></a></div>
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One of my favorite pictures </div>
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Personality: Charlie is playful, happy, and stubborn. He is friendly with people and other dogs, unless they are coming by his house. He's become quite the watchdog and little protector of our house. He still hates when either of us leaves and whines and watches out the window for a while after we leave, but he is getting more accustomed to his crate.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXkyXfbHkAFO0Ol6V9SQ8itM8SSiYBX_3XuJeeL9_V7s5DvJUlyS2Vug9AkzbFiL82-E08EWIJxwL0_Xy2Ij0jzurF1-r2vc5jdm-1t-TmK2Df5it5MQB-vvB-lgEz-LYYvqMKfndmtSdF/s1600/IMG_0127.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXkyXfbHkAFO0Ol6V9SQ8itM8SSiYBX_3XuJeeL9_V7s5DvJUlyS2Vug9AkzbFiL82-E08EWIJxwL0_Xy2Ij0jzurF1-r2vc5jdm-1t-TmK2Df5it5MQB-vvB-lgEz-LYYvqMKfndmtSdF/s1600/IMG_0127.jpg" /></a></div>
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Yums</div>
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Getting some of his excess energy out New Year's Day</div>
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New to him: our twelve hour road trip at the holidays (which went surprisingly well), learning the speak command, catching things in his mouth<br />
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Bounding through the snow</div>
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This face</div>
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Love from Charlie!</div>
jessexpressedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01139846047873878628noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5681220606945380533.post-74993442148126482512014-01-31T10:20:00.000-05:002014-01-31T10:20:11.472-05:00House Update: Fixing the FloorsOne of the main things we loved about our house when we purchased it was the original hardwood floors on both the main and upper levels. What we didn't realize when we bought our house though was that not all of our floors were the same.<br />
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The previous owner had the floors in the entire house refinished, except those in the master bedroom. So, we had lovely floors in 90% of our house, except in of the most important rooms in the house. <br />
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Not the best picture, but you can tell the floors look rough</div>
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In addition to the master bedroom, we wanted to fix the ugly patch that was left over after we removed the built in cabinet in the office room (I've decided to call it the office since it has our desks in it).</div>
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Not even itty bitty puppy Charlie could make the two toned floors look good</div>
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The final place we wanted to refinish the floors was on the stairs and upstairs landing. The carpet on them had seen better days and I was more than happy to see the dated style go. The stairs that were not covered by carpet were <em>really</em> rough and a drastically different color than any of the wood surfaces in our house. </div>
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I mean, no. </div>
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We removed the carpet from the stairs and landing the same weekend we talked to the company we hired to refinish the floors*. We also moved into our spare (smaller) bedroom to keep the master bedroom open for renovations. And then we waited. And waited. And waited some more. They finally came to refinish the floors in November, which was just in time for us to order our new bedroom furniture before my dad came for the holiday.</div>
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The stairs were more expensive to refinish because they have to be done by hand, but they were so, so worth it. We are undecided on whether to add a runner on the stairs or leave them plain. Right now, indecisiveness and a laziness is keeping them bare.<br />
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Charlie approves of the new stairs</div>
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The landing is such a small space, but it makes such a nice impact on the second floor as a whole.<br />
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And, the area you're probably most interested in--the patch in our office:</div>
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Old floor on top, newly stained on the bottom</div>
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The color is not an <em>exact</em> match, but it looks much better than the glaring two toned mess that was there before. Plus, I haven't given up hope that over time, sunlight, and age may cause the stain to miraculously become the same color.</div>
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I am not sharing pictures of the master bedroom just yet because there's a lot to update you on in there than just the floors. I'll cover it soon, I promise!</div>
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*I originally wanted to try DIY refinishing the floors, but Brian insisted that we hire professionals since this type of project requires special tools to ensure a smooth finish. Plus, we wanted to match the stain in the rest of the house as close as possible and figured pros that do this every day would be better at it than us.<br />
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What home projects made the biggest impact on your house? Have you ever refinished floors?jessexpressedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01139846047873878628noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5681220606945380533.post-73406345615899141622014-01-28T12:40:00.000-05:002014-01-28T12:40:16.476-05:00House Update: Wallpaper RemovalI feel like I haven't posted a house update...um, ever. Sorry about that! The progress on our home projects is slower than I would like, but I have to remember that every little thing is a step in making our house the home we envision. We're trying to focus on making quality updates by doing things the right way, but that also means things take much long than I ever thought possible.<br />
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One of the first rooms we decided to change is the family room/office/random room we hardly use next to our kitchen. <br />
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Obligatory before shots</div>
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Brian really, really hated this wallpaper. He said the grass cloth looked like burlap sacks glued to the wall. While I think some grass cloth wallpapers can look nice, ours had seen better days after at least three decades (probably more like five) on our walls.<br />
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There were plenty of sun bleached spots...</div>
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...and questionable stains </div>
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...and tears in the wallpaper</div>
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So, just a few weeks after moving in, I decided to tackle the wallpaper myself. Here are the supplies I used:<br />
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Vinegar, your wallpaper removal bff, scraper, and sponge (which is somehow not pictured)</div>
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First, I covered our floors, expecting things to get a little messy. Next, I created my wallpaper removal mixture of half hot water and half vinegar, which makes your house smell <em>great</em>. I used my sponge to soak an area of wallpaper that in theory should eat away at the wallpaper glue.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhu6_ndM1u2El-70czVPN96sVSnPUqPfFi9OITETR4rg1hmkIxTT53ycZlLkzv7aA7PiWNPEdIoHAMkMoCp1KakYSRyiuq2aFVYgHx3o7WnN0RSGmfwk5vIY8i6x2GSI5ySBRpkG5O_nQnj/s1600/IMG_8954.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhu6_ndM1u2El-70czVPN96sVSnPUqPfFi9OITETR4rg1hmkIxTT53ycZlLkzv7aA7PiWNPEdIoHAMkMoCp1KakYSRyiuq2aFVYgHx3o7WnN0RSGmfwk5vIY8i6x2GSI5ySBRpkG5O_nQnj/s1600/IMG_8954.jpg" /></a></div>
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I started small</div>
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Next, I started on a corner and scraped and pulled off wallpaper in as big of chunks as possible, which was usually about four inches at a time.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiS85xJ9GwNS68PvCwDztUKSo6vQYdtYuhQDEXJF_GXgoIugUZpHXfuCwd5UfcLU9AXlwLmh5gymgYBuH74kz9yfrZ6szohrOuFw4tohgqZzSag4ZdfbUjRj6biZMSNDcHZl1P04JzGr0SM/s1600/IMG_8955.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiS85xJ9GwNS68PvCwDztUKSo6vQYdtYuhQDEXJF_GXgoIugUZpHXfuCwd5UfcLU9AXlwLmh5gymgYBuH74kz9yfrZ6szohrOuFw4tohgqZzSag4ZdfbUjRj6biZMSNDcHZl1P04JzGr0SM/s1600/IMG_8955.jpg" /></a></div>
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No, I'm not advertising for Hyde, the sticker refused to come off</div>
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After a lot of scraping, my wall looked like this:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqw_AVM7tfJuxxK0kIJG7wo2zV3sOglgERms_Zj-XlxxtWV0AhHKM5WTWaSUp_IwxfHUCi4WD7RDda9m05ShyphenhyphenRhsni28B4-TGdwaHrp5qGooazHvViZWks81T_rziU9jlWVnFQoxtXSfb_/s1600/IMG_8956.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqw_AVM7tfJuxxK0kIJG7wo2zV3sOglgERms_Zj-XlxxtWV0AhHKM5WTWaSUp_IwxfHUCi4WD7RDda9m05ShyphenhyphenRhsni28B4-TGdwaHrp5qGooazHvViZWks81T_rziU9jlWVnFQoxtXSfb_/s1600/IMG_8956.jpg" /></a></div>
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Obviously, I couldn't leave all this junk on the walls, so I used my sponge soaked in my vinegar mixture to scrub, scrub, scrub the paper/paste mixture off the wall. This was the worst part. It took all my upper body strength and about a week to remove it all. And by all, I mean what I could live with after hours of scrubbing.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibLeXh-0EmFh_IuXftnRAM6IwmucMD-x0IynI98YQAl4aEUi4h8kPeAQtIgE43uPxBOMXCtVTewkjKMCejH8O92p9QtKIus2LjJtCDWS_y8LNsJjZ-T94nDYb6KfAVGlfIEUOhXePyKOK3/s1600/IMG_8957.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibLeXh-0EmFh_IuXftnRAM6IwmucMD-x0IynI98YQAl4aEUi4h8kPeAQtIgE43uPxBOMXCtVTewkjKMCejH8O92p9QtKIus2LjJtCDWS_y8LNsJjZ-T94nDYb6KfAVGlfIEUOhXePyKOK3/s1600/IMG_8957.jpg" /></a></div>
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Scrubbed on the left / Not yet scrubbed on the right</div>
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Sadly, in order to remove all the wallpaper from this room, we also had to remove the beautiful built in cabinet in there. It made me really sad to have to remove it since it was one of the things I absolutely loved when we looked at our house, but we saved it so we could replace it if we wanted.<br />
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After removing the built in though, the room felt so much bigger that I couldn't see putting it back. We did keep the cabinet though and hope to repurpose it somewhere else in our house. Unfortunately, after we removed the cabinet, we uncovered yet another issue:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJQ8hDwJouOWvlYZ_ONBQ7hiwu6icydhvxArORwO7GR0Ewa9o1NUENqDxLuFvXsdBwBOUWv_IGhK6nVIdZDa4G8_a4V6KXjVTKGmI88U4E-Rd5I3jwcOJE10-DmDe43XZ7FkUQmQM1mP1D/s1600/IMG_8970.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJQ8hDwJouOWvlYZ_ONBQ7hiwu6icydhvxArORwO7GR0Ewa9o1NUENqDxLuFvXsdBwBOUWv_IGhK6nVIdZDa4G8_a4V6KXjVTKGmI88U4E-Rd5I3jwcOJE10-DmDe43XZ7FkUQmQM1mP1D/s1600/IMG_8970.jpg" /></a></div>
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Two toned floors!</div>
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The floors around the built in had been refinished, making the floor look ridiculous. Luckily, floor refinishing was also on our to do list.</div>
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This room still has a long way to go, I literally just removed the wallpaper and have done nothing else in this room, but Brian still thinks it is a huge improvement.</div>
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Have you ever removed wallpaper? Was it difficult or easy? Actually, don't tell me if it was easy, I'm not sure I could handle it.jessexpressedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01139846047873878628noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5681220606945380533.post-44863799615852485872014-01-24T10:17:00.001-05:002014-01-24T12:23:58.611-05:00Hot Retreats, Cool Drinks*It seems as if the news over the last week has either been about the bitter cold sweeping the nation or Justin Beiber. Both of which I hope go back to Canada because I'm so over them both.<div><br></div><div>To combat these winter blues, I have been searching for a quick, warm getaway. We skipped vacation last year in lieu of buying a house and we are both feeling restless to get out of town for a few days in the next couple of months.</div><div><br></div><div>Our requirements are:</div><div>1) warm-nay-hot and sunny</div><div>2) short flight from DC</div><div>3) not wildly expensive (see aforementioned house purchase)</div><div>4) someplace new to both of us </div><div><br></div><div>We have been looking for the perfect destination without much success over the last couple of weeks. Here are a few of our front runners:</div><div><br></div><div><b>Bermuda</b></div><div><b><br></b></div><div><div class="separator" style="font-weight: bold; clear: both; "><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgx0-JFsGd48A7IJx-iabT_BvQlydDzsbgQOxUmaKv_-c0V-xPR8Rl22wtJ679yUyJ_h6LtZno4ssP2SBVAZUZ_nAWF3fUHlABZ-IH2dJw34pOd84aqQRJySFMyIeteT3ZzVD6H9VckzOhI/s640/blogger-image-657809423.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgx0-JFsGd48A7IJx-iabT_BvQlydDzsbgQOxUmaKv_-c0V-xPR8Rl22wtJ679yUyJ_h6LtZno4ssP2SBVAZUZ_nAWF3fUHlABZ-IH2dJw34pOd84aqQRJySFMyIeteT3ZzVD6H9VckzOhI/s640/blogger-image-657809423.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="font-weight: bold; clear: both; "><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; ">Bermuda hits almost all of our requirements perfectly. The flight is short and surprisingly inexpensive and neither of us have been there before. It's not quite as hot as other Carribean islands since it is much further north, but it's still a huge step up from the sub freezing temperatures we're experience right now. And, as a bonus, I could sing "Kokomo" by the Beach Boys the whole time (Bermuda, Bahamas, come on pretty mama). </div></div><div><b><br></b></div><div><b>Jamaica</b></div><div><b><br></b></div><div><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfq-VWi6KlTIUlP3-O0k92mE_-8bIFwwRXj96n73krXGkXXE_k_b0conwxbvN-YIiHK-MrrWHVjvJcY4-ZXzgs5T31f0lrolKAfHifL406DKKeegqBEGY0jsHjAROmW80Xyr5ALkdKRDaS/s640/blogger-image-1104570015.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfq-VWi6KlTIUlP3-O0k92mE_-8bIFwwRXj96n73krXGkXXE_k_b0conwxbvN-YIiHK-MrrWHVjvJcY4-ZXzgs5T31f0lrolKAfHifL406DKKeegqBEGY0jsHjAROmW80Xyr5ALkdKRDaS/s640/blogger-image-1104570015.jpg"></a></div><br></b></div><div>I've heard wonderful things about Jamaica from friends that honeymooned there and are anxiously awaiting their next visit. I thought Brian had been there before, but luckily I was wrong and Jamaica is back on our list of possibilities. Flights, food, and accommodations are reasonable, and there are some great looking deals on social sites right now (although I've never booked a trip through such a site and it makes me a <i>wee</i> bit nervous). There are also many all inclusive resorts in Jamaica which makes my gluttonous heart happy.</div><div><br></div><div><b>Cancun(ish)</b></div><div><b><br></b></div><div><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiArqb18_lztS_1nfOl1Po9bLR_4i-b2R3fRltiyQmXVrIO5aseU3_GnoP3n7tc5hykHpUmu604pdf1BliWHdQHIcJJrNTbKbwdFagr6kTrUdfuNuxnclecvgM-p5AUuUFEZs3sL0Gaa5Uh/s640/blogger-image-1362941249.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiArqb18_lztS_1nfOl1Po9bLR_4i-b2R3fRltiyQmXVrIO5aseU3_GnoP3n7tc5hykHpUmu604pdf1BliWHdQHIcJJrNTbKbwdFagr6kTrUdfuNuxnclecvgM-p5AUuUFEZs3sL0Gaa5Uh/s640/blogger-image-1362941249.jpg"></a></div></b></div><div><b><br></b></div><div>Although Cancun brings to mind images of out of control spring breakers (ie: not what we're going for), the area near</div><div>Cancun seems to be much more tame. I've somehow never been to Mexico despite my love for their food and it being our neighbor. Again, there are ample all inclusive places in the area and the shorter flight make it very appealing.</div><div><br></div><div><b>Arizona</b></div><div><b><br></b></div><div><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy-VidE2W25y35rtgvteMeidgtmK-uTabEAemAETvlThjvhN2CfVky1oRZDhzoqBgNnU9uIqMauEGarRI9V0IUyKn99qlifqPtrhUN9rwFwdGAhP9y5vwAFUVlHc0yLzRYSMI7Mi5pegUQ/s640/blogger-image--681427076.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy-VidE2W25y35rtgvteMeidgtmK-uTabEAemAETvlThjvhN2CfVky1oRZDhzoqBgNnU9uIqMauEGarRI9V0IUyKn99qlifqPtrhUN9rwFwdGAhP9y5vwAFUVlHc0yLzRYSMI7Mi5pegUQ/s640/blogger-image--681427076.jpg"></a></div></b></div><div><b><br></b></div><div>I'm not opposed to a domestic vacation so long as the location is warm...which basically leaves the Southwest at this time of year (or Hawaii, which we don't have the time or money to do). Of course, if we went this route, I would want to go to the Cubs' spring training in Mesa, which would be considerably more expensive. </div><div><br></div><div>Are you planning or dreaming of a warm getaway? Anyone have suggestions or thoughts on where we should go? Who else is going to be singing Kokomo with me all day?</div><div><br></div><div>*Yes, my title is a play on the Dairy Queen slogan because blizzards are both topical and delicious.</div>jessexpressedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01139846047873878628noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5681220606945380533.post-61649445416486643822014-01-21T09:47:00.000-05:002014-01-21T09:47:07.822-05:00Snow Days in DCIn Illinois, snow days look like this:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEik2Ij3lnUX1gJN7YLQXbIxJq4jmj9RuIAAnE3rDF2ACtwR6qVIjmOjxJ0U2zxXestaIj8mhmYRRME829fAaTePykDuw5PX_4rXfN9VTeeCtkWF-Aw6Cl2KtXYTdlECRReVyYuDYn2dCPIM/s1600/IMG_1274.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEik2Ij3lnUX1gJN7YLQXbIxJq4jmj9RuIAAnE3rDF2ACtwR6qVIjmOjxJ0U2zxXestaIj8mhmYRRME829fAaTePykDuw5PX_4rXfN9VTeeCtkWF-Aw6Cl2KtXYTdlECRReVyYuDYn2dCPIM/s1600/IMG_1274.JPG" height="400" width="266" /></a></div>
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(Actually, this probably wasn't a snow day)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivSD1-EySyWaQ9a9_SF-0vqOV85GyoLgN7A01_RSGWVtgpZqK88zCDB3o22j8p9aRUFQ4N-EdHqZU9fldHBCc-k6st3ush_xktYrhKHqbyORSRjTfmA-LiEMNvLCPlDOh0MrmiSmVROuwf/s1600/IMG_1026.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivSD1-EySyWaQ9a9_SF-0vqOV85GyoLgN7A01_RSGWVtgpZqK88zCDB3o22j8p9aRUFQ4N-EdHqZU9fldHBCc-k6st3ush_xktYrhKHqbyORSRjTfmA-LiEMNvLCPlDOh0MrmiSmVROuwf/s1600/IMG_1026.JPG" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
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(Again, maybe a snow day, maybe just January)</div>
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In DC, snow days look like this:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2CNB6aKa-NqHIYmoP9a9nkKZwh0rh6agSAmMJZIV46Gp5uGSF-HMjr53Rvf75oce_mfI-CYiUoQqopWYmEE5UzE42WvPyrIdqG6il_UBElPUbrNStIwdbUNjHZdmggRZt3uBabzWbPSGg/s1600/120813133709.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2CNB6aKa-NqHIYmoP9a9nkKZwh0rh6agSAmMJZIV46Gp5uGSF-HMjr53Rvf75oce_mfI-CYiUoQqopWYmEE5UzE42WvPyrIdqG6il_UBElPUbrNStIwdbUNjHZdmggRZt3uBabzWbPSGg/s1600/120813133709.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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Our backyard barely snow covered on our last snow day</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzpnZJVATbpLCslqW_e8yXoCe02gn1mgqzvQ1sdC6d5ORnZWDvIWBBFJtX087ClcimJsisITxCIWhde12DL1yBwrqOA3uoSnlhCInv2WHuhjxvLYzTzfuqnxMa41d7vwcB8Vzbk1Selb3J/s1600/121013144810+(1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzpnZJVATbpLCslqW_e8yXoCe02gn1mgqzvQ1sdC6d5ORnZWDvIWBBFJtX087ClcimJsisITxCIWhde12DL1yBwrqOA3uoSnlhCInv2WHuhjxvLYzTzfuqnxMa41d7vwcB8Vzbk1Selb3J/s1600/121013144810+(1).jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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Downtown DC on the same snow day, taken by my husband who wisely still went to work.</div>
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I think some of the cars have snow on them. Maybe.</div>
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I understand that the DC area is not accustomed to the amounts of snow, ice, and wind that the Midwest and other areas get during winter and are thus less prepared to deal with such conditions. Sometimes though, I just have to shake my head at the way people around here act over <em>possible</em> snowy conditions.</div>
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Today, we got to extend our weekend even further with another snow day. Currently, there is no snow coming down, but the weather forecast is calling for up to ten inches of snow over the next twenty four hours. Of course, the weather people around here are geeking out (we haven't had more than two inches in DC proper for more than three years!!). I'm just hoping we've taken a day off for a real reason this time. Until then, I'm going to enjoy a day with my boys, once they wake up.</div>
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How does your area react to snow or the threat of it? Anyone else enjoying an unexpected day off?</div>
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jessexpressedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01139846047873878628noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5681220606945380533.post-74072154037031908742014-01-15T07:48:00.003-05:002014-01-16T11:02:26.089-05:00Book Report: Game of Thrones SeriesAfter hearing endless hype about the <i>Game</i> <i>of</i> <i>Thrones</i> series, I decided to see what all the fuss was about for myself. As a firm believer that the books are better than their on-screen adaptations, I decided to read the books before ruining my entire Netflix DVD queue to watch the show.<br>
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These books are monstrously long and have taken me forever to finish, but I finally read the last (released) book, and I feel compelled to share my thoughts. I don't consider myself to be a literary snob or critic by any means (I read and enjoyed all the <i>Twilight</i> books). I just like to read things that are interesting and entertaining enough to fill my hour+ commute every day.</div><div>
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On a whole, I really enjoyed how Martin continues to expand the universe of characters throughout the books without it ever feeling forced or out of convenience. And, he (or his editors) understand that a reader will not be able to actually remember all of these characters and subtly reintroduces them while still moving the scene forward (I've always hated those recaps at the beginning of books where they rehash everything like we are second graders). </div><div><br></div><div>Martin creates a world with attention to every detail, which is sometimes great, but mundane at other times (like after the thousandth description of food. I like food, but I don't need to know about the sauce on the quail). His attention to detail and vivid descriptions do make the gratuitous violence that much more horrific and fascinating though.</div>
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<div>My main complaint with the books is the ample<span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); "> violence toward women, much of which has little to do with the storyline and only serves to make the reader despise an already hated character. It gets to a point where it seems odd if something terrible isn't happening to a female character, which is unnecessary, and frankly, sad.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); "><br></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); ">Overall, I enjoyed the series and I am eager to read the two (or more?) final installments of the series (even though Brian is convinced he has the ending figured out already). These books have something for everyone: dragons and</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); "> magic for the fantasy types, zombies for the scifi lovers, and plenty of scheming, backstabbing, and shocking twists for action and adventure enthusiasts. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); ">And for anyone else, there's Tyrion.</span></div>
<div><br></div><div>As I finished the books, I wrote my thoughts out to share while everything was fresh in my mind.</div><div>
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A</b> <b>Game</b> <b>of</b> <b>Thrones</b>:<br>
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Game-Thrones-Song-Fire-Book/dp/0553593714/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1389788283&sr=8-1&keywords=game+of+thrones">Amazon</a></div>
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<br>This book starts out following the Stark family, whose lives go in many directions by the end of the book. Although you probably don't like every member of the family (I'm looking at you, Sansa), you quickly realize that they are the ones to root (and Tyrion and Dany). <span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); ">The ending was traumatic and further solidified my support for Team Stark.</span></div><div><br><b>A</b> <b>Clash</b> <b>of</b> <b>Kings</b>: <br>
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Clash-Kings-Song-Fire-Book/dp/0553381695/ref=pd_sim_b_5">Amazon</a></div>
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This book is ridiculously long. And spoiler: nothing happens in the nearly 1000 pages. A bunch of people want to rule the seven kingdoms. There are some new characters introduced, but you probably won't understand why you should care about them for at least another book, if ever.<br>
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<strong>A Storm of Swords:</strong><br>
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Storm-Swords-Song-Fire-Book/dp/055357342X/ref=pd_sim_b_1">Amazon</a></div>
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Everyone dies. Oh, you liked that character? Too bad, they're DEAD. Probably murdered in a horrific and public way. Did you say you like weddings? Not anymore you don't. At least stuff actually <em>happens</em> in this book, even if you don't like the things that happen.</div><div><br>
<strong>A Feast for Crows:</strong> <br>
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Feast-Crows-Song-Fire-Thrones/dp/055358202X/ref=pd_sim_b_1">Amazon<span id="goog_1518885399"></span></a><span id="goog_1518885400"></span></div>
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The events of this book are concurrent with the events in the next book (for a while), but only follow about half the characters. Luckily, the author explains this upfront, but what he doesn't explain is that the characters followed in this book are either 1) ones you hate or 2) ones you don't care about at all (with one possible exception, depending on your preferences). Even though this book is mercifully shorter than the others, it feels so. much. longer. because you cannot wait to get through it and see what is happening to the <i>real</i> characters in the series.<br>
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<strong>A Dance with Dragons:</strong> <br>
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You are finally reading about your favorite characters again! You are happy until you realize you are also reading about a whole slew of brand new characters as well and you're not sure your brain can keep everyone straight. Not to worry, half of these characters will be dead or forgotten by the end of the book and you can go back to not caring about them very soon. This book could should actually be called: Dudes Who Want Daenerys and Her Dragons, since that seems to be the overarching theme of this book. She can't help it that she's so popular.</div><div><br></div><div>Although this beast of a book took me two months to read (the holidays and other books happened in that time as well), I am so sad it's finished because I want to know what happens and it could still be years before the next installment is released. At least I have three seasons of the television show to watch now!</div><div><br></div><div>Are you a GoT fan? Did you read the books? What are your thoughts on the series?</div>
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jessexpressedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01139846047873878628noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5681220606945380533.post-46747890251515476242014-01-09T07:09:00.002-05:002014-01-09T11:51:03.265-05:00Christmas Dreams Can Come TrueAt least one of mine did this year. <div><br></div><div>A few weeks ago, my father in law stopped to see us on his way back home from visiting <span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); ">my brother in law. As only the second 'real' guest to our house (as in, a guest from out of state), we were excited to show off our home and discuss all the improvements we are planning on making.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); "><br></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); ">After staying with my brother in law for a week in snow covered Boston with little to do (he is limited in what he is allowed to do), my father in law was itching to <i>do</i> something. So, when I mentioned that the lack of lighting in our living room was going on the top of our to do list, he not so subtly suggested that a trip to Home Depot was in order. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); "><br></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); ">My father in law knows how to fix almost anything (and has luckily passed much of this knowledge on to his sons), so about twenty four hours, a couple of holes in the wall, and a lot of dust later, we finally have a light in our living room.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); "><br></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); ">Behold our light:</span></div><div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0s2EqGsCuMeWMWRGJEME22V3e_dzju5ATKFTkeNDhP8pTP4PtMaxPNNhkVSRtvDrUzAJrXXOduTjOKMCpaJT4XD3FdUP6J3_r16fKYcj-cuULWPJ9xxSSDqtWxI2H5VusF3zK7aDChsqT/s1600/IMG_0149.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0s2EqGsCuMeWMWRGJEME22V3e_dzju5ATKFTkeNDhP8pTP4PtMaxPNNhkVSRtvDrUzAJrXXOduTjOKMCpaJT4XD3FdUP6J3_r16fKYcj-cuULWPJ9xxSSDqtWxI2H5VusF3zK7aDChsqT/s1600/IMG_0149.jpg" height="213" width="320"></a></div>
<div><br></div><div>It is not fancy, and certainly not pretty, but I love it all the same. We're still deciding on what type of light fixture to put in its place (who knew how many light fixtures there are to choose from?!), but for now I am appreciative to have any light at all.</div><br>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmqf8uA5xZzqYMVvHw2yTiwaiFB8pmgGkvB_19nFv6jaygHGZB2cEMuXrBdUZl5Qjjd3y21jlpGvak1YMC10fvPhBnByD9PRId3X6m-y9iUGocHc3pmNpbrNQCwmLaOqQM9dRZpXeNVlo4/s1600/IMG_0148.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmqf8uA5xZzqYMVvHw2yTiwaiFB8pmgGkvB_19nFv6jaygHGZB2cEMuXrBdUZl5Qjjd3y21jlpGvak1YMC10fvPhBnByD9PRId3X6m-y9iUGocHc3pmNpbrNQCwmLaOqQM9dRZpXeNVlo4/s1600/IMG_0148.jpg" height="213" width="320"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">A close up, excuse the fingerprint smudges </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br></div>
</div>jessexpressedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01139846047873878628noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5681220606945380533.post-23305989244215939812014-01-05T21:24:00.001-05:002014-01-06T12:54:07.187-05:00January...ugh.So, I'm a little late on New Years. I just can't seem to get excited about New Years because that means December is over and January is upon us. And January is the worst.<div><div><br></div><div>First off, January s<span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); ">tarts with a hangover. No matter how much you sleep in or how little you drink ringing in the new year, you're going to feel like crap the next day. If you're lucky, you at least won't have to work so you can nurse yourself back to normal on the couch in your pajamas while watching the Rose Parade. And if you do have to work, you have my deepest sympathies and I hope your new year involves days off in a better time of year.</span></div><div><br></div><div>Then there are the resolutions. There is all this pressure to create a list of socially acceptable goals to 'make you a better person' even though it is widely accepted that no one actually expects you to complete said goals. I can't even remember my goals from last year, but they usually become obsolete so quickly as other, more pressing issues arise. My resolution for 2014? Find my car keys, which was completed January 1, thanks to my husband who actually found them. I can only go down from there, so I'm declaring all goals achieved for 2014.</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7Jch6dwGEkVknjnwDLg6WNQCuWyJoSyOS7JXRDDQ4R3ZOvf-oWme1TJQTilGd2JsrPfV8JVhOOYhWn9uLcqGwVPUsQuBVNI0q2XAIiXmeSZtRScl6IdW6MXORDQ9hcErvdSAyX_jkgxH4/s640/blogger-image--706665821.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7Jch6dwGEkVknjnwDLg6WNQCuWyJoSyOS7JXRDDQ4R3ZOvf-oWme1TJQTilGd2JsrPfV8JVhOOYhWn9uLcqGwVPUsQuBVNI0q2XAIiXmeSZtRScl6IdW6MXORDQ9hcErvdSAyX_jkgxH4/s640/blogger-image--706665821.jpg"></a></div></div><div><br></div><div>It is isanely cold. Unless you are lucky enough to live somewhere that the temperatures are relatively constant year round (hi. Can I come visit? Tomorrow?), you're probably complaining about the weather right now. On Facebook. </div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ3_ZE50LE9Dij6vxIXijXeaSAPnQBJD8chnieBH_CPt7gldP549WAALUMgzZN3riPf_PN7-2L5L6PrHAudBD_qFeXz1BI4OqSIg4pkPvHK83AyR2dEkHFYtFOAIDQ2ucbnTS3KzeL3XqA/s640/blogger-image--634906291.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ3_ZE50LE9Dij6vxIXijXeaSAPnQBJD8chnieBH_CPt7gldP549WAALUMgzZN3riPf_PN7-2L5L6PrHAudBD_qFeXz1BI4OqSIg4pkPvHK83AyR2dEkHFYtFOAIDQ2ucbnTS3KzeL3XqA/s640/blogger-image--634906291.jpg"></a></div></div><div><br></div><div>Along with the frigid temperatures, January always seems to have an overabundance of snow. Once the magical herald of the holiday season, snow in January is at best an inconvenience and at worst a constant reminder that spring is still a long, long ways off. And we really don't need anything else to remind us of that.</div><div><br></div><div>Thanks to all the cold, dry days my skin feels like it is being stretched out like Cassandra from Dr. Who, except I can't yell at people to "moisturize me!" whenever I need lotion. Yet.</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilicGd4j7nHKmssOyc3DDODLas3PT5xqzw4Q6N3TMf6z1eeh0HMQHwUL_f2MoV-KUdbw75CulWbKc7bRExFlpIkRY0izzFcorer-YTkvX9nh1OBW1FCPL1m6rYTVmR3vS0Pb9X7sWaTtmn/s640/blogger-image--16462600.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilicGd4j7nHKmssOyc3DDODLas3PT5xqzw4Q6N3TMf6z1eeh0HMQHwUL_f2MoV-KUdbw75CulWbKc7bRExFlpIkRY0izzFcorer-YTkvX9nh1OBW1FCPL1m6rYTVmR3vS0Pb9X7sWaTtmn/s640/blogger-image--16462600.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div>Even though we are officially heading back toward spring and our days are getting incrementally longer, it's still dark leaving for and returning from work everyday, which is pretty much the most depressing thing ever. So even if you are lucky enough to get a brief reprieve from the blistering arctic air, you probably won't get a chance to enjoy it because it will be gone as soon as you leave work.</div><div><br></div><div>And finally, the glorious days of gluttony are a thing of the past. Since Halloween, i have been able to keep a near constant supply of candy, cookies, and desserts on hand without anyone giving it a second thought. Now, however, I get the stink eye if I my snacks aren't healthy, as though my poor food decisions may rub off on others. If only I were that influential.</div></div><div><br></div><div>Do you love or love to hate January? Feel free to complain away, it is Monday after all.</div>jessexpressedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01139846047873878628noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5681220606945380533.post-45705293861004436992013-12-24T07:30:00.000-05:002013-12-24T07:30:01.518-05:00What I Really Want for Christmas'Tis the season for a million different gift guides for every different type of person on your shopping list. Unfortunately, none of these seem to capture exactly what I want for Christmas this year.<br />
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Here is what I want, what I really, really want for Christmas this year:<br />
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<strong>Overhead Lighting for Our Living Room:</strong><br />
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Brian would never let me go for this, but I like it. From <a href="http://www.potterybarn.com/products/camilla-crystal-flush-mount-ceiling-fixture/?pkey=cflushmounts&cm_src=flushmounts||NoFacet-_-NoFacet-_--_-">Pottery Barn</a></div>
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Our living room is the most used space in our house. We watch tv in there, play with Charlie in there, and, until our dining room chairs <i>finally</i> arrive, we eat in there. The only light we have is single bulb lamp and our Christmas tree, which just don't cut it. Santa, send me some light!<br />
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<strong>Perfect Vision:</strong><br />
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<a href="http://www.orangecountylasik.org/i-really-want-2020-vision/">Orange County Lasik</a></div>
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For the majority of my life, I have had terrible vision and must rely on contacts and glasses to see anything at all. One day, I would love to wake up and be able to see my<span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875);"> surroundings perfectly. Ideally, my eyes would magically correct themselves without the need for surgical intervention because the thought of a laser in my eye is frightening and expensive.</span></div>
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<strong>Absolutely No Tchotchkes:</strong><br />
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<a href="http://www.marketingtango.com/trinkets-tchotchkes-geegaw-and-swag-really/">Marketing Tango</a></div>
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After packing and moving all our Earthly possessions this year, I have come to the conclusion that we have too much crap. Unfortunately, we both have family members that believe in giving presents just for the sake of having something to open. At this point, I would rather open empty boxes than have more useless stuff in my house. I know our families love us and they mean well, but we don't have the space!</div>
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So, what's <em>really</em> on your list this year? <br />
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I hope everyone has a wonderful holiday! I'll be back next week after some much needed time with our families!</div>
jessexpressedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01139846047873878628noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5681220606945380533.post-67995600429317864272013-12-23T09:00:00.000-05:002013-12-23T09:00:13.759-05:00Charlie: 22 & 23 weeks I'm finally catching up with Charlie updates after my hiatus! And, lucky for you, this update is full of adorable pictures!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTndQQAh5GByyROI7E0F2IgIhqW0ZiffN4jBCErVL6w9Sh8xM-pliU12SLuOgVnMAvbE3YZ1CxTo5t7szdGfMxe-Cip2DAhLXxtQZkMbhcMvVxsDRS_A-UIHkJWDDTT1qt4UPL_09AFWh8/s1600/120813141810.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTndQQAh5GByyROI7E0F2IgIhqW0ZiffN4jBCErVL6w9Sh8xM-pliU12SLuOgVnMAvbE3YZ1CxTo5t7szdGfMxe-Cip2DAhLXxtQZkMbhcMvVxsDRS_A-UIHkJWDDTT1qt4UPL_09AFWh8/s640/120813141810.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Likes: snow! Ice! Omg, they're delicious! And all over the ground! I'm going to stop doing my business outside entirely and just eat all the snow and ice I can thus compounding the problem because now I am full of water!! Best thing ever!!! (seriously.)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiTYifR4VxbKiNx4sbkdyb7TQ2O_rCcslZVhUSX6dYDqMqhQMS67KdLJU95r9m57BYhAYMptptGAgZE6Yudgnjk3qteyyDFsAvvOUARArpLIKBzeLvtrv1EQ3m8Ru3OsPbwurB-wKoUwfR/s1600/IMG_0014.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiTYifR4VxbKiNx4sbkdyb7TQ2O_rCcslZVhUSX6dYDqMqhQMS67KdLJU95r9m57BYhAYMptptGAgZE6Yudgnjk3qteyyDFsAvvOUARArpLIKBzeLvtrv1EQ3m8Ru3OsPbwurB-wKoUwfR/s640/IMG_0014.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Dislikes: birds, snow plows/salt trucks, nice little neighborhood kids that deliver plates of cookies to my people...they're up to no good, obviously.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEic_3KmlJ1mj_MYppa102EjTQ01KMfArVAD1PEuyUeMWL1YNBeYeMyxSHbL1LvgC2UspxSfRjZbt0Cjx5AQCZ5bbz7MEK4YBPMrKbmi44O1Ng20d_nFZESywvDdi8ui_e4b1hZo_OG1jbrL/s1600/IMG_0018.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEic_3KmlJ1mj_MYppa102EjTQ01KMfArVAD1PEuyUeMWL1YNBeYeMyxSHbL1LvgC2UspxSfRjZbt0Cjx5AQCZ5bbz7MEK4YBPMrKbmi44O1Ng20d_nFZESywvDdi8ui_e4b1hZo_OG1jbrL/s400/IMG_0018.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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He learned how to jump over the baby gate so we had to improvise, which resulted in this</div>
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New to him: growling and barking at said birds, snow plows, and cute little neighborhood children, giving high fives<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK_Qw4sh0IwGZvu2hW4FDiCNyV1hOOrXUxl2I7vFP4yk0yDqeskWSxhBGD1LCB3jWHyPKrFA-YT2BXfaisuHN4nApqE3WIH1AJNjXJWHuP6uUivhlWDaZdlEG37KzAHWVAMqtjpkYHnHQ1/s1600/IMG_0015.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK_Qw4sh0IwGZvu2hW4FDiCNyV1hOOrXUxl2I7vFP4yk0yDqeskWSxhBGD1LCB3jWHyPKrFA-YT2BXfaisuHN4nApqE3WIH1AJNjXJWHuP6uUivhlWDaZdlEG37KzAHWVAMqtjpkYHnHQ1/s640/IMG_0015.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Post bath fluffy pup</div>
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Looking forward to: our 12. hour. drive. to Tennessee, destroying packages under the Christmas tree, hanging out with bitches in Tennessee (not being derogatory, they're female dogs)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivO6PwMEPQM8J6OVwBGBAPYRe2vMacn_Jlf5gSFiFuAQFdTqnal_w5RLSKjZMHtetzI3gZQZlX2JM0pDt9sae9u1NzHZIqt3YjxjI8w4e5Htc7mUiyNwRY_vMx69i4Hw51usbiZbCqAaWH/s1600/IMG_0010.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivO6PwMEPQM8J6OVwBGBAPYRe2vMacn_Jlf5gSFiFuAQFdTqnal_w5RLSKjZMHtetzI3gZQZlX2JM0pDt9sae9u1NzHZIqt3YjxjI8w4e5Htc7mUiyNwRY_vMx69i4Hw51usbiZbCqAaWH/s640/IMG_0010.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Happiest of holidays from Charlie!!</div>
jessexpressedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01139846047873878628noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5681220606945380533.post-64325058003245766712013-12-16T20:41:00.000-05:002013-12-17T11:26:55.099-05:00Charlie: 20 & 21 weeksJust as I've been a bit absent from blogging, I've also been a little lax on my Charlie pictures. It didn't help that I sold my slr so I could finally upgrade to a new one and was without a "real" camera for a while. Most of these are from my cell phone, so I apologize for the quality.<div><div><div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiRAlzZlOy_UoRrDuIJ6h3rDnf0ECPHtkTxy6XnqqfmdVy-1w6upLbB55pMQ9Wv6eL1ne4e8Ze3_CzpQlISsEmS0hTxFutSL17EzEW6oofi9BDdtXcg-7MX54ENRPcJpFiNY-FgJXVeYg1/s1600/IMG_9595.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiRAlzZlOy_UoRrDuIJ6h3rDnf0ECPHtkTxy6XnqqfmdVy-1w6upLbB55pMQ9Wv6eL1ne4e8Ze3_CzpQlISsEmS0hTxFutSL17EzEW6oofi9BDdtXcg-7MX54ENRPcJpFiNY-FgJXVeYg1/s640/IMG_9595.jpg" width="640"></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); "> </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">In dog jail at Thanksgiving</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Likes: long holiday weekends, houseguests that play and take him outside often, playing with the Christmas tree!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYyZSPs8-xwM0Xfnbkb31hgt7bocJhy2nXfOoO_M-Gv4jeel2TYZ-mNt837hpYUC7j2yEYjJy8_J5pY7BFGQb9nszwLoPYiLe4tzc5583Eo8kuk76WP1zqy_cYaV73TC38ulLWwY8g3iUn/s1600/2013-12-10+11.37.44%5B1%5D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYyZSPs8-xwM0Xfnbkb31hgt7bocJhy2nXfOoO_M-Gv4jeel2TYZ-mNt837hpYUC7j2yEYjJy8_J5pY7BFGQb9nszwLoPYiLe4tzc5583Eo8kuk76WP1zqy_cYaV73TC38ulLWwY8g3iUn/s640/2013-12-10+11.37.44%5B1%5D.jpg" width="640"></a></div>
<div><br></div><div>Dislikes: getting his nails clipped. He never really like having them cut, but it's like we are torturing him whenever we try to clip them now.</div><div><br></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzdfe7hPcY98l_acsf1Cz9m_vu6YGtSS1c2hqJGo9mpbpww7dGylqqEQGE9pQEofbTee-ytOZlssc_m5HmYr9zyy_pSuokP523UKMaWKtU6WV2SU9XjsQJ7iTEIWfAgoCkEsSNUIOG0PJb/s1600/2013-11-22+10.17.42%5B1%5D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzdfe7hPcY98l_acsf1Cz9m_vu6YGtSS1c2hqJGo9mpbpww7dGylqqEQGE9pQEofbTee-ytOZlssc_m5HmYr9zyy_pSuokP523UKMaWKtU6WV2SU9XjsQJ7iTEIWfAgoCkEsSNUIOG0PJb/s640/2013-11-22+10.17.42%5B1%5D.jpg" width="640"></a></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Looking forward to: more naps ;)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Happy Tuesday from Charlie!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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</div></div></div>jessexpressedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01139846047873878628noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5681220606945380533.post-76451039733106961302013-12-11T10:49:00.001-05:002013-12-11T12:18:58.684-05:00Life, LatelyIt has now been pointed out to me by more than one person that I haven't posted anything in quite some time. Trust me, it is not for lack of things to talk about (house projects! new furniture! Charlie!!), but I just needed a break.<div><br></div><div>The last month has been extremely exhausting emotionally and mentally as we continue to deal with the effects of the accident that left my brother in law with a traumatic brain injury. Although he is doing so much better than we could have dreamed (he's home!), the reality is that he needs a lot of support as he continues to improve. As the big brother, my husband has taken on as many responsibilities as he can from four hundred miles away. In turn, I've tried to be supportive and understanding, knowing that my brother in law needs it right now. </div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnZlgQ7vwtxFRWq5JtAA6C2KAzLBVV_0lGJddMXTkyAmzscWRqYzv5wzpa9ACgqF9_se7kCU5d8t1udxQCLzzFp63qjQPIMR4rvbbtxPo7G957Do4Qi3yBvgAW-G_Hwi8wBji2O5IGnoeS/s640/blogger-image-256788700.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnZlgQ7vwtxFRWq5JtAA6C2KAzLBVV_0lGJddMXTkyAmzscWRqYzv5wzpa9ACgqF9_se7kCU5d8t1udxQCLzzFp63qjQPIMR4rvbbtxPo7G957Do4Qi3yBvgAW-G_Hwi8wBji2O5IGnoeS/s640/blogger-image-256788700.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div>Yesterday, we had a snow day and it was so welcome. Charlie and I hung out, lazed on the couch, and finally started our online Christmas shopping (we are so behind this year it is driving me crazy). Life will still be pretty crazy and stressful, but the break yesterday was a much needed refresher for my mental health and I am now ready to embrace this blog and the holiday season with open arms.</div><div><br></div><div>Much love, Jess </div><div><br></div><div> </div>jessexpressedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01139846047873878628noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5681220606945380533.post-55379671231774447492013-11-22T10:32:00.001-05:002013-11-22T10:32:11.021-05:00Bring on WinterNormally, I hate when it gets cold enough to have to bust out my winter coat. It feels as though doing so is admitting defeat to winter and it's short, bleary days.<br />
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This winter (um...fall? technically.) has been different though. I could not wait to embrace the cold weather. All because of my new winter coat!<br />
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<a href="http://goldenmeans.wordpress.com/">Via</a> - obviously not me</div>
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The coat is actually a brighter, more Kelly green in real life. I bought it at the end of the season last year for a steal, so I didn't really get to wear it until now. It brightens my day and makes the upcoming winter a little more enjoyable. The only thing that could make it even better would be new boots.</div>
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Do you embrace the winter season or try to ignore it for as long as possible?</div>
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jessexpressedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01139846047873878628noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5681220606945380533.post-58199183091057806262013-11-18T20:42:00.000-05:002013-11-21T09:58:35.085-05:00Charlie: Eighteen & Nineteen WeeksThe last couple of weeks have been quite hectic, so this post got skipped last week. Honestly, I haven't been taking as many Charlie pictures since we've been preoccupied with an ongoing family situation (for those of you who asked-my brother in law is doing better than anticipated, but still has a very long road of recovery in front of him). It's been a tough couple of weeks, but Charlie always makes me feel a little better about the world.<br>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJLGLeFxZXrKtcO77aZPlbcbGmz8n3qVmzy175-q7EnDLYQ4ojqFtyQjQXv7AozvoY-lzLDIs7BH69c-vMkTWnIWfdWtNwRYMI9JnvwXxX3kQH06_za-eUOrIk-Wz-2om7UB67x0Asv-hE/s1600/1%5B1%5D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJLGLeFxZXrKtcO77aZPlbcbGmz8n3qVmzy175-q7EnDLYQ4ojqFtyQjQXv7AozvoY-lzLDIs7BH69c-vMkTWnIWfdWtNwRYMI9JnvwXxX3kQH06_za-eUOrIk-Wz-2om7UB67x0Asv-hE/s640/1%5B1%5D.jpg" width="640"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Ready for bed after a late night</div>
<div><br></div><div>Likes: Ice cubes, chew toys with nubs, spooning us while we sleep</div><br>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiW-kGp1tXxHRp7TePvz6Vh-PHjENALFL9cp35O_xpIpbF69xASETPxpBRK8KgGcp3N4TNCbw1AcIo7KbPdg3GMx8kGR-qY9TlX0snaz9-iloyZNSZ9KwkEOTFrXlATItn_hqyZ5R8RnFOs/s1600/IMG_9534.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiW-kGp1tXxHRp7TePvz6Vh-PHjENALFL9cp35O_xpIpbF69xASETPxpBRK8KgGcp3N4TNCbw1AcIo7KbPdg3GMx8kGR-qY9TlX0snaz9-iloyZNSZ9KwkEOTFrXlATItn_hqyZ5R8RnFOs/s1600/IMG_9534.jpg"></a></div>
<div><br></div><div>Dislikes: garbage cans, having Brian gone</div><br>
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<div><br></div><div>New this week(s): working on catching and heeling with limited success in both</div><br>
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<div><br></div><div>Looking forward to: my dad visiting for Thanksgiving next week!</div><br>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVbjueQM3qv3KKkMxRP4_SlQ3_mcblHdcjMRIUWUmrzfUEYcnx_TTT9XzvYsqHItXDxhKJ69bvdIMxufAtmYQYbWNcruQKSlf-v06WJ05CDikZxaPb7AaxcQO4slpYmLVgqbWlz2yt-ie9/s1600/IMG_9543.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVbjueQM3qv3KKkMxRP4_SlQ3_mcblHdcjMRIUWUmrzfUEYcnx_TTT9XzvYsqHItXDxhKJ69bvdIMxufAtmYQYbWNcruQKSlf-v06WJ05CDikZxaPb7AaxcQO4slpYmLVgqbWlz2yt-ie9/s1600/IMG_9543.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">This face!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_KGSDxFxfUzGiUsRSI7aj97tWwYUk3qRdRick1PzbT-vebmZmQkRS-HrqSn6J7Ej839XBaEMhdF8sLe921TIWDSiEd3D4jebi5EafJbnYjgwDOGqh8RHfp1NFL3RmkmhRmMzAjnh_n7YX/s1600/IMG_9545.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_KGSDxFxfUzGiUsRSI7aj97tWwYUk3qRdRick1PzbT-vebmZmQkRS-HrqSn6J7Ej839XBaEMhdF8sLe921TIWDSiEd3D4jebi5EafJbnYjgwDOGqh8RHfp1NFL3RmkmhRmMzAjnh_n7YX/s1600/IMG_9545.jpg"></a></div>
<div><br></div><div>Brian left to visit his brother, leaving Charlie and I home alone for the first time. I was a little nervous about being home alone, but Charlie has proven to be quite the watchdog. When the wind and rain began knocking things onto the roof in the middle of the night, Charlie was up and barking (he <i>never</i> barks) and protecting our household. It would have been adorable except it was 2 a.m. and I just wanted to sleep.</div><br>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiK0fHU6F5jncrKspg1s9Qimh5y6ujVJ_KoSos9TLrJnnmIAj2PTtPp2ACCgdGGcCc8vW3WR1JoV24RTxR1rXGrmVDshYMq_4fkfY66VpTNzNNHm9gdIc35baVVkX5-mXc7nKIumlLBpyT/s1600/IMG_9549.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiK0fHU6F5jncrKspg1s9Qimh5y6ujVJ_KoSos9TLrJnnmIAj2PTtPp2ACCgdGGcCc8vW3WR1JoV24RTxR1rXGrmVDshYMq_4fkfY66VpTNzNNHm9gdIc35baVVkX5-mXc7nKIumlLBpyT/s1600/IMG_9549.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Have a great week everyone!</div>
jessexpressedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01139846047873878628noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5681220606945380533.post-29265749803726543052013-11-11T09:54:00.002-05:002013-11-11T09:54:38.555-05:00Thank You, Always<blockquote class="tr_bq">
"As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them." </blockquote>
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-John Fitzgerald Kennedy </blockquote>
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Changing of the guard, Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, Arlington National Cemetery, July 2012</div>
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Thank you to the veterans of the past, present, and future that honor, protect, and serve the freedoms we enjoy everyday in this country.<br />
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And, a special thank you to my brother in law who has proudly served our country all over the world. He was in a very serious bicycle accident last week and while his doctors are very positive about his recovery, he has a long road of recovery ahead of him. We are hopeful his recovery will be quick, but any positive thoughts are greatly appreciated!jessexpressedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01139846047873878628noreply@blogger.com1