tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-76491598562563280482024-03-05T06:50:23.559-08:00Everything SweetLisaBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11665617488810534525noreply@blogger.comBlogger55125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7649159856256328048.post-31967064987548887932011-09-30T20:39:00.000-07:002011-09-30T20:55:30.138-07:00New SWEET Blog...I loved writing about "Everything Sweet" in life for this blog. However, I decided to change things up a bit so I started a new blog called "Differently the Same". There I share how our lives are incredibly similar to so many of you even though we have a child with special needs. We love life and we are living it to the fullest.<br /><br />Please come visit me often at <a href="http://differentlythesame.net/">http://differentlythesame.net/</a><br /><br />I hope you like it!<br /><br />LisaLisaBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11665617488810534525noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7649159856256328048.post-44939334238933736672010-12-29T22:37:00.001-08:002010-12-30T00:43:49.614-08:00Sweet Christmas Traditions<div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-ESGgU9Cw5JXQWIw1md32QgnV1BYhD6ze1sEO2HSHsBnk_XO4Ub1PiBt4vAivi4DjsoWUzuibFkVdc3uc0Sak-3IhR0CpSm63-GlOSi7WorOgYE4gAmuPcJUNEjLUfXVeHH36-AgclrWM/s1600/IMG_5693.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-ESGgU9Cw5JXQWIw1md32QgnV1BYhD6ze1sEO2HSHsBnk_XO4Ub1PiBt4vAivi4DjsoWUzuibFkVdc3uc0Sak-3IhR0CpSm63-GlOSi7WorOgYE4gAmuPcJUNEjLUfXVeHH36-AgclrWM/s400/IMG_5693.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5556391991196448866" border="0" /></a><span style="font-family:georgia;"><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:180%;" >C</span>hristmas is a very special time.</span><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family:georgia;">It is a time filled with family traditions.</span><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family:georgia;"> For us, it begins with the Christmas tree</span><br /><span style="font-family:georgia;"> and the decorations </span><br /><span style="font-family:georgia;"> we hang on its</span> delicate <span style="font-family:georgia;">branches.</span><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyJp6qRKCGrbn2Ahz_M-aE7HtlYBy0VeoXKjHBzbju7nHrM0B25pTG6ygWxovdVCFM81gEvswtKodJ6h5m47IJp2EUvFevInqza4rt5XIlHHrAPfF-JOYlqO0RfQSVH29pzoTrOSYzFrrq/s1600/IMG_5698.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyJp6qRKCGrbn2Ahz_M-aE7HtlYBy0VeoXKjHBzbju7nHrM0B25pTG6ygWxovdVCFM81gEvswtKodJ6h5m47IJp2EUvFevInqza4rt5XIlHHrAPfF-JOYlqO0RfQSVH29pzoTrOSYzFrrq/s400/IMG_5698.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5556367590678619618" border="0" /></a><span style="font-family:georgia;"><br />The ornaments on our Christmas tree </span> <span style="font-family:georgia;">are not randomly chosen.</span> <span style="font-family:georgia;"><br />Instead, </span> <span style="font-family:georgia;">they are remembrances </span> <span style="font-family:georgia;">of the places<br />we've been </span> <span style="font-family:georgia;">throughout the world.</span> <span style="font-family:georgia;"><br />Together as a family.</span><br /><span style="font-family:georgia;">Bonding.</span><br /><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqhiXbdgG4Zr7MvZJBweOSKNGBa0nHz9LQ2sKFLPnv0SPj8xkvTPZzP2UAvHiMGd1An_MgWyqqfvKYfYl78zVHp1MfWMX_ljsiI-cmn-Oa4Xtd9NK-IpVoVDa723kQzBMSJym5NvsAGXzf/s1600/IMG_5838.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqhiXbdgG4Zr7MvZJBweOSKNGBa0nHz9LQ2sKFLPnv0SPj8xkvTPZzP2UAvHiMGd1An_MgWyqqfvKYfYl78zVHp1MfWMX_ljsiI-cmn-Oa4Xtd9NK-IpVoVDa723kQzBMSJym5NvsAGXzf/s400/IMG_5838.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5556368428641725138" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcn344MNHH932WnwUfFysKGV88-n4AF6M7JXW67fWOal9fvfBpOTWUz0gyZhNJjO4w07YCfqjd4SYVlspDKHjrOMOi7VoAlSyYbbW6gdLRwsXJ-aon8fwJzo5ibbb9vPfSPrAu28uWaXCJ/s1600/IMG_5841.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcn344MNHH932WnwUfFysKGV88-n4AF6M7JXW67fWOal9fvfBpOTWUz0gyZhNJjO4w07YCfqjd4SYVlspDKHjrOMOi7VoAlSyYbbW6gdLRwsXJ-aon8fwJzo5ibbb9vPfSPrAu28uWaXCJ/s400/IMG_5841.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5556368424058567250" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdIiNAktkuEfk6aGIr0UMJ04eh8Nm1d0lOlYiK4BwJtkaOD7jvufAnD3WpVZPjs0P2D-oPtcZgFDHCHQnneBHKz7B4yAFrKr6lr05Sm1gnX4wzBhcamw_q1B1W0WD3w-GaiaTt6JVZKMrG/s1600/IMG_5843.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdIiNAktkuEfk6aGIr0UMJ04eh8Nm1d0lOlYiK4BwJtkaOD7jvufAnD3WpVZPjs0P2D-oPtcZgFDHCHQnneBHKz7B4yAFrKr6lr05Sm1gnX4wzBhcamw_q1B1W0WD3w-GaiaTt6JVZKMrG/s400/IMG_5843.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5556368418139069298" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCj4XyV3eBX3YMPbfSfGoMThTjofOt0l-t9DeU4PVUWr-UwQHFXOcPxxJCIhfog6YffH3Vu2DBtV9hehSHbq35lXc9-s8ZoUKUst9UKreceT7sLPVA1spg5EaZGUVlNPE8lBVyiKgNyeD2/s1600/IMG_5844.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCj4XyV3eBX3YMPbfSfGoMThTjofOt0l-t9DeU4PVUWr-UwQHFXOcPxxJCIhfog6YffH3Vu2DBtV9hehSHbq35lXc9-s8ZoUKUst9UKreceT7sLPVA1spg5EaZGUVlNPE8lBVyiKgNyeD2/s400/IMG_5844.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5556368416765661410" border="0" /></a><span style="font-family:georgia;"><br />Some ornaments represent our childhood<br />and the places we've lived.</span><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUnNVwEEAjiZDr8a8g1KsSrxqQKmiI9Kg6UUf3DxNZq5ePVRDXSp31Bf3KiRYufhyphenhyphenRXOvaL4cThhW4cv_4UOcDo7aawtK70StrC-IdNXpKirJqCgeO9aDQjQmqd_yWl7PVa7kCKoiWsua5/s1600/IMG_5851.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUnNVwEEAjiZDr8a8g1KsSrxqQKmiI9Kg6UUf3DxNZq5ePVRDXSp31Bf3KiRYufhyphenhyphenRXOvaL4cThhW4cv_4UOcDo7aawtK70StrC-IdNXpKirJqCgeO9aDQjQmqd_yWl7PVa7kCKoiWsua5/s400/IMG_5851.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5556367606311252098" border="0" /></a><span style="font-family:georgia;"><br />While others are cutesy gifts</span><br /><span style="font-family:georgia;"> the children made at school </span> <span style="font-family:georgia;">each year~</span><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8Cw-nBnzjei9IjRyxDLZoCv-n9SLEbl14nI4_Gz-z1Fbto0D__WPHarERfoBmpe20ECCJ2iw7lepEVPBX1w18oqcecBvyvYjeWrPdXlM2QGAyw6Rggp7k3zxcT64KnA-0pugy5pcJdRUg/s1600/IMG_6082.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8Cw-nBnzjei9IjRyxDLZoCv-n9SLEbl14nI4_Gz-z1Fbto0D__WPHarERfoBmpe20ECCJ2iw7lepEVPBX1w18oqcecBvyvYjeWrPdXlM2QGAyw6Rggp7k3zxcT64KnA-0pugy5pcJdRUg/s400/IMG_6082.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5556387565138555666" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJdty0sE5-w0mNDDKaO2IYXppVNtePL8v3NZvnpBviUl9e2W1wODb6TOw_CGKEy5f_3qQIvu4Mh7AixUfzNZPvr9_X4qSesuRniGh99yVhBiGWIt0hO_sHp0I5_IwYsNfMOnsOsoylIaPJ/s1600/IMG_6080.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJdty0sE5-w0mNDDKaO2IYXppVNtePL8v3NZvnpBviUl9e2W1wODb6TOw_CGKEy5f_3qQIvu4Mh7AixUfzNZPvr9_X4qSesuRniGh99yVhBiGWIt0hO_sHp0I5_IwYsNfMOnsOsoylIaPJ/s400/IMG_6080.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5556387563954180226" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-family:georgia;">And some are perfect for tracking our children's</span> <span style="font-family:georgia;">growth.</span><br /><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEis1dcAkDpvHbviYmPs8UP2gb5DWY5B-gaEmatuNEBOFLQGMJKF8GTX0QHy8l7lCNUCsx6E3dvCnz_Gin2q7Y5TF8FUM1DIJephXnLS7r5MDZLghZoekjAH6jdCzbGXjRgro9ZVA96Fe3M0/s1600/IMG_5697.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEis1dcAkDpvHbviYmPs8UP2gb5DWY5B-gaEmatuNEBOFLQGMJKF8GTX0QHy8l7lCNUCsx6E3dvCnz_Gin2q7Y5TF8FUM1DIJephXnLS7r5MDZLghZoekjAH6jdCzbGXjRgro9ZVA96Fe3M0/s400/IMG_5697.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5556367587013749186" border="0" /></a><span style="font-family:georgia;"><br /></span><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family:georgia;">I love to sit and look at the Christmas tree.</span><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family:georgia;">And quietly reflect on the places we've been,</span><br /><span style="font-family:georgia;">and the fun things we've done.<br />Which has helped to shape</span><br /><span style="font-family:georgia;">our </span> <span style="font-family:georgia;">family into who we are today.</span><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJdty0sE5-w0mNDDKaO2IYXppVNtePL8v3NZvnpBviUl9e2W1wODb6TOw_CGKEy5f_3qQIvu4Mh7AixUfzNZPvr9_X4qSesuRniGh99yVhBiGWIt0hO_sHp0I5_IwYsNfMOnsOsoylIaPJ/s1600/IMG_6080.jpg"><br /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIbV91nXld_5MBwARfdKOwTCX7o5emJ3XU6RvsRl3aDN1bJ0iDK_NMgULzPmR3oLo-I8gzxKN8QfoAtffBlACEo-8uaqMy-iTDAouQing1OOnqL03pbjpx5y_X-xY2GdNRsi27YRXD1FhX/s1600/IMG_5847.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIbV91nXld_5MBwARfdKOwTCX7o5emJ3XU6RvsRl3aDN1bJ0iDK_NMgULzPmR3oLo-I8gzxKN8QfoAtffBlACEo-8uaqMy-iTDAouQing1OOnqL03pbjpx5y_X-xY2GdNRsi27YRXD1FhX/s400/IMG_5847.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5556391330353112658" border="0" /></a><span style="font-family:georgia;"><br />Our Christmas tree </span> <span style="font-family:georgia;">is unique in that way.</span><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family:georgia;">It's truly a symbol of the love</span> <span style="font-family:georgia;">we share as a family.</span><br /><span style="font-family:georgia;">Atop our tree hangs </span> <span style="font-family:georgia;">a beautiful, red glass<span style="font-style: italic;"> heart</span> ornament~</span><br /><span style="font-family:georgia;"> For our family is the<span style="font-style: italic;"> heart</span> of our</span> <span style="font-family:georgia;">HOME!</span><br />And our Christmas tree is a<br />true representation of that.<br /><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXiMjAnwovRJ1_ifkCwcTkLXOQZWIF-R8KBHV1zFf13DqB26Ddhw1JX8O55zlZmBYbml-WX3n2jkaYr-Agp9YQsfnxq_KXRTJ_aAmqWh6Bo8HsGVkqwpbhUr-T64Rv2VUkMQjJPRliYUfq/s1600/IMG_5973.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXiMjAnwovRJ1_ifkCwcTkLXOQZWIF-R8KBHV1zFf13DqB26Ddhw1JX8O55zlZmBYbml-WX3n2jkaYr-Agp9YQsfnxq_KXRTJ_aAmqWh6Bo8HsGVkqwpbhUr-T64Rv2VUkMQjJPRliYUfq/s400/IMG_5973.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5556367600173909650" border="0" /></a><span style="font-family:georgia;"><br /></span><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family:georgia;">Merry Christmas & Happy New Year!</span> <span style="font-family:georgia;"> </span><br /></div>LisaBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11665617488810534525noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7649159856256328048.post-38821975043045892892010-10-25T22:00:00.000-07:002010-10-25T23:27:16.290-07:00A Sweet, Happy Place...<div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwFKp-LqNmMID4pK11wT41lO92zQ-cYappgvDXpZBUCY7Mscl3T157LxAV6BzxPMhNH_dStfkXNHVkZkAfJFgOJOYMFA8JzLKGz6VQFfNG9H4Gvv1FjldYPsU17srUy2Rf9y5Y-LpjkXoJ/s1600/IMG_1469.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwFKp-LqNmMID4pK11wT41lO92zQ-cYappgvDXpZBUCY7Mscl3T157LxAV6BzxPMhNH_dStfkXNHVkZkAfJFgOJOYMFA8JzLKGz6VQFfNG9H4Gvv1FjldYPsU17srUy2Rf9y5Y-LpjkXoJ/s400/IMG_1469.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5532236878376102450" border="0" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">When I go to bed at night,</span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">I close my eyes and drift off</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">to my happy place.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">which, as of late,</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">is Venice,</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Italy.</span></span></div></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLX-T7fHmrjjs6Pn7gOHV5OaX-HfdHwERpwaOAYghIsqFajU8ZyvpuBl5xl49RRUFL5PoIdfeurZmnXGqRz-P7Zaxah4RMWZoTx4nyvMBmI61bdMRNVeRSQtMSVawva3u2-arOJnjsugMT/s1600/DSC_0466.jpg"></a></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwstT3nq42rLpM1ACFdKth1sgQ87beKrm3TqRcJscn00jU5Fixjaa3PnhiPw7Aj4EBLOWzqYkWvMj4xNbhyrPyjmgRUEe-iMVf64wgL4wos34mO6oH0PyqlLdmerSO_GWIM23HxXXzTDVz/s1600/DSC_0459.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwstT3nq42rLpM1ACFdKth1sgQ87beKrm3TqRcJscn00jU5Fixjaa3PnhiPw7Aj4EBLOWzqYkWvMj4xNbhyrPyjmgRUEe-iMVf64wgL4wos34mO6oH0PyqlLdmerSO_GWIM23HxXXzTDVz/s400/DSC_0459.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5530161258385619362" border="0" /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">I've dreamt of going there my entire life.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">I guess I always imagined it as being the perfect place</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> to visit with the love of my life.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Then gain, I'm a sucker for romance.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Almost six months ago,</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">I was fortunate enough</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">to share two very special days</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">in Venice, Italy.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">And for the record,</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">two days weren't nearly enough.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Our trip into Venice was truly breathtaking.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">While coming into port,</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> we stood on the top deck of our cruise ship </span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">to get the best possible view of this world class city.<br /></span></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRPbcp-RQmbH5mx_ifBJyLC-px_dLJ9F7fdn-g58KhhFqTHEcpnxc3ahz_5pd7wvDoVD2DTB15C3sjWLY38jRJIWj0OoE8pOmDlJmypKsH_djw8uJXKHx-8XHMFSnjQurTjrC2PGvXe8LQ/s1600/IMG_1339.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRPbcp-RQmbH5mx_ifBJyLC-px_dLJ9F7fdn-g58KhhFqTHEcpnxc3ahz_5pd7wvDoVD2DTB15C3sjWLY38jRJIWj0OoE8pOmDlJmypKsH_djw8uJXKHx-8XHMFSnjQurTjrC2PGvXe8LQ/s400/IMG_1339.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5532235244558043906" border="0" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">To make the moment even more spectacular,</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Our cruise ship, the Regent Seven Seas,</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> had classical music playing in the background.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">As we got closer and closer </span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">and Venice came into clear view,</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">I felt overwhelmed with an abundance of emotions.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">I couldn't believe I was actually there.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">For two whole days,</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">I was in heaven.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">And walked around feeling like I was in a dream.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Our first stop off the ship was the famous</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Harry's Bar.</span></span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238);"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYK247KXnNcbGC1X0bAX_hxBYVqs5aXtsOcSThgr0sQ2eSBaYnPJs4B2k1WAHYNZN44vJKwXx3LCVE4UJdbdcz-dHpGVvHoKkQOuZVFh7srjAzmH5yGiHjnOyN8mkmtCaRla_ybUYxhTXv/s400/DSC_0328.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5530160232434324690" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 266px; height: 400px;" border="0" /></span><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">{You can read about the history of Harry's Bar, </span><a href="http://www.harrysbarvenezia.com/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">here</span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">}</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">The pasta there was out-of-this-world.<br /></span></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSls0GyGOmiTSTaV2IuNhbEenu05i6P1hqvmQRYv6CGuvjiEUdLfrQrioi3rkb47I5sMh91MSkYn8Y933KNofd4QDXecnajkh9q6cJ5eBdZQdx8TE7FzVi-3Y2lX7znC5Nu-MSX-1yRMwr/s1600/IMG_1391.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSls0GyGOmiTSTaV2IuNhbEenu05i6P1hqvmQRYv6CGuvjiEUdLfrQrioi3rkb47I5sMh91MSkYn8Y933KNofd4QDXecnajkh9q6cJ5eBdZQdx8TE7FzVi-3Y2lX7znC5Nu-MSX-1yRMwr/s400/IMG_1391.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5532231323480706386" border="0" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Harry's Bar is also well-known</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">for the Bellini.<br /></span></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7J2_AgslMxUuasEIQijKilstZJnPCZGs5gEXkYHClDWPGZhTbsOZ2hoGKkxJVTX89h8Yv9B3fMG-pdSs9D2eyvYLsjfb0kokTMMZffSXDCNu8OIy-P31ZQUlbCDdZ5lDiuBzEs5IRi8DS/s1600/IMG_1389.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7J2_AgslMxUuasEIQijKilstZJnPCZGs5gEXkYHClDWPGZhTbsOZ2hoGKkxJVTX89h8Yv9B3fMG-pdSs9D2eyvYLsjfb0kokTMMZffSXDCNu8OIy-P31ZQUlbCDdZ5lDiuBzEs5IRi8DS/s400/IMG_1389.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5532231315956831490" border="0" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Currently, my favorite drink.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">I could have had several.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">It was a fine dining experience like no other.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">We packed in as much as we possibly could</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">in the short time we had.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">We walked these colorful corridors</span></span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238);"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1AKo5spEu3gU7iNnklgNFHu_VJRjcMANl6jlcBKAzGPiR6hyphenhyphenIkKueqSsQtJd-DWRVPCZQTG0hqkrWE5_PQFp-4WbzqLjkid3zdzI_jrXhrYM83sgwpqrMIjOnPKRo89x7qPvDVDfVvoTI/s400/IMG_1440.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5530163899583674434" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" border="0" /></span><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">stopping for...</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Pizza.</span></span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238);"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGfswfsGzftYGgvY3YgSQTRKP3Mp2T7i7IGOwQluQTMeAeuvUsAaugrPo-0zZk-gHYVxUDOlavep9tDkQC5D7IIoy9lOUkY8RfHLHQN-wm9PvvNSSjU0i5WHxv_UMZVrzxJiWvKeTgTrQq/s400/IMG_1380.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5530163389176326178" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" border="0" /></span><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Gelato.</span></span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238);"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0Sh-KFjimm6ZW3EMolY5kITTwHaFfMLedEBbEMXoyBAFAhN4K_GP_yF3-vA7pXq3ALKBDVEnlJnQOs5Q8YTEUuJh_vIBXSUy2lNrI5WjW6mfKnuwKrqWU_SsDh7vfGorwS8GzWRZbNNFi/s400/IMG_1438.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5530163395017012402" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" border="0" /></span><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Photos.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Italian made shoes.<br /></span></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixAzmssya8y3eUqms_Vq2GTbn4mgalxB8Z2EcVLTVSyW5qOZTRFqiYXk7O2nrzEjltDwxB1lmNcFae61FtjJf3E7OrkZUHFttL5Vixx4GM7V4pe9W_O6RF4r6b0dASS1peIS-iRVO4-To3/s1600/IMG_1591.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixAzmssya8y3eUqms_Vq2GTbn4mgalxB8Z2EcVLTVSyW5qOZTRFqiYXk7O2nrzEjltDwxB1lmNcFae61FtjJf3E7OrkZUHFttL5Vixx4GM7V4pe9W_O6RF4r6b0dASS1peIS-iRVO4-To3/s400/IMG_1591.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5532234097716624034" border="0" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Italian soccer jerseys. </span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Paper.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Murano Glass.</span></span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238);"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLX-T7fHmrjjs6Pn7gOHV5OaX-HfdHwERpwaOAYghIsqFajU8ZyvpuBl5xl49RRUFL5PoIdfeurZmnXGqRz-P7Zaxah4RMWZoTx4nyvMBmI61bdMRNVeRSQtMSVawva3u2-arOJnjsugMT/s400/DSC_0466.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5530161515379794914" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" border="0" /></span><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">And a Gondola ride.</span></span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238);"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg63lTpej-DcNK-eF60XgioRVn0Ngl0QK2P8F-jgBdIZmOTI0zsZH41v8cE8VaBUlrgIJwmNNYnlw2cA2XvsfxsQCYRf-cr3oaYmBwVyoAq8dp_xboy0s7AvhZ_upKuHIoO0tx-n_F8eyZ7/s400/DSC_0423.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5530160860489736018" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 266px; height: 400px;" border="0" /></span><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">'Cause a trip to Venice, the City of Canals,</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">wouldn't be complete without one.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhINumo27pJOBtY7tEZL4ZB3hJBYdgDLiCCkeTNrl17QTPN90-8VwJR3W_w9EYsP1vHYtLDbJjfUQgWsZUnQ3UohdRanysyguek0TD1QSpHucR6nQgALNtW4tWSakmv4cMuKP_xC1ABqRzw/s1600/DSC_0435.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhINumo27pJOBtY7tEZL4ZB3hJBYdgDLiCCkeTNrl17QTPN90-8VwJR3W_w9EYsP1vHYtLDbJjfUQgWsZUnQ3UohdRanysyguek0TD1QSpHucR6nQgALNtW4tWSakmv4cMuKP_xC1ABqRzw/s400/DSC_0435.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5532231308598793666" border="0" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">We toured through a maze of narrow streets</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">and over bridges</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">which is what makes </span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Venice such a unique and gorgeous city.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">We walked </span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">and walked...</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">and walked....</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">until our feet couldn't possibly take a step more.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">And we shopped</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">and shopped....</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">and shopped....</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> until each of our hands </span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">were so filled with bags, </span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">we couldn't possibly fit another.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">At which point,</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">we were FORCED, against our will,</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> to head back to the ship.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Where we dropped off our precious finds of the day.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">However, when we did, </span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">we literally collapsed from utter exhaustion.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> Two hours later,</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> I woke up and found myself face down on the bed. Drooling.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">I wiped the drool from my face.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Rubbed my blurry eyes,</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">and looked at the clock to find,</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">that luckily we'd woke-up just in time to head to St. Mark's Square</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> to listen to dueling orchestras play</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> at four very famous cafes around the Piazza San Marco. </span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">BUT, </span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">we were told </span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> that because it was a full moon, </span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">there'd be high tides.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">And not only was there a full moon,</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">and high tides... </span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">there was wind.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">When you combine those 3 forces~</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">AMAZING things happen in Venice.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Like,</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">St. Mark's Square FLOODS!!</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">NO JOKE!!!</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Funny thing is,</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">it only happens 100 times a year.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238);font-family:Georgia, serif;" ><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJoo3FxUoK0tvBhb13NEx4ernqpoytQy5kzubqNTivrK8EyF677THn9H7wfzDFsmYhqaNEYBgiDcWEB0JmzNghKuXa2gjbSlGI8M1bBkHT8Vs7lOE2N6qRC-3Hm7smzAmkqMR1A-iH2D1C/s400/IMG_1498.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5530164988567861762" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" border="0" /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Guess what?</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">We just happened to be there for this phenomenon!!</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Unfortunately, a flooded St. Mark's Square means...</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> there are </span><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">NO</span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> dueling orchestras.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Instead, you take off your shoes, </span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">roll up your pants,</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> and wade through this famous square to get to the other side.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"> </div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">We did end up finding a cafe across from the Doge's Palace</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> which was not affected by the rising waters. </span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">with gorgeous live music playing.</span></span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238);"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLnETJQiHElAdjYXrGYCLxWiry30gHHyCTVUVnlIZoZr38En5f31AnBCYAutvQwHKkWCzOtqv5Cb8KpnhUxEBXtuO7uXknN7AoT35Rwky9NhghS3pIp1ovcTtslePfrXkIR7VVC3UCS5zr/s400/IMG_1505.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5530165523835681906" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" border="0" /></span><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">It echoed throughout the plaza.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">It was beyond romantic.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">It stopped us in our tracks.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">We stood there and listened. </span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">And kissed.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">I found myself completely mesmerized. </span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">It was so beautiful,</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">I managed to totally forget how hungry I was.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Then again, we'd slept right through dinner.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Now it was almost 11 o'clock at night,</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">and we were famished.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">So, when the song ended, we went hunting for</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">someplace to eat.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Someplace that was still open at that late hour. </span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">We ended up stumbling across an adorable little cafe</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> right on the Grand Canal.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">A cute Italian man came out and said,</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">"Everything on the menu is 8 Euros.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">We will make you whatever you want."</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Gary and I were sold.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">It couldn't have been more perfect.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">We walked in,</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> found ourselves a seat </span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">and sat down outside~</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Under the stars.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">And a full moon.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">It's bright reflection filled the canal. </span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">We ordered pasta bolognese and a pizza with deli ham.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">{Pizza in Italy has different toppings than the US}.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">The food was delicious.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">The ambiance, stunning.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">The evening was unforgettable.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Finally at midnight,</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">we hopped aboard a water taxi and headed back to the ship so we could go to bed.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> We were beat after spending 12 hours wandering around this fascinating place.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">The following morning we woke up bright and early.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Ate breakfast on the top deck of the ship~</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238);"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNtfzTYP8euqKObSesCkgfaOyFaEEwOUR57yOUZNcvsJ2jnOVlLTSdmxz8BkDXql-h4E6br6HV4EQ5s3x_R4FGfcc-r__5hsCb872Wthf6FdruVbk-pfe4nQjvvnhUiASr8cxucR0ER5XW/s400/IMG_1519.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5530166316478132306" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" border="0" /></span><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Which was overlooking</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">this picturesque city.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">I bolted my food down.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Grabbed my camera, purse, Gary's hand</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">and walked all over Venice</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">one last time.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">This time,</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> while sauntering through a little square, we </span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> heard the most angelic orchestral music pouring out of </span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">a church.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Gary and I looked at each other in utter amazement.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Once again were taken back.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Once again we stopped in our tracks.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">And were drawn inside. </span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">It happened to be a FREE exhibit at the Museum of Music~</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Il Museo Della Musica</span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">.</span></span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238);"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRBRKfbESamYY5sZ5KHw5m2gUeazJqpUtnfqTvX0VTmv1qsZ0q8EpRjKSpS4-gkN-ocxC1Rt6wuJV3yVf0aFR_7oT0clDjWrYfSS2kButAR9ysCbJkb-XEdnP1iAgT096fAw-e0nPSCT-Q/s400/DSC_0513.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5530162207194434610" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" border="0" /></span><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">It featured some of the most beautifully crafted violins in the ENTIRE world!</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">You see, if you didn't know already,</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Violins have a history in Venice, Italy.</span></span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238);"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjaF0wtsaGLB_ehQ2giVmy4p_QrJWbOV7isxgNWJ4VekUkjy3iTFSY8gPLJrcRAp8HNJDupRrkbxWfv79sR1qO0yjXt5LEKI3LsDzrYQFwkBs5s6irNei_0lThIis72qiYV7rlI44Kf9XO/s400/DSC_0493.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5530162203522428994" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 266px; height: 400px;" border="0" /></span><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Here's a little Violin history for you...</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 19px;font-family:arial;" ><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">The Museum of Music, is an exhibition dedicated to one of the artistic expressions which has enriched Italian culture. The making of stringed, wind, and plucked instruments has been a popular art in Italy since 1500 and many great instruments have been produced and admired over time. In fact, the violin was</span><b><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> born </span></i></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">in this part of the world.</span></span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238);"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjifxmbLltBAMRNsWIRQKIwZkf1Qx8eHPR5C59tyrAqZrsv1XflW8pKNXPl6oz2YXhacrYLtynHOPEuPvg4CUlG3zDKq_7yOFoPWYmHAJd70ieTdvnDI4yjZsUSJ1P2jHt_C5D9O0nFJ2R9/s400/DSC_0484.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5530162185417578722" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 266px; height: 400px;" border="0" /></span><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 19px;font-family:arial;" ><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Venice has been the source of numerous composers</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 19px;font-family:arial;" ><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> and is strongly linked to one of the geniuses of Italian instrumental music, </span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 19px;font-family:arial;" ><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238);"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0aT95PVNcSqP8SWb7wLtlZXoW32HQX0n-JgrnlP7L27JoRgcjuLOBKHwWaXrTwI79KtuS2ufApuRp0dnn-0EMyXP8x4aeDIzRklgoC11C6Xk7HkW_DjMbQd4MGznTC6uPH5i37xQF2bpX/s400/DSC_0489.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5530162189450364258" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" border="0" /></span><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 19px;font-family:arial;" ><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Antonio Vivaldi who composed the Four Seasons.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 19px;font-family:arial;" ><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">And fortunately, we were lucky enough to accidentally stumble across this museum </span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 19px;font-family:arial;" ><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">our last day before heading home.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 22px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 22px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 22px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 22px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: normal; color: rgb(0, 0, 238);font-family:Georgia,serif;" ><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg11cl0KXi_OZVqHUaO8h7R98-WEhjndG95lOooqbbcEnZ6BsLpnC_YN_jEd1aR-F6S_SKdF8Nivcxe-xIzPvj_DVS9DmCVq0rx_trgrDQsNMMC7lZ0cH2TZ9C8S9BAzUxlMcL7DY8ZqbRK/s400/IMG_1567.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5530166319461022450" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" border="0" /></span></span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 19px;font-family:arial;" ><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">We gazed at each individual masterpiece in disbelief.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 19px;font-family:arial;" ><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Each, absolute works of art.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 19px;font-family:arial;" ></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 19px;font-family:arial;" ><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">As we did,</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 19px;font-family:arial;" ><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">tears filled our eyes and streaked down our cheeks.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 19px;font-family:arial;" ><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">We were in heaven on Earth.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 19px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">After our emotion-filled tour of the Museum of Music,</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">we did an audio tour of the Piazza San Marco</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">with Rick Steve's as our guide.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">We sat ourselves down at the oldest cafe in the world,</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">The Florian.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Where we were served a light lunch</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">on a silver platter.</span></span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238);"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm47Z6HHu8mmTLjPf7jfByoyPwVn-d1se-WK6XhUDbxgB3VU1ps-aYp-MGfpMjWIOMqmvlZOX0I2Jy73wqCsmkNdg4QmIES2_MqhJZaIHDhrz4A7AJovDkJcJg1H_ysEPJ_MxyVqXlIBAM/s400/IMG_1600.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5530166329373828530" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" border="0" /></span><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Literally.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">We took a peaceful, quiet tour of St. Mark's Basilica.<br /></span></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ5Dg8JgwDQNI_5r3KiSrJoA2i6D7b9RMBRYVpMfLp0CHfzqVyNq0Jhr-Jh3EfssRCZ4SxfuEGBZ5s7-uUz5nqh69IgFG_xGGfnFjNgDB2qW_3eWliOkFOHyTxt5fSgHFZWF3LUA_C0ESf/s1600/DSC_0343.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ5Dg8JgwDQNI_5r3KiSrJoA2i6D7b9RMBRYVpMfLp0CHfzqVyNq0Jhr-Jh3EfssRCZ4SxfuEGBZ5s7-uUz5nqh69IgFG_xGGfnFjNgDB2qW_3eWliOkFOHyTxt5fSgHFZWF3LUA_C0ESf/s400/DSC_0343.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5532231313545797346" border="0" /></a><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">And explored Doge's Palace~</span></span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238);"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIg7VmkdobrtR8wrguc9G9-oaC75eEUT3c41O-2kfeZ_cJiDD-9u6HM_whs617the5VLssWdFVvql1QDrNys3MZejs2k3HoPW2Ch2E-lF9V9qjrbiBflrNUdYOTnwvPeXqOtYlcPzvnXh4/s400/IMG_1667.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5530166338267555394" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" border="0" /></span><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Which was the most incredible~</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Most amazing~</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> place I've been to in my WHOLE life.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">The architecture,</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">statues,<br /></span></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0aFDfKhjzp8r5Rp7wqHU3WNXnq3Rz7k9Q0epGjDpXDgXq7HO8wFVVl1UXEVBKd5dczau05QyyMTj0PFy5XluBXymi6FNJwgMfjU_ih-y8C-vLS5fTFHFlfkV_pdsqhnDMq9vpFQ4zFdo-/s1600/IMG_1666.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0aFDfKhjzp8r5Rp7wqHU3WNXnq3Rz7k9Q0epGjDpXDgXq7HO8wFVVl1UXEVBKd5dczau05QyyMTj0PFy5XluBXymi6FNJwgMfjU_ih-y8C-vLS5fTFHFlfkV_pdsqhnDMq9vpFQ4zFdo-/s400/IMG_1666.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5532234121458379170" border="0" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">art,</span></span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238);"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdcZxSKOVlFPR7QZ6GozNwplWRBzST_gseJixnoRGm8xkMzWA73yCskDNeCt60ks8WzeiUR_w6mCqiJCX7NMhNI8ze2vSarkJwxRawFygnWngizeEy0b7HPPLfAU5VUX8cU7NciabDzIAF/s400/IMG_1633.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5530166331909309458" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" border="0" /></span><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">everything</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">unbelievable.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Jaw dropping.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">{I had to pick my jaw up off the ground several times during this trip}.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Our tour of Venice, Italy</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">ended there.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">At Doge's Palace.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">We had to get back to the ship</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">to prepare for the </span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">CA Technologies Award</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Ceremony.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Then again,</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">that is why we were there.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Gary is a Senior Solutions Strategist for CA.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">He had such a successful year, they awarded him with a trip to the</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Mediterranean.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">And Venice, Italy was our final stop.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">This was a </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> black-tie, evening gown event.<br /></span></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidyYHAYd0HjPHseRjmB6cpC6e4oBUrRROthkJHFFKLA2xXpvLQTsaK0Tfw7KoAoqhT8WdvWxKpszucv-KQ6Trl3e44EP0e0ULzoArzAswG-TzKOUXaFmqqAESwM4k3czmXNlXRhYpnq14C/s1600/IMG_1678.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidyYHAYd0HjPHseRjmB6cpC6e4oBUrRROthkJHFFKLA2xXpvLQTsaK0Tfw7KoAoqhT8WdvWxKpszucv-KQ6Trl3e44EP0e0ULzoArzAswG-TzKOUXaFmqqAESwM4k3czmXNlXRhYpnq14C/s400/IMG_1678.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5532231375149559730" border="0" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Awards were given.<br /></span></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3nh_BhSiDIghTcTLCD0YconBpIHV5DdtDFUysK-UEHnnKLNZhCQ9S3jyRt8mqqoVyKh0SlTLOi_RcZ-oXNmJGvUrjIw1rbUIyEd6eGJmiEF_tke8NkzxaihDNA03WYmkR5jAcXHMuS9Tw/s1600/IMG_1686.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3nh_BhSiDIghTcTLCD0YconBpIHV5DdtDFUysK-UEHnnKLNZhCQ9S3jyRt8mqqoVyKh0SlTLOi_RcZ-oXNmJGvUrjIw1rbUIyEd6eGJmiEF_tke8NkzxaihDNA03WYmkR5jAcXHMuS9Tw/s400/IMG_1686.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5532234113923765618" border="0" /></a><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">A special dinner was held at </span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">The Arsenal</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">in Venice to celebrate.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">It was Carnivale Themed.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">We even wore masks.<br /></span></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7Qk1uyWY6yGT_IuTWhc8zPf-9QKGK4Uu_XJTm9wVu_7NjwcWf-Psg39w88x_0cqHWXXzMWgEXzJrljKiKVHbW7VO1NuQVqYFdA1awWe4RZV-VK8Yg_VoxM7_hnfLQmpatopHgH_bAVVpb/s1600/IMG_1705.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7Qk1uyWY6yGT_IuTWhc8zPf-9QKGK4Uu_XJTm9wVu_7NjwcWf-Psg39w88x_0cqHWXXzMWgEXzJrljKiKVHbW7VO1NuQVqYFdA1awWe4RZV-VK8Yg_VoxM7_hnfLQmpatopHgH_bAVVpb/s400/IMG_1705.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5532234099522950162" border="0" /></a><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">And enjoyed some fun entertainment.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">When the night ended, we took one last water taxi ride back to our ship</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">where we packed our bags.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">And placed them outside our door by </span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">midnight.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">The following morning we were to catch a bus to the </span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Venice Airport</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">and head back to US soil on a long flight home.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">My last night on the ship, I didn't sleep.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">I just tossed and turned all night.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">I couldn't find my happy place.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Before I knew it,</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">the sun was shining through our curtains.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">It was time to bid farewell to a place I'd </span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">dreamt of my entire life.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">As Gary and I got ready to go home that Friday morning,</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">I cried. </span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> I looked out across our balcony at Venice</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> and thought about how thankful I was that we were given this opportunity of a lifetime.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">To travel to parts of the world I never thought I'd have a chance to visit.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">I was grateful for.... </span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Each and every place I'd been.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Every place I'd seen.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Every feeling I'd felt.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">And for the person who made it possible~</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">The love of my life.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">We shared some pretty incredible moments together.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">It was a trip I will cherish forever. </span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> Now, each night as I lie down to go to bed,</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> I have no problem finding my happy place.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">When I do,</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">I fall peacefully asleep.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">And dream of </span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">being back in<br /></span></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjafQKYyeA190x-jxO8VbCrU_Icwh6pzZ2a2RsMXHtLZvr6lwRVcnCw9d8mXeADE6pINPQiOmR-NWEHBrMGmth_FYk1ldcnc5igJOI-0y3gUSYsfHzjZx4F8iyNP_nsxlRVR1f6KuQNXdb-/s1600/IMG_1690.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjafQKYyeA190x-jxO8VbCrU_Icwh6pzZ2a2RsMXHtLZvr6lwRVcnCw9d8mXeADE6pINPQiOmR-NWEHBrMGmth_FYk1ldcnc5igJOI-0y3gUSYsfHzjZx4F8iyNP_nsxlRVR1f6KuQNXdb-/s400/IMG_1690.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5532234104075861842" border="0" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Italy.</span></span></div>LisaBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11665617488810534525noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7649159856256328048.post-89187746192910863132010-10-10T13:31:00.000-07:002010-10-11T09:16:35.490-07:00Disneyland Halloween Trickery....& a Sweet Treat!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjveZNRPlc9Zrsj59r6uFTzSZFXnVCOy9VayJPNGdrZsg-oOMxT0iM9kYqUyenNCnzhAm1Q9oNaY7sT-WM78RZoXK4V31qKe2b5YmPCWkQikr6D3f7OPk2KgEBPZqv1ZPLI2ydJKXyvHJ17/s1600/disneyhalloween.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 322px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjveZNRPlc9Zrsj59r6uFTzSZFXnVCOy9VayJPNGdrZsg-oOMxT0iM9kYqUyenNCnzhAm1Q9oNaY7sT-WM78RZoXK4V31qKe2b5YmPCWkQikr6D3f7OPk2KgEBPZqv1ZPLI2ydJKXyvHJ17/s400/disneyhalloween.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5526594164912923090" border="0" /></a><span style=";font-family:lucida grande;font-size:100%;"><br /></span><div style="text-align: center;"><span style=";font-family:lucida grande;font-size:100%;">We tried to take the kids to Disneyland</span><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style=";font-family:lucida grande;font-size:100%;"> this past weekend to see all the Halloween decorations and<br />go on a few rides.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhgwSV13xnFaZfn6dycG4VOwfxvFKQJ-yEaCKiSr8SYfKb9atiMQ25_ftYSpeaCNt5437LUnlQt_jZx-PVvZ1BEdg1oEdrrKeXzY4t7WG1TEwfhVPOIFVPR0idXLve5q7VxRLxAXkdxBt2/s1600/ahalloweentime.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 414px; height: 274px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhgwSV13xnFaZfn6dycG4VOwfxvFKQJ-yEaCKiSr8SYfKb9atiMQ25_ftYSpeaCNt5437LUnlQt_jZx-PVvZ1BEdg1oEdrrKeXzY4t7WG1TEwfhVPOIFVPR0idXLve5q7VxRLxAXkdxBt2/s400/ahalloweentime.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5526528055848600434" border="0" /></a></span><span style=";font-family:lucida grande;font-size:100%;"><br />Tried is the key word here.<br />Disneyland was a zoo.<br />Not an amusement park.<br />It was utter insanity.<br />Countless people had the same idea we did.<br />And amazingly we all converged on Disneyland at the exact same time.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-rPh3_rSMrjo9EgU18EJ5aRwfENAYCIoYasdPZn3mfpXSMUfESX_D09rg4jsT_Fj6XdXkfZhHZaE-3yBqpM4dvDjI761tHKvfR3K3bfB2W6OIDLuX2HNOl610dy7U1np0Ns0sVkMbZBhx/s1600/mickeys-halloween-party_primary.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 461px; height: 203px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-rPh3_rSMrjo9EgU18EJ5aRwfENAYCIoYasdPZn3mfpXSMUfESX_D09rg4jsT_Fj6XdXkfZhHZaE-3yBqpM4dvDjI761tHKvfR3K3bfB2W6OIDLuX2HNOl610dy7U1np0Ns0sVkMbZBhx/s400/mickeys-halloween-party_primary.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5526532947472587026" border="0" /></a></span><span style=";font-family:lucida grande;font-size:100%;"><br />We shuffled along.<br />through Adventure Land,<br />trying to make our way to Pirates of the Caribbean<br />and the Haunted House.<br />It took us 30 minutes just to navigate through<br />the crowd.<br /><br />In that time,<br />I'm certain I rolled over<br />a half-dozen people's feet<br />with Megan's stroller.<br />Which made me feel horrible.<br />But how do you push a stroller<br />through a sea of people without<br />rolling over a few toes?<br /><br />I have never seen so many frustrated<br />theme-park goers in one place at one time.<br />It went from the Happiest Place on Earth<br />to the Not-so-Happiest Place on Earth<br />in a flash.<br />And it definitely was NOT a Goulishly Good Time...<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz7-ZaEXuBit8wVUTXLKSecBWSssdDMP97gCeBNsFbL257JAkksWcMFRCJ0Mn8oS9Yqa9MF_7oX9UFiiT-GdQ4qopQtUQmuGKgfLF4sdCVSvc4q4XH97mNbHylu9LDcf6nbtVmj4sMWD5u/s1600/Halloween-Time2.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 360px; height: 452px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz7-ZaEXuBit8wVUTXLKSecBWSssdDMP97gCeBNsFbL257JAkksWcMFRCJ0Mn8oS9Yqa9MF_7oX9UFiiT-GdQ4qopQtUQmuGKgfLF4sdCVSvc4q4XH97mNbHylu9LDcf6nbtVmj4sMWD5u/s400/Halloween-Time2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5526525475732441522" border="0" /></a></span><span style=";font-family:lucida grande;font-size:100%;"><br />Having grown up in Southern California,<br />I've been to Disneyland<br />too many time to count.<br />And I have NEVER seen it like that!<br />It was baffling.<br />And far from magical.<br />At least this time around.<br /><br />I think I can safely say<br />Disneyland was at full capacity.<br />Every line was hours long.<br />Even the handicap lines<br />{which we usually use},<br />extended for what seemed like miles.<br />Not worth the wait.<br />Not when you have season passes<br />and can pretty much go whenever you want.<br />I have to say,<br />I felt bad for those who were there on<br />vacation and don't have the luxury<br />of coming and going at their free-will.<br /><br />Soooo....<br />we made the quickest exit possible.<br />And decided we'd<br />take a vacation day<br />from school soon.<br /><br /></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQTOtKPerNzy4UqeEBLhyuzmUhNA6MvX4l9-mLefq-PS0RsWq46EG9oMAX9QoT-81MmHN-IpoySTcVU_KKrAuf9WAIU11xbzn7iQFLoHHRtQmQZciW34N11pzoZMRXAspbduut9hfITky2/s1600/mickeys-not-so-scary-halloween-party-1.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 288px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQTOtKPerNzy4UqeEBLhyuzmUhNA6MvX4l9-mLefq-PS0RsWq46EG9oMAX9QoT-81MmHN-IpoySTcVU_KKrAuf9WAIU11xbzn7iQFLoHHRtQmQZciW34N11pzoZMRXAspbduut9hfITky2/s400/mickeys-not-so-scary-halloween-party-1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5526593641329515490" border="0" /></a><br /><span style=";font-family:lucida grande;font-size:100%;">With the hope that we can enjoy<br />all the Halloween festivities<br />on a future trip to Disneyland without<br />a million visitors there at the exact same time.<br />My fingers are crossed.<br /><br /><br />Instead of jumping on and off rides,<br />we sauntered through Downtown Disney.<br />And TREATED ourselves to a<br />little sweet dessert<br />at Haagan Daz.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgP9QvaoHm1WPNbeOa_SGutxNypdTj_3KIBquE4WwufGXdrPjKYE8ANRlbVhnPU-QcVcEQpSOt-9okGhOFOY_4olp76GgUJrJVPok9cisWvvAowmB-CF2VUeV2oaU6HUEo_SaBo9CFzdaXy/s1600/brownies_sundae.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 291px; height: 334px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgP9QvaoHm1WPNbeOa_SGutxNypdTj_3KIBquE4WwufGXdrPjKYE8ANRlbVhnPU-QcVcEQpSOt-9okGhOFOY_4olp76GgUJrJVPok9cisWvvAowmB-CF2VUeV2oaU6HUEo_SaBo9CFzdaXy/s400/brownies_sundae.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5526532925100016130" border="0" /></a></span><span style=";font-family:lucida grande;font-size:100%;"><br />I indulged and had a Brownies a la Mode Sundae<br />{which I shared with Megan}.<br />It was delicious.<br />And I don't want to know<br />how many calories it had.<br />And really if I'm being honest,<br />I don't care.<br />Not when it's one of my all time favorites.<br />And the perfect ending to an<br />entertaining evening together as a family.<br /><br />Disneyland served up one thing over the weekend...<br />Halloween TRICKERY!<br />We thought we'd go and have a little Halloween fun,<br />instead to find it merely impossible.<br />Thankfully, there were no TRICKS at Haagan Daz.<br />Just a simply fabulous TREAT!<br /><br />Trick or Treat!<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /></span><br /></div>LisaBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11665617488810534525noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7649159856256328048.post-14679551040141124242010-10-08T07:18:00.000-07:002010-10-10T14:25:42.105-07:00Sweet~Stellar~Stunning California Sunset<div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgp8-yBBpY9qiSdtGbLoAB59CpfKuos65BNvJJnZ7nIOt86TTFp5S8wo4j4hnQq3bUL3eyWC2l4-FAOGBpeII8O-1eSAmyTVPOZM9C2b4NwUE7afA14GijLw5H_enxZoa4fdR2hgutFIKk7/s1600/IMG_4151.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 478px; height: 322px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgp8-yBBpY9qiSdtGbLoAB59CpfKuos65BNvJJnZ7nIOt86TTFp5S8wo4j4hnQq3bUL3eyWC2l4-FAOGBpeII8O-1eSAmyTVPOZM9C2b4NwUE7afA14GijLw5H_enxZoa4fdR2hgutFIKk7/s400/IMG_4151.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5525700842888242690" border="0" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">Fall has arrived!!</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">At last.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">It's my favorite time of year!</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">With it,</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">A little rain. </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">Lightening.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">Thunder.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">And some seriously</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">Sweet.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">Stellar.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">Stunning.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">California style</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">SUNSETS.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238);"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiL-DrIXaZdO-qYnra2QP8QoQuA3C2yv74S9tD-ga1z-GtKTN0Bng5dhLydieWtzgLtcHULioYGqn_ezAVqcoXsP46MNiQlupNIiUHFOm5aYJ-2K_xC1EBShZ_G6UhFT3IRIc3gmpBpx9zs/s400/IMG_4153.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5525700855377356018" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 470px; height: 324px;" border="0" /></span><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">Gorgeous.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">Beyond breathtaking.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">Funny thing is...</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">I shot these photos through the windshield </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">of my car while I was driving.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238);"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwx_ZLDQnHPuUROX3tPVGaSI28qIrToxlGsXOrTSUgYZ591H15Rbj0iNxMjYgLg7VDkoWHnt0wlQXHKiyTl7V2pva_zZxM0r6SLAQNAAJ1emVvaf0liEYn9wjboUC8r3bjeZ_J20lP-0D9/s400/IMG_4158.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5525700860090932690" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 452px; height: 308px;" border="0" /></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238);"></span></span><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">It was too amazing not to.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">The sky was all shades of pink, orange, and blue. </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">The clouds floating around were large and puffy.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">They were like mirrors reflecting the intense shades of the evening sky, </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">which looked like a canopy of heaven.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238);"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkq1ccj2Oxz8j3VEeOwViMNNh9zPbXMaup3yXbWhTHLxOMuxO7Lz59mOiOwvPWx1lFdoq7gJIUTQ7_h9KhQVfdZ9SzEEi4TZo4q9aVyDgcHy8b2oeTqYu2Te7mJi__-LuYx0qlY08v3T5w/s400/IMG_4166.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5525705393125111778" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 308px; height: 431px;" border="0" /></span><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">Thankfully, my camera lives in my purse so when I need it</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">it's at my immediate disposal.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">Because you just never know what is going to catch your eye.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">And this here </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">more than caught my eye.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">However,</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">I wanted to stop my car right there in the middle of the street.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">Stop traffic.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">Stand in the road.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">And have a little photo session </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">with this stunning sunset.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">But I figured that wouldn't be too safe.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">And drivers probably wouldn't appreciate me being in their way.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">People in California have places to go.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">And they always need to get there...</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">FAST.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">So staying in my car,</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">reducing my speed,</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">and taking pictures through the windshield </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">was my best bet.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">And safest.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">And one I'm certain the drivers behind me appreciated.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">Except for the fact I was going 10 MPH.</span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238);"><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></span></div><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjSGsUI3ch_o-ABX-ApoCfQq2-U5igGImXLyDcDA7Poi2-gfnN-OhAhZfaODd9FkiLdVZKBM4dVNR-cLh2aJY4-mE84-VAmYSqDYc3tJjQbSCWb4txFNvULOacP-Z9q3QQ2OyjQLtSHhxd/s400/IMG_4152.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5525700843441983970" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" border="0" /></span><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">It was truly a</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">magnificent moment in my day.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">It left me grateful to live in such</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">a beautiful place.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">A place,</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">I absolutely love calling </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;">Home.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div></div>LisaBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11665617488810534525noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7649159856256328048.post-58099695893930785572010-09-20T10:20:00.000-07:002010-09-30T17:03:35.440-07:00Home Sweet Home....<table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" border="0" bgcolor="#ffffff"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://smilebox.com/play/4d546b7a4d4451304f546b3d0d0a&blogview=true&campaign=blog_playback_link" target="_blank"><img width="386" height="303" alt="Click to play this Smilebox slideshow" src="http://smilebox.com/snap/4d546b7a4d4451304f546b3d0d0a.jpg" style="border: medium none ;" /></a></td></tr><tr><td></td></tr><tr><td align="center"><div style="text-align: center;">My mother and father-in-law lived in this humble home for 46 amazing years.</div><div style="text-align: center;">It's a treasure trove of memories. Wonderful. Sweet. Memories.</div><div style="text-align: center;">My husband, his older brother and sister were each born and raised</div><div style="text-align: center;"> in this home on Garden Grove Avenue in Tarzana.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />It's also the very place where their darling Grandma Rose spent her final days on earth. </div><div style="text-align: center;">Several grandchildren have joined the Bluemel Family and filled this home with their laughter and joy.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">I know my 3 children created some very fond memories in this home over the years.</div><div style="text-align: center;">From celebrating their birthdays~</div><div style="text-align: center;">To hiding inside the GINORMOUS orange tree in the backyard.</div><div style="text-align: center;">And eating blackberries straight off the blackberry bush.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Finding cups filled with gold on St. Patty's Day</div><div style="text-align: center;">And on Easter collecting colorful Easter eggs that had been dropped </div><div style="text-align: center;">all over the yard by the Easter Bunny himself.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Or how about my little Miss Katie helping her Nana cook our </div><div style="text-align: center;">Thanksgiving Feast each year since she was 18 months old.</div><div style="text-align: center;">It has been fun watching how much Katie has grown--</div><div style="text-align: center;">just by looking at photos of her sitting on the kitchen counter right next to her Nana baking pies, making homemade rolls, and all the fixings that make Thanksgiving such a favorite holiday.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">All the grandchildren treasure the evening walks they went on with</div><div style="text-align: center;"> their Nana around the neighborhood. </div><div style="text-align: center;">To visit the "spooky bridge" and water fountain.</div><div style="text-align: center;">There were many basketball games played on the driveway.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Except, since Little Miss Megan was too small to join in an energetic game of basketball, she would go find her Gramps~</div><div style="text-align: center;">and he would willingly put on her favorite movie, Rudolf.</div><div style="text-align: center;"> Time and time again.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Rudolf was played year 'round in the Bluemel home.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">The children had countless fun sleepovers at Nana & Gramps' house.</div><div style="text-align: center;">They watched movies together.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Read books and played games.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Art was created.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Blocks were stacked.</div><div style="text-align: center;">And dominoes stretched from one end of the house to the other.</div><div style="text-align: center;">And most importantly,</div><div style="text-align: center;">everyone laughed together...</div><div style="text-align: center;">often.<br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">We always had a good time when we visited.</div><div style="text-align: center;">And we always looked forward to our weekend visits to the Valley.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Because it was a home filled with love.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Each person that entered the Bluemel Home<br />on Garden Grove Avenue always felt welcome,</div><div style="text-align: center;">cared for, and loved.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Regardless if they were "family" or not.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Nana & Gramps opened their home to many.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">The memories made in the Bluemel Home in Tarzana will last a lifetime.</div><div style="text-align: center;">And we will forever miss this place we called "HOME" for so long.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Today as I sit here writing this,</div><div style="text-align: center;">my mother and father-in-law are unpacking boxes, organizing shelves, and setting up rooms.</div><div style="text-align: center;">They're making a new home for themselves in a little town in Ohio, outside of Columbus.</div><div style="text-align: center;">A new chapter in their lives has been opened.</div><div style="text-align: center;">And an exciting adventure awaits them.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Thankfully we live in an era of technology.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Which will help us to stay close~despite the distance that separates us physically.</div><div style="text-align: center;">We will blog.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Facebook.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Skype.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Text.</div><div style="text-align: center;">And talk on the phone~</div><div style="text-align: center;">A LOT!</div><div style="text-align: center;">What would we do without these marvelous modern marvels?</div><div style="text-align: center;">I guess we'd go back to sending postcards.</div><div style="text-align: center;">handwritten letters.</div><div style="text-align: center;">And photos through snail mail.</div><div style="text-align: center;">This is just so much easier.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table>LisaBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11665617488810534525noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7649159856256328048.post-70249033481769887512010-09-13T10:31:00.000-07:002010-09-14T09:40:51.398-07:00Sweet Buddy Dog....<div style="text-align: center;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZxUMoOJlfs5mTc9F4gQdYZQEXCZsKajGYyiynrA2x8azSgbcE8u8joiiql9AIzkKZUr7inTI96OxMLCWIgdGEvqq4uyqym7SIl-IChi5fljfg2oxa3sauDaYMO3KWc1xMmj8f-IOqY7s3/s400/IMG_3113.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5516457228251128706" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicen44pE8Ck7niAotkjvCRpdQOyt6CfF_b7j79fy_e6qRelcSkGAVOqhM4Gux_2cKV2jYW1UkfnLXYytn3tLbWnBMRx2wGFbQ63xsc7Bn78le89JfwaA6VDKp99KisejbUbknbYlQzK4za/s1600/IMG_3112.JPG"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicen44pE8Ck7niAotkjvCRpdQOyt6CfF_b7j79fy_e6qRelcSkGAVOqhM4Gux_2cKV2jYW1UkfnLXYytn3tLbWnBMRx2wGFbQ63xsc7Bn78le89JfwaA6VDKp99KisejbUbknbYlQzK4za/s1600/IMG_3112.JPG"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicen44pE8Ck7niAotkjvCRpdQOyt6CfF_b7j79fy_e6qRelcSkGAVOqhM4Gux_2cKV2jYW1UkfnLXYytn3tLbWnBMRx2wGFbQ63xsc7Bn78le89JfwaA6VDKp99KisejbUbknbYlQzK4za/s1600/IMG_3112.JPG"></a><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:'courier new';">This here is Buddy.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">He's our 2 year old pure-bred German Shepherd.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">Buddy is our protector.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">He loves to play and run around at the park.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">He loves playing catch with his favorite ball. </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">We are always amazed at just how fast he is </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">and what cool tricks he can do!</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">He is great at bringing us comfort when we are feeling down.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">He enjoys laying around the house and hanging out with the family.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">I never had a dog growing up. I always wanted one. Just like every other kid. Instead, my family had an adorable rabbit~named Lucky. </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">I loved Lucky. </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">She lived an unusually LONG life. </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">18 years to be exact. Pretty incredible, huh?!?</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">A couple years ago, Gary surprised our family with a sweet little fluffy white bunny. We named her Daisy. Unfortunately, before we brought Daisy home, we didn't do enough "bunny research".</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">So we had no idea that rabbits were such temperamental animals </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">{Okay, we should have known}. </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">Here's the bottom line...</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">Rabbits can't handle extreme heat since they are not good at regulating their body temperature. </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">I hate confessing this, </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">but Daisy ended up living a very short life. </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">The HOT Southern California summer heat did her in. </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">I figured since I had an outdoor rabbit growing up</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"> and since she lived well beyond the norm~all rabbits would have the same Luck--just as my pet rabbit, Lucky did! </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">However, my thought process...</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">that rabbits are a piece of cake to care for, was wrong.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"> Horribly. Horribly wrong. So sorry Daisy. May you rest in peace.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">Maybe we shouldn't buy pets from the store spontaneously anymore.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">Lesson learned.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">Shortly after Daisy's death, we went back to the pet store to find a new friend. A Daisy replacement, if you will.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"> While there looking around, I whispered into Gary's ear, "it'd probably be easier to care for a dog!" </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">We left the pet store that day empty handed. </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">The following weekend, we adopted Buddy.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">He became a very welcome addition to our family one warm summer Sunday afternoon in July 2008. </span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIrbu8GEFtJgJQfs1rrYa1lxl3J13MpT0EVznAR5dFfEDFZnfo_G4Lt2QLMxTKilf68J6VhJGsfIiAjAsj6iGACIXEyeYzFwkl1O0Mw7giXO9JJdZy-WbNORJ8Lvz99Y8FNFxo8ROSJ-Oh/s400/IMG_3107.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5516809789877282530" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></span><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'courier new'; ">Since adopting Buddy,</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:'courier new';">he has been to Boot Camp and is a very well-trained canine.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:'courier new';"> But, don't get me wrong! </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:'courier new';">He still has puppy/teenager type tendencies.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:'courier new';"> Regardless, we love him to pieces and enjoy having him around.</span></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicen44pE8Ck7niAotkjvCRpdQOyt6CfF_b7j79fy_e6qRelcSkGAVOqhM4Gux_2cKV2jYW1UkfnLXYytn3tLbWnBMRx2wGFbQ63xsc7Bn78le89JfwaA6VDKp99KisejbUbknbYlQzK4za/s1600/IMG_3112.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicen44pE8Ck7niAotkjvCRpdQOyt6CfF_b7j79fy_e6qRelcSkGAVOqhM4Gux_2cKV2jYW1UkfnLXYytn3tLbWnBMRx2wGFbQ63xsc7Bn78le89JfwaA6VDKp99KisejbUbknbYlQzK4za/s400/IMG_3112.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5516457241318247330" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">Buddy is truly a HUGE part of our family. </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">He completes us. </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">I will admit, before having Buddy, I was not much of a dog person.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">I'm happy to say, I am now!</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">And I still love cute, fluffy bunnies.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">I wonder if Buddy </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">would be able to handle having a Bunny around as a pet???</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">Hmmmm...??</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">That could be...</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">interesting.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">A pure-bred German Shepherd and a little, fluffy bunny.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">Running and hopping around together.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">Cuddling together.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">It could be quite cute.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">Buddy is actually a very gentle dog.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">And I think he'd be happy having a new </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';">friend.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>LisaBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11665617488810534525noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7649159856256328048.post-10329057818050002702010-09-08T19:45:00.000-07:002010-09-09T09:42:50.337-07:00Sweet Summer Ending<div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhshq2UNKOe9c9hAa75L5hrXMMJf89zIvBK1oJLvOpSUqpJtkZ360f3Lpd0T_RHmXu2lkSkBzoAufxR4kauNrXazyGSh6JEv5Pkbhyf65xn09zlQ1uleKsSy-NUGGKYUxR-Tc9M6PMr5JDw/s1600/IMG_3465.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhshq2UNKOe9c9hAa75L5hrXMMJf89zIvBK1oJLvOpSUqpJtkZ360f3Lpd0T_RHmXu2lkSkBzoAufxR4kauNrXazyGSh6JEv5Pkbhyf65xn09zlQ1uleKsSy-NUGGKYUxR-Tc9M6PMr5JDw/s400/IMG_3465.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5514751513580557362" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Summer went by way too fast. We had tons of fun though. </div><div style="text-align: center;">And we spent as much time together as we possibly could. </div><div style="text-align: center;"> What all did we do?</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">We went to bed late.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">And slept in every day.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Visited many museums.</div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJabcZeTjRoJzKiQFDbizmH7zXYJSE6z3srB80fuGdieAiu8dD5IJPphRQYE-YTSTQNlE2MWF1gEtpYhuBk4Tw74J1WYg5yJfiFcIo__7J59qXiLRwKjnu9OsYLGj26TBOqGWILXj6cePE/s1600/IMG_1981.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJabcZeTjRoJzKiQFDbizmH7zXYJSE6z3srB80fuGdieAiu8dD5IJPphRQYE-YTSTQNlE2MWF1gEtpYhuBk4Tw74J1WYg5yJfiFcIo__7J59qXiLRwKjnu9OsYLGj26TBOqGWILXj6cePE/s400/IMG_1981.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5514938432037568930" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhflybmoLG-_00mEgKwKVdjwWRU9fUvUikvgOU9Vs4jSzBCfUDm-cXVwamgPHolXX1m6oGQX4mYyYnSWaDZL7xz46dAoIUZHekbnvvtfvWbdNbJS6rYKmgbeXQNAIbpAeCNvq2RvSnr-Dl3/s400/IMG_2946.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5514939932985796930" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></span><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Watched magnificent movies.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Played with our favorite friends.</div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiY7ZP6S8kKgE3bE2wMahLg6T0mHoR7SsxpbTVbA5G43wL8kjQgcNinCtJa-k6bxwsDjIE9WlG64lA1uJKoVHZJyIzn-ck5WMhzLSJPw8pM2uWyVXFaO7l6KjugxbSqX7jNi7hcPAbWVe5/s400/IMG_2850.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5514939926712389442" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); "><div style="text-align: center;">Made s'mores. And other delicious treats.</div></span></span><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Swam like fish.</div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZSO8NHB_LMowRarH0DK6bsKex7_ZLIH79FketDEDfRX0GeES3zBKpkGDaDkBFmJ4i68YDCOjBSdozFvPaYoP6NewFn4FYCliyIzPLswl1iXypw5MYUeyNz0G5SxU5hv0w6x7z7mUbGwBp/s400/IMG_2354.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5514938462951469442" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "> </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Watched entertaining shows at our local library.</div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9Psry2RlXV4s6Jo27fhSwnycU84pFw6nc2LZ_rblGdEo6xJjJYqajMNt3-D8-XwKHU-8tAV2iVTlMw0-ywHVerT2qjh9eI8mmcWekG0ZgZwUyvFqTh11v49ZOmQIxMPEdfhQSQSVXZUPQ/s400/IMG_2471.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5514939917469325890" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></span><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">We went to the zoo. </div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg2akllzMW3FXT4gWkVK6ujBFCNzOEEznYyL0hCsdUPOy-5D_irIRxU34jieK67NsH76OKv0qVpLVbivMYxLU3gkmF_kZG36itkNBo-Evl_A3_fjbF2SMFVAruTHLwzHSDp8z9WpTUvSNi/s1600/IMG_3083.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg2akllzMW3FXT4gWkVK6ujBFCNzOEEznYyL0hCsdUPOy-5D_irIRxU34jieK67NsH76OKv0qVpLVbivMYxLU3gkmF_kZG36itkNBo-Evl_A3_fjbF2SMFVAruTHLwzHSDp8z9WpTUvSNi/s400/IMG_3083.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5514938457146491602" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px; " /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Rode wild rides at theme parks.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Spent precious time with family.</div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_H2vscgYCd9PwjPunXBQp6yOCsWmZ9qQF-KsSFxYu1AvwBFYdayrb5sfhT__6lQLSghWX8wxT5vG_0owqa3wrR5K4CJR47-DeBj9vblSGUJsBHDsT7tV59xzyO23ys1HybYq-EyIZQ7Ck/s1600/IMG_2988.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_H2vscgYCd9PwjPunXBQp6yOCsWmZ9qQF-KsSFxYu1AvwBFYdayrb5sfhT__6lQLSghWX8wxT5vG_0owqa3wrR5K4CJR47-DeBj9vblSGUJsBHDsT7tV59xzyO23ys1HybYq-EyIZQ7Ck/s400/IMG_2988.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5514938444878350386" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBn4CI6_n9PIHrL7_vZy73b_1GTPKRO2Lmd82xzAhyNjay4PeJR_weijmDxbYow1iLOHQkS5gjf0kAZ6Ft0TBssWALcw5m6qul3ge_kGCKXg9cJsdsGaBBxbKlVJ1k_IDp29XXLPbOr1W0/s400/IMG_3061.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5514939941932035122" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></span><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Stayed in hotels.</div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaHnTlJpRT8G8yfMbBB0G2lk1MTvrojh9RSU1xrzTSJWNge57-RJOC3FLls13nIm9KDYH28x9-ws1KW8z6i74MYbwbfFHYYHKs3Vmb76RRvR8eS028mxGt5P4X9ZxVr8id-tKt7vpJtg9P/s400/IMG_3201.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5514954351189455490" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></span><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Watched stunning sunsets at the beach.</div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioM9t2kaEVhMpZV7cf10WDVlgWv8_3WJWBZjnb9k0MsPmrGwAKw6UdNDnLDXObp-ropCUIgrribMtCa7FrGbmILLHBxbrhXHUB6lN5calBjTTdqedu176sCvguyefj-PO8hjITD7cblBAx/s1600/IMG_2725.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioM9t2kaEVhMpZV7cf10WDVlgWv8_3WJWBZjnb9k0MsPmrGwAKw6UdNDnLDXObp-ropCUIgrribMtCa7FrGbmILLHBxbrhXHUB6lN5calBjTTdqedu176sCvguyefj-PO8hjITD7cblBAx/s400/IMG_2725.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5514938423258979314" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></a><div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#0000EE;"><u><br /></u></span></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioM9t2kaEVhMpZV7cf10WDVlgWv8_3WJWBZjnb9k0MsPmrGwAKw6UdNDnLDXObp-ropCUIgrribMtCa7FrGbmILLHBxbrhXHUB6lN5calBjTTdqedu176sCvguyefj-PO8hjITD7cblBAx/s1600/IMG_2725.JPG"></a><div style="text-align: center;">For our last hurrah, </div><div style="text-align: center;">we spent a week in San Francisco together as a family~which was priceless. </div><div style="text-align: center;">The kids were taken back by the massive bridges. </div><div style="text-align: center;">The sparkling ocean. </div><div style="text-align: center;">And especially by the fog which rolled in each night like dry ice flowing over a cauldron.</div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1Qm4plJvskfldMCwhhq8qFtRZHwlKPIF8oe9GwX93eAa3RUuT7iXJ5R29k3ZUmFwRDNm6NTqIXdPRyQy9nVRQwMWg1JZ417fsI5C58LDe7m-7rZNwkECUmXBjdI0jTPzaHtaJj0ol12Dw/s400/IMG_3718.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5514951719884494402" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></span></div><div><div style="text-align: center;">During our stay in San Francisco, it was quite cold for summer! </div><div style="text-align: center;">But a very welcome change from the scorching </div><div style="text-align: center;">Southern California heat we managed to escape.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">We took many photos on our trip. I especially adore this snapshot of our family. A darling senior couple was nice enough to stop while they were taking a bike ride along the boardwalk and asked us if we wanted our picture taken. We handed our camera right over to them and it turned out perfect.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">I love it. Everyone is actually looking at the camera, smiling and Megan is not sticking out her tongue~which is what she's usually doing. The girl is rarely serious for the camera. In fact, anytime one comes out and is pointed at Megan, it seems to be her "I'm going to be silly" cue. And I'm talking full-on, outta control silliness! Don't get me wrong, I love it. It's what makes us smile every single day. But sometimes it's nice to capture a family photo tongue free. And crazy silly free.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg13aCvU7Ui2VVPEIxUYCmU_7EAA9UAAhUjU_nhb9uR3FjvXVPEPs3uvhxCmA5o-HADuyLVHAYqmbNI-3BieFN-sJJytLdMOFOAbEbxKxSBmKjvyYudnhSwT8lcKsTtFtheFNU2tUmnxVID/s1600/IMG_3461.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg13aCvU7Ui2VVPEIxUYCmU_7EAA9UAAhUjU_nhb9uR3FjvXVPEPs3uvhxCmA5o-HADuyLVHAYqmbNI-3BieFN-sJJytLdMOFOAbEbxKxSBmKjvyYudnhSwT8lcKsTtFtheFNU2tUmnxVID/s400/IMG_3461.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5514744323320626242" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">I love my family and love that we spent such a memorable summer together making fun memories. It was one of our best summers ever. There was never a dull moment. I don't think I ever heard the words "Mom, we're bored". Which had been my goal before summer ever started. Mission accomplished.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">I can't wait for Summer 2011! </div><div style="text-align: center;">Until then it's...</div><div style="text-align: center;"> Back to school. </div><div style="text-align: center;">Homework. Soccer. Piano. </div><div style="text-align: center;">And all the wonderful holidays I adore. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div></div>LisaBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11665617488810534525noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7649159856256328048.post-78308646788411057472010-08-08T14:10:00.000-07:002010-08-08T22:37:36.952-07:00Sweet Fossil Finds....<div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiksqN1h_lJxXLBHswhrGnnaQhgt1dZDFu_JpHF8j2_FIYqW-F0wPhziLODtS5bMpOhgv5mjWpAsWHpn8uwFIA31-Bj5wkSgiLqKhiPFqGv5NWsIUzHoAm4_zzYp8q7uCiAHYAJONEwG_C1/s1600/JA3754716_main.jpeg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 162px; height: 165px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiksqN1h_lJxXLBHswhrGnnaQhgt1dZDFu_JpHF8j2_FIYqW-F0wPhziLODtS5bMpOhgv5mjWpAsWHpn8uwFIA31-Bj5wkSgiLqKhiPFqGv5NWsIUzHoAm4_zzYp8q7uCiAHYAJONEwG_C1/s400/JA3754716_main.jpeg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5503234451649113458" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';">O</span></span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';">n a recent trip to the mall, </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';">I came across the Fossil Jewelry line at Macy's.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';">I had no idea Fossil made such adorable accessories!</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';">However, I did know they made nice leather purses.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';">I've had a few in my time.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';">I couldn't help myself and ended up buying a silver bracelet,</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';">which goes with absolutely everything.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';">So, I just might wear it everyday.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';"><br /></span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKaqykQXkXZZJ60u-Q8k_8ZBgk_GnRlGJ0Z6YlpGl3NYMmUHlCn3aJP_D_m_OsaxrAwWh79nmpQej0IhrkcHbi7Kp4AL7q3KcfCDXkcLkDACWhGos1S_MWM4iBkZSJ7Jj5GAppdviwWjHt/s400/IMG_3127.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5503249721604136290" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></span><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';">But, after looking at their </span><a href="http://www.fossil.com/en_US/shop/women/jewelry.html?parent_category_rn=30000&N=0&Ns=p_wsc6%7C0%7C%7Cp_weight%7C0&departmentCategoryId=30000&Va=100"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';">website</span></i></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';">,</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';">I don't think this is going to be the only </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';">piece I ever buy. Or wear.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"> </div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';">I love it </span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';">all</span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';">.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';">Here are some of my favorites~</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHFX9fdOmzay56-EabkfSuGlhouaX5JJuLCYC7wLi3sBu626H25r4Ne6x62nhiWPWvs8jzQlW6F3Cgq3dbzvdNvGJ152wm6yKkOwjrfD-TaHpypaYtEIX_35YhAuT96MSSvvXJZ2VTXtxQ/s400/JA3321040_main.jpeg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5503234440922887490" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 162px; height: 165px; " /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#561E8D;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';">Such cute little delicate charms.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#561E8D;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuzGZkXbUFC1XoobiR9M6cewyxhpeyDcWvNghLcqLpb7WJUWGwXnK10IqO5wXGeWORRevEXOz8k-Sd3_84VHTPALzXzdS6XMZYz-_xKTBlQykW5xI6gmAKMAT5KNbIktBm7aWUpN_RvzBJ/s400/JA3261040_main.jpeg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5503234438369049570" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 162px; height: 165px; " /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#561E8D;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';">Beautiful Butterflies. </span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#561E8D;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';">Fabulously feminine.</span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#561E8D;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#0000EE;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlq5KNcxFMStFiNoCxJddxXydmhEXBUFrjNdB2stQagsY0qGI1m0XJb7ZZXMbyJG3O7-I4P7hUw5L2CqiCvayqBg_m2L6Y2KsWumMgK8et3qljlp6HQZQfI_rdhWzZu8af0a4XWIixWlpw/s400/JA2838040_main.jpeg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5503234433492726946" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 162px; height: 165px; " /><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#561E8D;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';">Organic. Earthy.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';color:#561E8D;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#561E8D;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';">Fossil also has a whole line of charming charms.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#561E8D;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';">Like the "a little luck" one featured above.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#561E8D;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';">Charm bracelets are fun!</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#561E8D;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';">I've had a couple of those too in my time.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#040102;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';">Accessories always add that finishing touch.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#040102;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';">And the finishing touches are what it's all about in fashion.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#040102;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';">I think.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#040102;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';">I'm no fashionista.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#040102;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';">I just like jewelry.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';color:#040102;">Earrings. Bracelets. Necklaces.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';color:#040102;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#040102;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';">Fossil jewelry was truly a sweet find.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#040102;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';">I'm so happy I found it.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#040102;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';">Aren't you?</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#040102;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#040102;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#040102;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#040102;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#040102;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div></span></span></span></div>LisaBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11665617488810534525noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7649159856256328048.post-13103769359668058152010-07-29T11:52:00.000-07:002010-07-29T12:44:57.410-07:00Sweet Summery Flowers<div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">I love flowers.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwN4T6H6KDi5fFnKCpMQ1SBpRo-fRaGnc0ntqmO_s9NiXOyM2WU-TxwaFtOHd5owEztawsx2wBl8JQwBov5FZ1zIvw5M__O9a7C8N6LUal1j5fsf8C-F-by4Xb8cjOo9OWg6jJiX66UxC8/s400/IMG_2523.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5499413215789950274" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></span><p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style="text-align:center;mso-pagination:none; mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">And planting flowers in my garden.</span></span></p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxejKjxaiy4YV7jkD7F0j5xIbn8nZ0gxz_-6_vRg5XtKkQm8xyoqlxTCRMN8bxAXv02ZFjfgKztfUjGMBko0Lzzq67R6pNBNPY9kjx8Tm39uc074QJfs-npaqA7yZ5vGZa30oqjGXWzob1/s400/IMG_2525.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5499413224214225938" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></span><p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style="text-align:center;mso-pagination:none; mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Their bright colors</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style="text-align:center;mso-pagination:none; mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">put a smile on my face.</span></span></p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv3rpbxz14TIJSMjHf0xVGtDkIkdV0Ky7HVDvKFwrn3J7Xf0jXf49sHg56-4rIYTjzczkRsCY8LPbqAI2RoCfu9p9nB1y-MIqt0Lc7FwcCMuIwzZmG8gRAnmTPWKNjpiAa2_QAEolGinbf/s400/IMG_2526.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5499414076664390482" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></span><p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style="text-align:center;mso-pagination:none; mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">I'm feeling the need,</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style="text-align:center;mso-pagination:none; mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">the urge,</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style="text-align:center;mso-pagination:none; mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> to plant more.</span></span></p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiH2pTh4alw3uUthehQISmYOOjhu3q5DHIOcJfhIOeE5CBueR1SnVf1KuU2B2O4KhssCCoqc4qm7sry4HL0KINyMZY7xZwKCD8tfePSM9Y3na_8voK4-lRXpFHfmCLxnmKoUvEczIUTtHT/s400/IMG_2532.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5499413243650673906" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></span><p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style="text-align:center;mso-pagination:none; mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">I've come to the conclusion that my yard</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style="text-align:center;mso-pagination:none; mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">could use a bit more color.</span></span></p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg00nLJiRLrY_UUQjALpuwuFXpPdo5n5yiQn3mWftewrTotRo6icMXRrR-49wNLBSuhBO6l1u0FkWuW5cNz8ScgduT7cDqL5p8PR7C3SHPxt5jYzUKCrHE2oacolFz7KZnQggd5gAl0IEf6/s400/IMG_2531.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5499413230120458274" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></span><p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style="text-align:center;mso-pagination:none; mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">But these beauties...</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style="text-align:center;mso-pagination:none; mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">I absolutely adore.</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style="text-align:center;mso-pagination:none; mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">They get a lot of tender loving care.</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style="text-align:center;mso-pagination:none; mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Because I think if they died,</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style="text-align:center;mso-pagination:none; mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">I would feel sad.</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style="text-align:center;mso-pagination:none; mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Sad that my little piece of heaven,</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style="text-align:center;mso-pagination:none; mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">serenity </span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style="text-align:center;mso-pagination:none; mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">is gone.</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style="text-align:center;mso-pagination:none; mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">And for that reason,</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style="text-align:center;mso-pagination:none; mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">there will always be flowers in my garden.</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style="text-align:center;mso-pagination:none; mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Ideally,</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style="text-align:center;mso-pagination:none; mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">I'd love to create an oasis.</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style="text-align:center;mso-pagination:none; mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">A place where we can retreat to </span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style="text-align:center;mso-pagination:none; mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">and relax from our busy lives.</span></span></p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCL7m7cAx3Qd3yeqX2rxvYQe9DpEVBUS___xD6fhbOb991MTYv026a92aJuuOLoCsn9fGwaRzZruMQ7fKfH0kSCi4XjXAB3GqZGwbQWF3ctK8wVAxVcR0OjH_Qg3bvWaYWBdnMJUleHk79/s400/IMG_2535.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5499413253545950658" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></span><p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style="text-align:center;mso-pagination:none; mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Colorful flowers make me</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style="text-align:center;mso-pagination:none; mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">feel cheerful. Calm.</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style="text-align:center;mso-pagination:none; mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Happy.</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style="text-align:center;mso-pagination:none; mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">And when I gaze at them</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style="text-align:center;mso-pagination:none; mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">through my kitchen window</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style="text-align:center;mso-pagination:none; mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">I smile.</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style="text-align:center;mso-pagination:none; mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" align="center" style="text-align:center;mso-pagination:none; mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'Courier New';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></p> <!--EndFragment-->LisaBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11665617488810534525noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7649159856256328048.post-18282523278074816892010-07-09T08:21:00.000-07:002010-07-11T13:51:35.712-07:00Sweet Summer Merriment! Part I<div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#0000EE;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-decoration: underline;"><br /></span></span></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbDC5C3-4BADMcXxwhW3Rqu26aWQO3juD7dRGh8uZYg_iF5UmlpfwMIceX2Ve5Qqk5RYW8SlN5kOdOny5qB6i9qYUSce4f8eIbUJxJEBYP4qTsIRrZjzryp6dmrN0gNT6LIwgeAdhCFI6L/s1600/IMG_1929.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbDC5C3-4BADMcXxwhW3Rqu26aWQO3juD7dRGh8uZYg_iF5UmlpfwMIceX2Ve5Qqk5RYW8SlN5kOdOny5qB6i9qYUSce4f8eIbUJxJEBYP4qTsIRrZjzryp6dmrN0gNT6LIwgeAdhCFI6L/s400/IMG_1929.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5492745031381091346" /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Summer has officially been in session </span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new', serif;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">ONE</span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> month!</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Yikes!!!</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">That only leaves us </span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new', serif;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">SIX</span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> MORE </span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">weeks of summer.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">I know. I know. </span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">That's actually </span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">a lot of time.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">But so much to do.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">So little time.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">The last </span><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">FOUR</span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> weeks</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">have been an absolute</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new', serif;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">BLAST!!</span></b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">What exactly have we done?</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Are you ready for this??? </span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">It's simply too much to share</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">all at once!!</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Soooo...</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">I'm going to break it up.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Into parts.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new', serif;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FF0000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Part I</span></span></b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFCC66;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000099;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Sweet</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FF6600;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Summer</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#6600CC;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Merriment</span></span></b></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new', serif;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#3333FF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Bluemel Family Style!!</span></span></b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">We kicked our Bluemel Family Summer Vacation</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">off with a sweet trip</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> to the San Diego State Fair!</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">It was a full, fun day.</span></span></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9JwdmsN1wSL4nyHGMnUNLqsHZ9rLr0iuxgK_4YMeQkUAGQ2PW9Z6Zw6NkjbOABJt6DKsgGp2TmV05PZF-EF7RL9uxrvG6zUlhby4-ckpf-4HZn1DaO4UzM2bkS1-iS9ioSnIJ5DsKU9qs/s1600/IMG_1947.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9JwdmsN1wSL4nyHGMnUNLqsHZ9rLr0iuxgK_4YMeQkUAGQ2PW9Z6Zw6NkjbOABJt6DKsgGp2TmV05PZF-EF7RL9uxrvG6zUlhby4-ckpf-4HZn1DaO4UzM2bkS1-iS9ioSnIJ5DsKU9qs/s400/IMG_1947.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5492751731287151922" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">In fact,</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">I don't think we left </span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> until it was almost midnight.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Because we made sure we did </span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">everything</span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">We rode many rides.</span></span></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcrrn8Ew5oKNWzThAgvwwfsVc8SnL5y4WTzc2ZQF1nV5ewkjt2jlg1JquzYSw8tAbHtg1xR6JI-r83lFrWC-DZDbDb04zRPaY3di5GT8Mqsd94LhwoNcA5vnB_E6Z-CJ513qC-9JqWzSVl/s1600/IMG_1922.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcrrn8Ew5oKNWzThAgvwwfsVc8SnL5y4WTzc2ZQF1nV5ewkjt2jlg1JquzYSw8tAbHtg1xR6JI-r83lFrWC-DZDbDb04zRPaY3di5GT8Mqsd94LhwoNcA5vnB_E6Z-CJ513qC-9JqWzSVl/s400/IMG_1922.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5492745969554547106" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px; " /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:Georgia, serif;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIEtbUu4yt3H7XZVORpyVTu3VkDmfcKnT8Og4ThCTP6q2UdVmqPYbusNaLycBcsDfxaE-Qv_DBL7qwZIdtxYXVjGdCVZ9HP52F1uedpj7tpm7dx7eBb23kV-rmJlqYJmOyRLQNIQ26L6Dm/s1600/IMG_1925.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIEtbUu4yt3H7XZVORpyVTu3VkDmfcKnT8Og4ThCTP6q2UdVmqPYbusNaLycBcsDfxaE-Qv_DBL7qwZIdtxYXVjGdCVZ9HP52F1uedpj7tpm7dx7eBb23kV-rmJlqYJmOyRLQNIQ26L6Dm/s400/IMG_1925.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5492747028663487986" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></a></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:Georgia, serif;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgukgm6brJ2eAg0bWy_qR3wEx0FDRaYkzWKNR7S6XJfbk_7hyt9yNV7atB7TEDVoGpxcK1ajYYKmswgfuYStepjYOykyuIMniKPUutwHvZb1A9fkfc_4ebZuDwRTLsGx_HVlb1tssvwNRt5/s1600/IMG_1920.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgukgm6brJ2eAg0bWy_qR3wEx0FDRaYkzWKNR7S6XJfbk_7hyt9yNV7atB7TEDVoGpxcK1ajYYKmswgfuYStepjYOykyuIMniKPUutwHvZb1A9fkfc_4ebZuDwRTLsGx_HVlb1tssvwNRt5/s400/IMG_1920.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5492747019927170802" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px; " /></a></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Watched a few shows~</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Like The Purina Dog Challenge.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:Georgia, serif;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkk_pduMjKploCF62N9lhr_DXZkYMpxAwOp9jbdyQyRlKhc3j-xIfpEh1ZK8dM4QBOiElJld7bRyqXERGesITrCzXBHRP53rVLBCCgtHD3VzlYsVXfyIjAx6IiUTAXhmeTBxXRTRNCRvYC/s1600/IMG_1885.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkk_pduMjKploCF62N9lhr_DXZkYMpxAwOp9jbdyQyRlKhc3j-xIfpEh1ZK8dM4QBOiElJld7bRyqXERGesITrCzXBHRP53rVLBCCgtHD3VzlYsVXfyIjAx6IiUTAXhmeTBxXRTRNCRvYC/s400/IMG_1885.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5492745955601309746" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></a></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">And cute little pigs racing around a track.</span></span></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT1ErbgT6ax1mtjqpV8c2pt4kdneqSGO2rJ2ra34Bpgm7ZtLfdCpvKagTGFRmlphUiI7fqa9eqJhy2jHPiSsJbBIfFBZgk8UBuZuTHuqnqQ83xhmzWtMcTAY80FfamTYfoPk_39Lo1JYz3/s1600/IMG_1937.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT1ErbgT6ax1mtjqpV8c2pt4kdneqSGO2rJ2ra34Bpgm7ZtLfdCpvKagTGFRmlphUiI7fqa9eqJhy2jHPiSsJbBIfFBZgk8UBuZuTHuqnqQ83xhmzWtMcTAY80FfamTYfoPk_39Lo1JYz3/s400/IMG_1937.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5492747037193599058" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">We paid a visit to all the Animals...</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#0000EE;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new', serif;color:#000000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Rastafarian Sheep</span></span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:Georgia, serif;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiciYntYeumGKIldAV3EM3ibAm1296fEdUuatRie6m2POaL1SJbXEBTdBNd2AiyG727ZeFR7n84Wn8e51NSO409pPL9c-tRhP2r-qc7QrF6ZI9XPS4jNZDItTuW_uV9onnOQfZK2dja2Z0e/s1600/IMG_1954.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiciYntYeumGKIldAV3EM3ibAm1296fEdUuatRie6m2POaL1SJbXEBTdBNd2AiyG727ZeFR7n84Wn8e51NSO409pPL9c-tRhP2r-qc7QrF6ZI9XPS4jNZDItTuW_uV9onnOQfZK2dja2Z0e/s400/IMG_1954.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5492750532661760034" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></a></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">And Huge Cows...</span></span></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLB72MwfeHE16jtvAtpF6CHwYciPbS5HuSazc0BEK-FLhbsBq47VvpTyGXKCcYT_vFm3i_EUkwgqlh1bQOLO2A9UgLvipLOZqd2uTOxdcFdgsl5Qg1DvzqnCxtEU0qgil3X8ryS-gXlaCT/s1600/IMG_1846.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLB72MwfeHE16jtvAtpF6CHwYciPbS5HuSazc0BEK-FLhbsBq47VvpTyGXKCcYT_vFm3i_EUkwgqlh1bQOLO2A9UgLvipLOZqd2uTOxdcFdgsl5Qg1DvzqnCxtEU0qgil3X8ryS-gXlaCT/s400/IMG_1846.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5492751184261396546" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">The girls went on a few pony rides...</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:Georgia, serif;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoK2gBBcra1bDgwycEK956ofWnYmh36JRS-T-P843BxKQD2xyoRIAa5uQrIxMcdFyyc7jw6J-vHm4Y63BdpC9n32vzePHxRTCoqWcmIPRO23HpQn5mPgT3OT1OBrPr8fJpwBm8m3Bxi9Gh/s1600/IMG_1858.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoK2gBBcra1bDgwycEK956ofWnYmh36JRS-T-P843BxKQD2xyoRIAa5uQrIxMcdFyyc7jw6J-vHm4Y63BdpC9n32vzePHxRTCoqWcmIPRO23HpQn5mPgT3OT1OBrPr8fJpwBm8m3Bxi9Gh/s400/IMG_1858.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5492745976118178146" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></a></span></span></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgddEKAaoGrn2-apMj_ksZ8nP714pfJ3Lzxa0dnSnIV3ZtWQeT8SNo1vIml2H1G6NNcpHcJe5sIHg5cvbpM1VqBO1w8PWN6lOC6GHinUJytVw2htrORBjfKcK-4eHmrheg52x2djfX9Pevq/s1600/IMG_1853.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgddEKAaoGrn2-apMj_ksZ8nP714pfJ3Lzxa0dnSnIV3ZtWQeT8SNo1vIml2H1G6NNcpHcJe5sIHg5cvbpM1VqBO1w8PWN6lOC6GHinUJytVw2htrORBjfKcK-4eHmrheg52x2djfX9Pevq/s400/IMG_1853.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5492745989957497090" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">And we got a sneak peak at a</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">six-foot pony. </span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">I mean stallion.</span></span></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUkK6xWuFYg6ujTbjf9LAVqBWMQPTFXidCL-GN9bp_okx5OdtMbvR9Lya0VqLgyVu7gc6d0RGhOAQgmZHlQ8slz-ewh7Vlh-ZkEX5PU-vv0DeXVR17vTYTbJaKDFJLlAi78AtUHpCnTxRv/s1600/IMG_1868.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUkK6xWuFYg6ujTbjf9LAVqBWMQPTFXidCL-GN9bp_okx5OdtMbvR9Lya0VqLgyVu7gc6d0RGhOAQgmZHlQ8slz-ewh7Vlh-ZkEX5PU-vv0DeXVR17vTYTbJaKDFJLlAi78AtUHpCnTxRv/s400/IMG_1868.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5492749797177583586" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">We played games and won prizes.</span></span></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmtkV5d63IXn2DutLK8W9IIEkaDqyYZ9_SLuW1zR-YsAz-8hQf4eE36apEHjbUmDAYC7W3aMklR7MRyZNNHKXD49jJ2YaxgYK8ULJUGKr4jqqvF6ldzNPBJdRcA8jS-6iWTEgokca9Dixe/s1600/IMG_1842.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmtkV5d63IXn2DutLK8W9IIEkaDqyYZ9_SLuW1zR-YsAz-8hQf4eE36apEHjbUmDAYC7W3aMklR7MRyZNNHKXD49jJ2YaxgYK8ULJUGKr4jqqvF6ldzNPBJdRcA8jS-6iWTEgokca9Dixe/s400/IMG_1842.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5492752103701256882" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px; " /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Ate lots of delicious...</span></span></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf_aDN8yawn54espImxxJPKx_PP7knQqBbw5clFGMLR5yY27HuKoPQ9FjQcXPC4tfz68xtLWmetw6qftlV3sCo_j4VUyi_OJa4pYjKvQvCjPAic8vM54enlCYk2EWIhsMM8rkOWXnIHOcq/s1600/IMG_1913.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf_aDN8yawn54espImxxJPKx_PP7knQqBbw5clFGMLR5yY27HuKoPQ9FjQcXPC4tfz68xtLWmetw6qftlV3sCo_j4VUyi_OJa4pYjKvQvCjPAic8vM54enlCYk2EWIhsMM8rkOWXnIHOcq/s400/IMG_1913.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5492748484248488466" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Fair Food.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Because you know.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">You haven't been to the fair </span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">unless you've eaten </span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">fair food.</span></span></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDXodJ8FbTrN34rYFk5E1jbCYcd2YCK299Vvy3xNFXE6KcKwbxM4L5h5zrUNSLcsHqxP3biFlore6yq9bJcGpNNXGbieDNHS8LRofvD4ReQrV0GxDj2ubpV94RzaCS8dh6Txg1hnNo5ICK/s1600/IMG_1910.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDXodJ8FbTrN34rYFk5E1jbCYcd2YCK299Vvy3xNFXE6KcKwbxM4L5h5zrUNSLcsHqxP3biFlore6yq9bJcGpNNXGbieDNHS8LRofvD4ReQrV0GxDj2ubpV94RzaCS8dh6Txg1hnNo5ICK/s400/IMG_1910.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5492748468885027154" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Yummy.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Bad for your heart.</span></span></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAUk5rqTtFVeCtIpIk1mPGY-uH3fv7GK8D2PEPGsMAueBrWL-3FIjYa-g2FxMGOsa1f3l5qY8F7yOHpgAtXmasj6E_NJb_p99KLehjIZdfGjfcu0OZl3vGrf2RZ1FggHFl3IHtdlOskajg/s1600/IMG_1953.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAUk5rqTtFVeCtIpIk1mPGY-uH3fv7GK8D2PEPGsMAueBrWL-3FIjYa-g2FxMGOsa1f3l5qY8F7yOHpgAtXmasj6E_NJb_p99KLehjIZdfGjfcu0OZl3vGrf2RZ1FggHFl3IHtdlOskajg/s400/IMG_1953.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5492748503575365426" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">And waistline kinds of foods.</span></span></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdcC62PgTOkQzlQmq7nzTAPyXUJISxMEnwkYFYaYa4h2EF2pr7isBBBTY1UPR7ErLvKz6RO9zWOvc3aMrkf7qYrLPH5LVNHoN4RU0Bt5PVPhsqOtdJwDnxtHRWsrm811vzgrVJe2J2ad51/s1600/IMG_1917.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdcC62PgTOkQzlQmq7nzTAPyXUJISxMEnwkYFYaYa4h2EF2pr7isBBBTY1UPR7ErLvKz6RO9zWOvc3aMrkf7qYrLPH5LVNHoN4RU0Bt5PVPhsqOtdJwDnxtHRWsrm811vzgrVJe2J2ad51/s400/IMG_1917.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5492748494566264418" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">But once a year,</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">I think it's okay.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">to indulge.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">It's all about the experience.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Right?</span></span></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO1dewXDN4FTqyyKogpQ_DdtyYEgqMN_zGJKxkqiHzwXHy_HvXuG6jnCj_oD1YspLAuqzIlt-GICeqiFEGBOCFlkOOMuYz60TfmgJZMJJIyFJ1NEhCV-uBqXLHfu0rE7iNJTyaVp7TeBKV/s1600/IMG_1955.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO1dewXDN4FTqyyKogpQ_DdtyYEgqMN_zGJKxkqiHzwXHy_HvXuG6jnCj_oD1YspLAuqzIlt-GICeqiFEGBOCFlkOOMuYz60TfmgJZMJJIyFJ1NEhCV-uBqXLHfu0rE7iNJTyaVp7TeBKV/s400/IMG_1955.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5492749816478098818" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">And wearing the kids out....</span></span></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbt5rAuqZ4Ktbi17mYnJPSt7KzFKV515BHWrnfhUZeo2SLtId_k0KXqZhutYR_06DKvqW_FiNbYoYBWvILGC8YJ-XoO6acMztqtbTdGjNrYySf30r-Vt9a2czccs6LDKLKm-ecfm7NKiXW/s1600/IMG_1956.JPG" style="text-decoration: none;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbt5rAuqZ4Ktbi17mYnJPSt7KzFKV515BHWrnfhUZeo2SLtId_k0KXqZhutYR_06DKvqW_FiNbYoYBWvILGC8YJ-XoO6acMztqtbTdGjNrYySf30r-Vt9a2czccs6LDKLKm-ecfm7NKiXW/s400/IMG_1956.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5492749820060242434" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Eric, Megan & Katie </span><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">LOVED</span></b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> the San Diego State Fair.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">It was truly a beautiful day.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">A fantastically fun day.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">And a perfect start to our </span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Summer.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> </span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new', serif;"><br /></span></div>LisaBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11665617488810534525noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7649159856256328048.post-60887555370458574652010-07-05T22:48:00.000-07:002010-07-06T22:41:01.492-07:00Cherishing Sweet Life<div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#0000EE;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-decoration: underline;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></span></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOrs01K6YO8pQOc64U0kT4nRwMkZGhAodFjxdrP3S_uWyX1i_RO41Z2CiiaZuMe0iZdmfuXwBOivD032pfd_5YK3iMvBiKzWeFYXBafJXGRFHNNEN3utcKM-x0XZmJ50khiVj5YvWs0fnC/s1600/5780_1173854117201_1553496490_432405_5309971_n.jpg" style="text-decoration: none;"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOrs01K6YO8pQOc64U0kT4nRwMkZGhAodFjxdrP3S_uWyX1i_RO41Z2CiiaZuMe0iZdmfuXwBOivD032pfd_5YK3iMvBiKzWeFYXBafJXGRFHNNEN3utcKM-x0XZmJ50khiVj5YvWs0fnC/s400/5780_1173854117201_1553496490_432405_5309971_n.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5490675673093594882" /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: center; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">If there is one thing in life</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">I truly cherish,</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">I'd have to say that it is my</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">family.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">And especially each one of my</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">sweet CHILDREN.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwXzJHlRDg5bs-PI9lp95Z1ytuzgskgBHCko7Gsh2bTgcsoXqEoRppjcpcghLv91Yglov3TEVKYs3YptLoCEA1b411MaBS4I5PbFsqyQzB-rcosdUZOx2nS4Q81JyHCn9YxyHaadQ-bKYP/s1600/IMG_0522.JPG" style="text-decoration: none;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwXzJHlRDg5bs-PI9lp95Z1ytuzgskgBHCko7Gsh2bTgcsoXqEoRppjcpcghLv91Yglov3TEVKYs3YptLoCEA1b411MaBS4I5PbFsqyQzB-rcosdUZOx2nS4Q81JyHCn9YxyHaadQ-bKYP/s400/IMG_0522.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5490672039024311522" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">I cherish the</span><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> time </span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">we spend together.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">The fun & playful times.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">The special times.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">The quiet times.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">And I have found that</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">you can never </span></span><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">dish</span></span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> out too many kisses.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Or </span></span><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">give</span></span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> too many hugs.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMDud-CcGvMqQx8ZmqXuxPrGwGL3Mo-C2u-XVoesQoM9iPqygxiHStIezxgRvaL6n-E_wQGy1FMpcrMYVjGRrupVfJlwLPfCIIYUyPfBZiKGxH6zCsbUrBletNZXK8AhPzB7i0d8bb3u1b/s1600/IMG_2298.JPG" style="text-decoration: none;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMDud-CcGvMqQx8ZmqXuxPrGwGL3Mo-C2u-XVoesQoM9iPqygxiHStIezxgRvaL6n-E_wQGy1FMpcrMYVjGRrupVfJlwLPfCIIYUyPfBZiKGxH6zCsbUrBletNZXK8AhPzB7i0d8bb3u1b/s400/IMG_2298.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5490672520091455810" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">And even better,</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">you can never</span></span><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> get</span></span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> too many kisses.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Or </span></span><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">get</span></span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> too many hugs.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhS-eN1Lh7azn6k_I9OmLjEZqnSJOr-__qvWJEDVcobkcVmANqy3opqI40nuxv-tKymHtJIXFsq751Dv1KBTNmCgk60ixVzGY9vSZPYP7N29h8noWgnn6_QwKZ467B1jkhVgrRL2fzrCfGT/s1600/5780_1173854277205_1553496490_432408_4174013_n.jpg" style="text-decoration: none;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhS-eN1Lh7azn6k_I9OmLjEZqnSJOr-__qvWJEDVcobkcVmANqy3opqI40nuxv-tKymHtJIXFsq751Dv1KBTNmCgk60ixVzGY9vSZPYP7N29h8noWgnn6_QwKZ467B1jkhVgrRL2fzrCfGT/s400/5780_1173854277205_1553496490_432408_4174013_n.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5490675683835056930" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 266px; height: 400px; " /></a></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: none; "><div style="text-align: center; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new', serif;color:#0A0A0A;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:Georgia, serif;"><div style="text-align: center; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Plenty of</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">hugs,</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">kisses</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">and</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">"I love you's"</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">are exchanged</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">everyday in our home.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div></span></span></span></div></span><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_U4T-PZBCO3xYkzPKZQr495ROa1PAz9MMHdDTovZfGr6HolCa9hjqe152aJRElFThvqy0ZPwspFzyIIjb_s24ndWlI2Ye0daiF3FF76pqx0KhAg1fO0eBb02ZuikcGrtkjELWvx7PQp3D/s400/5780_1173854317206_1553496490_432409_7324743_n.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5490675689791690514" style="text-decoration: underline;display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 266px; height: 400px; " /><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">With Eric</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">I always request</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">an</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">"Eric HUG"</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">daily.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Which are so sweet.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">And never in short </span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">supply.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Above Eric's bed is the quote,</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">"I Love You to the Moon and Back"</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Which is true.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNwsJS7o8XT6bcjstSxfwF2CcKqnS7DwG3WsFlVCL181K-RZTniiyWWW1Gj5857Cl9328ZHfAiCZMcf6p4RiryqFlhpzjAnL0F24Ea8ZtJdK1YchBGLFw5V9cbltvVZ9An8QJoTzDz6JMB/s1600/5780_1173853997198_1553496490_432402_7382882_n.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNwsJS7o8XT6bcjstSxfwF2CcKqnS7DwG3WsFlVCL181K-RZTniiyWWW1Gj5857Cl9328ZHfAiCZMcf6p4RiryqFlhpzjAnL0F24Ea8ZtJdK1YchBGLFw5V9cbltvVZ9An8QJoTzDz6JMB/s400/5780_1173853997198_1553496490_432402_7382882_n.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5490675667405914674" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 266px; height: 400px; " /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz8Sucoy1-BWjbKE8TwNsqk78Qygcx21MNjrx9GNYU55Luplqr8T_VaRQMZOVjn-Sh23OMo5MKrOgBJz9w-s3CwVlic8si1-wPYFzmHI-Yljs437q49oXzcmzJhappugBID8BaIHQFdX0Y/s1600/IMG_1935.JPG"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">With Megan</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">I must hear these words,</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">"I love you mum mum"</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">countless times each day.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Along with dozens of</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> hugs and kisses which she shares</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">not only with me,</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">but with just about</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">everyone.</span></span></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihPh1LbtQRI6TiSpOdGN-5idOzMlVGPrrC0BAS5UpRzxHkXJrsDNbrOU1uB4Mxv7X0jXsSPh9IwCICwa_9IkKcfwJYhyphenhyphen89NxgwHTkX3apDa0_H-_Szd7qVI3WcxmE147Vs9F0mkAN-WsA6/s1600/IMG_0505.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihPh1LbtQRI6TiSpOdGN-5idOzMlVGPrrC0BAS5UpRzxHkXJrsDNbrOU1uB4Mxv7X0jXsSPh9IwCICwa_9IkKcfwJYhyphenhyphen89NxgwHTkX3apDa0_H-_Szd7qVI3WcxmE147Vs9F0mkAN-WsA6/s400/IMG_0505.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5490816690275583746" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 335px; height: 400px; " /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Katie-Kate</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">is my cuddle bug.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">She and I cuddle together.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">And kiss noses.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">She leaves me love notes.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Which are </span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">hanging from magnets</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">All over my fridge.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">My favorite one reads,</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">"I wuv mom"!</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1ov-7oe2RAPH9Vs9pLVaECXPyXfkz1pJIqseTq-oo4aV6hA1LTIxpSMCA2-TVbHkOwr7mew93SPhs2oPBSEZmn0tNW8M60QZXJHQJUcGmylTO5p9I67TQ4kvKYUocRLNITtjlF7ylyAVs/s1600/IMG_0328.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1ov-7oe2RAPH9Vs9pLVaECXPyXfkz1pJIqseTq-oo4aV6hA1LTIxpSMCA2-TVbHkOwr7mew93SPhs2oPBSEZmn0tNW8M60QZXJHQJUcGmylTO5p9I67TQ4kvKYUocRLNITtjlF7ylyAVs/s400/IMG_0328.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5490672016105716594" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Love notes are </span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">left in lunches.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">On beds.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Doors.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Sent as texts.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">And stuck on bathroom</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">mirrors.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">There certainly is an abundance</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">of </span><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">love</span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> in our home.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">And affection.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">And for that, I am deeply</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Grateful.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0e_e2J4HZ5u4_E6NivPtmn9V8UT_qLiq827dK9TmT9XVnFqadvFTl6oVLcS4HRBN8AUcsSm77WNej10SaCUeD2c40_gkW-MNo0XTXlyITxa6SR4sTuy1VEztEWVlMDkiE26Z-VXd_NuXQ/s1600/IMG_2295.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0e_e2J4HZ5u4_E6NivPtmn9V8UT_qLiq827dK9TmT9XVnFqadvFTl6oVLcS4HRBN8AUcsSm77WNej10SaCUeD2c40_gkW-MNo0XTXlyITxa6SR4sTuy1VEztEWVlMDkiE26Z-VXd_NuXQ/s400/IMG_2295.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5490672526329737698" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">This past holiday weekend,</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">I learned of a childhood</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">friend's almost 10 year old boy</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> and pride and joy,</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">passing away in a tragic</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">boating accident.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">{Read about this amazing family here: </span><a href="http://www.harrisbeachbums.blogspot.com/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Harris Beach Bums</span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">} </span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">This incident has</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> reminded me to </span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">never take my loved </span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">ones </span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">for granted.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">And the special </span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">moments we share together.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">I truly cherish the hugs.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">The kisses.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">The fun times.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">The quiet times.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">The love notes.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">The "I love you's".</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">so much more now.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWCg_m4LBnLH7w3ecK8ML06j6ahKK9fDBrjqL29Xy-8a2aLl2vmaHKDeuCT79x1Z10wScjkcgLl8Ju35rgXXIJmgYUbfwxtMgiSkyqbjlO3uclcRIYxZn-DJNOAafRZWLE7ddDVBK3JoL5/s1600/IMG_1935.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWCg_m4LBnLH7w3ecK8ML06j6ahKK9fDBrjqL29Xy-8a2aLl2vmaHKDeuCT79x1Z10wScjkcgLl8Ju35rgXXIJmgYUbfwxtMgiSkyqbjlO3uclcRIYxZn-DJNOAafRZWLE7ddDVBK3JoL5/s400/IMG_1935.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5490688426398182258" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">And most importantly,</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">I've been reminded </span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">of how vital it is</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">to keep the one's you</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">love close around</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">you.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:Georgia, serif;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVPBcLAemNGXkiRHCSjtDlsIHDHhl2GFWRkFYvmfQ_uidcuHe_jcl_8rl9vr5sW6WUbJw1M_McTNrmN7d78p7v9tc0d8bOBHLRyfVZF0__GwQx_sH2eoaYHySCgzS1S34yjmDrsfe3FDAP/s1600/IMG_0313.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVPBcLAemNGXkiRHCSjtDlsIHDHhl2GFWRkFYvmfQ_uidcuHe_jcl_8rl9vr5sW6WUbJw1M_McTNrmN7d78p7v9tc0d8bOBHLRyfVZF0__GwQx_sH2eoaYHySCgzS1S34yjmDrsfe3FDAP/s400/IMG_0313.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5490688416210753058" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></a></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">And when you</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">do, you will </span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">forever</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">cherish</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">those sweet, tender moments </span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">you share together~</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Forever....and ever.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:Georgia, serif;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7bo197MiFSQ2pmwHH9wNoap3dXeBehsiVpY0Y64KqzRYP4dGJqM3f5CEU7i3KMBe-qSXn0_nsPaa1_UXgecX1WA39DcJ1WJp0kCVHcuDjNBUAaT4oSwXwqb7PHS4g-OF0zR_SqZRDFoLh/s1600/IMG_1678.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7bo197MiFSQ2pmwHH9wNoap3dXeBehsiVpY0Y64KqzRYP4dGJqM3f5CEU7i3KMBe-qSXn0_nsPaa1_UXgecX1WA39DcJ1WJp0kCVHcuDjNBUAaT4oSwXwqb7PHS4g-OF0zR_SqZRDFoLh/s400/IMG_1678.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5490682787403100642" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></a></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'courier new';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>LisaBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11665617488810534525noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7649159856256328048.post-49399958655728291142010-06-24T19:03:00.000-07:002010-06-25T00:13:22.736-07:00Sweet, Sweet Magic!<div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" color: rgb(102, 0, 204); font-weight: bold; font-family:'trebuchet ms', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">D</span>isneyland is definitely the happiest place on Earth!!</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', serif;color:#6600CC;"><b><br /></b></span></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPkj19Pbal4K-O_AXP9iWdl_x1dTUzxFW4btas3rd0PLx5BMWdqwv2-QilS1xWEdguYghgEQQCZdCub0cPakWUPxk7rM4UTwR6saUbICkL16LHqOBHFjtKKuURhdNd_X0ov1-M2VFHjH_z/s1600/IMG_2233.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPkj19Pbal4K-O_AXP9iWdl_x1dTUzxFW4btas3rd0PLx5BMWdqwv2-QilS1xWEdguYghgEQQCZdCub0cPakWUPxk7rM4UTwR6saUbICkL16LHqOBHFjtKKuURhdNd_X0ov1-M2VFHjH_z/s400/IMG_2233.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5486534492732613778" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 332px; " /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', serif;color:#3366FF;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" color: rgb(51, 102, 255); font-family:'trebuchet ms', serif;">Two years in a row, we enjoyed having Disneyland passes.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#3366FF;">That is, until we decided to take a break. </span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', serif;color:#3366FF;">Because we didn't want Disneyland to lose its magic.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#3366FF;">Well, another two years have passed since we had them.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#3366FF;">So we recently invested once again.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#3366FF;">And are currently the proud owners of Disneyland's Deluxe Season Passes.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#3366FF;"> Now we can go <i>anytime</i>.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#3366FF;">With very few blackout days.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#3366FF;">Sweet.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#3366FF;">We will be going a lot this summer!</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', serif;color:#3366FF;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', serif;color:#3366FF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family:Georgia, serif;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpNZQX4fQvYdWg2ojeLjqcGH4doFi8ilionmynw6qiEt8-1m2ESIgpJU6Y9aVgAO3FGyaq3VeB4fyg6FgG6Apv2V3Q8-iQsY8eD94Moi7nCb0A0VTNTi5eUa3DuJrwFjSGaz5NLvZWSGrK/s1600/IMG_2235.jpg" style="text-decoration: none;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpNZQX4fQvYdWg2ojeLjqcGH4doFi8ilionmynw6qiEt8-1m2ESIgpJU6Y9aVgAO3FGyaq3VeB4fyg6FgG6Apv2V3Q8-iQsY8eD94Moi7nCb0A0VTNTi5eUa3DuJrwFjSGaz5NLvZWSGrK/s400/IMG_2235.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5486534504127092018" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px; " /></a></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', serif;color:#FF0000;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FF0000;">Since yesterday was Little Miss Katie's 7th Birthday</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FF0000;">we celebrated BIG at Disneyland.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', serif;color:#FF0000;"><br /></span></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQfCZ0JZV4EfIfDVb1Mur6cZcpR0UDPjU-vWRWnv1igiej2Of4_hybgdC7sKBLqUN1XSAXHOLEJjNIwbLwXcWtucYciVwNecwmQ0N6fqIZGhQbOsOUpLa0fFPDThSxyNrZ_AF1JeyUExAQ/s1600/IMG_2254.JPG" style="text-decoration: none;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQfCZ0JZV4EfIfDVb1Mur6cZcpR0UDPjU-vWRWnv1igiej2Of4_hybgdC7sKBLqUN1XSAXHOLEJjNIwbLwXcWtucYciVwNecwmQ0N6fqIZGhQbOsOUpLa0fFPDThSxyNrZ_AF1JeyUExAQ/s400/IMG_2254.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5486535364076253010" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FF6600;">We had a </span><b><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FF6600;">really</span></i></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FF6600;"> good time!</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FF6600;">Just look at these photos.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FF6600;">And see for yourself.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', serif;color:#FF9966;"><br /></span></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRk8ZeGo3muJco4CNwTckC35R6i2hg-FITaHMzoK3TIFkXaevKWSoHDnitbOCPB45B2c5nvMvWcgEHLIAt6GYsyjm4eyjOT3_XX1nNepv0nKAhXFdUct1V2H9DXDC5c8WU1UYkjP8j4MfO/s1600/IMG_2273.JPG" style="text-decoration: none;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRk8ZeGo3muJco4CNwTckC35R6i2hg-FITaHMzoK3TIFkXaevKWSoHDnitbOCPB45B2c5nvMvWcgEHLIAt6GYsyjm4eyjOT3_XX1nNepv0nKAhXFdUct1V2H9DXDC5c8WU1UYkjP8j4MfO/s400/IMG_2273.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5486596623503213890" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', serif;color:#FF9966;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FF6600;">These are some seriously happy kids.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', serif;color:#FF9966;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', serif;color:#FF9966;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family:Georgia, serif;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiA6yj9uGoJnREM9PUvRqXrAGummbkV2TwiNPxMoJHD9gvtIEGk5thowKT_jH7VADDIEalpH-3MoK8blhWZMeOz8nIRnp7rn7AdHiySebmXD6TxK1Afqwo7uZQT4bL7FDYF9yQGrLFuMLn/s1600/IMG_2301.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiA6yj9uGoJnREM9PUvRqXrAGummbkV2TwiNPxMoJHD9gvtIEGk5thowKT_jH7VADDIEalpH-3MoK8blhWZMeOz8nIRnp7rn7AdHiySebmXD6TxK1Afqwo7uZQT4bL7FDYF9yQGrLFuMLn/s400/IMG_2301.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5486535399861435170" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></a></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', serif;color:#FF9966;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FF6600;">It was a very, very, very, </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FF6600;">FUN</span></b></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FF6600;"> day!!!!</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', serif;color:#FF9966;"><br /></span></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpsG6qBnGvzCgrJRSkEkjpt7rqGN2r7wZyODOtmMApK0ekgE3whZSTMGkOVa0HcR8joV-v_DD6c8F0nUORAEH8qKYhtWtOIFnxa7YnGCslCpItkmAPUo7JzEoJHc7TMJObPKAEFtp5Ncd5/s1600/IMG_2250.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpsG6qBnGvzCgrJRSkEkjpt7rqGN2r7wZyODOtmMApK0ekgE3whZSTMGkOVa0HcR8joV-v_DD6c8F0nUORAEH8qKYhtWtOIFnxa7YnGCslCpItkmAPUo7JzEoJHc7TMJObPKAEFtp5Ncd5/s400/IMG_2250.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5486534524797314578" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', serif;color:#FF9966;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FF0000;">We ended our family birthday party</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FF0000;">with the Disneyland Fireworks Spectacular.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FF0000;">And it was just that.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FF0000;">Quite a spectacular show!!</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FF0000;">For some reason, as I stood there</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FF0000;">with my family around me,</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FF0000;">watching the fireworks,</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FF0000;"> and listening to the music they are synchronized to,</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FF0000;">a lump filled my throat.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FF0000;">There's nothing that brings me greater joy in </span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FF0000;">life, than to see my children grinning from</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FF0000;">ear to ear as they look on in amazement.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FF0000;">Having the time of their lives.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FF0000;">With those they love.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', serif;color:#FF9966;"><br /></span></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVKhrwZpwdSHl2r8e_rIaJYC7u_0pPHU71Cv0y0XKxQRP3uomZm6tt9YFH0MkXI2OHU3pw5bwoq4cSsynL6a_40ApLjCv5P7Q_P1FdW74l7l-uWfD960Og5ETXcisuOerLrHqmwQC8YB3d/s1600/IMG_2302.JPG" style="text-decoration: none;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVKhrwZpwdSHl2r8e_rIaJYC7u_0pPHU71Cv0y0XKxQRP3uomZm6tt9YFH0MkXI2OHU3pw5bwoq4cSsynL6a_40ApLjCv5P7Q_P1FdW74l7l-uWfD960Og5ETXcisuOerLrHqmwQC8YB3d/s400/IMG_2302.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5486536101278335122" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', serif;color:#33CC00;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" color: rgb(51, 204, 0); font-family:'trebuchet ms', serif;">Disneyland creates amazingly wonderful memories.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" color: rgb(51, 204, 0); font-family:'trebuchet ms', serif;"> For people of all ages.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#33CC00;">Especially when you're celebrating your 7th birthday.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#33CC00;">Katie's 7th was a truly<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"> <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Magical</span></span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"> </span>one.</span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', serif;color:#33CC00;"><br /></span></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnVAel-VrsWECntVOyzttzLeXIz1vulpQFFzSi0Bq8WMlSXr4Zgh5WEMuYDnn9xIJnflUaI3H_3h3ycZCFhppIlZOZxaP4t8I9GQ9uhVBBsjlbqAG5Hp2gBYb84D6f2V7Dvx2K_0fsAJ1T/s1600/IMG_2307.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnVAel-VrsWECntVOyzttzLeXIz1vulpQFFzSi0Bq8WMlSXr4Zgh5WEMuYDnn9xIJnflUaI3H_3h3ycZCFhppIlZOZxaP4t8I9GQ9uhVBBsjlbqAG5Hp2gBYb84D6f2V7Dvx2K_0fsAJ1T/s400/IMG_2307.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5486536106865926386" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px; " /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', serif;color:#CC66CC;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" color: rgb(204, 102, 204); font-family:'trebuchet ms', serif;">She even declared it her "best birthday ever!"</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#CC66CC;">It was. </span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#CC66CC;">Just that.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#CC66CC;">Cheers to a magical 7th year, Little Miss Katie-Kate!!</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', serif;color:#CC66CC;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', serif;color:#33CC00;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family:Georgia, serif;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhryW1j1lkalnXix8UdLDkbsMu1akMzBsVtEPOePAAmPQDq2Y9PZavavJRHZorz5PQ-DJiBxi88w0cCNRyuu9rXGrUjPGlGiwErjWxiQAZLOqxDNX5eooyAYDg401Ppcgjn2d3ixEnNKf2k/s1600/IMG_2287.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhryW1j1lkalnXix8UdLDkbsMu1akMzBsVtEPOePAAmPQDq2Y9PZavavJRHZorz5PQ-DJiBxi88w0cCNRyuu9rXGrUjPGlGiwErjWxiQAZLOqxDNX5eooyAYDg401Ppcgjn2d3ixEnNKf2k/s400/IMG_2287.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5486535389172555634" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></a></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', serif;color:#FF0000;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', serif;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:Georgia, serif;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-MLyLTt_JNjbQLA0aoqsg7rVxc_AKTWo1XVYu9-WAXWn_RS60Ihmfay7F7jmyYLVWb1-G4U8CntUHP5-ctCbFsUt4Rm2vazfan0uanRbAo2bn8lU3C5BdE6MNz6pAlubqTonPTmjuKAE9/s1600/IMG_2273.JPG"><br /></a></span></span></div>LisaBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11665617488810534525noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7649159856256328048.post-84548922395690463912010-06-21T11:37:00.000-07:002010-06-21T14:03:15.028-07:00A Sweet Father's Day Tribute....<div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#0000EE;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-decoration: underline;"><br /></span></span></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKTh10JTS1OvuNJQmujiZGo4Gk1eoHVbl9fh0RGeKyChY2saH-A0BNucb6JIg5tLc5V84j6QG4WQSgToKV8oGiNRSODjqL9COf80u8AKuCEWG8UaOfP-hR0g8IGBD5_zRQikDBqRpdCVr8/s1600/IMG_0035.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKTh10JTS1OvuNJQmujiZGo4Gk1eoHVbl9fh0RGeKyChY2saH-A0BNucb6JIg5tLc5V84j6QG4WQSgToKV8oGiNRSODjqL9COf80u8AKuCEWG8UaOfP-hR0g8IGBD5_zRQikDBqRpdCVr8/s400/IMG_0035.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5485330586055857618" /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:x-large;">C</span></b>hildren look up to their Fathers.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#0000EE;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-decoration: underline;"><br /></span></span></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKyCjye5tqwx8t3b-V1Y2XBK_GZSIHnel_b1xLvpJxYJZqRqFhW04CWCVZhSWquLNr4qCO4RmoJi_Stt9XejVHhCXRX1x620yNtJR1sjFAuumA-iGUQlRk4utSYdUKBhV908JBCButPb-o/s1600/IMG_2178.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKyCjye5tqwx8t3b-V1Y2XBK_GZSIHnel_b1xLvpJxYJZqRqFhW04CWCVZhSWquLNr4qCO4RmoJi_Stt9XejVHhCXRX1x620yNtJR1sjFAuumA-iGUQlRk4utSYdUKBhV908JBCButPb-o/s400/IMG_2178.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5485319306321249138" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">And children share cupcakes with their dad on Father's Day. 'Cause Dads DIG Cupcakes.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Yesterday was Father's Day. It's a special day for us. To show and express to our dads <i>just</i> how much we love and appreciate them.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">I took this beautiful photo of Gary yesterday. Opening his Father's Day gift with Katie by his side. It's precious. I love the warm glow on their faces. Looking at this picture makes me feel warm and fuzzy inside. Happy.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwCTJoeCMm81low-yUTQnEOwWQPxJm_bxfbDqIEyBfFMWcL0v_Vv6KV2W-TtRZMv67azOSu85qPTRh0_sZuUvCK3tPjUbrONT3q4tl28EAaACE6XQaWAWVJYPR9O-8TMwl2t60Ub6reUEd/s1600/IMG_2173.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwCTJoeCMm81low-yUTQnEOwWQPxJm_bxfbDqIEyBfFMWcL0v_Vv6KV2W-TtRZMv67azOSu85qPTRh0_sZuUvCK3tPjUbrONT3q4tl28EAaACE6XQaWAWVJYPR9O-8TMwl2t60Ub6reUEd/s400/IMG_2173.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5485318501952970706" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px; " /></a></div><div><div><br /></div><div>I have a wonderful dad. He and I are similar in many ways. For one, he and I have very similar handwriting. It's kinda funny. He writes like an architect. Maybe that's because he used to be a draftsman and designed both commercial and government airplanes. I love my dad and appreciate all he has taught me in life.</div><div><br /></div><div>The man I married, is an amazingly wonderful father. He loves his children. </div><div><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY16dRWEO_xcf9STb5wjboTxDqOu4xWvBmGcCJhSCp9nNb3SPzSLJELg-bUSvLyqyx44rqK7P5qqmLecAGqx5D0QBnPK-G00H02NZC5JKN1jPCuNNNJdk2aU3N8eVD57vlcms4SidHJw-U/s1600/0908_bluemelproofs_130.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY16dRWEO_xcf9STb5wjboTxDqOu4xWvBmGcCJhSCp9nNb3SPzSLJELg-bUSvLyqyx44rqK7P5qqmLecAGqx5D0QBnPK-G00H02NZC5JKN1jPCuNNNJdk2aU3N8eVD57vlcms4SidHJw-U/s400/0908_bluemelproofs_130.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5485330555152515698" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px; " /></a><div>And enjoys taking each of them on "daddy dates"~</div><div><br /></div><div>Sometimes it's to the movies.</div><div><br /></div><div>Sometimes it's hiking and looking for reptiles.</div><div><br /></div><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhumCEFFhVHRViAtESInV-EtCX72eX-3c0vTYHepYzVN65CPSzo55iQyLhL80riAaqeri0I2NZ3xe1b0DOFzKQIgPZlr2NpDMPicd0tjc_hY_NBbY-3Wrm5Dq7w4yiMD2x5qu89EUaO7AGX/s1600/DSC_0075.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhumCEFFhVHRViAtESInV-EtCX72eX-3c0vTYHepYzVN65CPSzo55iQyLhL80riAaqeri0I2NZ3xe1b0DOFzKQIgPZlr2NpDMPicd0tjc_hY_NBbY-3Wrm5Dq7w4yiMD2x5qu89EUaO7AGX/s400/DSC_0075.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5485330568099645234" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 264px; " /></a></div><div>Sometimes they go out to eat together somewhere special.</div><div><br /></div><div>Sometimes they go camping.</div><div><br /></div><div>Sometimes they go get ice cream.</div><div><br /></div><div>Sometimes they go shopping for fun stuff.</div><div><br /></div><div>He also spends quality time with them at home~</div><div><br /></div><div>Playing games. </div><div><br /></div><div>Playing with our dog Buddy or taking him for a walk together.</div><div><br /></div><div>Playing basketball.</div><div><br /></div><div>Playing outside.</div><div><br /></div><div>Making everyone laugh.</div><div><br /></div><div>Watching movies together.</div><div><br /></div><div>Listening to music together.</div><div><br /></div><div>Or playing his guitar. </div><div><br /></div><div>And teaching his children how to play an instrument.</div><div><br /></div><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggMnhKSkhsRDIPSt-LDOgtLc6Yh7nQN0XRfoNMRKKGAeoyPT1PhQavJ18wO8l9mKnNtADImCzHEbzXFJgvDZD4HzewsFejijZ5EnstdxujCXT8MgYya5u22wuqsNMuwCAaSvNKNNi2PMbL/s1600/IMG_2305.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggMnhKSkhsRDIPSt-LDOgtLc6Yh7nQN0XRfoNMRKKGAeoyPT1PhQavJ18wO8l9mKnNtADImCzHEbzXFJgvDZD4HzewsFejijZ5EnstdxujCXT8MgYya5u22wuqsNMuwCAaSvNKNNi2PMbL/s400/IMG_2305.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5485330861369108226" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></a></div><div>Gary not only values his one on one time with his 3 pride and joys, he values family time. He has declared Fridays as "Friday Family Fun Night". That's when we eat take-out and do something fun. Usually the fun lasts the entire weekend as we always seem to find some exciting adventure for the family to enjoy together.</div><div><br /></div><div>When Fall rolls around, you can find Gary coaching our kids soccer teams. And he is one of the best AYSO Coaches. </div><div><br /></div><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqQroV8BffxiKH2NYWYC6353km7lMnTySmkJUzhnrSzrZOZ11w7Z-MUOpHxWAHmMrUaZ5UY0WzC5GVsAMha8liN4f4z1NmhxvGYCodaoRZuGR0BT4POmTs7KlTben2PUJW8v76_HKpL5_0/s1600/IMG_1812.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqQroV8BffxiKH2NYWYC6353km7lMnTySmkJUzhnrSzrZOZ11w7Z-MUOpHxWAHmMrUaZ5UY0WzC5GVsAMha8liN4f4z1NmhxvGYCodaoRZuGR0BT4POmTs7KlTben2PUJW8v76_HKpL5_0/s400/IMG_1812.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5485330597689924226" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px; " /></a></div><div>His teams always go to the finals. And Gary's players love having him as their coach.</div><div><br /></div><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAjntPrxiYVFzVd_NmrdT-SV5LTRH5jmD8N660pQRDogBsjGbjmKx2fmlbEm6n_5vrT34NNqwr_v2ulqMG0X_CkHE7inBKf9ieretq6kgXiDCpLWSJRVzKvfMX_Rfk4_GfA3YYsOnesTP0/s1600/DSC_0284.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAjntPrxiYVFzVd_NmrdT-SV5LTRH5jmD8N660pQRDogBsjGbjmKx2fmlbEm6n_5vrT34NNqwr_v2ulqMG0X_CkHE7inBKf9ieretq6kgXiDCpLWSJRVzKvfMX_Rfk4_GfA3YYsOnesTP0/s400/DSC_0284.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5485330577514893986" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px; " /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>Gary works hard everyday and sacrifices so much for our family. He truly takes incredible care of us and wants the best for his family. The one thing he desires the most for us is for everyone to be happy. And believe me. We are. Life is good. And totally sweet.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div></div>LisaBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11665617488810534525noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7649159856256328048.post-8586571175741082662010-06-07T22:52:00.000-07:002010-06-14T11:39:25.913-07:00One Sweet Trip...Part I<div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#0000EE;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-decoration: underline;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#0000EE;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=""><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: none; "><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYkwY1rUauEjbTHaoEC8u3cKDPRu-TUUxQbNrdMoACjXJ_0lyyvviGVcfbAplBAjk822BXYVDxu03Fnuba4kpt6kEh0c5Hm7mQ0LZgL9A_ay6YDXGFWgnJ3G2zzi1AKWugNa3FQw96B7RP/s1600/IMG_0744.JPG" style="text-decoration: none;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYkwY1rUauEjbTHaoEC8u3cKDPRu-TUUxQbNrdMoACjXJ_0lyyvviGVcfbAplBAjk822BXYVDxu03Fnuba4kpt6kEh0c5Hm7mQ0LZgL9A_ay6YDXGFWgnJ3G2zzi1AKWugNa3FQw96B7RP/s400/IMG_0744.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5481761223633316274" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></a></span></span></span></div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">I</span></b>'ve been wanting to write a synopsis of my trip since we returned home. 2 weeks ago!! But, between having severe jet lag and being totally overwhelmed by the entire experience--I really don't know where to begin. Or how to begin for that matter. I truly am speechless. That's how amazing it was. Everything we saw. Everything we did. Every authentic meal we shared, was a gift. I'm certain this will be the first of many blog entries about our journey.<div><br /></div><div>This, for instance, is Ephesus~</div><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEje-Nb_Fp4c1R_c8REimVHmjCJ6VlP9mqCEasPIhXC_K8dVrmSTOE_2teYn_Cl3E_ST9tI9X04isE-4BU6NNhY9W-p8NmcOc4C0wJWqyZPhZ21LXQDp4bj1B6PcAtq7_FkCJo4rMWEvduWm/s1600/IMG_0841.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEje-Nb_Fp4c1R_c8REimVHmjCJ6VlP9mqCEasPIhXC_K8dVrmSTOE_2teYn_Cl3E_ST9tI9X04isE-4BU6NNhY9W-p8NmcOc4C0wJWqyZPhZ21LXQDp4bj1B6PcAtq7_FkCJo4rMWEvduWm/s400/IMG_0841.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5481760375129470802" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></a></div><div>It's a very ancient city in Turkey dating back as far as 600 BC. But, we'll get back to this place a little later. I could write an entire book on this, "the oldest city everrrr..." {Sorry couldn't help myself here. It's an inside joke between my husband and me}.</div><div><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNtLKOmqeePkjqMsnEJw2FIncAuLZw2YZ_0x6eCn1pxJMly4e4SopfF4AEIEo8bnB3vpsQ2sL-J5TMoJ-Gip0qWoDNbGuMXo0koANY83n3TiuK2IyTHaqCvoMFTZlFri7kxP-3k0fztjTu/s1600/IMG_0842.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNtLKOmqeePkjqMsnEJw2FIncAuLZw2YZ_0x6eCn1pxJMly4e4SopfF4AEIEo8bnB3vpsQ2sL-J5TMoJ-Gip0qWoDNbGuMXo0koANY83n3TiuK2IyTHaqCvoMFTZlFri7kxP-3k0fztjTu/s400/IMG_0842.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5481760388682292306" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px; " /></a><div>We always left the ports we were visiting late at night and sailed the sea while we were sound asleep. It was quite nice, we were rocked to sleep. Nightly. Like little babies. Fortunately, the seas were perfectly smooth the <i><b>entire</b></i> trip~despite the fact we traveled through two bad storms. One, when we left Athens and the other in Kusadasi, Turkey. My prayers were answered! It was smooth sailing the entire trip in every way. </div><div><br /></div><div>This trip was such a dream and so exciting that I think I must have felt the same level of excitement a small child does on Christmas Eve. Every day we'd wake-up bright and early. In fact, as soon as my eyes popped open, I jumped out of bed and hurried over to our big sliding window which opened up to our balcony. I'd pull back the curtains to unveil places I'd only seen on TV or read about in history books! Each time, I was super surprised by the beauty and grandeur of it all. And couldn't wait to get out and explore the city that awaited us. It was a thrill ride like no other.</div><div><br /></div><div>Back to those storms I mentioned earlier. Simply because this storm is one of the funnier more exciting stories. Gary and I got stuck right in the middle of a massive rain storm in Kusadasi, Turkey~and it was everything from hilarious to terrifying. Let's just say that it was <b><i>pouring</i></b> rain. Buckets. And buckets of rain. In fact, one of the Turks we passed in an alley said that this was the most rain they've had in 30 years! Weren't we lucky?!?! </div><div><br /></div><div>See for yourself. Nice, huh?? Real nice.</div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAcsNUP1mIWOvNVmbF-XSdZCMETUhHdZfknPeJeSgPw0ptVNIgfBFG9T9gBgDweplRPibmHU7dnIaF7AhaRmn0TnS8RKcZwg1VZIMm6TL1KNbowixoVWEGbAqTRiWQ4brd-ARXHaNJxnMz/s1600/IMG_0889.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAcsNUP1mIWOvNVmbF-XSdZCMETUhHdZfknPeJeSgPw0ptVNIgfBFG9T9gBgDweplRPibmHU7dnIaF7AhaRmn0TnS8RKcZwg1VZIMm6TL1KNbowixoVWEGbAqTRiWQ4brd-ARXHaNJxnMz/s400/IMG_0889.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5482693731190888754" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></a><div>Before I go on, I should explain to you a bit about Kusadasi. So you can visualize it. It's a port town filled with open air stores in little alleys. Also, please note on this particular day that Gary and I were dressed in the <b><i>only </i></b>clothes we had at the time!!! Let me repeat that....THE ONLY CLOTHES and SHOES we HAD at the time!!!! And now we were<b> completely </b>drenched. From head to toe. And our shoes were soggy. My <b>one</b> and <b>only</b> pair of shoes!!!! So from this you can figure out that our luggage didn't make it to Athens when we flew in the day prior. It was still stuck back in the U.S.! Funny, huh? ALL my <b>new </b>clothes, shoes and necessities of life were still sitting somewhere in the Philadelphia International Airport! However, they finally made it and arrived while we were in Santorini. Three whole days into our trip. It's a long, long story. Maybe I'll bore you with it later. But the most important part of the story is that our stuff did make it and I was over-joyed when it all finally arrived. I even stood on the balcony of our room while I watched the water taxi deliver our lost bags to the ship....it was quite a <i>ha</i><i>ppy</i> moment for me! I went as far as to yell down to them from my room, 5 floors up....cheering and clapping loudly! </div><div>Look!</div><div>Here they are!!!!</div><div>YAY!!!!!</div><div>It was a long journey from the U.S. to Santorini. Poor Bags. </div><div>Or maybe it was more like poor me? </div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibqz3PzoGiCM_MDAoblWMjY0ArS2uLgWsHNrIVBkx8sPhuaGqmQytaidiw5kSQHOJsg3mEfrBIm9JLbrE5-ydeGqCgXh-66gCfgUoqK6BUt33_Us1XgKy0vrWW-Ab-B56t3g5tpsz2XyKH/s1600/IMG_0922.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibqz3PzoGiCM_MDAoblWMjY0ArS2uLgWsHNrIVBkx8sPhuaGqmQytaidiw5kSQHOJsg3mEfrBIm9JLbrE5-ydeGqCgXh-66gCfgUoqK6BUt33_Us1XgKy0vrWW-Ab-B56t3g5tpsz2XyKH/s400/IMG_0922.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5481760721624588738" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></a><div>Anyhow, back to that aweful storm in Kusadasi. After touring Ephesus we attended a carpet demonstration with our group {'cause if you didn't know, Turkey is well known for their carpet weaving~and they are gorgeous}. Afterwards we told our National Geographic tour guide that we wanted something authentic to eat for dinner! Afterall, we were starving. We'd walked all over and worked up a huge appetite.</div><div><br /></div><div>Gary and I love tasty Mediterranean food and wanted to make sure that we found a good restaurant where we'd get the sweetest meal! I thought it was so nice. Instead of the tour guide just telling us the name of a restaurant and how to get there, this kind Turk personally led us through a maze of streets to an amazing little Mediterranean joint. Almost immediately after we sat down, our server brought us a huge brick oven cooked pita bread. Along with some amazing humus, feta cheese, and grape leaves wrapped around something very yummy. Not sure what it was, but it was truly incredible!!</div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGY_6aI08FOomDPgG23OQXA24oUMCUmexbS7nC1-CEzqmJGe1mLBg8OJgAy7EjMrWz9uht1aNBqFPfVOcIkFUta-LQZeShPyc50VcCu6Knjl4rhIR3Zf15wDrQCcXaqjkCYH5IOjkl1a5Z/s1600/IMG_0880.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGY_6aI08FOomDPgG23OQXA24oUMCUmexbS7nC1-CEzqmJGe1mLBg8OJgAy7EjMrWz9uht1aNBqFPfVOcIkFUta-LQZeShPyc50VcCu6Knjl4rhIR3Zf15wDrQCcXaqjkCYH5IOjkl1a5Z/s400/IMG_0880.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5481760392083528450" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></a><div>This delicious appetizer was followed by a huge platter full of chicken, pork, steak, and lamb kabobs. The food was off-the-hook! And they treated us like gold. But while Gary and I were sitting outside dining, dark, ominous clouds rolled in. The restaurant workers began working furiously to put all the tables, chairs--anything that was outside away where it wouldn't get wet. I looked at Gary and said, "Uhhhh, I think they know something we don't. Maybe we should move inside." Good thing we followed their lead because it started to rain.</div><div><br /></div><div>By the time we paid for our meal and left, it was pouring. Thankfully I had on a raincoat. But Gary only had on a short sleeved shirt. And we had NO umbrella. We ran through the alleys in the direction of the port where our ship was docked. All the storekeepers were putting their merchandise away. Most of them laughed at us and told us they thought we were crazy. Maybe we were. But we had to get back and there was only one way to do it. We dashed around in the pouring rain. </div><div><br /></div><div> I felt like we were in a James Bond movie. Gary was Bond, James Bond and I was his bond girl. The rain didn't bother us. It was exciting. Fun. I even bought Gary an umbrella at one of the stores we ran past. And it seemed to help. For a little while. That is until the lightening and thunder came. Lightening was striking all around us. It was so close the lightening and thunder came simultaneously. It was so powerful the ground shook! </div><div><br /></div><div>We continued on as we wanted to get back to the ship and get out of the rain. But the closer we got, the harder it rained and the more furious the storm became. At one point Gary and I joked about his umbrella and how it probably wasn't smart to have it up in this particular storm. About two minutes after we laughed about his umbrella being a lightening rod, a HUGE lightening bolt struck the water right in front of us! Close to where our ship was docked. It absolutely freaked us out! It was so <b>loud</b>! And it set off all the alarms in the area. The only funny thing about this moment in time was Gary's reaction. He was still holding his umbrella when that bolt of lightening shot out in front of us!! He screamed and immediately threw it to the ground. It made me laugh and I practically started crying it was so hilarious! We both were laughing at ourselves. It finally hit us. Maybe that Turk back in the alley was right. Maybe we were crazy trying to navigate a storm that intense. Later we found out from one of Gary's CA co-workers that there was even a water spout over our ship!!</div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7fx1BZbXhLxjfbh4AKG6aPcrxH-jofDceEkHt5C53cEqkDTK_3C_eEc20yE1Rh20xPflXFCix2Io3F3U6vEqzIYsbpd6MT_zZZ8YJzZ36f8GI9qCVat3L5hlnojjPlO2SDoLojDDZH3tk/s1600/IMG_0886.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7fx1BZbXhLxjfbh4AKG6aPcrxH-jofDceEkHt5C53cEqkDTK_3C_eEc20yE1Rh20xPflXFCix2Io3F3U6vEqzIYsbpd6MT_zZZ8YJzZ36f8GI9qCVat3L5hlnojjPlO2SDoLojDDZH3tk/s400/IMG_0886.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5481760401078029202" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></a><div>This is the view we had when the bolt of lightening struck the water. And where we planted ourselves right under the eaves of a big building~while we waited for this horrific storm to pass. We stood there soaking wet. No coat. No umbrella could keep us dry. When we felt it was pretty safe, we darted over to the port where we managed to find a few high end stores still open. We stopped in. Hoping to find some dry clothes to wear once we got back on the ship. I bought a nice linen dress. A sexy pair of red sandals. And Gary found a handsome shirt and nice pair of shoes {he packed more extra clothes in his carry on than I did--he's the seasoned traveler. I only packed enough for two days. And none of it was evening dress code worthy. The ship we were on had a dress code for the evening. It was "country club casual-no jeans". Jeans were all I had with me at the time. And now they were wet and clinging to my body}.</div><div><br /></div><div>Once we made our purchases we hopped aboard the ship. Went straight to our room where we took a very warm, welcome shower. Dressed up and headed to the Casino where Gary used his mad Craps playing skills and won us some good money. I'm his lucky charm. When he's with me....he <i>always </i>wins. If I'm gone, he loses. It's that simple. So I can never leave the table during play. </div><div><br /></div><div>We lucked out that night and ended up with a "hot" craps table. We left while we were up and headed to bed. It was a great way to end a day filled with some seriously amazing tours {Ephesus--that is a blog entry in and of itself}. Great food. And a lot of excitement!!! And this was only the<b> first</b> f<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal; ">ull<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal; "> day of our trip. It was a day we'll <i>never</i> forget. I can't wait to tell you about Ephesus~"...it's like, the oldest city...everrrrrr!" {insert me laughing here~so sorry! I couldn't resist}</span></span></span></span></div><div><br /></div><div>Until then, take a look at this decadent treat~Chocolate covered Turkish Delight! We found it sitting on our bed waiting for us when we returned to our room. Soaking wet. We tore into that sucker fast and dug right in. It was really good. Now that I'm home, I miss it and want more. I need to have some shipped to me! Stat!</div><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4yVDWfiLjJQe26KJuiYK_umdhKC4nxI1i3NerVxEsI6Ie7wLBUT21dH-VzLvwJ7p8TMqlvjnUTQ1f4r3C4mYRNoZZN4KdXo177s6HoWrzic5F3OqnRAYK8eC25RCDNw-uWBXQzOkpjTdv/s1600/IMG_0891.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4yVDWfiLjJQe26KJuiYK_umdhKC4nxI1i3NerVxEsI6Ie7wLBUT21dH-VzLvwJ7p8TMqlvjnUTQ1f4r3C4mYRNoZZN4KdXo177s6HoWrzic5F3OqnRAYK8eC25RCDNw-uWBXQzOkpjTdv/s400/IMG_0891.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5481763000087418626" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></a></div><div>This was just one of the many great gifts we were given by CA on our Compass Club Odyssey. Sweet, huh?!? Jealous? I would be! 'Cause this was one dreamy trip....to be continued....That is the blog entries. Not the trip, itself. I wish. I wish I could go back.....</div></div></div>LisaBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11665617488810534525noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7649159856256328048.post-69955314781710164102010-05-16T09:44:00.000-07:002010-05-17T08:45:59.882-07:00The SWEETEST Brownie Recipe Ever.....<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIAN9zPfap7J-QNZjMjKtdGBrtdvDtuOPexdUXPDqDpOGbIyn13ayqyFrhyphenhyphenbamyHHSnQ3cLSUP4SLAQYqlV-bLes6B1xVuxtawVQDBPl6g5jhvOdU5BeoC_lfNm_CE_XOMbwYa-SrPxOEI/s1600/6+pouring+batter.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 134px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIAN9zPfap7J-QNZjMjKtdGBrtdvDtuOPexdUXPDqDpOGbIyn13ayqyFrhyphenhyphenbamyHHSnQ3cLSUP4SLAQYqlV-bLes6B1xVuxtawVQDBPl6g5jhvOdU5BeoC_lfNm_CE_XOMbwYa-SrPxOEI/s200/6+pouring+batter.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5472262033348482370" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:georgia, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Brownies. We all love them. Or, well. At least I do. They're gooey, chocolatey goodness~period.</span></span></div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Really, need I say more?</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:georgia, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">I absolutely adore all holidays. I was raised that way. My wonderful mom had a way of making <i>every </i>holiday a special occasion. Somehow I've seemed to carry on that tradition with my family. Food. Decorations. It's always a party at our house. I</span><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> will</span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> find a reason to celebrate. Just about <i>anything</i>!</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Enter St. Patty's Day 2010. Since my amazing husband's grandmother came here from Ireland, we make absolutely certain that when St. Patrick's Day rolls around every year that we go all out. </span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Everything </span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">is </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#009900;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">green</span></b></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">. And dinner is always your standard Irish fare. You know--Corned beef, carrots, cabbage and mashed potatoes {instead of boiled potatoes~they go over better at our house}. Then comes dessert. My favorite. This past year I came across a recipe I just had to try for Mint Brownies.</span></span></div><div><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9jvKqEtsIiAPdHHwEvqDrbDpUcENyjkAqU84L7hYt4mvsEALhlUJ0mR3X2cnMh3EMV44MCle247EffKoKb7aEk0E1TEiMVrCgABe_AYD7yWKiiOO19GwfBZ-MIU3gDDyU1HhCo1G-T_1X/s1600/mint+brownies.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9jvKqEtsIiAPdHHwEvqDrbDpUcENyjkAqU84L7hYt4mvsEALhlUJ0mR3X2cnMh3EMV44MCle247EffKoKb7aEk0E1TEiMVrCgABe_AYD7yWKiiOO19GwfBZ-MIU3gDDyU1HhCo1G-T_1X/s400/mint+brownies.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5472241810449090498" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px; " /></a><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Oh. My. Gosh. Hello?!?!? </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">They.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Were {Are}.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">The</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Perfect.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><b><br /></b></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><b>Brownie.</b></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">I will no longer make brownies from a box again. You shouldn't either. Pinky promise?</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">These come out beyond amazing. They don't have that hard edge and gooey, almost under-cooked center. </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Instead, they are perfectly moist. In fact, they cook</span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> evenly</span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> from the edges all the way to the center. And that's what makes them so SWEET!</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">I love them. And as I sit here blogging about them, my stomach is growling loudly. Very. Very. Loudly!!</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Maybe. Just maybe. If time permits, I'll indulge and bake up a batch of these today.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">You should too.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">You'll be glad you did. And if you make them for your friends, family, and neighbors~they will not only thank you, they'll be begging you for this recipe. So be sure to include it!</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Are you ready?</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Here it is. The recipe for my all time favorite brownie. However, before I go on, I can't take all the credit for this truly great recipe. I need to thank one of my favorite cooking blogs, </span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Our Best Bites </span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">for this</span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">. If you've never visited Our Best Bites website, do yourself a favor </span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">STOP whatever it is you're doing right now and click on the link--it's here on </span><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Everything Sweet </span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">for a reason. Because it's full of truly good recipes which are not only easy, but very tasty and super family friendly. Gotta love that. It's a sweet website. </span></span></div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">And this is truly the sweetest brownie recipe....ever.....</span></span></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; "><b style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Mint Brownies</span></b></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:Arial, sans-serif;"><i style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Recipe by Our Best Bites</span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', sans-serif;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:Arial, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"></span><span style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><b style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Brownies:</span></b></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> </span><span style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">4 squares </span><b style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">unsweetened</span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> baking chocolate (4oz)</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:Arial, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"></span><span style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">1 C butter (2 sticks)</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> </span><span style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">4 eggs</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:Arial, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"></span><span style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">2 cups sugar</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> </span><span style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">1 tsp vanilla</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> </span><span style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">1 1/4 C flour</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> </span><span style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">1/2 tsp baking powder</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:Arial, sans-serif;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> </span><b style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; font-family:'trebuchet ms';color:black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Frosting:</span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> </span><span style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">2 C powdered sugar</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> </span><span style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">4 T butter, softened</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> </span><span style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">1 1/2 tsp peppermint extract</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:Arial, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"></span><span style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">1-2 Tbs milk</span></span><span style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> </span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> </span><span style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">green food coloring</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:Arial, sans-serif;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:Arial, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"></span><b style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> </span><span style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; color:black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Chocolate Glaze:</span></span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:Arial, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"></span><span style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">6 oz (about 1 cup) semi-sweet chocolate chips ,you could also use dark</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:Arial, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"></span><span style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">6 Tbs real butter</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:Arial, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; font-weight: bold; font-family:'trebuchet ms';color:red;"></span></span><span style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Line a 9x13 inch pan with foil making sure the foil extends over the edges by at least one inch. Lightly spray with non-stick spray and set aside.</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> </span><span style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> </span><span style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Chop both unsweetened chocolate and two sticks of butter into chunks and place together in a microwave safe bowl. Microwave in 30 second intervals, stirring in between, until just melted and smooth. Set aside to cool, stirring occasionally. </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> </span><span style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> </span><span style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">With an electric mixer or stand mixer beat eggs, sugar, and vanilla for 2 minutes. While egg mixture is beating, measure out flour and combine with baking powder. While mixer is running, slowly add melted chocolate and beat to combine. Turn beater speed to low and add in flour by spoonfuls. Mix just until combined. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 20-30 minutes or until a knife poked in center comes out clean.</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> </span><span style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> </span><span style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Cool completely on a metal rack. When brownies have cooled to room temperature, prepare frosting. Combine all frosting ingredients, starting with 1 1/2 tablespoon of milk, and beat until light and fluffy. Add more milk by teaspoonful as needed. Spread frosting evenly over brownies and then place brownies in fridge to chill. </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> </span><span style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> </span><span style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">While brownies are chilling prepare chocolate glaze. Place chocolate chips and 6 tablespoons butter in a microwave safe bowl. Microwave </span></span><span style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">in 30 second intervals, stirring in between, until just melted and smooth. Set aside to cool for about 15 minutes and then carefully spread on top of the frosting layer. Return pan to fridge to cool. When chocolate has hardened, use edges of foil to remove entire brownie from pan. Cut into squares and serve.</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><i><b>**Note: I just love the brownie recipe itself. The mint layer of frosting is so refreshing. But not required. I was thinking of just making the brownies and frosting them with my famous peanut butter-chocolate buttercream. So. Very. Yummy.**</b></i></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:-webkit-xxx-large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Now. Please. Whatever you do. Make these brownies</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia, serif;"><i><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> today</span></b></i></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">. It'll be the perfect way to start out your week.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', sans-serif;font-size:100%;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:13px;"><br /></span></span></div>LisaBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11665617488810534525noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7649159856256328048.post-27034061244003081792010-05-16T00:01:00.000-07:002010-05-18T15:49:15.505-07:00The Trip of a Lifetime~A Sweet Adventure is in Store...<div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:'times new roman', serif;">Oh. My. Gosh!!!!!!</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman';">I can't believe that in just two short days this is where I'll be.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman';">In Ancient Civilization.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman';">Touring.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman';">Taking in all the sites.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman';">And being completely overwhelmed by how amazing it truly is.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman', serif;">I've only read about these places in history books back when I was a school girl.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman', serif;"><br /></span></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDU5F9xbdAk5DNa_eKOiPcvN88bzkuyDt55OevhEFYXIHoeryUyTQcJ5zo0MCUURsU6mBcqofHgvKyVbV2HsUAA1tNI6G7cAhpMxWgcAaCShDPnp86S3zmvn3-UWOI4KFlEqjY_mW95JMZ/s1600/1216142057_Europe+-+Kusadasi+-+Ephesus.jpg" style="text-decoration: none;"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 315px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDU5F9xbdAk5DNa_eKOiPcvN88bzkuyDt55OevhEFYXIHoeryUyTQcJ5zo0MCUURsU6mBcqofHgvKyVbV2HsUAA1tNI6G7cAhpMxWgcAaCShDPnp86S3zmvn3-UWOI4KFlEqjY_mW95JMZ/s400/1216142057_Europe+-+Kusadasi+-+Ephesus.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5471764995428988866" /></a><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:'times new roman', serif;">This is the cruise ship that'll be chartering us from port to port. It's the Luxury 6~Star Regency Seven Seas. I've never been on a cruise before. This is not only going to be a first for both my husband and me~but a new experience in traveling altogether! I'm praying for smooth sailing. Literally! </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman', serif;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:Georgia, serif;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWGY-S_nGV7m_siaG1swPsL_IhsU9CAe2LSDlDvsuHlTwue1SPL9AwlpykNl9zw_O_6gQR7yvZQ4OuuyE98jhgWiRlC1ONh5L2XhOJE1PQMhv8RWCWSUJyxKFEDTzekPCTeko8TmnHVA1F/s1600/SevenSeasMarinerPC-01.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWGY-S_nGV7m_siaG1swPsL_IhsU9CAe2LSDlDvsuHlTwue1SPL9AwlpykNl9zw_O_6gQR7yvZQ4OuuyE98jhgWiRlC1ONh5L2XhOJE1PQMhv8RWCWSUJyxKFEDTzekPCTeko8TmnHVA1F/s400/SevenSeasMarinerPC-01.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5472743744052913714" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 280px; " /></a></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:'times new roman', serif;">Fortunately, everyone I've talked to who aren't cruise virgins, like myself, absolutely rave about them! I'm hoping I come home doing the same thing! Gushing about how luxurious cruises are the only way to travel. I'll get back to you on that in two weeks.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman';">This is going to be a </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:'times new roman', serif;">truly interesting and exciting Odyssey where we'll cross five seas--The Aegean, Adriatic, Mediterranean, and the Sea of Crete. All the while, we'll be visiting four countries. It's going to be an incredible adventure! One that I know we'll never forget! </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman', serif;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:'times new roman', serif;">We'll be visiting Athens, Turkey, Santorini, Croatia and Venice, Italy. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman', serif;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:Georgia, serif;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpzBQXZG7idjqZZHZgOYmLWiSqCfSoT-KeGIGVWifl6qc9Yjw5u_QqNv1v_dIQrQqi2fRo0qlgDYIz-VHaEWTvrEPKtqvntbMQ1ORizIxv7x4haja__WvdlMklQAw9tvgXsuU9GfvphIbU/s1600/MAR100514.gif"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpzBQXZG7idjqZZHZgOYmLWiSqCfSoT-KeGIGVWifl6qc9Yjw5u_QqNv1v_dIQrQqi2fRo0qlgDYIz-VHaEWTvrEPKtqvntbMQ1ORizIxv7x4haja__WvdlMklQAw9tvgXsuU9GfvphIbU/s400/MAR100514.gif" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5472743754915438530" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 365px; height: 250px; " /></a></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:'times new roman', serif;">I've dreamt of going to Italy my entire life~now that dream will become a reality in no time at all! Who said dreams don't come true?</span></div><div><div><div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman', serif;"><br /></span></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZaMfvgKV_u7M_CXPJs9-idTamkRH9E8DGhe0rFbR5H7WiHgSIThyphenhyphenTTb55kfHIDr91QW51cYD596ouyckqG35rD12VH3nC_hiVyN1jbHC2QetK3KUqgy0IxHKQozK_fQNZJiyFtD6N5TB6/s1600/venice-gondolas.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZaMfvgKV_u7M_CXPJs9-idTamkRH9E8DGhe0rFbR5H7WiHgSIThyphenhyphenTTb55kfHIDr91QW51cYD596ouyckqG35rD12VH3nC_hiVyN1jbHC2QetK3KUqgy0IxHKQozK_fQNZJiyFtD6N5TB6/s400/venice-gondolas.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5472736998435628194" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 231px; height: 265px; " /></a><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:'times new roman', serif;">Until then~I still need to pack. And tie up all the loose ends at home before I embark on this journey of a lifetime. I'm excited~and can't wait to share all of our enthralling experiences with each of you!</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman', serif;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman', serif;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman', serif;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman', serif;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><br /></span></div></div></div></div>LisaBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11665617488810534525noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7649159856256328048.post-74776919352985266002010-05-05T08:52:00.000-07:002010-05-05T10:26:52.766-07:00Snails are Sweet~According to Megan!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXIAK4YWYe2CVCmCCIRq2PebJfxAVnVJjtqLrTGn49XfynJzKHcAfv6ykiER7QBX4Z21XkC_yJxd49e1i8U704OFBUmumfq1OTO2i33ad4yEqzjRaqdkpBod8oaoCxHG5gQ5033A0-96E7/s1600/images.jpeg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 130px; height: 109px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXIAK4YWYe2CVCmCCIRq2PebJfxAVnVJjtqLrTGn49XfynJzKHcAfv6ykiER7QBX4Z21XkC_yJxd49e1i8U704OFBUmumfq1OTO2i33ad4yEqzjRaqdkpBod8oaoCxHG5gQ5033A0-96E7/s400/images.jpeg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5467830268161210034" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcGm97tBISQCH1kFQfHB6Vkt9FkjDef6PTw3vKqfH8tCcdXkKcyioegMcjbqF1b1EY_GmFveclGXPmpEe5yQNz1pcTdCSMTgJ0l9GQG49FGcHtKPuKufzvw7KLpxeQB-BRSfM5iptmmoqX/s1600/images-2.jpeg"></a></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">S</span></span>chool is <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">still </span>in session. For 5 more weeks. Which means, Megan is still waking up at the crack of dawn to catch the bus. Early on she was always crazy excited to see the bus! Now, not so much! In fact, I have to actually pull her out of bed just about every morning now. And the sad part, she cries. Megan is tired. And feeling a bit "sluggish" if you will.<div><br /></div><div>Today she did much better!! She even announced with great excitement, "Bus is coming"! And there was NOT a single tear shed! </div><div><br /></div><div>When the bus arrived, we opened the door to head out. A burst of cool, fresh Spring air washed over us. Ahhhhhhh....... It woke us both up!! </div><div><br /></div><div>While running out to the bus, Megan managed to kick a snail. I told her, "Oh, know! You kicked that snail back there!" She immediately stopped in her tracks. Said, "Huh, oh!" Made a 180 degree turn and ran back to the snail. </div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTmE7XoY81-Gl7uUgLOJiB8otd7HWH3akNsU0Uq9k6V6qyOaxfbgqN6DGafi3N89mitsoEdoWckDLtfQegReqjE4UW81nF1nTGPRkCJEiDCWvZOxocgPuM7Ud9Vg6VIUwn_NeHkB4DL0mh/s400/snail_1.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5467827769558874674" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></span></div><div>Once she got back to where Mr. Snail had planted himself, she bent down to him and said, very sincerely "I'm sorry!" </div><div><br /></div><div>Before we go on I should mention that Mr. Snail survived the kick and didn't sustain any injuries. He did, however get a bit scared. And as a result, retracted up into the safety of his shell.</div><div><br /></div><div>Moving on. </div><div><br /></div><div>After Megan apologized, she was still a bit concerned about Mr. Snail's well-being and picked him up. She turned him over and looked inside. And there he was safe inside his shell. </div><div><br /></div><div>While looking at Mr. Snail all tucked up, Megan said very sweetly, "Oh!! He's sleeping".</div><div><br /></div><div>Why of course. Who would wake up so early? Only little girls who have to catch a school bus!</div><div><br /></div><div>No harm done. Mr. Snail was perfectly fine. Why, he was in dreamland.</div><div><br /></div><div>Just one thing.</div><div><br /></div><div>I'm wondering if Megan didn't think it was just<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"> any </span>old snail. Because if there's one thing I know about my sweet Megan, it's that she loves the Nick Cartoon, SpongeBob! And SpongeBob happens to have a pet snail named, Gary. </div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcGm97tBISQCH1kFQfHB6Vkt9FkjDef6PTw3vKqfH8tCcdXkKcyioegMcjbqF1b1EY_GmFveclGXPmpEe5yQNz1pcTdCSMTgJ0l9GQG49FGcHtKPuKufzvw7KLpxeQB-BRSfM5iptmmoqX/s400/images-2.jpeg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5467828719577742706" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 137px; height: 150px; " /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); "><br /></span></div><div>Here's the question:</div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">Did Megan think it was Gary the snail?</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;"><br /></span></div><div><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHjNoPPsdVdYZqXcSs0HpAQ-J-a2zSNOZC9U2eSwn-CJoabC-bE1SeAMPOdHBjBHPf8z_1Ym2pO41J3hQG1Gc_ZV1v_E95ZGFMss0GywoHo2-5EDSaO68lInSF99UOsdKaZBr66sYr6GWY/s400/images-1.jpeg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5467827460138879138" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 115px; height: 86px; " /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">OR</span></span></div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">Does Megan have a greater love for all snails now because SpongeBob has one as a pet? </span></span></div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">OR</span></span><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">Is it just that big heart of hers that seems to love everyone and everything? </span></span></div><div><br /></div><div>I'm thinking, by her reaction, it's the later. Megan was very sincere and seemed very concerned. Hmmm??? I know how much she loves that Nick Cartoon and I'm certain she'd never want to hurt Gary.</div><div><br /></div><div>Regardless of her motive, there's one thing I know for a fact. Megan brings joy into our lives everyday through the little things she does. This story of Mr. Snail is just one of the many examples. It's the little things we typically overlook, which Megan does not. Instead, she brings them to our attention. <br /></div><div><br /></div><div>I don't like snails. They eat my pretty flowers. But it was such a beautiful sight seeing how someone could be so kind to a pest. </div><div><br /></div><div>Here's another lesson Megan taught today~Perhaps we all could stand to be a little nicer and a bit more thoughtful, even to those we may consider "pests" {just like those little pesky gastropods}. Taking time out of our busy day to do more nice things for others, will not only bless their lives, but will simply make us each better people.</div><div><br /></div><div>Side Note: It's possible Megan somehow knew that gastropods have unusually long life spans. Did you know, they can live up to 10 years! There are even reports of some living as long as 25! Maybe she wanted to make sure this young snail had a full life ahead of him~eating all my plants and flowers!! Sweet, huh?</div><div><br /></div><div>This whole snail encounter lasted 2 short minutes. Tops. And really, more than anything, it made me laugh! Especially when Megan declared that Mr. Snail was asleep. Because I am sure that is exactly what <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">she</span> wanted to be doing. Sleeping. <br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>LisaBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11665617488810534525noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7649159856256328048.post-59043595521373554032010-04-21T09:12:00.000-07:002010-04-21T10:15:43.144-07:00Sweet Treats!<div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#0000EE;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-decoration: underline;"><br /></span></span></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ_dQ9SFSvdh9R4lOALQ7CDTruLbyO75_HNhaV-Veo6YKtQBItv58B1eJMspJic6FD_THtx-bLk1MW4OC_Pqe1UUsdZakeHg0q0myrfxg7TbqPewSQeJBun6wUeh0jFKdaeoS3V2S1iSzN/s1600/DSC_0012.JPG" style="text-decoration: none;"><img style="text-decoration: underline;display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px; " src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ_dQ9SFSvdh9R4lOALQ7CDTruLbyO75_HNhaV-Veo6YKtQBItv58B1eJMspJic6FD_THtx-bLk1MW4OC_Pqe1UUsdZakeHg0q0myrfxg7TbqPewSQeJBun6wUeh0jFKdaeoS3V2S1iSzN/s400/DSC_0012.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5462633406021955794" /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'Tekton Pro';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:180%;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 18px;">I</span></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'Tekton Pro';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:180%;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 18px;"> love treats. Especially sweet ones. As I've been going through my enormous photo library I came across this gem. It's an amazingly delicious Giant Pizza Cookie. I made it for my son, Eric's, seventh birthday. Actually, I didn't just make it for him, I made it for his entire first grade class. I wanted Eric to have something unique. Not the typical frosted cupcake from the grocery store. Those things are nasty. And the kids just lick the frosting off the top anyway.</span></span></span></span></a><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><br /></span></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRshyzrgSvRRIcK9y5FfkgPW5YNqHm5fDG6DpuB1jTGzNtR9Iw429Cz8-Zg8tS9UYr9WFncbpVqfPwmb0xHgj6WjEgCXHwYgQipJpW8C1iPt_RXfd8lOcBKLzvVYgg9QPU4j1xfGFBOkia/s1600/DSC_0011_2.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRshyzrgSvRRIcK9y5FfkgPW5YNqHm5fDG6DpuB1jTGzNtR9Iw429Cz8-Zg8tS9UYr9WFncbpVqfPwmb0xHgj6WjEgCXHwYgQipJpW8C1iPt_RXfd8lOcBKLzvVYgg9QPU4j1xfGFBOkia/s400/DSC_0011_2.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5462633396131965506" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px; " /></a><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'Tekton Pro';font-size:180%;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 18px;"><b>When I made this sweet treat for Eric's class, it was back in the day when you could bake anything you wanted at home and bring it in to share. Now, it all has to be store bought. A bummer. A total, total bummer. Because I enjoy baking and sharing my specialties with others!! I guess it's their loss. Not mine. Sweet treats from the store just aren't the same.</b></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:verdana, serif;"><br /></span></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBcQ84CGtzK2glKFIw2yAOXQE26AYa6Wxd0mA9HS-vwLNSCqSQxEgUoDzs2LfabrDqPCScpxMeDtm7T2Xwa_L48kqb-CrAqyfGuRbw2lGaU3jpALlxDuLKxZ6eXNDc_n1iFf7QqTFnYAu1/s1600/DSC_0014_2.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBcQ84CGtzK2glKFIw2yAOXQE26AYa6Wxd0mA9HS-vwLNSCqSQxEgUoDzs2LfabrDqPCScpxMeDtm7T2Xwa_L48kqb-CrAqyfGuRbw2lGaU3jpALlxDuLKxZ6eXNDc_n1iFf7QqTFnYAu1/s400/DSC_0014_2.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5462633414743880530" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px; " /></a><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'Tekton Pro';"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:180%;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 18px;">There was a lot of time and love that went into this truly great cookie. And work of art! Plus, it was fun to construct. The cookie itself is an excellent soft oatmeal chocolate chip cookie recipe. So if you aren't in the mood to make something so big AND fancy--the cookies by themselves turned out real yummy. Also, when I made this giant pizza cookie, I decided to make individual ones too so that each child could have their own little mini pizza. It was super fun! And Eric's friends all thought they were crazy good! Needless to say, there wasn't a crumb left! Now go make this for your next party. Your guests will thank you!</span></span></b></span></div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#6600CC;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-decoration: underline;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:7;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:36px;">Giant</span></span></span></b></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FFCC33;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-decoration: underline;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:7;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:36px;"> Pizza</span></span></span></b></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-decoration: underline;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:7;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:36px;"> </span></span></span></b></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#009900;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-decoration: underline;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:7;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:36px;">Cookie</span></span></span></b></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#3333FF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:130%;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 14px;">{LET YOUR IMAGINATION GO WILD AND TOP</span></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#3333FF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:130%;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 14px;"> THIS CHOCOLATEY GOOD COOKIE WITH SOME </span></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#3333FF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:130%;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 14px;">OF YOUR CANDY JAR FAVORITES!}</span></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', serif;color:#3333FF;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:100%;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:13px;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FF0000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-decoration: underline;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'Trebuchet MS';font-size:7;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 36px;"><b>INGREDIENTS</b></span></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#330099;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'Tekton Pro';"><b>1 CUP ALL PURPOSE FLOUR</b></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#330099;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'Tekton Pro';"><b>3/4 CUP QUICK OR OLD-FASHIONED OATS</b></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#330099;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'Tekton Pro';"><b>1/2 TEASPOON BAKING SODA</b></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#330099;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'Tekton Pro';"><b>1/4 TEASPOON SALT</b></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#330099;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'Tekton Pro';"><b>1/2 CUP (1 STICK) BUTTER OR MARGARINE, ROOM TEMPERATURE</b></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#330099;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'Tekton Pro';"><b>1/2 CUP PACKED BROWN SUGAR</b></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#330099;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'Tekton Pro';"><b>1 EGG</b></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#330099;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'Tekton Pro';"><b>1/2 TEASPOON VANILLA</b></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#330099;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'Tekton Pro';"><b>1 CUP SEMI-SWEET CHOCOLATE CHIPS</b></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#330099;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'Tekton Pro';"><b>1 CUP PREPARED MILK CHOCOLATE FROSTING</b></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#330099;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'Tekton Pro';"><b><br /></b></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#330099;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'Tekton Pro';"><b>RED FRUIT SNACK ROLLS, GUM DROPS, CANDY COATED</b></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#330099;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'Tekton Pro';"><b>CHOCOLATE PIECES AND WHITE CHOCOLATE</b></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#330099;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'Tekton Pro';"><b><br /></b></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#330099;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'Tekton Pro';"><b>#1 Preheat oven to 350. In a small bowl, mix flour, oats, baking soda and salt.</b></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#330099;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'Tekton Pro';"><b>#2 In a mixer, beat butter and brown sugar until creamy. Add egg and vanilla and beat well.</b></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#330099;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'Tekton Pro';"><b>#3 Add flour mixture to butter mixture and mix well. Stir in chocolate chips.</b></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#330099;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'Tekton Pro';"><b>#4 Shape dough into a ball and place in the center of a round baking stone. Lightly flour your hands and pat dough into an 11-inch circle. Place baking stone in rack.</b></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#330099;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'Tekton Pro';"><b>#5 Bake 14-16 minutes or until light golden brown. Remove from oven. Cool completely.</b></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#330099;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'Tekton Pro';"><b>#6 Spread cooled cookie with frosting. To decorate, use an apple corer to cut round pieces from fruit rolls to resemble pepperoni. Using kitchen shears, snip gum drops into pieces for pizza toppings. Add candy-coated chocolate pieces, as desired. Using a cheese grater with a fine grating drum, grate white chocolate over top for cheese. Cut into wedges with a pizza cutter.</b></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#330099;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'Tekton Pro';"><b><br /></b></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(51, 0, 153); "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'Tekton Pro';"><b>**Note: When I transported it to school, for a real pizza effect, I went to the pizza store and had them give me a large pizza box. The children thought is was way cool!</b></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', serif;color:#330099;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><b><br /></b></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'Tekton Pro';"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:180%;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 18px;">As I've continued sifting through all my photos, I have quite a few images of treats I've made through the years. As a result, I've decided I'm going to be changing up this blog a bit. I'm going to be posting a recipe of a sweet treat {or savory favorite family meal} I've made, that is sure to be a hit weekly. Because, like I said, I like sharing what I've baked with others. So consider it just that. I'm sharing the goodness with each of you. And you can do the same. Spread the love. The sweet, sweet love of a well-made treat. </span></span></b></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', serif;color:#FF0000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:180%;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:18px;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#009900;"><br /></span></div>LisaBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11665617488810534525noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7649159856256328048.post-37304824075196372162010-04-17T19:48:00.000-07:002010-04-17T22:14:31.913-07:00Sweet Spring Cleaning!<div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#0000EE;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-decoration: underline;"><br /></span></span></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTuzhHDL2lF_JruDQZybmxJMcAQVfwyTQAfb1Nzy6G5PJ2lLS_xRqRPHz8go7xgV4N8M4zQuZ_kKkCSnYs50AS4DI5QmUN4DfDtFlK3M8auE2TklrZR3kxCQ2eayUD9LsjbpH2wGlVx376/s1600/katietongue.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 256px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTuzhHDL2lF_JruDQZybmxJMcAQVfwyTQAfb1Nzy6G5PJ2lLS_xRqRPHz8go7xgV4N8M4zQuZ_kKkCSnYs50AS4DI5QmUN4DfDtFlK3M8auE2TklrZR3kxCQ2eayUD9LsjbpH2wGlVx376/s320/katietongue.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5461312906441281618" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';"><br /></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4mVbycV7e504sHVAV8d3ldd32-NL8k5A9GJ34zCFB9fIuG58FKO7vOp3a4T56zuF004K9QC_AINAucoSTaFdt7HF430lrbhAEppauKeSS_yce1QeaVM1HFwutIfSMkqsGzdJZqwq3Ped8/s1600/IMG_1399.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4mVbycV7e504sHVAV8d3ldd32-NL8k5A9GJ34zCFB9fIuG58FKO7vOp3a4T56zuF004K9QC_AINAucoSTaFdt7HF430lrbhAEppauKeSS_yce1QeaVM1HFwutIfSMkqsGzdJZqwq3Ped8/s320/IMG_1399.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5461312893357925810" /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">W</span></b></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';">e have <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><b>28,818</b></span> photos and <b>148</b> movies currently stored in iphoto on our mac computer. Let me repeat that~</span><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">28,818 PHOTOS</span></span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> shot</span> over approximately</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';"> 7 years!!! </span></b></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';">Mathematically speaking, that's about 4,100 pictures taken each year since we bought our first digital camera. Chronicling our family. And </span><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';">EVERY</span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';"> photo holds a sweet memory. But just one thing. </span><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';">EVERY</span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';">picture is sitting on a hard drive. Which is scary. Very. Very. SCARY!! They aren't published in pretty books to look at and enjoy. Or hanging in a beautiful home gallery, for that matter. So, I've decided to fix this horrific problem. <b>Immediately</b></span><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';">!</span></span></b></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';"><br /></span></b></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal; "><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';">Just how, you ask, am I resolving this depressing issue? I'm doing a little "Spring Cleaning", if you will. I'm going through all</span><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';"> 28,818</span></span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';"> of our photos and turning them into books for our family and others to enjoy. In addition, I'm even working on putting together a stunning photo gallery in our home. It is, however, quite an enormous, task. Fortunately, it's a fun one. This is the kind of spring cleaning I do find enjoyable. It's sweet. It brings back floods of memories. Some of which I will share right here!</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande', serif;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';">For instance, here is ONE of the reasons WHY we moved back to California from Boston, Massachusetts. Nor'easters which left us digging ourselves out. Winter after winter. And, to be quite honest, more than we wanted or liked to. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande', serif;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000099;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Boston. Winter 2003</span></b></span></i></span></div></span></b></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjlfJyOccn_4OpA3jLMbOXdyOnAccFeLZN1xrni5Jy1m1NfBxphB_uQhwmV9GczKl0AnRxxH-zh3KrbXJphvIMjmCoTmqA0IUTb7nWAC9oMslfAX6Vzhzz39ypfiicCZC-njrfuMC6j7SH/s1600/Image-881261FA2C2111D8.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjlfJyOccn_4OpA3jLMbOXdyOnAccFeLZN1xrni5Jy1m1NfBxphB_uQhwmV9GczKl0AnRxxH-zh3KrbXJphvIMjmCoTmqA0IUTb7nWAC9oMslfAX6Vzhzz39ypfiicCZC-njrfuMC6j7SH/s320/Image-881261FA2C2111D8.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5461312483102012002" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';"><br /></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJOhfrrOUwF6Ue9QVPCJ_HgRrYOBCPo8nw3zP-vw3vztUwurxMBBb7v92mlZ2otU-tL4vV0EaMUpVSn5NZ06ed531rOPjAsy7TaVffg8HOKFnvbRjhptDzSnXi6YFy7XhLQZNjWfNh_tml/s1600/Image-88129ACE2C2111D8.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJOhfrrOUwF6Ue9QVPCJ_HgRrYOBCPo8nw3zP-vw3vztUwurxMBBb7v92mlZ2otU-tL4vV0EaMUpVSn5NZ06ed531rOPjAsy7TaVffg8HOKFnvbRjhptDzSnXi6YFy7XhLQZNjWfNh_tml/s320/Image-88129ACE2C2111D8.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5461312479592839858" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';"><br /></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyluFRGdqG7dx0jL_b6VuOZkGvGpsxvFI-5D8MxLvCp6KpCWtUJ_puZVubCMaUhkQUtCKeDVx7SzQw6fFoszN0Rd_-6raxBYjfEkkw_55vLFeYZDRyoWzrOtwfnGyb9g3N-Ql-kRhrmZVt/s1600/Image-88126F812C2111D8.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyluFRGdqG7dx0jL_b6VuOZkGvGpsxvFI-5D8MxLvCp6KpCWtUJ_puZVubCMaUhkQUtCKeDVx7SzQw6fFoszN0Rd_-6raxBYjfEkkw_55vLFeYZDRyoWzrOtwfnGyb9g3N-Ql-kRhrmZVt/s320/Image-88126F812C2111D8.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5461312472402253954" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';"><br /></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDjxCFtx-6pR54if6_BNo9UipmFtDRb0V11PsWSjbLrrZ4xLIBAb4HNDY8j1aJDxOLQ4lABwThhE7ps9dM54cg3Wl65uOsK_bV7Xsqa3EK8eVhpbRjbjcEKzzqd_Fl5iDOIuQ8JomTeorv/s1600/Image-8812BF9E2C2111D8.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDjxCFtx-6pR54if6_BNo9UipmFtDRb0V11PsWSjbLrrZ4xLIBAb4HNDY8j1aJDxOLQ4lABwThhE7ps9dM54cg3Wl65uOsK_bV7Xsqa3EK8eVhpbRjbjcEKzzqd_Fl5iDOIuQ8JomTeorv/s320/Image-8812BF9E2C2111D8.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5461312462660100178" /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000099;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">{check it out. eric is sitting level with the bumper on my van!}</span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#0000EE;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-decoration: underline;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';">Back to why I'm doing this Photo Spring Cleaning. I openly admit that it was my baby, Katie who motivated me to tackle this enormous project. She is the </span><b><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';">only</span></i></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';"> child who was born in the age of digital photography. So while her brother and sister have baby albums, she does not. She discovered this sad fact recently. I feel bad that she had to ask me to make her one! What kind of mother am I? My poor baby doesn't have a baby album. Or any album, for that matter. If she wants to see her life in photos, we have to sit down together, turn the computer on, open iphoto, and then search for all the pictures of her throughout the years.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';">I figured for her seventh birthday in June, she'll get the best birthday gift ever. Photo albums. Yes, plural. There will be albums<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"> </span></b>tracking her first 7 years of life which I know she'll cherish. I can't wait to see the finished product. And more than anything, I can't wait to see the look on her face as she opens each book and looks at the story of her life. So far. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';">Here are some precious photos of Katie which I came across today while Spring Cleaning in iphoto. These adorable pictures will appear in Katie's storybook of life....</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FF99FF;"><b>Katie Then</b></span></span></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FF99FF;"><b>Almost 7 years ago....</b></span></span></i></div><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9TFgGZkJBQG7uLrEQNlQUJhxTDj97SfHcBID1QH8Q3CyXxUKCmZ168QlsAfgX8TSKT0wMVsJNVN3J9XU2L9XgqDCHNzhSjp2oKjTZQC-pMSQJUd-kIe2NP4Gxg5dgavhQ9oLjRwTsnf-F/s1600/Image-44B8625BDDA511D7.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9TFgGZkJBQG7uLrEQNlQUJhxTDj97SfHcBID1QH8Q3CyXxUKCmZ168QlsAfgX8TSKT0wMVsJNVN3J9XU2L9XgqDCHNzhSjp2oKjTZQC-pMSQJUd-kIe2NP4Gxg5dgavhQ9oLjRwTsnf-F/s320/Image-44B8625BDDA511D7.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5461312455998230498" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></a></div><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW7I5xiLkzF4jtk09JX85cp1vrhz2-VCzyrz1HndBWW3iYy0dvVcEjAFWV0U5wucYelH2fkadg9R1-LtFSvOcrzwJHrfCbrptCltCByONe8Yigzny2tvViGmh7pRe2wsEdbjfX_jn9EGY0/s1600/IMG_1098.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW7I5xiLkzF4jtk09JX85cp1vrhz2-VCzyrz1HndBWW3iYy0dvVcEjAFWV0U5wucYelH2fkadg9R1-LtFSvOcrzwJHrfCbrptCltCByONe8Yigzny2tvViGmh7pRe2wsEdbjfX_jn9EGY0/s320/IMG_1098.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5461312729663842002" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></a></div><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLvwHrECymlDF9AbDzL6KYzPQpk1_YC-yoP2vgKg-2c4-c8yE70Dp06R-cWPSR7YjFr6GJX-847K6AKGd7AKmfQ4hcG85WNhDRLJ4NtYYy8jmx4uXcc-pctlG14JwsRWTiesvn2s5rnr7p/s1600/IMG_1100.JPG" style="text-decoration: none;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLvwHrECymlDF9AbDzL6KYzPQpk1_YC-yoP2vgKg-2c4-c8yE70Dp06R-cWPSR7YjFr6GJX-847K6AKGd7AKmfQ4hcG85WNhDRLJ4NtYYy8jmx4uXcc-pctlG14JwsRWTiesvn2s5rnr7p/s320/IMG_1100.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5461312739137341010" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghhpnIc7k5nn5ZvauV-KEmf9rAR49Qe_q3Slv1Q6l7gtcBhKFiJ8Ajlz7SQZ5ObVyGdz88xZehLXix2Wrt69qXSPWA4nleroQHZn2BDicuSCx6f-LGwmq_oq7xZv_l4KzmsJivXv_pSkpB/s1600/IMG_1052.JPG" style="text-decoration: none;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';"><br /></span></a></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#0000EE;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); "><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA1xaGDV0mLKQ6GcY_aU67K_sUDIf6H6ucJKSVqyIj8Oyih3RmXF8NZso6hCpf6Xm-YjWdLZpZ6ISAqKk-7gLHyTPNnSjSW-AgIDB5joZRng_1sH7V3yDtCfBDS_AZ4BNLhu0GvAM1d6L4/s1600/IMG_1046.JPG" style="text-decoration: none;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA1xaGDV0mLKQ6GcY_aU67K_sUDIf6H6ucJKSVqyIj8Oyih3RmXF8NZso6hCpf6Xm-YjWdLZpZ6ISAqKk-7gLHyTPNnSjSW-AgIDB5joZRng_1sH7V3yDtCfBDS_AZ4BNLhu0GvAM1d6L4/s320/IMG_1046.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5461312714590186578" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px; " /></a></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#0000EE;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';"><br /></span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FF99FF;"><b>Katie Now....</b></span></span></i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande', serif;color:#FF99FF;"><i><b>Such a Beautiful Little Girl!</b></i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal; "><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdC6jFrHa7PlXXQeZ_Ig1XOTmkyrXlZ7bD1BnlfdBfsGNUd5C7PqaHQffysdHgGBLfF7VWwD0v7Nku0eQM8nfbf7-KoNxqnbrAejbsXabWlHgJEbVc5vIIyPs2ZCAqD2LQqsi1Nco9Rqz2/s1600/IMG_0214.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdC6jFrHa7PlXXQeZ_Ig1XOTmkyrXlZ7bD1BnlfdBfsGNUd5C7PqaHQffysdHgGBLfF7VWwD0v7Nku0eQM8nfbf7-KoNxqnbrAejbsXabWlHgJEbVc5vIIyPs2ZCAqD2LQqsi1Nco9Rqz2/s320/IMG_0214.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5461317198989089090" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px; " /></a></span></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';"><br /></span></i></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';">I could sit for hours, daily, looking through each and every one of our photos. It's truly entertaining seeing where we've been. What we've done. How we've all grown and changed over the years. And I would say that our 28,818 photos make up one sweet family story. Because each of us has a story. That is the very reason why I love writing this blog. It's my story. Which I choose to share with you. Hopefully, you find it as sweet as I do. Soon it'll be published into beautiful books. Finally. The best part~they will be a family treasure. Which we can enjoy and actually look at without having to turn on the computer. </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal; "><div><br /></div></span></i></div>LisaBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11665617488810534525noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7649159856256328048.post-10626002549759154802010-04-14T23:34:00.001-07:002010-04-17T22:01:50.890-07:00Sweet Spring Family Fun!!!<div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#0000EE;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-decoration: underline;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:Georgia, serif;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-5Z52_H-z_5ML61cIkJjA2mEYVu9j_i5s-mK29aOhhWc6dhk7-4Cg4WOszh93TjizPE8Y88qWpOx2QwMu3TXeJfkaSElDbjateBBS4Pruk9_oezEcSie0Gmq024YYpm73Kygg8mn6mC5u/s1600/IMG_0240.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-5Z52_H-z_5ML61cIkJjA2mEYVu9j_i5s-mK29aOhhWc6dhk7-4Cg4WOszh93TjizPE8Y88qWpOx2QwMu3TXeJfkaSElDbjateBBS4Pruk9_oezEcSie0Gmq024YYpm73Kygg8mn6mC5u/s320/IMG_0240.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5460469680302751106" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></a></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">S</span>pring has sprung!! The leaves are growing back on the trees. Flowers are blossoming everywhere. Wild flowers are bursting with color. The rolling hills are a deep green. However, the weather hasn't decided yet if it wants to be hot or cold. Lately, it's been swinging from one extreme to the other. Hot. Cold. Cold. Hot. Some rain here and there. But, the incredibly beautiful sunny California days dominate.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', serif;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:Georgia, serif;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJk9qoNB55YB0k88AtM2ZhCBr1144T9HPxJn50yAHOQi1KVEl1yFqYwvP9xp9JYCZdBHMTHCdiobFR8Nt82efoj3T5gVMsd9fhz3-QS-xe8NdPKd6_tZ7b1eaP0aELM87JEwofiqEHDUwz/s1600/IMG_0164.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJk9qoNB55YB0k88AtM2ZhCBr1144T9HPxJn50yAHOQi1KVEl1yFqYwvP9xp9JYCZdBHMTHCdiobFR8Nt82efoj3T5gVMsd9fhz3-QS-xe8NdPKd6_tZ7b1eaP0aELM87JEwofiqEHDUwz/s320/IMG_0164.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5460475219368999858" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></a></span></span></div><div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:'trebuchet ms', serif;">Easter has come and gone. My birthday came and went. The best part of this time of year is spending some very sweet, quality time with my family during Spring Break.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', serif;"><br /></span></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmzoDpqpaPShQWgk9aei1q6UfvGl4_7cyl0aVNiVuajZckoFjb-mnyO2g4Zu2HqprTEUlvi0MixvItubl2MKXvkSG1cUXtkHWRc2ocUFduhLSJX2NIbNZ88JUWgR664IZQw_B3owzxOwe_/s1600/IMG_0345_2.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmzoDpqpaPShQWgk9aei1q6UfvGl4_7cyl0aVNiVuajZckoFjb-mnyO2g4Zu2HqprTEUlvi0MixvItubl2MKXvkSG1cUXtkHWRc2ocUFduhLSJX2NIbNZ88JUWgR664IZQw_B3owzxOwe_/s320/IMG_0345_2.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5460472808025328354" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></a><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:'trebuchet ms', serif;">We started our week-long vacation on a high note with a trip to a Dodger Game~where we sat right behind home plate. While Gary, Eric and I went to the baseball game with Gramps, the girls went with their Nana to the Zoo. Oh how my girls love the Zoo!! And my boys love Baseball. I'm happy doing anything as long as I'm doing it with those I love.</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:Georgia, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', serif;color:#000000;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF1rfHEX8LYMZEOPGUNfCl4Syed130he-yGcshsokPoJyYQqElPpVDOVsNJvfrUTwIrgX5acNPE961n8EK0gbzjp7eEAjPWc96xOCijLRrNbAzYoDY7-d8V9erJWfwtULuUkLHPYtxXO6S/s1600/IMG_0379_2.JPG" style="text-decoration: none;"><br /></a></span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', serif;color:#0000EE;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family:Georgia, serif;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA4vLDn2sR1EQDyXVOocIvsBbBcSwUrAj2PEZCAGLNk1gP6ZKDjyTWGLcDtWlznTpI9Q64xsvWzwUSITsKlmtotr2XlMK11CuQDnKSlwoFp6qRnIYR1WkaZWdGCQrJAVjlAl8kTcBJcsYy/s1600/IMG_0370.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA4vLDn2sR1EQDyXVOocIvsBbBcSwUrAj2PEZCAGLNk1gP6ZKDjyTWGLcDtWlznTpI9Q64xsvWzwUSITsKlmtotr2XlMK11CuQDnKSlwoFp6qRnIYR1WkaZWdGCQrJAVjlAl8kTcBJcsYy/s320/IMG_0370.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5460474163311230514" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></a></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">Easter Sunday we throughly enjoyed a Gospel Brunch at the House of Blues. It was an Easter Celebration filled with sweet food and feel-good music. The Easter Bunny even left the kids each baskets filled with all sorts of sweet treats.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', serif;color:#0000EE;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:Georgia, serif;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwDVP6kzaRQtWGVdZaObxDD7Zj2dUdaTdXl36GAkPndtRUS5fKS8dpsT83nHvfA0dMjrI3tihRqXM2P2kM3Waj1GPtbYAM-9tHo4dCIsOaeAisEWOuDdXDFugA65f8LFEsrSUKNh_wApDp/s1600/IMG_0372.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwDVP6kzaRQtWGVdZaObxDD7Zj2dUdaTdXl36GAkPndtRUS5fKS8dpsT83nHvfA0dMjrI3tihRqXM2P2kM3Waj1GPtbYAM-9tHo4dCIsOaeAisEWOuDdXDFugA65f8LFEsrSUKNh_wApDp/s320/IMG_0372.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5460474158550215458" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></a></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', serif;color:#0000EE;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family:Georgia, serif;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWHI8G0c5A9klHJLYyDXjMY7DuF6izaUlWDASetY4rY8iVKYvqfpQAUYRJ-1S6pbxkczTJKzjbixAqqudCNoxsS3rXLvDcWrot047KlrA5MFGdxEYheTBvjtvj__CfCShwNdEzt2786axA/s1600/IMG_0379_2.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWHI8G0c5A9klHJLYyDXjMY7DuF6izaUlWDASetY4rY8iVKYvqfpQAUYRJ-1S6pbxkczTJKzjbixAqqudCNoxsS3rXLvDcWrot047KlrA5MFGdxEYheTBvjtvj__CfCShwNdEzt2786axA/s320/IMG_0379_2.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5460472818422080130" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></a></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', serif;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:Georgia, serif;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrHTd0QgjCyTNTATy13p3Gt3MpSROEoDEMGPf11PFLa0IwIA6n5csiezN_QVPNwBZSn2jhV2fbcK-edMtDqJD4_EI99EsxLS_c0SA5mfggisZS0b-SayOCVcx0getouXUTnZbIP2yv3tI7/s1600/IMG_0369.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrHTd0QgjCyTNTATy13p3Gt3MpSROEoDEMGPf11PFLa0IwIA6n5csiezN_QVPNwBZSn2jhV2fbcK-edMtDqJD4_EI99EsxLS_c0SA5mfggisZS0b-SayOCVcx0getouXUTnZbIP2yv3tI7/s320/IMG_0369.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5460474146427049602" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px; " /></a></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:'trebuchet ms', serif;">Shortly after Easter, came my birthday! We celebrated with friends and family in the Los Angeles area. I absolutely love Mexican food and wanted to have a fun celebration, so we went to my favorite place, Los Torros, and shared good grub and times with some very special friends.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', serif;"><br /></span></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtMdAqqIH0J9n6s6YsnhGdk2o8VncWpcUTAnYm-7QPr3dhKDyjZlTUHrZea2jxjFYTbCVrxGCTXLUAkQ0uJRNAr1y_dr2m2sG_ONRLt9H2B_HWSrvsMW8RUhywlydxq9dZyTXMhvh5NSRi/s1600/IMG_0151.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtMdAqqIH0J9n6s6YsnhGdk2o8VncWpcUTAnYm-7QPr3dhKDyjZlTUHrZea2jxjFYTbCVrxGCTXLUAkQ0uJRNAr1y_dr2m2sG_ONRLt9H2B_HWSrvsMW8RUhywlydxq9dZyTXMhvh5NSRi/s320/IMG_0151.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5460468455937920002" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></a><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">The following day we traveled North to Santa Barbara. This is where we made truly great family memories! </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', serif;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:Georgia, serif;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQio9YxP3fRkid_Y88urkGO4Yjd50dChA86AIpiJMmr7qeG6curnNn1ffQwhOiWhqKjFRETZjNyLejynBAU0AUwOVdhMI3jlurbVytzEoNzwszq-2K2sD2pAlZcNk0XEUymh1Pzm9wLm3J/s1600/IMG_0217.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQio9YxP3fRkid_Y88urkGO4Yjd50dChA86AIpiJMmr7qeG6curnNn1ffQwhOiWhqKjFRETZjNyLejynBAU0AUwOVdhMI3jlurbVytzEoNzwszq-2K2sD2pAlZcNk0XEUymh1Pzm9wLm3J/s320/IMG_0217.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5460469689354769186" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></a></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">Thankfully we were able to get in some much needed R&R! We relaxed in the spa. We dined on fabulous food. We sat on our balcony and stared at the calming ocean. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', serif;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:Georgia, serif;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCqm7-IlEZ4G7gIpvzzjPWzQBkXVDu26SX00CZUC28UbNl5YzPcKri7PEVTYdl2B3t_nlC8Vz8oSPTtYtQnfPXWWewsPuLEOzENeTIi6JQMbZE26tETueApRt4C5SoyWH4kfebvjbIdVgb/s1600/IMG_0159.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCqm7-IlEZ4G7gIpvzzjPWzQBkXVDu26SX00CZUC28UbNl5YzPcKri7PEVTYdl2B3t_nlC8Vz8oSPTtYtQnfPXWWewsPuLEOzENeTIi6JQMbZE26tETueApRt4C5SoyWH4kfebvjbIdVgb/s320/IMG_0159.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5460469698356705394" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></a></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:'trebuchet ms', serif;">But, the best part, was riding this sweet surrey a total of 10 miles together as a family!!! We pedaled and pedaled and pedaled.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', serif;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:Georgia, serif;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgR7aFG062RG29gKGjHPrh42uOwz_Pk6xhQsOi9H6Klus3iFCmkTW2J8VJR56H1ACPgN5GvimOR9df2_7vOAylX2ejuaoGG_ZlFcz5LWBPZkmWAEDsGNcOU5xr6i1zqOu-0519ciKVWOIbI/s1600/IMG_0171.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgR7aFG062RG29gKGjHPrh42uOwz_Pk6xhQsOi9H6Klus3iFCmkTW2J8VJR56H1ACPgN5GvimOR9df2_7vOAylX2ejuaoGG_ZlFcz5LWBPZkmWAEDsGNcOU5xr6i1zqOu-0519ciKVWOIbI/s320/IMG_0171.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5460470576635140418" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></a></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">It was total team work!! Although I'd easily classify this activity as exercise, it was a BLAST!! In fact, the kids loved it so much we did it two days in a row. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', serif;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:Georgia, serif;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi00SYpASL3RaPcrQK5f37qYbEkk9Gkc0IqKS2oCqrJ7O34hel1YGREr7A-LSluT84xcZ0YEEX-kcRShUtr8VB-i8EEqCpJTgtymkriS50P-zyMrV_rgdyIOsYu0O5usAHFmIiU1n_9t0A-/s1600/IMG_0237.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi00SYpASL3RaPcrQK5f37qYbEkk9Gkc0IqKS2oCqrJ7O34hel1YGREr7A-LSluT84xcZ0YEEX-kcRShUtr8VB-i8EEqCpJTgtymkriS50P-zyMrV_rgdyIOsYu0O5usAHFmIiU1n_9t0A-/s320/IMG_0237.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5460469670506178018" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></a></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">We even took it off the bike path down streets not designated for this particular bike~fortunately, we didn't get caught and get a ticket! </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', serif;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:Georgia, serif;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjg-MywPJ-yEcpeOu80WIPzRtKr93sYGk3d3o2UoaTn_ZyRMdSFqcYVdKAZvsbmg8Q7ZsoRcvkDmlPRTKCid0REzfNGcBmIkgG6wHMG0hMeo1UorGpoKI4iULgwmA0ZZYyiG1Z_xSIkBHY/s1600/IMG_0166.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjg-MywPJ-yEcpeOu80WIPzRtKr93sYGk3d3o2UoaTn_ZyRMdSFqcYVdKAZvsbmg8Q7ZsoRcvkDmlPRTKCid0REzfNGcBmIkgG6wHMG0hMeo1UorGpoKI4iULgwmA0ZZYyiG1Z_xSIkBHY/s320/IMG_0166.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5460472784824914338" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px; " /></a></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">We did discover it was the <i>ideal</i> way to tour Santa Barbara. I think I can safely say we saw most of this American Riviera on a bicycle built for 8! Pretty. Sweet. Don't you think? I want to buy one and tool around my neighborhood on it. Pick the kids up from school. It would be our way of going "green".</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', serif;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">Sweet. Sweet. Times. To be remembered by all for a lifetime.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', serif;"><br /></span></div><div><br /></div></div>LisaBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11665617488810534525noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7649159856256328048.post-68327727178491394922010-04-05T15:53:00.001-07:002010-04-15T00:32:21.182-07:00A Sweet NEW Reader!<div style="text-align: left;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:x-large;">L</span></span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">ast week I went with the kids to Open House Night at Megan's Elementary School. I always try to go because I know first hand just how much time, energy and effort </span><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">BOTH</span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"> the teachers and students put into getting everything ready for the parents to see and experience in the classroom. I especially like visiting Megan's Special Ed class because unfortunately, very few parents of Special Ed students go.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">When we entered Megan's classroom there was just one other family there. The entire night only</span><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"> TWO </span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">families showed their support. It makes me so sad. Just another one of the harsh realities of having children with special needs. Some parents just don't seem to care what their children are doing at school. I, on the other hand, care immensely. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">I'm so glad that we went! I wouldn't have missed it for the world! You know why? While there, I discovered that Megan is becoming quite the artist. She made a beautiful collage that resembled a dragon. It was hanging proudly on the wall! Usually, Megan doesn't have the attention span or interest in doing these types of things. But, this time she finished her project and did an amazingly beautiful job!</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">Then, Megan's teacher told me something so very sweet to my ears. She shared with me some of the </span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">most</span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"> </span><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">EXCITING </span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">news </span><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">EVER</span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">!!!!!! Megan is</span><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"> STARTING</span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"> to </span><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">READ</span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">. Yes, you read that correctly. My 8 year old daughter with Down syndrome is actually starting to read!! WAHOOOOOOO!! I simply couldn't be more excited and happy for my sweet Megan!</span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><br /></span></div><div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">I am learning to <b>NEVER EVER </b>underestimate the power of individuals living with Down syndrome. And especially the amazing capabilities my own daughter, Megan has. She truly does love reading and is becoming a sweet little reader! </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial, serif;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">(Sidenote: Before people with Down syndrome learn the alphabet and the sounds of the letters in the alphabet, they are taught to read. Yes, that's correct, they are taught to read words<b> first!! </b>Learning each individual letter of the alphabet is simply too abstract for them. It's easier to teach them to first read, then break each word down by it's letters and the sounds they make. Interesting, huh?)</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">Back to Megan. The other day my home became </span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">awfully</span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"> quiet. When it becomes </span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">that</span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"> peaceful, I immediately panic. I stop whatever it is I'm doing and go on my "where are each of my children hunt". This time I was specifically looking for Megan. First, I checked the obvious, the guest room--where Megan loves to plop herself in front of the TV and watch all her favorite shows. </span><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">NO</span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"> Megan!! So I quickly ran upstairs. Much to my relief I found her in Eric's room--which is where my sweet book collection is kept. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">This is the sight I found......the girl </span><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">LOVES</span></span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"> to read.....</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'American Typewriter', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:Georgia, serif;"><div style="text-align: left;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcBGCrpK0g_TLdDIZQx23QiE5BN1aYXGZPxu2b0Rp3omJH9BbtwnWpbVr2C7la90CFvE9RUXbuMaRfyAu7fq8i476nyXglLcHcWTkLeVw2zJZomVZlItQIRZyyGkgjw3X8HaLpblSpwueu/s1600/IMG_0292.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcBGCrpK0g_TLdDIZQx23QiE5BN1aYXGZPxu2b0Rp3omJH9BbtwnWpbVr2C7la90CFvE9RUXbuMaRfyAu7fq8i476nyXglLcHcWTkLeVw2zJZomVZlItQIRZyyGkgjw3X8HaLpblSpwueu/s320/IMG_0292.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5456803197014059378" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:Georgia, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">Totally engrossed</span>.</span></div></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEeXnDDHNkpZDvC8COM_t4e6-QH6okNs8ypNEh1A7PCXasHhg72sfyeYakgSgb9yInbC_zz6CZF7vagaie2nZHhW4nEL5FOQZ7FfwLNVCRRr5rFIBjMVCOWF_i4MpSNsHuN9uTWcDXOKPk/s1600/IMG_0278.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEeXnDDHNkpZDvC8COM_t4e6-QH6okNs8ypNEh1A7PCXasHhg72sfyeYakgSgb9yInbC_zz6CZF7vagaie2nZHhW4nEL5FOQZ7FfwLNVCRRr5rFIBjMVCOWF_i4MpSNsHuN9uTWcDXOKPk/s320/IMG_0278.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5456801658155614722" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">She will look at every page very carefully to decode the story.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJjd10xMSAzvVgTs892axq1lC1eWNHLOddN0l3COUvjXlBbXUhze2J_ZFl-MdZJ7qsCz9Ov7gI6YX_N5lZx5Sfg7MaFvfydUAOlEPySQzHaq6VK5JzDxUG8bShT4irMBNz4QJpAsPR7zMq/s1600/IMG_0282.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJjd10xMSAzvVgTs892axq1lC1eWNHLOddN0l3COUvjXlBbXUhze2J_ZFl-MdZJ7qsCz9Ov7gI6YX_N5lZx5Sfg7MaFvfydUAOlEPySQzHaq6VK5JzDxUG8bShT4irMBNz4QJpAsPR7zMq/s320/IMG_0282.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5456801681861787906" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">Just look at how fixated and focused she is...</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu331wvxAhnWUSYGjSYgPgxJ7dzip38G7UGdb-P1VtNYfhzYgoRK4GNcxYPwgYk1tR4_hvKaFOwJv7YcuEodSxOHSu5kerSZFU_xBwlpRBNv6fcgPZqXj_QrrOd_gjZTOmUgdaTCjO5QDd/s1600/IMG_0285.JPG" style="text-decoration: none;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu331wvxAhnWUSYGjSYgPgxJ7dzip38G7UGdb-P1VtNYfhzYgoRK4GNcxYPwgYk1tR4_hvKaFOwJv7YcuEodSxOHSu5kerSZFU_xBwlpRBNv6fcgPZqXj_QrrOd_gjZTOmUgdaTCjO5QDd/s320/IMG_0285.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5456801695716375586" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuhVci2ZzYFm8acF9kGGrcgrBSv2UvMAZkE9uzsgiLFuaWM8rZZMdUBCVp7kMu94ovDlkmk2-ZMS3wyax14BD53SE7u9DlmE-hUI3n5SX9Tl1wdDWImNiG2pBkKf_la6tFQAFSJB9zJQ_e/s1600/IMG_0279.JPG" style="text-decoration: none;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuhVci2ZzYFm8acF9kGGrcgrBSv2UvMAZkE9uzsgiLFuaWM8rZZMdUBCVp7kMu94ovDlkmk2-ZMS3wyax14BD53SE7u9DlmE-hUI3n5SX9Tl1wdDWImNiG2pBkKf_la6tFQAFSJB9zJQ_e/s320/IMG_0279.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5456801670369033010" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">She's always surrounded by LOTS of books. </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">She never pulls just ONE off the shelf. </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg32tdkctabIdbvjtX5Wey63UEVVqEtrYML4RLoVo7yobm-ghbFn-uJXyE2FQm9VdhfuCRnXcNMzeWtlAU1KqIKaaeMLve5I1lWO8W0Jo4nFv8Qz_UNdzy0okQziAu4FDbtOfXqSlynt_Mm/s1600/IMG_0290.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg32tdkctabIdbvjtX5Wey63UEVVqEtrYML4RLoVo7yobm-ghbFn-uJXyE2FQm9VdhfuCRnXcNMzeWtlAU1KqIKaaeMLve5I1lWO8W0Jo4nFv8Qz_UNdzy0okQziAu4FDbtOfXqSlynt_Mm/s320/IMG_0290.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5456801994407574802" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">See how happy she is reading? </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">No doubt about it, Megan is one <b><i>sweet</i></b> little reader.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">And I couldn't be more </span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;">proud</span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"> of her!</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div></span></span></div></div></div>LisaBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11665617488810534525noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7649159856256328048.post-57003390841441658242010-03-24T17:00:00.000-07:002010-04-15T00:38:00.985-07:00Sweet Collections....<div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#0000EE;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-decoration: underline;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:x-large;">People tend to be collectors of "things".......</span></span></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"> Some like to collect coins.</span></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFZpkJmX2ZYj9VvME-DvdmchC9LK8MC6znKRs2ajMksLFi6PfdBRmkp9hZQB2dkLlrgEWyPRjde3OMVYEhX2UhWebAh9gZaytnqGMfLUa-g_-uUkfTwIXHJ5Q4-hXztT9HhBw-37E3zrA1/s1600/img_115_m.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFZpkJmX2ZYj9VvME-DvdmchC9LK8MC6znKRs2ajMksLFi6PfdBRmkp9hZQB2dkLlrgEWyPRjde3OMVYEhX2UhWebAh9gZaytnqGMfLUa-g_-uUkfTwIXHJ5Q4-hXztT9HhBw-37E3zrA1/s320/img_115_m.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5452697558664868146" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 239px; " /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">Others stamps.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEZESuGHmBLA2SS9LVgk7UxYf5_y3NH0yUsJlwpoG6bXmn0N1mchATPCyLqExFUJn4UpuiYXJ1EttMAx_U0ID1VqT2a0LvoY3fHwku2d75eNTsKOe9s2EnhQwo-8e4O4Rke6TkgaCoEyqe/s1600/stamp-collecting-supplies.s600x600.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEZESuGHmBLA2SS9LVgk7UxYf5_y3NH0yUsJlwpoG6bXmn0N1mchATPCyLqExFUJn4UpuiYXJ1EttMAx_U0ID1VqT2a0LvoY3fHwku2d75eNTsKOe9s2EnhQwo-8e4O4Rke6TkgaCoEyqe/s320/stamp-collecting-supplies.s600x600.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5452698120238283170" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 212px; " /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">There are women who collect tea cups and fine china.</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwzfHWZDaeIQTX3WDaGTPq2cDj6NLSeFmsUzwrP2ru3uqx7pkffUCbvsW1a-EN71yrJjxMqT9GWD8xfrHnUeHu0cJgh9ctM14WE1RIsq7tVPZOLH2HE0WPaPnAKCUdmAL_H-QDqNPjonaA/s1600/333484285_63b9b561c0.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwzfHWZDaeIQTX3WDaGTPq2cDj6NLSeFmsUzwrP2ru3uqx7pkffUCbvsW1a-EN71yrJjxMqT9GWD8xfrHnUeHu0cJgh9ctM14WE1RIsq7tVPZOLH2HE0WPaPnAKCUdmAL_H-QDqNPjonaA/s320/333484285_63b9b561c0.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5452699175300041730" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 282px; height: 320px; " /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">I have a dear friend who collects wine bottles.</span></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF3MtGQQ1lfygYo_7iFqO1ulSLAhx8ktc822lQo0HSi4JgP8V7ab9X0jD9YVVcITGhlf0OHBtKAD5lkWOIcYvaGeq6-2957pVR4j84hGZ9u54daSaxYaTeDk6duIosP4vh-kMysHVlvS3a/s1600/images-4.jpeg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF3MtGQQ1lfygYo_7iFqO1ulSLAhx8ktc822lQo0HSi4JgP8V7ab9X0jD9YVVcITGhlf0OHBtKAD5lkWOIcYvaGeq6-2957pVR4j84hGZ9u54daSaxYaTeDk6duIosP4vh-kMysHVlvS3a/s400/images-4.jpeg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5452737221286256994" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 150px; height: 103px; " /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">My husband is a music collector and has quite the audio library. Thanks to him we have thousands of great tunes from amazing artists which fill our iPods.</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi62mAMNZRBCjYoMv6GValYFF4r6vwOOzNsJ20G3dlWMyreOECWCp4H0aboVfEZ4s1vpYkRK8DCIWWqesgtVYKnzCHxU_JEpcZEjgPQTVCsjhQ4Oh-EAzt5YvQMzdZKTdhcs5lvU4fdqyo7/s1600/images-6.jpeg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi62mAMNZRBCjYoMv6GValYFF4r6vwOOzNsJ20G3dlWMyreOECWCp4H0aboVfEZ4s1vpYkRK8DCIWWqesgtVYKnzCHxU_JEpcZEjgPQTVCsjhQ4Oh-EAzt5YvQMzdZKTdhcs5lvU4fdqyo7/s320/images-6.jpeg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5452742048962125394" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 120px; height: 100px; " /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">On the other hand, my son's fifth grade teacher collects pigs and has a classroom full of them~that is pig paraphernalia, not the students.</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXuxD0JWK8ym71vD12EA-whMV76hf1oIZFtxYfZ0KZTi1dJLXlIOP1q7UmCobWC00KylePXoe4hTHHw6pojQ6Nt09rdFNvZWXAKRcqu98GUzeqcXSbQvHOines2w8QXcYrpeVsqAJmm5lf/s1600/3047538203_924af310d5.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXuxD0JWK8ym71vD12EA-whMV76hf1oIZFtxYfZ0KZTi1dJLXlIOP1q7UmCobWC00KylePXoe4hTHHw6pojQ6Nt09rdFNvZWXAKRcqu98GUzeqcXSbQvHOines2w8QXcYrpeVsqAJmm5lf/s320/3047538203_924af310d5.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5452743963321020834" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px; " /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">I have a very sweet memory of my Grandma and her collection of salt and pepper shakers.</span></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMhIytZKku3S_QGUzt_CyfM0sGLTV_Ms-0H7RI0rXMpBOvmXhWP03BAXjCn-VOHjmvlV_ZGf4VIeDlvPDGoBNAtsTn5NJs2sxGg4IwhCG_qD7EANRA8JtMe7LDkztJs8uB8VXrDpXj2duX/s1600/images-5.jpeg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMhIytZKku3S_QGUzt_CyfM0sGLTV_Ms-0H7RI0rXMpBOvmXhWP03BAXjCn-VOHjmvlV_ZGf4VIeDlvPDGoBNAtsTn5NJs2sxGg4IwhCG_qD7EANRA8JtMe7LDkztJs8uB8VXrDpXj2duX/s320/images-5.jpeg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5452742061209993554" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 124px; height: 82px; " /></a><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">As for myself, I collect Children's Books. I have an absolute love and passion for all things children's literature. I've always dreamt of writing a children's book and having it published. I hope to make that dream a reality someday. For now, I'll continue admiring the work of others. My collection began when I was in college at the University of Utah. I took a Children's Literature class from the most amazing professor. His lectures were incredibly fun, enlightening and enjoyable. It was the one class I couldn't wait to attend each week. And each two hour class seem to just fly by. I couldn't get enough. He introduced me to many great authors and books~which are, of course, all part of my sweet collection.</span></div><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAs3sLghAkPScw6bLnUnQ8f4NcQUURkZxBMJjzA7Scocb-9NF3GBkGaBy8iAsR_ssXROv7z4VeYDIYbm3L3O3BlBM2JM8QebHVU7uynajS6uDfWtLmUVzaZ0pYmfRUSwi0r3ujWaycyo0L/s1600/Children_s+books.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAs3sLghAkPScw6bLnUnQ8f4NcQUURkZxBMJjzA7Scocb-9NF3GBkGaBy8iAsR_ssXROv7z4VeYDIYbm3L3O3BlBM2JM8QebHVU7uynajS6uDfWtLmUVzaZ0pYmfRUSwi0r3ujWaycyo0L/s320/Children_s+books.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5452742050215913282" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 314px; height: 320px; " /></a><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">When I go to Barnes and Noble or Borders, I'm never there to buy the next New York Times Best Seller. Instead, you'll find me in the Children's Section. I love that I have three children so I can justify my purchases. But it doesn't stop there. Not only do I buy books from these great stores, I love it when my kids bring home the monthly Scholastic Book order forms. I always get so excited to see what new books there are! And then there's the Scholastic Book Fairs held on campus at the Elementary School my kids attend. I've even been known to travel 50 miles to the annual Scholastic Book Tent sale where you can buy children's books dirt cheap at the warehouse itself. I have every kind of Children's Book imaginable. I officially have a library. You could check books out from me if you wanted to. My mother-in-law does. She is a volunteer at her local Elementary School where she has story time with the Kindergartners weekly. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">I have one problem right now though. The large bookshelf where I house my collection, well, it's full. Guess I need to buy another. I have books which cover every holiday and season. Silly stories. Books on animals, transportation, love and families. And the list goes on. And on. And on.</span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">As soon as I knew I was pregnant with each of my three children I'd read to them nightly, before turning out the lights and falling into a deep slumber. And have ever since. In fact, it's funny, because now they can't seem to fall asleep unless I've read them a story. It's such a sweet time for us to share together.</span></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiW67zCUyeozRljy55a2Ef-t0CVmZRHFUYb6jkzDWbFGCh2tHkHxroWM8DVu6s6oYEnJlnch4zcOQnFtDNx3ADmHJ1uwhpkAqy72FUFmtZTKhm2FLQ5mPnE16TRoWaTyuSWCZARu_fCwkJ/s1600/IMG_0239.JPG" style="text-decoration: none;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiW67zCUyeozRljy55a2Ef-t0CVmZRHFUYb6jkzDWbFGCh2tHkHxroWM8DVu6s6oYEnJlnch4zcOQnFtDNx3ADmHJ1uwhpkAqy72FUFmtZTKhm2FLQ5mPnE16TRoWaTyuSWCZARu_fCwkJ/s400/IMG_0239.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5452695163768391714" style="text-decoration: underline;display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: none; "></span></span></a><div style="text-align: center; "><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiW67zCUyeozRljy55a2Ef-t0CVmZRHFUYb6jkzDWbFGCh2tHkHxroWM8DVu6s6oYEnJlnch4zcOQnFtDNx3ADmHJ1uwhpkAqy72FUFmtZTKhm2FLQ5mPnE16TRoWaTyuSWCZARu_fCwkJ/s1600/IMG_0239.JPG" style="text-decoration: none;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">A time I will truly</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"> </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">cherish.</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"> Forever.</span></span></a></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-decoration: underline;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">I can't say as if I have one favorite author. Illustrator. Or book. But here is a list of many of my favorite author/illustrators and the wonderful children's books they've written~which you can find in my home library. I encourage each of you to add these to your own libraries, if you haven't already:</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">Dav Pilkey </span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">author of </span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">Dogzilla</span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">, </span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">Dumb Bunnies Easter</span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"> {very funny story}, and the </span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">Captain Underpants</span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"> series {Dav Pilkey writes incredibly funny stories}!</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">Don and Audrey Wood </span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">author/illustrators of </span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">King Bidgoods in the Bathtub</span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">, </span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">The Napping House, Piggies</span></i></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">Eric Carle</span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"> author/illustrator of </span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">The Very Hungry Caterpillar, Click Beetle, The Very Lonely Firefly, The Very Quiet Cricket, Polar Bear Polar Bear, Brown Bear Brown Bear, The Grouchy Ladybug</span></i></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">Dr. Seuss</span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">, have so many....but here's a few of our faves: </span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">I'm Not going to get Up Today, Green Eggs and Ham, Cat in the Hat, Go Dogs Go, The Foot Book, Wacky Wednesday</span></i></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">Chris Van Allsburg</span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"> author/illustrator of </span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">The Polar Express</span></i></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">Chris Van Dusen </span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">author/illustrator of D</span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">own to the Sea with Mr. Magee, A Camping Spree with Mr. Magee, & Mercy Watson</span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"> {absolutely love his illustrations}</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">Caralyn Buehner </span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">author/illustrator of </span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">Snowmen at Night, Snowmen at Christmas, </span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">and </span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">The Escape of Marvin the Ape</span></i></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">Luara Numeroff </span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">author of these fun books: </span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">If You Give a Mouse a Cookie, If You Take A Mouse to the Movies, If You Give a Cat A Cupcake, If You Give a Moose A Muffin, If You Take A Mouse to School, If You Give a Pig A Party, If You Give a Pig a Pancake</span></i></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">Lucille Colandro</span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"> author of, </span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">"I Know an Old Lady Who Swallowed..."</span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"> series</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">If there is one thing which has come out of this, it is that my children now have a love for reading. Even Megan~who can't quite read yet. Since she is a visual learner, I often find her sitting quietly in her room with stacks of books around her. Flipping through books page by page. Gazing at the pictures. She loves books too and one day, when she can read, she is going to be a book worm. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji0BF01B4xk_NvkM96FCs5t05nfqDsa12IlDbvhE6HG-WSQVIdmVsf0kchJSgsonuKixEtv1eJck3WWlhU7mkUwh933Z0aWSBgUxmYuJsdmisp45TaW8tRCUOLzriXm1DkE5EX6it5gMBM/s1600/IMG_0188.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji0BF01B4xk_NvkM96FCs5t05nfqDsa12IlDbvhE6HG-WSQVIdmVsf0kchJSgsonuKixEtv1eJck3WWlhU7mkUwh933Z0aWSBgUxmYuJsdmisp45TaW8tRCUOLzriXm1DkE5EX6it5gMBM/s400/IMG_0188.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5452695153481882722" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></a><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">Every night, after I've read to my children, I tuck them into their comfy, cozy beds and shut off their lights. Before I go to bed, I always check on them, to see if they are truly asleep. Often times I find them still reading in bed. Having a hard time putting their books down. It's great when you actually have to tell your child to stop reading so they can catch some much needed zzzz's for their little growing bodies.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms', serif;"><br /></span></div><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinwVLsn9aeZnnJieBrBdDceUVf5FtUU5gSCEsdg__Vkt6BOTHiW9aB2Fcp8LKpJ_p9QOANCGbrWA5BjA_mzYrSot6jm40rvMc7MK_mP1dV7D8d0olp169nfnRMqw-uoXPP1WWklJowQoSF/s1600/DSC_0067.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinwVLsn9aeZnnJieBrBdDceUVf5FtUU5gSCEsdg__Vkt6BOTHiW9aB2Fcp8LKpJ_p9QOANCGbrWA5BjA_mzYrSot6jm40rvMc7MK_mP1dV7D8d0olp169nfnRMqw-uoXPP1WWklJowQoSF/s400/DSC_0067.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5452695176871121858" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 264px; " /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">I LOVE reading with my children~books from my sweet collection.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">PS....Maybe I'll start doing a weekly children's book review....stay tuned....</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';"><br /></span></div><div><br /></div></div></div></div>LisaBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11665617488810534525noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7649159856256328048.post-84858784551042190412010-03-05T23:19:00.000-08:002010-03-06T00:18:09.077-08:00Target~Sweet, Sweet Target<div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#0000EE;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-decoration: underline;"><br /></span></span></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_HAUZUDK-qJZq_VVDYzsK8YhR_Ju0cYbFe26-sK5kgvpN2veF-tuNafeSZjHqkj3w1k2UVfeqBA3APR1Hh1ecllqMAj6RZRuDrNwj9aOldO6D03yLXrUUWkNg5KW0KG0TEgNAW94Xda8P/s1600-h/DownloadedFile.jpeg" style="text-decoration: none;"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 159px; height: 196px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_HAUZUDK-qJZq_VVDYzsK8YhR_Ju0cYbFe26-sK5kgvpN2veF-tuNafeSZjHqkj3w1k2UVfeqBA3APR1Hh1ecllqMAj6RZRuDrNwj9aOldO6D03yLXrUUWkNg5KW0KG0TEgNAW94Xda8P/s320/DownloadedFile.jpeg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5445423946588994706" /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">T</span></b>arget. Sweet, sweet Target. Every woman's favorite store! On the planet. Seriously. In fact, I think it's safe to say that each one of us women are guilty of spending our husband's entire paychecks there {or close to it}! </div><div style="text-align: center;">Tonight, I took all three of the kids. {Mistake}. We did have a goal <i>and</i> a list </div><div style="text-align: center;">{which is <i>crucial</i> and <i>required </i>before setting foot inside this store<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">full</span></b> of temptation}. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Goal #1: grab a <b><i>few </i></b>odds and ends for the house. </div><div style="text-align: center;">Goal #2: To pick out and buy a birthday gift for one of Katie's bff's who's having a birthday party this weekend.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div><div style="text-align: center;">After raising children for 10 years, </div><div style="text-align: center;">I have found that when you take kids, or at least typical kids, </div><div style="text-align: center;">into the toy section of a store, inevitably they always want something. At least my kids do. Really, I don't blame them! It's fun to shop. And it's fun getting something new! Eric and Katie are the pros. These two are sure to find <i>something </i>that suits their fancy. <b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Everytime</span></b>. Megan, on the other hand, points out what she is interested in <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">"</span><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">looking</span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">"</span> at. Let me <i>repeat</i> that. <b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Looking at</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;">.</span></span></b> Megan <i>never</i> really asks for <b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">anything</span></b>. She is perfectly content on <i>looking</i>, <i>exploring</i> and then putting each toy <i>safely back</i> on the shelf for <i>someone else</i> to buy. I love that about her. Simple. And saves me money. Amazingly, she <b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">never</span> </b>yells, screams, or throws a tantrum because I won't buy her something! Sweet, huh? Every kid should be like that! </div><div style="text-align: center;">{Sidenote: Eric and Katie don't usually get too upset if I don't buy them something. But they have had their moments. Just like every other kid.}</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">However, tonight, something truly comical happened. </div><div style="text-align: center;">As I went down the oral hygiene isle to pick up my favorite portable tooth brushes</div><div style="text-align: center;"> {Colgate Wisps},</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuoeE_OBuOVsvoqKyUk89Icz4rLsVn7W4-A5j8holqr9140WFUyJCymtfImQehnW2jh3lKuBz4NJi0KYGVu4zR0VWKxU5dka4yLtg4tdwZGzFGCZM4avCCqEC8BPK5z3y0_eGspLEMc7QA/s1600-h/images.jpeg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuoeE_OBuOVsvoqKyUk89Icz4rLsVn7W4-A5j8holqr9140WFUyJCymtfImQehnW2jh3lKuBz4NJi0KYGVu4zR0VWKxU5dka4yLtg4tdwZGzFGCZM4avCCqEC8BPK5z3y0_eGspLEMc7QA/s400/images.jpeg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5445424593710918914" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 115px; height: 85px; " /></a><div style="text-align: center;">Megan grabbed a tube of Spongebob toothpaste right off the shelf.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjw-GE3JZ01QH6GT2SZbYL3dXcotxsX6Zblr8FHR5pA_35qBKU7Z5Md8TwVgulDa32sm8b5JUVYZd7HjQGA1RrB_py3gBjYDI5X0JEol17pcXYs3ljFeMipO79QaKvAc69yz3A30aH67VzN/s1600-h/images-1.jpeg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjw-GE3JZ01QH6GT2SZbYL3dXcotxsX6Zblr8FHR5pA_35qBKU7Z5Md8TwVgulDa32sm8b5JUVYZd7HjQGA1RrB_py3gBjYDI5X0JEol17pcXYs3ljFeMipO79QaKvAc69yz3A30aH67VzN/s320/images-1.jpeg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5445423956616643826" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 110px; height: 110px; " /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">All by <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><i>herself</i></span>. From inside the cart! Because that's what she wanted me to buy for her. </div><div style="text-align: center;">Not a doll. Not Legos. A book. Or movie. A tube of Spongebob toothpaste. The irony: Megan absolutely<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">HATES</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"> </span></b>having her teeth brushed. She <b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">HATES</span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> </span>the dentist. But, apparently tonight she changed her mind. While she proudly held that tube of Spongebob toothpaste in her little hand, she happily said, "brush teeth!" </div><div style="text-align: center;">Right on, Megan! So if that's all it takes to make brushing her teeth a more <i>positive</i>, <i>enjoyable</i> experience, then it was worth purchasing. Even if it wasn't on my list.</div><div style="text-align: center;">It did put a sweet smile on her cute face! </div><div style="text-align: center;">Mainly because she loves Spongebob more than brushing her teeth!</div><div style="text-align: center;">I know that for a fact.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div></div>LisaBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11665617488810534525noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7649159856256328048.post-54492921540104528542010-03-02T16:33:00.001-08:002010-03-09T09:08:45.417-08:00A SWEET Find....Literally!<div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#0000EE;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-decoration: underline;"><br /></span></span></div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhogUqR5VzHPeG3CUzCAppe0TkaNOCefuEPmVnnUHp9R6J3Pl28m-jHYJDL94fEa65QhIUbNCyIa9hzOWgkpoEYPhTYyKV3nUk3iKD1dXJF0v-V6GMVZJ7ezIsbUAW3lTNsyeab2s-q8yG3/s1600-h/lovin_logo.gif"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 230px; height: 100px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhogUqR5VzHPeG3CUzCAppe0TkaNOCefuEPmVnnUHp9R6J3Pl28m-jHYJDL94fEa65QhIUbNCyIa9hzOWgkpoEYPhTYyKV3nUk3iKD1dXJF0v-V6GMVZJ7ezIsbUAW3lTNsyeab2s-q8yG3/s320/lovin_logo.gif" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5444200202359717362" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><br /></span><div style="text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: center; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">T</span></b><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">HIS IS THE SWEETEST ICE CREAM!!!!</span></b></span></div><div style="text-align: center; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">YOU KNOW WHY?</span></b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial, serif;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:x-large;"><br /></span></b></span></div></div></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfPJxWhW6T9JDW-pcws8BmPc76_0i32pVjZgl8O2MebTIf28wEnmOloT4-DWvoh7isz7G3Mk3DqCITpmGPJkrqOcfkiLw50AiSePfs_jWa8qv87fEjk_j6AB4CtJYeVU0czCOTv6DfMUL6/s1600-h/scoop_fudge.gif"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 332px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfPJxWhW6T9JDW-pcws8BmPc76_0i32pVjZgl8O2MebTIf28wEnmOloT4-DWvoh7isz7G3Mk3DqCITpmGPJkrqOcfkiLw50AiSePfs_jWa8qv87fEjk_j6AB4CtJYeVU0czCOTv6DfMUL6/s400/scoop_fudge.gif" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5444199375537517618" /></a><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:x-large;"><b><br /></b></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#666666;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">Because of Lovin's Mission~</span></b></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#666666;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'lucida grande';"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">Which is this: </span></b></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial, serif;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" font-weight: normal; line-height: 27px; font-family:Georgia, 'Times New Roman';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#00CCCC;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:x-large;">Lovin’ Scoopful’s goal is to create as many smiles as possible. Not only are we creating smiles on the faces of our customers but also on the faces of so many others that benefit from our donations. Lovin’ donates 25% of its post tax profits ($50,000 minimum annually) to </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" font-weight: normal; line-height: 27px; font-family:Georgia, 'Times New Roman';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#00CCCC;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:x-large;">Special Olympics</span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" font-weight: normal; line-height: 27px; font-family:Georgia, 'Times New Roman';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#00CCCC;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:x-large;">. </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" font-weight: normal; line-height: 27px; font-family:Georgia, 'Times New Roman';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#00CCCC;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:x-large;">Ice cream</span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" font-weight: normal; line-height: 27px; font-family:Georgia, 'Times New Roman';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#00CCCC;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:x-large;"> and </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" font-weight: normal; line-height: 27px; font-family:Georgia, 'Times New Roman';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#00CCCC;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:x-large;">Special Olympics</span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" font-weight: normal; line-height: 27px; font-family:Georgia, 'Times New Roman';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#00CCCC;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:x-large;"> make for a great foundation on which to build the Lovin’ brand. Ultimately we hope to introduce many products; each donating proceeds to a unique cause that helps power the human spirit.</span></span></span></b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:Georgia, 'Times New Roman';color:#00CCCC;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" line-height: 27px;font-size:x-large;"><br /></span></span></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivbtoH5oqM_HuQWyAmAkhYCX5Sk7j7R2e2WGSY2dMqU8pHstC-IbUVBGw3Hqn2xWBgQo0Dc0OuI02dl1P3_drtJXO41P-N08se-28TjcDtvlaxyimpJoj5rUS0WiMYRA8JvgZb-1hrANsz/s1600-h/special_olympics_2.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivbtoH5oqM_HuQWyAmAkhYCX5Sk7j7R2e2WGSY2dMqU8pHstC-IbUVBGw3Hqn2xWBgQo0Dc0OuI02dl1P3_drtJXO41P-N08se-28TjcDtvlaxyimpJoj5rUS0WiMYRA8JvgZb-1hrANsz/s320/special_olympics_2.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5444205769680790418" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 111px; " /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" color: rgb(89, 80, 82); line-height: 27px; font-family:Georgia, 'Times New Roman';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Now how</span><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> SWEET </span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">is that?!?!</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:Georgia, 'Times New Roman';color:#595052;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" line-height: 27px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">So. This is how I found it...</span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:Georgia, 'Times New Roman';color:#595052;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" line-height: 27px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">I was shopping at Albertson's Grocery Store yesterday. Since I'm on a diet, I was searching for a Light Ice Cream. Immediately, the </span><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000099;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">NAME</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> </span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">of the ice cream and the cute </span><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#FF0000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">HEART</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000099;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">SHAPED Ice Cream Scoop</span></span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000099;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">caught my eye. In fact, I think it almost jumped off the shelf of the freezer and into my cart! I grabbed ahold of the cold carton and began reading. And wouldn't you know it!! Right there on the back was Lovin's Mission Statement. I was immediately </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 27px; "><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Lovin'</span></b></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" line-height: 27px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> this ice cream without even tasting it! </span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:Georgia, 'Times New Roman';color:#595052;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" line-height: 27px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">I was </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 27px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">lovin'</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" line-height: 27px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> the fact that they support something so near and dear to my heart. </span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:Georgia, 'Times New Roman';color:#595052;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" line-height: 27px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">I know when Megan is a bit older, she'll participate in the Special Olympics. And I am more than grateful for companies, organizations and people who invest in those living with special needs and their future. So this blog entry is a </span><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">HUGE </span></b><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">THANK YOU </span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">to Lovin' Ice Cream for believing and contributing to individuals like my Megan~who will put a smile on your face instantly! And Ice Cream just happens to be her favorite dessert too</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">.</span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:Georgia, 'Times New Roman';color:#595052;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 27px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); line-height: normal; font-family:Georgia, serif;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEpIc4_N8Uz1JG2KiDnRC5Pp_-D4Un_mLe2OVA79cpl-EaqYT-r8ExBNw_PHBCxgURT5pRzaJ79xKeG5yVxBT0CL4BtrUI74vMIo1GXrOmIPlHpJPaALy0w8M5iBDWox1jhk969fwBzI4e/s1600-h/0908_bluemelproofs_485.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEpIc4_N8Uz1JG2KiDnRC5Pp_-D4Un_mLe2OVA79cpl-EaqYT-r8ExBNw_PHBCxgURT5pRzaJ79xKeG5yVxBT0CL4BtrUI74vMIo1GXrOmIPlHpJPaALy0w8M5iBDWox1jhk969fwBzI4e/s320/0908_bluemelproofs_485.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5444207350739193170" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px; " /></a></span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:Georgia, 'Times New Roman';color:#595052;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" line-height: 27px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"> </span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:Georgia, 'Times New Roman';color:#595052;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" line-height: 27px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">I had a bowl of Lovin' Cookies and Cream Light Ice Cream before bed last night.</span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:Georgia, 'Times New Roman';color:#595052;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" line-height: 27px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">And it was SWEET!</span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:Georgia, 'Times New Roman';color:#595052;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" line-height: 27px;font-size:small;">Please visit Lovin' Scoopful's Sweet Website: <a href="http://www.lovinscoopful.com/home.aspx"> </a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); line-height: normal; font-family:Georgia, serif;"><a href="http://www.lovinscoopful.com/home.aspx">http://www.lovinscoopful.com/home.aspx</a></span></span></span></div>LisaBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11665617488810534525noreply@blogger.com1