tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32445877896679436192024-03-12T21:35:53.787-04:00cary kornegayCary K.http://www.blogger.com/profile/01634935082876452897noreply@blogger.comBlogger26125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3244587789667943619.post-51779593787809903732010-02-16T21:56:00.000-05:002010-02-16T21:56:44.078-05:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">Good evening! I wanted to let you know that I will be taking a brief pause from the computer during lent. I will see you Easter Sunday!</div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitp1ocXGE-287bh5z43P2DEdYFTxM7NzljWdaLA2namnCLb_4N0QxCokaHwY8c6kRMHnthb-UZEsJ9UazGxQWDpkG6ikawKitmHcdlT8LWHCOFYw6RMBQwzwrRuyxfb5TbvZ2fGl5mwIi0/s1600-h/signature.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" kt="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitp1ocXGE-287bh5z43P2DEdYFTxM7NzljWdaLA2namnCLb_4N0QxCokaHwY8c6kRMHnthb-UZEsJ9UazGxQWDpkG6ikawKitmHcdlT8LWHCOFYw6RMBQwzwrRuyxfb5TbvZ2fGl5mwIi0/s320/signature.png" /></a>Cary K.http://www.blogger.com/profile/01634935082876452897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3244587789667943619.post-7203925707244473352010-02-10T08:14:00.000-05:002010-02-10T08:14:01.261-05:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTlLZ3LjenN74XXsBQP5lNzxsnRBsLMJ6TBWcryrR4kY4akqUhQBXVi7-biixacFIY55a2PjruTJPKPcg3rapzysCxoRSP6ihUiJeS0-RqNVcgXPok_VtOlBACWi93cqlGUaxEnSdQNJyU/s1600-h/Frances&MarceloWED+130.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" kt="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTlLZ3LjenN74XXsBQP5lNzxsnRBsLMJ6TBWcryrR4kY4akqUhQBXVi7-biixacFIY55a2PjruTJPKPcg3rapzysCxoRSP6ihUiJeS0-RqNVcgXPok_VtOlBACWi93cqlGUaxEnSdQNJyU/s400/Frances&MarceloWED+130.JPG" width="267" /></a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: justify;">It's Charlotte's birthday today! She is so excited to be 5 years old! 5 means that she can go to "big school" in the fall! It seems like yesterday that my poor body was toiling through 36 hours of labor to bring her into this world. But it's been worth <strong>every single second</strong>.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJh6IC0vZrU1ZRj8EDiptT1e5vQ5u8ccjXox14ESrKDBLL5cYUr2bZ6vSyf6GZa-cEHJzVQ8YBmMSmP6Qn5ThlGCLJ_kz0aQDiX85OZmg7apGpoEpDWJaZ6MG8zVWj1utbCbULbiThmiO_/s1600-h/Frances&MarceloWED+265.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" kt="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJh6IC0vZrU1ZRj8EDiptT1e5vQ5u8ccjXox14ESrKDBLL5cYUr2bZ6vSyf6GZa-cEHJzVQ8YBmMSmP6Qn5ThlGCLJ_kz0aQDiX85OZmg7apGpoEpDWJaZ6MG8zVWj1utbCbULbiThmiO_/s400/Frances&MarceloWED+265.JPG" width="267" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Happy Birthday Sweet Girl!!!! Let's Party!!!!!</div><div style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div align="center" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFcMGvbeTOVfJtW8MUjQojfuUYx3N0_tdCiuS3n0iJv89XeKnlf0rPa4br7MNcx8MdXOmF7D61kKKo7tvEk4OSXfbeoKhtsjPBNyQYekwNx498PDGK8oTvMB95i8rqAGLeUSYVHS2jC4k2/s1600-h/Frances&MarceloWED+479.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" kt="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFcMGvbeTOVfJtW8MUjQojfuUYx3N0_tdCiuS3n0iJv89XeKnlf0rPa4br7MNcx8MdXOmF7D61kKKo7tvEk4OSXfbeoKhtsjPBNyQYekwNx498PDGK8oTvMB95i8rqAGLeUSYVHS2jC4k2/s400/Frances&MarceloWED+479.JPG" width="267" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitp1ocXGE-287bh5z43P2DEdYFTxM7NzljWdaLA2namnCLb_4N0QxCokaHwY8c6kRMHnthb-UZEsJ9UazGxQWDpkG6ikawKitmHcdlT8LWHCOFYw6RMBQwzwrRuyxfb5TbvZ2fGl5mwIi0/s1600-h/signature.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" kt="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitp1ocXGE-287bh5z43P2DEdYFTxM7NzljWdaLA2namnCLb_4N0QxCokaHwY8c6kRMHnthb-UZEsJ9UazGxQWDpkG6ikawKitmHcdlT8LWHCOFYw6RMBQwzwrRuyxfb5TbvZ2fGl5mwIi0/s320/signature.png" /></a>Cary K.http://www.blogger.com/profile/01634935082876452897noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3244587789667943619.post-45539529017171167762010-02-07T17:45:00.000-05:002010-02-07T17:49:30.885-05:00The 3 Budgeteers: Hubs, Myself & My Conscience<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">Hubs likes for me to tell him how much I think I need to spend. My conscience needs to be told how much to spend. And I just want to spend, spend, spend!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">The first time we met with the interior designer, she told us she would have a plan for us the first week of January. I expected storyboards chock full of furniture photos, fabrics, paint swatches, etc. But, when we received the email, there was none of the above.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">I am a very visual person. I need to see it before it happens and I need a plan. I am a planner. I love the process of planning. I suck at making decisions, but I love the process of making them!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">Needless to say, I was disappointed. but I felt like she "got" me and my ideas, so I didn't let myself get too upset. I met with her again and she brought lots of catalogs and a few fabrics AND THAT WAS IT.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">AARGH!!! Frustration! And those catalogs! There are NO prices, just pictures- she'll "have to get back to me on the prices". Well, that's not good enough for me, because then I will set my heart on it only to get an email letting me know that the lamp (not lamps) is $500.00.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">Of course it is. I love it.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">After that meeting, I decided to do it myself. I sat down at the computer, decided what I wanted, added up a ballpark total cost and presented it to the hubster.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">And he approved it. And added in a little wiggle room. Yay!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">Now it's on to the fun part- finding places to cut costs so that I can have a little "cushion" to fall back on.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">I told you in an earlier post that I decided to make a lot of the items myself. Things like wall art, curtains and pillows I can make; and I can repurpose furniture and even lamps to cut costs.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">Over the next few days, I will share with you an in-depth look at the plan for each room and the areas where I hope to cut costs. I will share some projects and ideas. Hopefully you will enjoy them and be able to use them yourself!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">What would you cut? On what would you splurge?</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Cary K.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Cary K.http://www.blogger.com/profile/01634935082876452897noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3244587789667943619.post-49412472918657892292010-02-05T12:14:00.000-05:002010-02-05T12:14:38.761-05:00The [Wo]man with the Plan<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">I started the design process by creating a document in Microsoft Publisher. I know there are a million more advanced and up to date programs other than my beloved Publisher, but it is the one program that I understand and know how to use!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">I copied and pasted photos of items that I liked onto a page in Publisher. I put living room objects on one page, kitchen objects on another, etc. I then seperated each page with a list of the items, where I found them, what they were called and their price. That made it easier when I was ready to go back and order.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">I made a (sort-of) storyboard for each room, then printed it out. This was the result:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: justify;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8gikZBDNgVya48KFr48ZMFdKf1u9u01SALZGbXi_mR_P1vPda_Yg2VnFhmv_P0MTwQbdYpgaMdwg2oPH5-SLVT_jyNJ_9M9aT0v-NuTQi849fZgDdDEK79EM6RcOnifArqOQCswiIPYvq/s1600-h/beach+house.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" kt="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8gikZBDNgVya48KFr48ZMFdKf1u9u01SALZGbXi_mR_P1vPda_Yg2VnFhmv_P0MTwQbdYpgaMdwg2oPH5-SLVT_jyNJ_9M9aT0v-NuTQi849fZgDdDEK79EM6RcOnifArqOQCswiIPYvq/s640/beach+house.jpg" width="494" /></a></div><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Slipcover: surefit.com</div><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Fabric Swatches: fabric.com</div><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Rug: companyc.com</div><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Cabinet Hardware & Lamp: anthropologie.com</div><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Rattan Rocker: ikea.com</div><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Corner TV Cabinet: officefurniture.com</div><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div align="center" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhznTSdzd9JV0ExRqYed0-On3MSLXFLpKLWzdZFz7Ww8Fdf4k5JyYITp9JJNyQ96CwJlBPaQ4fuCcQ55WVshpzdr2JDvAikVwhBlffCHTGnXPGAXoqoM_VhlV7xDEtY3qVzAt_4PC4Yapox/s1600-h/kitchen.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" kt="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhznTSdzd9JV0ExRqYed0-On3MSLXFLpKLWzdZFz7Ww8Fdf4k5JyYITp9JJNyQ96CwJlBPaQ4fuCcQ55WVshpzdr2JDvAikVwhBlffCHTGnXPGAXoqoM_VhlV7xDEtY3qVzAt_4PC4Yapox/s640/kitchen.jpg" width="494" /></a></div><div align="center" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Rug: dashandalbert.com</div><div align="center" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Wine Rack: cb2.com</div><div align="center" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Large Shell: crateandbarrel.com</div><div align="center" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Fresh Fish Sign: allposters.com</div><div align="center" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div align="center" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDx6U4cwhrt5P3DlS65_OBUtyVraYr3vbKAI93BfKlHHlO1j0pTZ1-ouCBdNOsOHCUhRS9ljwlyQ9Sl67I-sYbDN07uZ5jMakgHvwNONjn8HNniZC5bUDIWPREVpCTbk6hX-l3eoOvfoda/s1600-h/hallway.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" kt="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDx6U4cwhrt5P3DlS65_OBUtyVraYr3vbKAI93BfKlHHlO1j0pTZ1-ouCBdNOsOHCUhRS9ljwlyQ9Sl67I-sYbDN07uZ5jMakgHvwNONjn8HNniZC5bUDIWPREVpCTbk6hX-l3eoOvfoda/s640/hallway.jpg" width="494" /></a></div><div align="center" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Art: ballard.com</div><div align="center" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Rug: companyc.com</div><div align="center" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div align="center" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1YHqcLe2xxE0oO5kCjFkvnSWlxzVOZlTtpHFnqHoflaMs0FhVFYSd1tNENwHCPjRpfMuvMqNY7kYuNy1d-kZShK-lWyt1rGNgXVnUWnFWbSM_WaVRnEnaNXBaZod4h2HLapgVVOHWls83/s1600-h/kidsroom.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" kt="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1YHqcLe2xxE0oO5kCjFkvnSWlxzVOZlTtpHFnqHoflaMs0FhVFYSd1tNENwHCPjRpfMuvMqNY7kYuNy1d-kZShK-lWyt1rGNgXVnUWnFWbSM_WaVRnEnaNXBaZod4h2HLapgVVOHWls83/s640/kidsroom.jpg" width="494" /></a></div><div align="center" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Reversible Comforters: jcpenney.com</div><div align="center" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Fabric Swatches: fabric.com</div><div align="center" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Art: art.com</div><div align="center" class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">Nightstand/Bookcase: target.com</div><div align="center" class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div align="center" class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzbW72LXzod0KzqlM45Bw7zSX9Z3fH7EahGhof0x1dTHsV43nTk2SClGoPwDMFBPXOCXZ4UOI5DfAX5hjstONm4mKJQgDmqJtQwyzXVed7mH-6h9xTyPxTSBPt-unC8qj6weW-jNAcHpwN/s1600-h/firstbathroom.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" kt="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzbW72LXzod0KzqlM45Bw7zSX9Z3fH7EahGhof0x1dTHsV43nTk2SClGoPwDMFBPXOCXZ4UOI5DfAX5hjstONm4mKJQgDmqJtQwyzXVed7mH-6h9xTyPxTSBPt-unC8qj6weW-jNAcHpwN/s640/firstbathroom.jpg" width="494" /></a></div><div align="center" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Wall Hooks, Rug, Towels: anthropologie.com</div><div align="center" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Glass Shelf: potterybarn.com</div><div align="center" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVrLa_i0vmrHf2rXGpCworHX8PROEy18QAk5N3JfZMrKZct2kE9N25vxpEBCKbz5B-2-osGlIXt_vbUudiFcV4vkHFSB42sN2HEuzMiQKSTlffkDrTfop4WiTRbhxjv5yDpnS3dxuYgdL8/s1600-h/secondbathroom.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" kt="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVrLa_i0vmrHf2rXGpCworHX8PROEy18QAk5N3JfZMrKZct2kE9N25vxpEBCKbz5B-2-osGlIXt_vbUudiFcV4vkHFSB42sN2HEuzMiQKSTlffkDrTfop4WiTRbhxjv5yDpnS3dxuYgdL8/s640/secondbathroom.jpg" width="494" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Shower Curtain, Wall Hooks, Rug: anthropologie.com</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Glass Shelf: potterybarn.com</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9Sbpn4sFmn5m5z8Cc1CBYxkcEJVdb7JUdG_5RP4eeshk1aa9Ktgv9vnyuFXz4erPkm7su9glhdEVOGqEQi3PuCt00NBcrp9ttaYPVA-N1e_xGh9dgy0r8kXD20-UfECKq9MuIQkL1k1iS/s1600-h/masterbedroom.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" kt="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9Sbpn4sFmn5m5z8Cc1CBYxkcEJVdb7JUdG_5RP4eeshk1aa9Ktgv9vnyuFXz4erPkm7su9glhdEVOGqEQi3PuCt00NBcrp9ttaYPVA-N1e_xGh9dgy0r8kXD20-UfECKq9MuIQkL1k1iS/s640/masterbedroom.jpg" width="494" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Quilt, Pillows, Rug: potterybarn.com</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Lamps: ballard.com</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Hardware: anthropologie.com</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3dAo3glDUjIoSlqzwlGPbyR4g68qpsOD8wc1WW-htHssjFtRwOtrC5hXwFusFsHcb3BH7G6tWc9PyaNaQViuHW8jIq9KAkyV5JsV1wrF6kmr6Zj6-74-Lh7ouNvFeV6bf5UZ15XeD5tcb/s1600-h/dayroom.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" kt="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3dAo3glDUjIoSlqzwlGPbyR4g68qpsOD8wc1WW-htHssjFtRwOtrC5hXwFusFsHcb3BH7G6tWc9PyaNaQViuHW8jIq9KAkyV5JsV1wrF6kmr6Zj6-74-Lh7ouNvFeV6bf5UZ15XeD5tcb/s640/dayroom.jpg" width="494" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Quilt, Trunk: potterybarn.com</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Lamp: lightingdirect.com</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Rug: dashandalbert.com</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi59G_mqt6T1BNQAXQszWzW9WWlpy-i60r9ZjCSITCS7Ibk2j7BzfoQrYhgiWKwhfFKsZz_2G4TESrvtUEw-4sJyu4AMKvD90Y-68FHu1tRjW1jeuD1tbWkW94Xac_24WexqcI_PJVMuyAk/s1600-h/upstairsbackbedroom.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" kt="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi59G_mqt6T1BNQAXQszWzW9WWlpy-i60r9ZjCSITCS7Ibk2j7BzfoQrYhgiWKwhfFKsZz_2G4TESrvtUEw-4sJyu4AMKvD90Y-68FHu1tRjW1jeuD1tbWkW94Xac_24WexqcI_PJVMuyAk/s640/upstairsbackbedroom.jpg" width="494" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Quilt, Lamp: potterybarn.com</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Pillow: companyc.com</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Colorful Quilt: etsy.com (Carolina Patchwork)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoeq8kriIMyGDmFVO-xvmH9je-XOpW60wdT5m25WL6TUMVbA4HHYGFcDYkBqLuhQ4BCYafYUiAv88w1XJYYbgYXWq9ohsM2w9F08tB43IbRmXDkJC5WJEu2R2VmxFcUJWBQFdv3MEVr5ew/s1600-h/upstairssittingroom.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" kt="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoeq8kriIMyGDmFVO-xvmH9je-XOpW60wdT5m25WL6TUMVbA4HHYGFcDYkBqLuhQ4BCYafYUiAv88w1XJYYbgYXWq9ohsM2w9F08tB43IbRmXDkJC5WJEu2R2VmxFcUJWBQFdv3MEVr5ew/s640/upstairssittingroom.jpg" width="494" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Quilt: etsy.com (Carolina Patchwork)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Pillow: cb2.com</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Slipcover: surefit.com</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Rug: dashandalbert.com</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Ottoman, Side Table, Lamp: crateandbarrel.com</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigefvYL3kE5t9tacJbo7iarxSAmzLuXJi7CPkhpV8fK-7mFLV7bue36u_A542JSBSaWGLveMEUr5VNCV-PbzYI8YSV9u8IlxlwkYH-Mt3SKhd2oUNV1VwxWUfa-FwPjHxyi2IXWKLnVbiF/s1600-h/upstairsfrontbedroom.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" kt="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigefvYL3kE5t9tacJbo7iarxSAmzLuXJi7CPkhpV8fK-7mFLV7bue36u_A542JSBSaWGLveMEUr5VNCV-PbzYI8YSV9u8IlxlwkYH-Mt3SKhd2oUNV1VwxWUfa-FwPjHxyi2IXWKLnVbiF/s640/upstairsfrontbedroom.jpg" width="494" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Colorful Quilt: etsy.com (Carolina Patchwork)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Solid Quilt & Pillow: potterybarn.com</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Lamp: crateandbarrel.com</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Obviously, we will not be purchasing a lot of these items, as I am trying to stay on a tight budget. However, these are ideas that will help me stay in the direction that I want to go. I have purchased all of the bed linens and rugs for the downstairs, but have not yet purchased anything for upstairs. I am salivating over those quilts that I found on Etsy- aren't they amazing? I think you could throw those in a room with nothing else and be done! They are so beautiful!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I am so excited! What do you think? What would you change?</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Cary K.</div><div align="center" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Cary K.http://www.blogger.com/profile/01634935082876452897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3244587789667943619.post-52940774747286999572010-02-04T11:22:00.000-05:002010-02-04T11:22:27.337-05:00Facing the Music<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">I finally took the first step in furnishing our beach home! It has taken me exactly one month to decide what I want our little cottage to "feel" like. (Actually, I'm still not 100% sure that I know!)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2vLFn90AGzdfVo7DN39uEnPhWQiUoq_LPp8On61b8XMVdOq58cObMfl20_bK-AFWg6T-8f05YWQcYbgXlrAhxZALWvWQ5XFGkSd50iqKn33d5vKKH24-lUWVdkhYlkFE-QID2rJBHlPZr/s1600-h/IMG_2936.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" kt="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2vLFn90AGzdfVo7DN39uEnPhWQiUoq_LPp8On61b8XMVdOq58cObMfl20_bK-AFWg6T-8f05YWQcYbgXlrAhxZALWvWQ5XFGkSd50iqKn33d5vKKH24-lUWVdkhYlkFE-QID2rJBHlPZr/s640/IMG_2936.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">I initially wanted to name it "The Pickle Palace" or "The Pickle Cottage", but decided to forfeit that in favor of a more suitable title. My husband owns a Sleep Inn hotel and shouldn't we give it a little credit for our good fortune? So, that being said, our second home will be named "Sleepin' Inn".</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">Cheesy? Maybe, but aren't all beach homes supposed to have cheesy names? Relax, folks- it's fun!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">I had no idea how difficult it would be to take the first step in deciding on a design for the home. I knew that it needed to feel cozy and inviting; a place where you can kick off your shoes and plop down on the sofa without giving a thought to tracking in sand or having to remove a hundred fancy pillows from the couch (and having to put them in a safe spot so the kids won't spill on them and the dog won't chew them to shreds!).</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">Hubs decided to enlist the assistance of an interior designer, I think mostly because that's what everyone else around here does and because we really don't have a lot of time these days to devote to decorating. However, I don't like the limitations that using a designer presents. They show up with several fabric swatches, a ton of books and a lot of overpriced frou-frou ideas that just aren't me. I just wanted to say "Hey- I like your fabrics but I know there are a million more to choose from and I have to see them all!" Sorry- that's just me!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">And I don't need your uber-expensive sofa that my kids are gonna spill kool-aid on and the dog is going to shed on- just give me a slipcover for my old ugly plaid sofa and call it a day! (Photos to come later!)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">So, hubs and I took a little weekend trip to Wilmington. There's a wonderful little consignment/antique/second hand shop there called <a href="http://www.twocottages.com/index.php">The Ivy Cottage</a>. If you are ever in the area, I highly recommend stopping in for a visit!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">Anyhoo- The Ivy Cottage is filled with wonderful finds- old rugs, furniture, quilts, etc. and has blossomed into 3 buildings full of amazing treats! I could honestly spend an entire day there- it's that much fun!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">I found a million things that I would love to have, but we decided on a super long farm table (for the back porch) and a "hall tree" made of an old door, two bedposts and an old bench. I will post pictures as soon as our laptop is back up (it died and my photos are on it!)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">So, I am taking a cue from these two items and allowing them to set the stage for my upcoming performance. Will I be able to choose linens, paint colors, lighting and furniture 1) on a budget; and 2) make it cohesive?</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">Stay tuned and watch as the <strike>disaster</strike> drama unfolds....</div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFnKrr2Zehq5KkCqPcdSLFfiASU8QQpPxpRCSEWFvYPgSQu7l5OnqLnsFGIrZU0r56sRCU9wo_AfH4k1TA5hWPwwMsaDBly9mN1pnkc2jx-R2Du8-ostbMoTCRq9_LroFkx6J5FrfwtIM8/s1600-h/signature.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" kt="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFnKrr2Zehq5KkCqPcdSLFfiASU8QQpPxpRCSEWFvYPgSQu7l5OnqLnsFGIrZU0r56sRCU9wo_AfH4k1TA5hWPwwMsaDBly9mN1pnkc2jx-R2Du8-ostbMoTCRq9_LroFkx6J5FrfwtIM8/s320/signature.jpg" /></a>Cary K.http://www.blogger.com/profile/01634935082876452897noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3244587789667943619.post-78496382440049112032010-02-03T21:32:00.001-05:002010-02-03T21:33:02.700-05:00The Case of the Disappearing Blogger<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">I haven't disappeared- just working, working, working! The design for the beach house interior is underway and I plan to start posting about it soon! There will be lots of projects, lots of pictures and lots of fun!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">I also plan to update you on the plastic bottle removal going on in our household! So far, so good! This month we are striving to stop using paper towels. That's another big challenge for us! More to come later!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Stay tuned!!!</div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFnKrr2Zehq5KkCqPcdSLFfiASU8QQpPxpRCSEWFvYPgSQu7l5OnqLnsFGIrZU0r56sRCU9wo_AfH4k1TA5hWPwwMsaDBly9mN1pnkc2jx-R2Du8-ostbMoTCRq9_LroFkx6J5FrfwtIM8/s1600-h/signature.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" kt="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFnKrr2Zehq5KkCqPcdSLFfiASU8QQpPxpRCSEWFvYPgSQu7l5OnqLnsFGIrZU0r56sRCU9wo_AfH4k1TA5hWPwwMsaDBly9mN1pnkc2jx-R2Du8-ostbMoTCRq9_LroFkx6J5FrfwtIM8/s320/signature.jpg" /></a>Cary K.http://www.blogger.com/profile/01634935082876452897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3244587789667943619.post-15636348176121736052010-01-24T22:35:00.000-05:002010-01-24T22:35:05.173-05:00Blah<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">Have you ever felt as though you had a <span style="font-size: large;">million</span> things to say but <span style="font-size: large;">nothing</span> will come out? <br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: large;">Or</span> what about a <span style="font-size: large;">million</span> things <span style="font-size: large;">to do</span> and absolutely <span style="font-size: large;">no time</span> to do them?<br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">That's how I feel <em>right now</em>.<br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">Hubs is on me like white on rice to get the design for the interior of our beach cottage done, but <strong>I just don't have the time to work on it</strong>. Nor do I have the <span style="font-size: large;">inspiration</span> that I need. I <em>know</em> it's out there, but I <strong>just can't seem to find it</strong>. I keep hoping that I will happen across some wonderful photo that depicts everything that I want and need, but it just hasn't happened yet.<br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">And <strong>prices</strong>!!! They really get me down! How can a pillow cost 118 dollars????? I mean, it's pretty and all, but as soon as I spend that much on a pillow, guess what's gonna happen? <span style="font-size: large;">Yep</span>, that's right! One of the kiddos will spill kool-aid on it or Calliepoo will pee pee on it. <br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">There are so many things that I <span style="font-size: large;">want, want, want......</span><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">So, what's a gal to do? <span style="font-size: large;">MAKE THEM HERSELF!!!!</span> That's right, you heard me! After all, my small word for 2K10 is <span style="font-size: large;">CREATE</span>!!!!<br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">Here's the <strong>challenge</strong>: let's flip through our Pottery Barn catalogs, drool over Restoration Hardware's website, channel Martha and <strong>MAKE THIS HAPPEN!!!!!</strong><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">Hubster wants to be able to sleep at the cottage by <strong>April 1st</strong>. So, that's the <span style="font-size: large;">deadline</span>.<br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">My sewing machine is threaded, my paint brushes are laid out in a row......<br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">All I have to say is <span style="font-size: large;">BRING IT ON!!!!</span><br />
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<br />
</div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicvw-V1D4lWksxKzWvmA54lMxYVoXhd7IMNl4k2-vdBsChOUT-fJYNOc1QwOxd_DDveUkEjRWTuA_RBX8TYKzqbZzX8LOg0go-tHz36EXOoufwhZSZtBwyZbDi26Cv3CxIJ8soTPaEdNml/s1600-h/signature.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ps="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicvw-V1D4lWksxKzWvmA54lMxYVoXhd7IMNl4k2-vdBsChOUT-fJYNOc1QwOxd_DDveUkEjRWTuA_RBX8TYKzqbZzX8LOg0go-tHz36EXOoufwhZSZtBwyZbDi26Cv3CxIJ8soTPaEdNml/s320/signature.jpg" /></a>Cary K.http://www.blogger.com/profile/01634935082876452897noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3244587789667943619.post-75983413340037625832010-01-19T06:25:00.000-05:002010-01-19T06:25:24.345-05:00Really?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Last night, my son (2) told me that he didn't love his daddy anymore.<br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Me: "Why?"<br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Parker: "Betause he has a big nose."<br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Me: "Does daddy have a big nose?"<br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Parker: "And it has boogies in it."<br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Hehe.<br />
</div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicvw-V1D4lWksxKzWvmA54lMxYVoXhd7IMNl4k2-vdBsChOUT-fJYNOc1QwOxd_DDveUkEjRWTuA_RBX8TYKzqbZzX8LOg0go-tHz36EXOoufwhZSZtBwyZbDi26Cv3CxIJ8soTPaEdNml/s1600-h/signature.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ps="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicvw-V1D4lWksxKzWvmA54lMxYVoXhd7IMNl4k2-vdBsChOUT-fJYNOc1QwOxd_DDveUkEjRWTuA_RBX8TYKzqbZzX8LOg0go-tHz36EXOoufwhZSZtBwyZbDi26Cv3CxIJ8soTPaEdNml/s320/signature.jpg" /></a>Cary K.http://www.blogger.com/profile/01634935082876452897noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3244587789667943619.post-66381010419802705732010-01-17T21:39:00.000-05:002010-01-17T21:39:33.981-05:00Haiti<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">It is so difficult to find something to write about during such a tragic time. I want to post pictures of our new puppy, tell you what I have planned for the week ahead, talk about our visit with my little sister....<br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">But my heart will not allow me to talk of such trivial things when there are people that have suffered such loss and devastation. Looking at photos of grief-stricken Haiti, I am instantly reminded of the many tragedies that our country has suffered throughout my lifetime. I just want to jump on a plane and fly to their aid, but what can I do? I have no medical training. I am not search and rescue or special forces. I am only one person.<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The truth is, I <em>am</em> only one person. <strong>And so are you.</strong> And <strong>together</strong>, we make a team. Find a way that you can help, because every little bit counts.<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">Our pastor spoke a little on the situation in Haiti this morning. He felt that he needed to respond to some of the questions he has been asked over the past few days. He reminded us that God does not cause tragedy, but He is here for us all as we pick up the pieces and move on. God <strong>is</strong> amidst the people of Haiti at this very moment. Lives will be repaired because <strong>we</strong> have faith in our Creator and He has blessed us with compassion and generosity and <strong>we</strong> will give with our whole hearts <strong>whatever</strong> we are able to give to help our fellow man.<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">God Bless You.<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://american.redcross.org/site/PageServer?pagename=ntld_main&s_src=RSG000000000&s_subsrc=RCO_FrontPagePanel">American Red Cross</a><br />
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</div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicvw-V1D4lWksxKzWvmA54lMxYVoXhd7IMNl4k2-vdBsChOUT-fJYNOc1QwOxd_DDveUkEjRWTuA_RBX8TYKzqbZzX8LOg0go-tHz36EXOoufwhZSZtBwyZbDi26Cv3CxIJ8soTPaEdNml/s1600-h/signature.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ps="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicvw-V1D4lWksxKzWvmA54lMxYVoXhd7IMNl4k2-vdBsChOUT-fJYNOc1QwOxd_DDveUkEjRWTuA_RBX8TYKzqbZzX8LOg0go-tHz36EXOoufwhZSZtBwyZbDi26Cv3CxIJ8soTPaEdNml/s320/signature.jpg" /></a><br />
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*I would also like to remind everyone that unfortunately during times of great tragedy, scam artists find their most ammo. Please check <a href="http://www.snopes.com/inboxer/charity/haiti.asp">this</a> site before you donate!Cary K.http://www.blogger.com/profile/01634935082876452897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3244587789667943619.post-22817924547031988582010-01-14T06:33:00.000-05:002010-01-14T06:33:19.144-05:00Oops!<div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I am <strong>so</strong> <strong>sorry</strong> for not posting- we are having the most <strong>hectic</strong> week!!!! <br />
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</div><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I have <strong>so</strong> much to tell you, so I will <strong>try</strong> to post this evening!<br />
</div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicvw-V1D4lWksxKzWvmA54lMxYVoXhd7IMNl4k2-vdBsChOUT-fJYNOc1QwOxd_DDveUkEjRWTuA_RBX8TYKzqbZzX8LOg0go-tHz36EXOoufwhZSZtBwyZbDi26Cv3CxIJ8soTPaEdNml/s1600-h/signature.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ps="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicvw-V1D4lWksxKzWvmA54lMxYVoXhd7IMNl4k2-vdBsChOUT-fJYNOc1QwOxd_DDveUkEjRWTuA_RBX8TYKzqbZzX8LOg0go-tHz36EXOoufwhZSZtBwyZbDi26Cv3CxIJ8soTPaEdNml/s320/signature.jpg" /></a>Cary K.http://www.blogger.com/profile/01634935082876452897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3244587789667943619.post-78951720944016847932010-01-08T22:02:00.000-05:002010-01-08T22:02:37.749-05:00Puppy Love<div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Look who's coming to <strong>live</strong> with us!!!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaaTwHNBfGakygzNdntSNwr1-gJx8SkubnVRLhU5BTVnL4FxbI0kBawIL-da1hJ4c367UHECW2aqHo6GfWK9PTBI7goOnRttWZyoe-wX1HD-Bae7-43TyifcGolN0lsscfs2vORGYJDMkj/s1600-h/callie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ps="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaaTwHNBfGakygzNdntSNwr1-gJx8SkubnVRLhU5BTVnL4FxbI0kBawIL-da1hJ4c367UHECW2aqHo6GfWK9PTBI7goOnRttWZyoe-wX1HD-Bae7-43TyifcGolN0lsscfs2vORGYJDMkj/s640/callie.jpg" /></a><br />
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</div><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Meet our new family member, <span style="font-size: large;"><strong>Calliope!!!</strong></span><br />
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</div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicvw-V1D4lWksxKzWvmA54lMxYVoXhd7IMNl4k2-vdBsChOUT-fJYNOc1QwOxd_DDveUkEjRWTuA_RBX8TYKzqbZzX8LOg0go-tHz36EXOoufwhZSZtBwyZbDi26Cv3CxIJ8soTPaEdNml/s1600-h/signature.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ps="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicvw-V1D4lWksxKzWvmA54lMxYVoXhd7IMNl4k2-vdBsChOUT-fJYNOc1QwOxd_DDveUkEjRWTuA_RBX8TYKzqbZzX8LOg0go-tHz36EXOoufwhZSZtBwyZbDi26Cv3CxIJ8soTPaEdNml/s320/signature.jpg" /></a>Cary K.http://www.blogger.com/profile/01634935082876452897noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3244587789667943619.post-29562731358339181192010-01-05T17:19:00.000-05:002010-01-05T17:19:38.696-05:00Clutterbug <img border="0" ps="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjryvKVcNQtpaZe4qltgd3KqN0MQFsBuOibI44f7BE6OdPXZJBb7s6pdzawXyRR94dsk49BHa0eVePt7FNL0lqa-naV1GQc8zD9HMZIIi17nCR8E0FG1m5srzy-_tWP4-ykqNXmapONheVK/s320/Declutter1.jpg" /><br />
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</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.organizingyourway.net/resolutions/31-days-of-organizing-for-a-better-2010-declutter">DECLUTTER</a><br />
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</div><div style="text-align: justify;">I am completely <strong>overwhelmed</strong> by my intentions for the new year. There is so much that I want to accomplish and I <strong>don't even know</strong> where to begin. I know that I need to be sure to make time every day for <strong>devotions and bible study</strong>. I also know that I want to begin <strong>journaling</strong>. Refocusing on creativity is obviously <strong>very</strong> important to me. Therefore, I would like to be able to spend more time <strong>crafting and sewing</strong>.<br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">However, there are other things that are being called to my attention and seem to need to take <strong>front</strong> row. We have a beach home to <strong>furnish</strong>, <strong>Christmas</strong> <strong>decorations</strong> are still up (I know, I know...), and I desperately need to <strong>declutter</strong> our home. The decluttering process needs to happen for <strong>several</strong> reasons. One, we have entirely <strong>too much stuff</strong>. Stuff is overwhelming. We don't even know what we have! I know there are many families that exist with the same amount of <strong>useless</strong> stuff that we have, but I also know that there are probably a lot of things tucked into corners of our home that we could use to <strong>stock and furnish</strong> our beach home (which would save us a <strong>ton</strong> of money!).<br />
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</div><div style="text-align: justify;">So, number <strong>two</strong> reason: to <strong>stock</strong> the beach home. We have <strong>unused</strong> dishes, glasses, pots and pans, artwork, furniture, bedding, pillows, etc. that needs a home.<br />
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</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><strong>How will I do this?</strong> Here's the <strong>plan</strong>:<br />
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</div><ul><li><div align="center" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: large;">I will start in our guest bedroom. That is the room we use the least, so the mess will be out of sight (tucked away in the farthest corner of our home!). I can use this room for operation headquarters (sounds so 007, doesn't it?). </span></div></li>
<li><div align="center" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: large;">As I am going through each room, I will ask the following questions:</span></div></li>
<ul><li><div align="center" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: large;">Can we use it? If answer is yes....</span></div></li>
<li><div align="center" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: large;">Should it stay here or go to the beach?</span></div></li>
<ul><li><div align="center" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: large;">Does it need repairing or reviving?</span></div></li>
</ul></ul><li><div align="center" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: large;">Can we use it? If answer is no....</span></div></li>
<ul><li><div align="center" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: large;">Can I sell it?</span></div></li>
<li><div align="center" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: large;">Can I donate it?</span></div></li>
<li><div align="center" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: large;">Should I trash it?</span></div></li>
</ul></ul><div align="center" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><strong>Once I have gone through the guest bedroom, I will do the following rooms (in order):</strong></span><br />
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</div><ol><li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: large;">Guest room (Will become my sewing/craft room)</span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: large;">Upstairs living area (Will become play room)</span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: large;">Upstairs sitting area/piano area</span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: large;">Upstairs bathroom</span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: large;">CC's room (Will become guest room)</span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: large;">Master Bathroom</span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: large;">Master Bedroom</span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: large;">Sewing Room (Will become the kiddo's shared bedroom)</span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: large;">Kiddos Bathroom</span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: large;">Hall Closet</span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: large;">Living Room</span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: large;">Dining Room</span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: large;">Kitchen</span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: large;">Laundry Room</span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: large;">Garage</span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: large;">Yard</span></li>
</ol><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: justify;">So, that's the <strong>plan</strong>. Keep a close eye on my <strong>Ebay</strong> and <strong>Etsy</strong> Buttons. As I find things that I <strong>hope</strong> to sell, they will be <strong>listed</strong> in one of those two places!!!<br />
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</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><strong>Would you care to join me on my journey to declutter?</strong> Click the link at the top of the post!!!<br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicvw-V1D4lWksxKzWvmA54lMxYVoXhd7IMNl4k2-vdBsChOUT-fJYNOc1QwOxd_DDveUkEjRWTuA_RBX8TYKzqbZzX8LOg0go-tHz36EXOoufwhZSZtBwyZbDi26Cv3CxIJ8soTPaEdNml/s1600-h/signature.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ps="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicvw-V1D4lWksxKzWvmA54lMxYVoXhd7IMNl4k2-vdBsChOUT-fJYNOc1QwOxd_DDveUkEjRWTuA_RBX8TYKzqbZzX8LOg0go-tHz36EXOoufwhZSZtBwyZbDi26Cv3CxIJ8soTPaEdNml/s320/signature.jpg" /></a><br />
</div>Cary K.http://www.blogger.com/profile/01634935082876452897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3244587789667943619.post-77193704606161714482010-01-03T22:52:00.000-05:002010-01-03T22:52:28.012-05:00The Real Kind of CHANGE<div style="text-align: justify;">While browsing magazines at the store last week, one caught my eye. It is called<span style="font-size: large;"><strong> </strong></span><a href="http://www.lifebeautifulmagazine.com/"><span style="font-size: large;"><strong>life:beautiful</strong></span></a> and it is subtitled <span style="font-size: large;"><strong>"faith for your journey".</strong></span> When I saw the word "<strong>faith</strong>", I immediately picked it up and flipped through the pages. The photographs are <strong>beautiful</strong>; reminiscent of Real Simple. I love the crisp and clean feel of Real Simple, but hate that it seems to give the same information over and over. I also get so frustrated reading Real Simple- it makes life look so organized and easy and pretty and polished, and let's face it- <span style="font-size: large;"><strong>life is not always that way!</strong></span><br />
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</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: large;">life:beautiful</span></strong> sort of gives off the same vibe, but at least it is from a <strong>Christian</strong> perspective AND- get this- <strong>NO ADVERTISEMENTS!!!!</strong> That's right- every other page has <strong>actual information</strong> on it, not ads for overpriced purses and beauty products! It's so liberating!<br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: large;">life:beautiful</span></strong> is apparently published quarterly, which is sort of a bummer, but will give me something to look forward to.<br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">There is one page that I would like to share with you, it is called<strong><span style="font-size: large;"> "14 Steps To Successful Change".</span></strong> I could get off my lazy hiney and go scan it, which would be so much easier, but I'm going to just type the main points; besides, my fingers need the workout (since my hiney's not getting one...).....<br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><ol><li><div style="text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: large;">Pray for discernment</span>: Ask God to reveal the changes you need to make and for the power to be able to change.</strong></div></li>
<li><div style="text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: large;">Pray and plan each day:</span> A few minutes in the morning will go a long way in arming yourself for success.</strong></div></li>
<li><div style="text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: large;">Select role models:</span> Look for people doing or being something that you want to do or be.</strong></div></li>
<li><div style="text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: large;">Be accountable:</span> Confide in one or more people who will lovingly hold you accountable for taking action. Find someone who you can trust to ask and, if need be, challenge you to keep going.</strong></div></li>
<li><div style="text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: large;">Plan</span>: We must be purposeful about pursuing the good changes that God has called us to make.</strong></div></li>
<li><div style="text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: large;">Set goals:</span> What are you seeking to accomplish? Summarize what you want to make happen.</strong></div></li>
<li><div style="text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: large;">Educate yourself:</span> Start with Scripture and seek insight on your habit or behavior. Scripture helps identify any underlying or hidden source of bad habits or behaviors. Seek other sources of information to expand your knowledge to handle such areas as exercise and health.</strong></div></li>
<li><div style="text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: large;">Set short-term goals:</span> Make a map or schedule that breaks your goal into steps that are achievable and allow you to succeed daily.</strong></div></li>
<li><div style="text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: large;">Remove obstacles and temptations:</span> Common sense can help us remove situations, habits, people or things in our environment that will cause us to fail. Increase your chances of success by protecting yourself from barriers, even if they are as sweet as chocolate.</strong></div></li>
<li><div style="text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: large;">Review progress:</span> Take joy in your success no matter how minor and be encouraged by progress. If needed, adjust your plan as you learn your individual needs.</strong></div></li>
<li><div style="text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: large;">Forgive your failures:</span> We will all miss a goal. Forgive yourself and start again immediately.</strong></div></li>
<li><div style="text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: large;">Cheer yourself on:</span> Speak aloud positive words of encouragement. If negative words come out, change your heart and try again. Words are a powerful weapon against failure.</strong></div></li>
<li><div style="text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: large;">Be persistent:</span> Consistent effort is the biggest factor in success. Effort pays off. But, take one day at a time as you press on.</strong></div></li>
<li><div style="text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: large;">Praise God:</span> As we praise and worship God, we discover great benefits for our lives. That's because we were created to praise Him. As we draw near to the Father in praise, He draws near to us.</strong></div></li>
</ol><div style="text-align: justify;">Isn't that <strong>beautiful</strong>?<br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">This magazine is chock-full of great articles, ideas, projects, crafts and features some great Christian writers. A subscription is rather pricey- $18.95 for 4 issues, but I guess it has to be to cover the cost of not advertising. <br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Let's put these <strong>steps</strong> into action as we face our goals for the new year. What will you <strong>change</strong> about yourself and your <strong>life</strong> in the coming year?<br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">I have so many goals, my head has been <strong>spinning</strong> for the last week. I have so much that I want to accomplish each day, but sadly, there aren't enough hours in the day. I guess I need to actually <em>see</em> the goals that have been swimming in my mind, maybe <strong>write</strong> them on paper, <strong>decide</strong> which are the most important, and <strong>focus</strong> on those for now.<br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">For instance, I would <strong>LOVE</strong> to get up early and have time to do my Bible study in the morning. I just invision being up with a cup of coffee while the sun is rising. However, when the alarm goes off, all I want to do is keep <strong>sleeping</strong> until the <em>very</em> <em>last</em> minute. I wind up being <strong>late</strong> to work, <strong>arguing</strong> with the kiddos over what clothes they will wear, <strong>rushing</strong> them to the car, <strong>forgetting</strong> half of what I need to take, and <strong>finishing</strong> my coffee at school, which always stinks, because I am really too <strong>busy</strong> to drink coffee (it's preschool- I <strong>NEVER</strong> sit down!) and by the time I get a minute to take a sip, <strong>it's cold.</strong><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">So, let's take a look at the <strong>first</strong> step that I am supposed to take in order to make this goal <strong>happen</strong>:<br />
</div><ol><li><div style="text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: large;">Pray for discernment:</span></strong> I will <strong>give it to God</strong> and perhaps He will either help me to rise and shine early <em><strong>OR</strong></em> He will present another time during the day that may be better for me to spend with Him.</div></li>
</ol><div style="text-align: justify;">Well, considering that the second step is to <strong>Pray and Plan Each Day</strong>, I'm pretty sure that if I ask for help, He <strong>will</strong> help me, since I know that He <strong>wants</strong> me to take time out of my day to spend with Him.<br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Once you have decided what you are <strong>going</strong> to change, will you join me in <strong>praying</strong> that God will grant us <strong><span style="font-size: large;">wisdom, knowledge and understanding</span></strong> and that He will show us <strong>His plan</strong> for how we can be <strong>transformed</strong>?<br />
</div><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicvw-V1D4lWksxKzWvmA54lMxYVoXhd7IMNl4k2-vdBsChOUT-fJYNOc1QwOxd_DDveUkEjRWTuA_RBX8TYKzqbZzX8LOg0go-tHz36EXOoufwhZSZtBwyZbDi26Cv3CxIJ8soTPaEdNml/s1600-h/signature.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ps="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicvw-V1D4lWksxKzWvmA54lMxYVoXhd7IMNl4k2-vdBsChOUT-fJYNOc1QwOxd_DDveUkEjRWTuA_RBX8TYKzqbZzX8LOg0go-tHz36EXOoufwhZSZtBwyZbDi26Cv3CxIJ8soTPaEdNml/s320/signature.jpg" /></a>Cary K.http://www.blogger.com/profile/01634935082876452897noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3244587789667943619.post-44112375032468052822010-01-02T21:59:00.000-05:002010-01-02T21:59:11.813-05:00It's Complicated-It's Funny!!!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">Hubs and I went to see <strong><span style="font-size: large;">It's Complicated</span></strong> tonight. It was <strong>SO</strong> good!!! It was unbelievably <strong>funny</strong>, with an <strong>amazing</strong> cast- and the <strong>set</strong>.... Her home is utterly <strong>fantastic</strong>!<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">If you haven't seen it, <strong><span style="font-size: large;">go see it!</span></strong> It is such a <strong>great</strong> movie!<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Here's a <a href="http://itscomplicatedmovie.com/">link</a> to the website!<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><strong>Nitey Nite!<br />
</strong></span><br />
</div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicvw-V1D4lWksxKzWvmA54lMxYVoXhd7IMNl4k2-vdBsChOUT-fJYNOc1QwOxd_DDveUkEjRWTuA_RBX8TYKzqbZzX8LOg0go-tHz36EXOoufwhZSZtBwyZbDi26Cv3CxIJ8soTPaEdNml/s1600-h/signature.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ps="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicvw-V1D4lWksxKzWvmA54lMxYVoXhd7IMNl4k2-vdBsChOUT-fJYNOc1QwOxd_DDveUkEjRWTuA_RBX8TYKzqbZzX8LOg0go-tHz36EXOoufwhZSZtBwyZbDi26Cv3CxIJ8soTPaEdNml/s320/signature.jpg" /></a>Cary K.http://www.blogger.com/profile/01634935082876452897noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3244587789667943619.post-9144563757326235362010-01-02T10:43:00.000-05:002010-01-02T10:43:01.125-05:00One Small Change<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOOqNi4oJhOaFlARm_-8LqwjBgMbFco-vRwmrsWEX76tBtIgKfCL_2G8FWrIHGMVECpjJCpCn98ZxyF9-tXysvuaEQfgN_7EfPkcXKnxweFUD46vv5NV7ELkFgvVcocNYQwIBn0cFiiZF1/s1600-h/onesmallchange.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ps="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOOqNi4oJhOaFlARm_-8LqwjBgMbFco-vRwmrsWEX76tBtIgKfCL_2G8FWrIHGMVECpjJCpCn98ZxyF9-tXysvuaEQfgN_7EfPkcXKnxweFUD46vv5NV7ELkFgvVcocNYQwIBn0cFiiZF1/s400/onesmallchange.jpg" /></a><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">I have decided to join <a href="http://hipmountainmamablog.com/one-small-change/comment-page-2/#comment-1497">Hip Mountain Mama</a> on her journey to make the world a better place. I am <strong>very </strong><strike>nervous</strike> excited about the next several months, as there are many things that I have wanted to change but never really faced a reason to change them. Now I have been <strong>challenged</strong> and I am thrilled!<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">During the month of January, I am determined to rid our home of <strong>PLASTIC</strong> <strong>BOTTLES</strong> and <strong>never</strong> bring one into the house again! I know this will be a difficult task because it goes so much farther than water bottles. Think about it- how many plastic bottles (or plastic items that are thrown away) do you have in your home? As I rid our home of plastic bottles, I will count as I go. I think we will both be surprised at the number I reach!<br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">I will <strong>STOP</strong> purchasing bottles of water. This is a <strong>ridiculous</strong> expense in our home. Oftentimes the bottles are thrown away <strong><span style="font-size: large;">with the water still in them!</span></strong> Such a great amount of <strong>waste</strong>! We have a few bottles left and I will be sure that the water is <strong>consumed</strong> and the bottles are <strong>recycled</strong>. After that, <strong>NO</strong> <strong>MORE!!!</strong><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">Laundry detergent- I will switch to powder since it comes in a paper box and I will try to find one without a <strong>plastic</strong> <strong>handle</strong>. Any suggestions from the more earth conscious crowd?<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">Pancake Syrup- I prefer maple syrup to pancake syrup, so we will purchase it instead, since it comes in a <strong>glass bottle</strong> and I can easily find uses for glass bottles around the house.<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">Soft Drinks- Will be purchased in <strong>glass bottles or cans</strong> (would prefer to not purchase them at all, but I that is a battle that I will <strong>lose</strong>!)<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">Household Cleaning Supplies- Here I am at a loss. <strong><span style="font-size: large;">How do I avoid this one</span></strong>?<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Shampoo, Conditioner, Etc.- I think I may need some <strong>guidance</strong>!!!!<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I am <strong>determined</strong> to make a change. <span style="font-size: large;"><strong>What will you do?</strong></span><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">(See what others are doing by clicking on the link to <strong>Hip Mountain Mama's</strong> blog at the beginning of this post.)<br />
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</div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicvw-V1D4lWksxKzWvmA54lMxYVoXhd7IMNl4k2-vdBsChOUT-fJYNOc1QwOxd_DDveUkEjRWTuA_RBX8TYKzqbZzX8LOg0go-tHz36EXOoufwhZSZtBwyZbDi26Cv3CxIJ8soTPaEdNml/s1600-h/signature.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ps="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicvw-V1D4lWksxKzWvmA54lMxYVoXhd7IMNl4k2-vdBsChOUT-fJYNOc1QwOxd_DDveUkEjRWTuA_RBX8TYKzqbZzX8LOg0go-tHz36EXOoufwhZSZtBwyZbDi26Cv3CxIJ8soTPaEdNml/s320/signature.jpg" /></a>Cary K.http://www.blogger.com/profile/01634935082876452897noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3244587789667943619.post-7323010226035527792010-01-01T10:37:00.001-05:002010-01-01T21:39:26.959-05:00Oh no.<div style="text-align: center;">I am scared to death that this is an <span style="font-size: large;"><strong>omen</strong></span>. <br />
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</div><div align="center" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbjrihCSWWqokFSWShCWc4Egf04a85ebQKzJdusVH8HaqB8VQfTH2lo1bGc5ZdZjEKVI7QxMmmw-XUW_LZFVjt7OFeT3YWrTW_uopUiKsbB2BBrdIWv5vdjO_EzlxzE5qE6GmvJzhrq-Y8/s1600-h/Random.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ps="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbjrihCSWWqokFSWShCWc4Egf04a85ebQKzJdusVH8HaqB8VQfTH2lo1bGc5ZdZjEKVI7QxMmmw-XUW_LZFVjt7OFeT3YWrTW_uopUiKsbB2BBrdIWv5vdjO_EzlxzE5qE6GmvJzhrq-Y8/s640/Random.jpg" /></a><br />
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</div><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">4:30 a.m. The bed <strong>breaks</strong>.<br />
</div><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Nope- we were <strong>asleep</strong> (get your minds out of the gutter!)<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">This bed is less than 6 months old! How did it break? I mean, I know I've gained some weight, but <strong>GEEZ</strong> <strong>LOUISE</strong>!!! It is <strong><em>really</em></strong> broken, too. The slats are split and the supports under the bed are completely bent over. Was the mattress and box springs too heavy? I knew we should've bought an antique bed, but we just <strong>HAD</strong> to have a king-size. Nothing purchased new in our generation will <strong>ever</strong> make it to our grandchildren's generation because <strong>it's all crap</strong>. <br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">Yep, I said it, <strong>CRAP</strong>. Instead of the slats laying on the frame of the bed, they were screwed into a piece of freaking <strong>chipboard</strong>. <br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">This has to be a <strong>sign</strong>. Does anyone know what it means?<br />
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</div><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicvw-V1D4lWksxKzWvmA54lMxYVoXhd7IMNl4k2-vdBsChOUT-fJYNOc1QwOxd_DDveUkEjRWTuA_RBX8TYKzqbZzX8LOg0go-tHz36EXOoufwhZSZtBwyZbDi26Cv3CxIJ8soTPaEdNml/s1600-h/signature.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ps="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicvw-V1D4lWksxKzWvmA54lMxYVoXhd7IMNl4k2-vdBsChOUT-fJYNOc1QwOxd_DDveUkEjRWTuA_RBX8TYKzqbZzX8LOg0go-tHz36EXOoufwhZSZtBwyZbDi26Cv3CxIJ8soTPaEdNml/s320/signature.jpg" /></a><br />
</div>Cary K.http://www.blogger.com/profile/01634935082876452897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3244587789667943619.post-85839286727092921982009-12-31T11:03:00.000-05:002009-12-31T11:03:05.159-05:00Thank You<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">The kiddos and I are home today. The 2 yr old, PK has an ear infection and has had a fever off and on, so I opted to stay home with them today. I'm sure I will be crazy by the end of the day, but the morning has been <strong>wonderful</strong>. It was nice to stay in my pjs and lounge on the couch, sipping coffee and browsing blogs.<br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">I get so <strong>inspired</strong> browsing blogs. There are some <a href="http://lavenderlimes.blogspot.com/">beautiful people</a> in this world. I love the <a href="http://byebyepie.typepad.com/bye_bye_pie/">writing</a>, the <a href="http://rosylittlethings.typepad.com/posie_gets_cozy/">photographs</a>, the seemingly <a href="http://www.soulemama.com/soulemama/">peaceful and productive lives</a> of so many women. <a href="http://turkeyfeathers.typepad.com/turkey_feathers/">Creators</a>, <a href="http://juliepowell.blogspot.com/">writers</a>, <a href="http://aliedwards.typepad.com/_a_/">photographers</a>, <a href="http://blueyonderranch.com/">homeschooling moms</a>, <a href="http://www.chattingatthesky.com/">women of strong faith</a>, <a href="http://www.filminthefridge.com/">quilters</a>, <a href="http://annamariahorner.blogspot.com/">seamstresses</a>, <a href="http://theblackapple.typepad.com/inside_a_black_apple/">artists</a>, <a href="http://lovelylittlehandmades.blogspot.com/">crafters</a>; these women probably lead <strong>chaotic</strong> lives, but you would never know if from their <a href="http://birdandlittlebird.typepad.com/blog/">peaceful blogs</a>.<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">I love that we, as women, allow others a peek into our lives. I love that we share our <a href="http://lizzyhouse.typepad.com/lizzyhouse/">daily concerns</a>, <a href="http://freespiritknits.blogspot.com/">our projects</a>, <a href="http://www.remodelingthislife.com/">our children</a>, <a href="http://www.brooklynlimestone.com/">our homes</a>. I love that I always have somewhere to go for <a href="http://megduerksen.typepad.com/whatever/">inspiration</a>. When I am feeling down, I know that I can steal a moment away from my hectic life, grab a cozy blanket and a cup of coffee, and you will be there, with <a href="http://browneyedfox.squarespace.com/journal/2009/12/30/slopes-or-brushes.html">pictures of children playing in the snow</a>, <a href="http://crazymomquilts.blogspot.com/">a finished quilt</a>, <a href="http://www.thenester.com/">a rearranged room</a>, a snapshot of <a href="http://lifeongrace.blogspot.com/">family gathering together</a>; and for a moment, I am there, in the <a href="http://thepioneerwoman.com/">warmth of your world</a>.<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">Thank you for <a href="http://simplemom.net/">restoring my soul</a>. Thank you for loaning me <a href="http://angrychicken.typepad.com/angry_chicken/">inspiration and creativity</a>. Thank you for reassuring me that <a href="http://tearinguphouses.blogspot.com/">everything's going to be alright</a>.<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">I have been blogging for a little over a year now. Some of you may remember me from <strong><span style="font-size: large;">A New Path</span></strong>. I closed down A New Path and tried desperately to find "my place" in the world of blogging and in life. I spent the summer with my children at the beach and tried out the life of a socialite, only to discover that it just wasn't me. I am not fancy. I am not always a lady. I prefer comfy clothes and having a few friends over for dinner to fancy clothes and a big party. <br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">As I reflect on 2009, I would like to share with you some things that I have learned about myself:<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">In <strong>January</strong>, I learned that I can be a good friend if I give it a little <strong>effort</strong>.<br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">In <strong>February</strong>, I learned that <strong>simple</strong> is best.<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">In <strong>March</strong>, I learned that <strong>church</strong> is an important part of our lives.<br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">In <strong>April</strong>, I learned that <strong>handmade</strong> is so much better.<br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">In <strong>May</strong>, I learned that being a <strong>mom</strong> is a very difficult, but rewarding job.<br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">In <strong>June</strong>, I learned that it is important to have <strong>one-on-one</strong> time with <em>each</em> of my children.<br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">In <strong>July</strong>, I learned that it's so much more fun to <strong>play</strong> on the beach than just to lay on the beach.<br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">In <strong>August</strong>, I learned that a summer spent next to the ocean will <strong>spoil</strong> you tremendously.<br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">In <strong>September</strong>, I learned to love the <strong>library</strong> again.<br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">In <strong>October</strong>, I learned that it's the <strong>child</strong> that makes the costume cute, not the costume that makes the child cute (CC insisted on being Hannah Montana and I was horrified.....)<br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">In <strong>November</strong>, I learned that <strong>family</strong> is the most important thing and sometimes we have to put other's needs in front of our own desires.<br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">In <strong>December</strong>, I learned that <strong>perfect</strong> isn't always better and a faux tree is SO much <strong>easier</strong> than real. <br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">I wish you and your family a <strong><span style="font-size: large;">very happy, full, and blessed new year</span></strong>.<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">xoxo, Mrs. Pickle (Cary)</span><br />
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</div>Cary K.http://www.blogger.com/profile/01634935082876452897noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3244587789667943619.post-29608285832397925582009-12-30T22:27:00.000-05:002009-12-30T22:27:49.969-05:00What's The Word?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6dnuSvs4-pp2K_EpPrjC-dtOjPRuIYYJkz-sxW38u8yK6glqzBi0Q-Pgbl3HmLuWaoMcg_vRxyn3-gU1AuclNpbKtT2DrZzETIrNs5DD-h3yCdJY34pmAnsmKMknfwDceAH-gX_81vKDE/s1600-h/AE_OneLittleWord2010Ad.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ps="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6dnuSvs4-pp2K_EpPrjC-dtOjPRuIYYJkz-sxW38u8yK6glqzBi0Q-Pgbl3HmLuWaoMcg_vRxyn3-gU1AuclNpbKtT2DrZzETIrNs5DD-h3yCdJY34pmAnsmKMknfwDceAH-gX_81vKDE/s400/AE_OneLittleWord2010Ad.jpg" /></a><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">I have already mentioned that my word for <strong>2010</strong> is <strong><span style="font-size: large;">CREATE</span></strong>. Why don't you join <a href="http://aliedwards.typepad.com/_a_/2009/12/one-little-word-2010.html">Ali Edwards</a> and decide what your word will be?<br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">And, if you need an everyday <strong>reminder</strong> of what you want to accomplish in the coming year, <a href="http://www.lisaleonardonline.com/blog/2009/12/30/one-little-word/">Lisa Leonard</a> has teemed up with Ali to create a <a href="http://www.lisaleonardonline.com/custom-necklaces/new-word-of-the-year-necklace.html">Word of the Year necklace</a>. I have already ordered mine!<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilN2zOZsNlqmmV1srsGQdFSdCmiUaYZcxtCLumqFs5YAPLlZOOE1PrGiVwgX8hjQq7tCz-iFW5yzvYJTciuFub7ueRYEuH_LlU6YBUdwi-dSmY85q9sWI6Pi55FEszJHm6455gRCtvSL7T/s1600-h/word-of-the-year.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ps="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilN2zOZsNlqmmV1srsGQdFSdCmiUaYZcxtCLumqFs5YAPLlZOOE1PrGiVwgX8hjQq7tCz-iFW5yzvYJTciuFub7ueRYEuH_LlU6YBUdwi-dSmY85q9sWI6Pi55FEszJHm6455gRCtvSL7T/s320/word-of-the-year.jpg" /></a><br />
</div><span style="font-size: large;"><strong>xoxo, Mrs. Pickle</strong></span>Cary K.http://www.blogger.com/profile/01634935082876452897noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3244587789667943619.post-2040846824491275462009-12-29T21:25:00.000-05:002009-12-29T21:25:31.307-05:00Nester-iffic!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">I left school during naptime today and fortunately <strong>both</strong> of my children were asleep (hallelujah!) so you better believe I left them there! I came home to a messy house and instead of cleaning it up, I spent the afternoon with <a href="http://www.thenester.com/">the Nester</a>. Well, I didn't actually spend time with her, just her blog. Isn't she brilliant? I wish she was my best friend, or better yet, my sister (isn't <a href="http://www.chattingatthesky.com/">her sister</a> the luckiest gal in the world- well, I think her sister is amazing as well, so maybe it goes both ways!).<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">I know they'll probably never visit my dinky little corner of the world wide web, so please don't think I'm trying to butter them up- I really do think they are both awesome.<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">Anywho- I just love to look at Nester's pictures that she posts of her home. She uses the most fabulous techniques to decorate and she is so good at creating a home that appears touchable and lived in, yet a teensy bit fancy country with all that fabulous toile and fringe- that girl loves her some fringe!!!<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">After spending the afternoon with her, I decided it was high time for me to start loving my <em>home</em> home (I will refer to our home as our <em>home</em> home because sometimes I will talk about our <em>beach</em> home and I don't want to get you confused because I'm pretty confusing at times!). Since hubs and I purchased our beach home, we have found ourselves nitpicking (I think that is the first time I have ever actually typed that word and it just hit me what it must mean. Gross.) each and every corner of our <em>home</em> home. We hate the layout. We hate that all the walls are the same color. We hate the drab brown curtains in the living room. We hate that we haven't gotten around to hanging things on the walls or purchasing rugs. We have seriously neglected our <em>home</em> home!<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">So, today I studied the Nester's decorating techniques and realized that I could "shop" my house and rearrange items to make neat, cozy little spaces. I started in the laundry room. <br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">Our laundry room is the room you enter from the garage. When you walk through the garage door, the washer and dryer are on the left, with a sink in the middle. On the right is a large pantry that used to be a coat closet, and beside that is a countertop with cabinets underneath. The counter space is nice for dropping my keys and purse, but it also collects change and random objects that are emptied from pockets so I thought it would be nice to have a little catch-all and maybe humanize it with a picture of hubs and I and a little lamp. What do you think?<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha4ehSiUR32WrJ2urMdfCjHuk1e9BUY9LUEzJ8vOq8s_jfE-knD3fMR-xbtbkBO_iE-eyJIz1HIMO9zzh3gWS622iOvWVIayJZr8YnUGK_0V3kSJPd95u964rvYUipDYw8lFTshqF-6r98/s1600-h/Random+001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ps="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha4ehSiUR32WrJ2urMdfCjHuk1e9BUY9LUEzJ8vOq8s_jfE-knD3fMR-xbtbkBO_iE-eyJIz1HIMO9zzh3gWS622iOvWVIayJZr8YnUGK_0V3kSJPd95u964rvYUipDYw8lFTshqF-6r98/s640/Random+001.jpg" /></a><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">There is a cabinet above the space so I couldn't use a tall lamp, fortunately I already had this teeny one and it fit perfectly! Now we have a little tray for keys and golf tees and the small white bowl is perfect for change. The small vase is horsehair pottery and in front of that is a tiny kitten that CC painted a couple of years ago. What a neat little nook!<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">Several weeks ago my son ripped the apron hook off the wall beside this little nook and now we have no where to hang our aprons, so......<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">I remembered this coat rack that I got many years ago from Pier One. I found it, hung it and voila! We have a place for our aprons!<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">Oh, but I didn't stop there! I moved into the kitchen. I cleaned the counters and swept the floors. I rearranged things and moved barstools and cleaned the stovetop. Then I realized that I had two empty spaces that were begging for some love! The first space is beside our cabinets and the second is the wall between the counter and cabinets (most people have a backsplash, but we do not). So, I started hanging things and ended up with this:<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcvYUAUcPpkAFUl8FCR41ZYM69Ru2oK0vHcnIb-Iu60_s-Bag3IoszvavI2zHOW7GNjSnWg723haNQJjhTznD1ULZPILf-NVUc0awnmpkimV5Y1pR2ukbv96dlBdoiAqaQQt1Sgbfmlz_F/s1600-h/Random+003.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ps="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcvYUAUcPpkAFUl8FCR41ZYM69Ru2oK0vHcnIb-Iu60_s-Bag3IoszvavI2zHOW7GNjSnWg723haNQJjhTznD1ULZPILf-NVUc0awnmpkimV5Y1pR2ukbv96dlBdoiAqaQQt1Sgbfmlz_F/s640/Random+003.jpg" /></a><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">Now, I know it's just peanuts compared to what Nester would do, but you gotta start somewhere, right? The spot to the left of the cabinets was perfect for a couple of tin items (I think I need one more on top) and under the cabinets I hung tin cookie cutters! I think this will be a fun display because it can change with the seasons!<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkFsx1QkRDPgDq70Jzjw4NmabK-hHfgQOmYzopqinE2fTDXUY4vWv7vzWLf2wK8jbwD9xV1MF2Ar6m-7G_Rnx4NGqvalMmL9wpteJTaPdEnyMYABkkC0Lul-lgC1MJMf3KBlzIFdtrB5-6/s1600-h/Random+004.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ps="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkFsx1QkRDPgDq70Jzjw4NmabK-hHfgQOmYzopqinE2fTDXUY4vWv7vzWLf2wK8jbwD9xV1MF2Ar6m-7G_Rnx4NGqvalMmL9wpteJTaPdEnyMYABkkC0Lul-lgC1MJMf3KBlzIFdtrB5-6/s640/Random+004.jpg" /></a>As you can see, I have some snowflakes mixed in, but I could always switch them for flowers or bunnies or four leaf clovers or whatever my heart desires! I love it!<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">I suppose I will move on to the living room tomorrow, but for tonight I will call it quits. If you need a little design inspiration, head over to visit the Nester, you are certain to find some there!<br />
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</div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggmxAh8aGvtAbLprCif7J2g_G7wD9lyIjbiQ9i8aoCt9rda-CsmWLhZbnj9KtIGjKGp5hjzAOcPfs6tjcAvAhktIc0U-wwUf1jnDdMpaUpi1RPLXCdwA0MP988pbKS283IE6nOMVNgNps9/s1600-h/signature.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ps="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggmxAh8aGvtAbLprCif7J2g_G7wD9lyIjbiQ9i8aoCt9rda-CsmWLhZbnj9KtIGjKGp5hjzAOcPfs6tjcAvAhktIc0U-wwUf1jnDdMpaUpi1RPLXCdwA0MP988pbKS283IE6nOMVNgNps9/s200/signature.jpg" /></a>Cary K.http://www.blogger.com/profile/01634935082876452897noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3244587789667943619.post-7965861878347991892009-12-28T21:39:00.000-05:002009-12-28T21:39:45.414-05:00In a Pickle<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">I mentioned in an earlier post that my husband and I just bought a home at the beach. I refer to it as "our beach cottage". It is a quaint little cottage, walking distance from the beach. We have friends across the street and lots of other friends that are just blocks away. We have talked about purchasing a second home for several years now, but the timing just never seemed right and neither did the price!<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">This house practically fell into our laps and we just couldn't turn it down! We went to a party where my husband saw a childhood friend that now lives just a block from the (beach) house. He told us the house was under foreclosure and insisted that we check it out. So we did. <br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">Of course, when you purchase a home under foreclosure, you do so blindly. We couldn't see the inside, all we had to go on was the cuteness of the outside and word of mouth. But we jumped in headfirst and hoped for the best.<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">May I introduce to you, The Pickle Cottage:<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEickAMR9L8ABWHpDqhMmrK5tkGpvn8YcGloAWfkkBh5Y7O6SJvr7n1ZHIkpmr3yw48x3pVJxMu-AuToGES0jCFuTA7uGVYnph3sttAHg4fQF_I0gSl6K-F8fnfkLYWULvLKj_GpgkqPHZXe/s1600-h/Topsail+015.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ps="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEickAMR9L8ABWHpDqhMmrK5tkGpvn8YcGloAWfkkBh5Y7O6SJvr7n1ZHIkpmr3yw48x3pVJxMu-AuToGES0jCFuTA7uGVYnph3sttAHg4fQF_I0gSl6K-F8fnfkLYWULvLKj_GpgkqPHZXe/s320/Topsail+015.jpg" /></a><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I am so excited I can hardly stand it!!! It's even green!<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">We had to have new heating and air units installed and there are a few minor repairs to make and one bathroom that needs remodeling, but other than that, it is in perfect condition!<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><strong>So, now it is time for the decorating portion of the program.......</strong></span><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">When you walk through the blue front door, you walk into the living room, which is open to the kitchen. That's one thing that we love most about it. We have always wanted a home that features the living room and kitchen as one big area. It seems that everytime we have company over, everyone gathers in the kitchen. Fortunately for us, our home home features the dining room open to the kitchen, so we have room for people to sit and converse.<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">The downstairs has hardwood and tile floors, which is so nice. The kitchen has been completely updated with new cabinetry and countertops and stainless steel appliances. There is a huge fridge, an icemaker (which made my husband jump for joy because I'm not sure he could live without one. I'm not an ice person.), and a wine fridge (I am, however, a wine person). Very exciting!<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja25UpkGkeXtrGlb0rewg7JTgYbZhSi8Yjny0U-zMUwXWO_gEP5DgCx17Kqn7risU8XtxRpAByKO2WOuyuHENZX-1HW5gPQ2GM9ngocJaVXBGL2QX_AfP9MiSBfJEjY2hIojJxlmVMmBQn/s1600-h/Topsail+2+036.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ps="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja25UpkGkeXtrGlb0rewg7JTgYbZhSi8Yjny0U-zMUwXWO_gEP5DgCx17Kqn7risU8XtxRpAByKO2WOuyuHENZX-1HW5gPQ2GM9ngocJaVXBGL2QX_AfP9MiSBfJEjY2hIojJxlmVMmBQn/s320/Topsail+2+036.jpg" /></a><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">(That's hubs on the right, he would kill me if he knew I posted his pic!!!)<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo9JUXc1FYOPwxw2X2txMSlzCNcIdBql9mpkstd6JeVNazXL7k1esJhbH2fcz3lMQWNrwu9VuOfGelGpWp2Lvi5VSyzi5oBPyBSqZ8AJQM4EDXdXoRZ2vsCuFAAgAsMkfyDpw-tBRW4b3Z/s1600-h/Topsail+2+037.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ps="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo9JUXc1FYOPwxw2X2txMSlzCNcIdBql9mpkstd6JeVNazXL7k1esJhbH2fcz3lMQWNrwu9VuOfGelGpWp2Lvi5VSyzi5oBPyBSqZ8AJQM4EDXdXoRZ2vsCuFAAgAsMkfyDpw-tBRW4b3Z/s320/Topsail+2+037.jpg" /></a><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">Walking through the kitchen/living area leads to a hallway. On the right there is a bedroom (I think we are going to use it for the kid's room- they are hoping for bunk beds) and on the left there is a bathroom.<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">This bathroom was completely remodeled. I'm not really sure why the previous owners chose to remodel one bathroom and not the other, but for some reason they did. I love the checkerboard tile. I am thinking of decorating with a pretty cornflower/cobalt blue (somewhere in between the two- I will have to scan the magazine cuttings so you can get an idea of the correct color). <br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">The other bathroom is strangely right beside this bathroom and they are mirror images of each other. I think I may decorate them both the same. Wouldn't that be neat? So, if you are looking from the hallway, they both look the exact same, but opposite.<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">The staircase is in the hallway, just outside of the first bedroom. It leads to a quaint second floor with a bedroom on each end and an open living area in the middle. The bedrooms are a lot more spacious than we thought they would be.<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">There are two more bedrooms downstairs and each opens to the very large screened-in (with retractable screens- have you seen those? They are awesome!) back porch. It has an arched ceiling and tons of space- we want to put a huge table back there. We saw this one at an antique shop and we love it:<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">It is pine and has spots on it that have been painted and then sanded over, giving it a shabby, rustic look. We discussed having benches made instead of using chairs, but we'll see.<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Another view of the back porch<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIB6TxqkHtkyHUWK3QgpdrNe02vXquVT9ChzEoVllkW7shMlMMDetqrkjStV5pshNuUzL0XzFmTjmjcjumfLCPj31e7zBY05JcYCqV2L45SYlO5NqS3U_4rv_611nYZWF2WHUYAAvoJ1UB/s1600-h/Topsail+010.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ps="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIB6TxqkHtkyHUWK3QgpdrNe02vXquVT9ChzEoVllkW7shMlMMDetqrkjStV5pshNuUzL0XzFmTjmjcjumfLCPj31e7zBY05JcYCqV2L45SYlO5NqS3U_4rv_611nYZWF2WHUYAAvoJ1UB/s320/Topsail+010.jpg" /></a><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The opposite end of the back porch<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-EkpQq-XzTM9MN2jQ_jHTHvwIBNDBBTgbtGZhOwq2cB4l1hsWI47DsiBoNFlenOkjCYBHzq-KEvUx7sKG-kkffjbdhNq12NIxzWdymmZ6w0zMCZduNhElOUohOf4HKEPoC-7l8CxBlO9Z/s1600-h/Topsail+011.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ps="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-EkpQq-XzTM9MN2jQ_jHTHvwIBNDBBTgbtGZhOwq2cB4l1hsWI47DsiBoNFlenOkjCYBHzq-KEvUx7sKG-kkffjbdhNq12NIxzWdymmZ6w0zMCZduNhElOUohOf4HKEPoC-7l8CxBlO9Z/s320/Topsail+011.jpg" /></a><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The view from the porch- I know, it's not the ocean, but who cares- you can hear it!!!<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuSo1e8M4c4yZrNH5w4dylNTXAYHW0WcStdpF4J7PAxv4cJwVFDFYwmDwe7c8p1Hid8nkv7uczYXM4YWjvtkeR6DpBeZKR8m1BZgOnaL4yu9OQsAWC7fzZ-CX9WpBRI-STNYRL6NyELCal/s1600-h/Topsail+008.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ps="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuSo1e8M4c4yZrNH5w4dylNTXAYHW0WcStdpF4J7PAxv4cJwVFDFYwmDwe7c8p1Hid8nkv7uczYXM4YWjvtkeR6DpBeZKR8m1BZgOnaL4yu9OQsAWC7fzZ-CX9WpBRI-STNYRL6NyELCal/s320/Topsail+008.jpg" /></a><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Looking onto the porch from the back yard<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Now that you have acquainted yourself with the house, here are some ideas that I have for it!<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTrJ7d_lu_3F6MhmeghBQCtI5INPXHnBV_xsHvkoj3DGXQ2f2OEKGW58gE5MyXRdS-4POP3bCAOLsu9Xv2-Ucy8U-d-683gpViPRND9MMVnQyZqrEoOwyTjKku8HmzL5f1QQ37D0JQPptm/s1600-h/Topsail+064.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ps="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTrJ7d_lu_3F6MhmeghBQCtI5INPXHnBV_xsHvkoj3DGXQ2f2OEKGW58gE5MyXRdS-4POP3bCAOLsu9Xv2-Ucy8U-d-683gpViPRND9MMVnQyZqrEoOwyTjKku8HmzL5f1QQ37D0JQPptm/s320/Topsail+064.jpg" /></a><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">A Halltree, made from an old door....<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAdTWpNl2yASOhS88hjWGr6S3yseLglkEjo_Ta8SRTEhip8agG72Of_Hjgyveww5viiK7oFJIkUXQILkTOViA5vnRI2b_dsdQzmrWLFHxfS1kTPv8UnoDqWaoZ4q7W-EVlGM7Rkcw3FevZ/s1600-h/Topsail+065.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ps="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAdTWpNl2yASOhS88hjWGr6S3yseLglkEjo_Ta8SRTEhip8agG72Of_Hjgyveww5viiK7oFJIkUXQILkTOViA5vnRI2b_dsdQzmrWLFHxfS1kTPv8UnoDqWaoZ4q7W-EVlGM7Rkcw3FevZ/s320/Topsail+065.jpg" /></a><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">a small bench and two bedposts! Brilliant!<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrMSc8J5vy5p2SGLqecQAO3UNMqpHxrMvBbTyahbnIcLYYw_1IGveOWi8sniAShV0nUrg5h47G4ZyDhisRRE3hkcvETPowu51X0zDrLxToGDV_HJSr7vaF_B-vQb4aawbSQ_BYIvnFMiwW/s1600-h/Topsail+072.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ps="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrMSc8J5vy5p2SGLqecQAO3UNMqpHxrMvBbTyahbnIcLYYw_1IGveOWi8sniAShV0nUrg5h47G4ZyDhisRRE3hkcvETPowu51X0zDrLxToGDV_HJSr7vaF_B-vQb4aawbSQ_BYIvnFMiwW/s320/Topsail+072.jpg" /></a><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Love, love, love this dresser!!!<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_wsLX5W7O53u03FbfQ3sCM8-apk-VYCR5ZC9WYcOkzTswfDOIWLjNZHs2Zeib7u0W-PYlVCLw1GD778xyxunsVMak8mdoqKLZRLhE2sDTkn5VyU70vBE-0hRHCJnbfj6yxotTWU1AtN10/s1600-h/Topsail+073.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ps="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_wsLX5W7O53u03FbfQ3sCM8-apk-VYCR5ZC9WYcOkzTswfDOIWLjNZHs2Zeib7u0W-PYlVCLw1GD778xyxunsVMak8mdoqKLZRLhE2sDTkn5VyU70vBE-0hRHCJnbfj6yxotTWU1AtN10/s320/Topsail+073.jpg" /></a><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Bedside tables- love how skinny they are!<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhigiBAlEwGOZvISJYfXTzYI1RUJUnKOifu0qZYJd8t-SBKyxa4uT2c3dkICNK6k4bVVGuRoIGRuQjVRH-jnu3LOfni9GfBleyqiOwTdzCZhROXR1iwv7EFjzonCOtvhz4JDAJqW0d_fS6m/s1600-h/Topsail+074.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ps="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhigiBAlEwGOZvISJYfXTzYI1RUJUnKOifu0qZYJd8t-SBKyxa4uT2c3dkICNK6k4bVVGuRoIGRuQjVRH-jnu3LOfni9GfBleyqiOwTdzCZhROXR1iwv7EFjzonCOtvhz4JDAJqW0d_fS6m/s320/Topsail+074.jpg" /></a><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I have always wanted a bed like this. I think it would be perfect in one of the guest rooms.<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNrXDcmjra7222KmTqNreXyGiksuzdtZDUUY_HbsY1NRiGRGt8GsA4DwTj8v2HitBoFXY1yJ8D_nmjqf3fyJHnVWwfghghrOOtw7ceC43cnlzeZWQmI-ydSysf54twql0PDaPQmMGiHtH4/s1600-h/Topsail+075.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ps="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNrXDcmjra7222KmTqNreXyGiksuzdtZDUUY_HbsY1NRiGRGt8GsA4DwTj8v2HitBoFXY1yJ8D_nmjqf3fyJHnVWwfghghrOOtw7ceC43cnlzeZWQmI-ydSysf54twql0PDaPQmMGiHtH4/s320/Topsail+075.jpg" /></a><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Adore this color...<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRYZ2rwcf0swh77aaWvtSPbMxwiIxm_8aGRPV_Z9o2g1AC7dHBxTK4mbZybg5F4gMSXcgg_uC7xlqluMP6s1LMuRm-sSCJWBAJwOSjc1OfiXI-XghUfiZovZvnbTbG__KumGT18AIJaGUZ/s1600-h/Topsail+076.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ps="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRYZ2rwcf0swh77aaWvtSPbMxwiIxm_8aGRPV_Z9o2g1AC7dHBxTK4mbZybg5F4gMSXcgg_uC7xlqluMP6s1LMuRm-sSCJWBAJwOSjc1OfiXI-XghUfiZovZvnbTbG__KumGT18AIJaGUZ/s320/Topsail+076.jpg" /></a><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">and this color....<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQF9eOgmHViFqrjvnrxRt4cpBk7dyQX_Q0A8-hcRhLPoMx2wgOjTmqSBsW2aiiCrJPjKOJW1O5QLAY4lqsfPQBOzNNns7Nmb8trHKz2o0tKDvMU9KCLf-UztxQ6F6PjmvAfVFV6gKtBsFU/s1600-h/Topsail+077.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ps="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQF9eOgmHViFqrjvnrxRt4cpBk7dyQX_Q0A8-hcRhLPoMx2wgOjTmqSBsW2aiiCrJPjKOJW1O5QLAY4lqsfPQBOzNNns7Nmb8trHKz2o0tKDvMU9KCLf-UztxQ6F6PjmvAfVFV6gKtBsFU/s320/Topsail+077.jpg" /></a><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">and the simplicity of this table. Perfect for inbetween the living room and kitchen, in case we have bar overflow at eating time.<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbjyM6imujgxT3rNjSU0AaSdjieyvltroGBStgurIZ1aDvRpGfNuAetcqVJMpyBGToNUU6dhU6o8Ajv2-IKKLbKdjiwAqFvEOyCWPnyLBZ7WcK0XyY7itopb9JKlmEYncsqfAaaH8x_Ma1/s1600-h/Topsail+025.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ps="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbjyM6imujgxT3rNjSU0AaSdjieyvltroGBStgurIZ1aDvRpGfNuAetcqVJMpyBGToNUU6dhU6o8Ajv2-IKKLbKdjiwAqFvEOyCWPnyLBZ7WcK0XyY7itopb9JKlmEYncsqfAaaH8x_Ma1/s320/Topsail+025.jpg" /></a><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">We purchased this bed from the previous owners. It is absolutely gorgeous and far too grand for this little cottage, but we're going to make it work because it is simply too beautiful to go to waste!!!<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">Well, thank you for joining me for this little tour. Stay tuned for my next post in which I will discuss my process for recycling the unused items in our <em>home</em> home, which will help us to save money while furnishing and stocking our second home. Wish me luck...<br />
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</div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggmxAh8aGvtAbLprCif7J2g_G7wD9lyIjbiQ9i8aoCt9rda-CsmWLhZbnj9KtIGjKGp5hjzAOcPfs6tjcAvAhktIc0U-wwUf1jnDdMpaUpi1RPLXCdwA0MP988pbKS283IE6nOMVNgNps9/s1600-h/signature.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ps="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggmxAh8aGvtAbLprCif7J2g_G7wD9lyIjbiQ9i8aoCt9rda-CsmWLhZbnj9KtIGjKGp5hjzAOcPfs6tjcAvAhktIc0U-wwUf1jnDdMpaUpi1RPLXCdwA0MP988pbKS283IE6nOMVNgNps9/s200/signature.jpg" /></a>Cary K.http://www.blogger.com/profile/01634935082876452897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3244587789667943619.post-40226558390080034812009-12-27T20:42:00.000-05:002009-12-27T20:42:59.561-05:00Word of the Year: CREATE<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">I have given a lot of thought to what I want to do with this blog. Having been inspired by Julie & Julia to use my blog as a place to hold a challenge, I have decided that the coming year is the year that I will challenge myself to use my creativity to be more frugal.<br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">My husband and I have already discussed the fact that we have to be more careful about how we spend our money. I am a spender. I love the comfort and security that I find in making purchases. And, in my thirtieth year on this earth, it is time for me to find comfort and security in my own abilities instead. (Don't you think?)<br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">Having just purchased a home at the beach, we are faced with furnishing and decorating an entire home from scratch. I know that I am creative enough to make quilts for the beds and curtains for the windows. I can paint and sew and hammer and nail and I need to use my creativity to save our family's money during the decorating process.<br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">I can find creative ways to save money. I can make gifts and cards instead of purchasing them. It will take planning and persistence, but I can do it.<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">I can make my own coffee instead of relying on McDonald's and Starbucks. I can sew myself a new purse instead of buying a pricey one. I can cook more instead of eating out so much. I can read the books I already have and borrow the books that I don't have.<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I can do this.<br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">I was inspired by <a href="http://www.lisaleonardonline.com/custom-necklaces/new-word-of-the-year-necklace.html">Lisa Leonard's Word of the Year Necklace</a>. I will make this necklace my last purchase of the year and wear it everyday to remind me that there are alternatives to spending.<br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">I have boxes and boxes of dishes in the attic that are beautiful, but unused. Why not take them to the beachhouse? We have a bed that is unused. Let's refinish it and take it to the beachhouse. Let's find a way to use every single object in our home and if we come across something that absolutely cannot be used, let's sell it or give it away.<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I accept this challenge. Would you care to join me?<br />
</div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggmxAh8aGvtAbLprCif7J2g_G7wD9lyIjbiQ9i8aoCt9rda-CsmWLhZbnj9KtIGjKGp5hjzAOcPfs6tjcAvAhktIc0U-wwUf1jnDdMpaUpi1RPLXCdwA0MP988pbKS283IE6nOMVNgNps9/s1600-h/signature.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ps="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggmxAh8aGvtAbLprCif7J2g_G7wD9lyIjbiQ9i8aoCt9rda-CsmWLhZbnj9KtIGjKGp5hjzAOcPfs6tjcAvAhktIc0U-wwUf1jnDdMpaUpi1RPLXCdwA0MP988pbKS283IE6nOMVNgNps9/s200/signature.jpg" /></a>Cary K.http://www.blogger.com/profile/01634935082876452897noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3244587789667943619.post-12452486260036773212009-12-27T11:54:00.001-05:002010-01-01T00:14:43.423-05:00Inspiration<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">I am looking forward to the new year. I always look forward to a new year, as it gives me a chance to make goals and lists and plans and those are some of my favorite things to do. I am still trying to find my place. I turned 30 this year, went back to work after staying home with my kiddos for almost 5 years, lost 10 pounds before summer started (and gained it back throughout the summer!), rejoined Weight Watchers, became more social (sort of), and <strong>completed</strong> a bible study. I'm not a finisher, so these were huge accomplishments for me!<br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">Last night I stayed up late to watch Julie & Julia- a fantastic movie that is oh so very inspiring- and I went to bed thinking about the many bloggers that inspire me on a daily basis. I hunted down <a href="http://juliepowell.blogspot.com/">Julie's blog</a> and browsed through it for a while, thinking about how brave she was to take on such a challenge and what lesson I could learn from her persistence.<br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">Then I thought of <a href="http://www.thenester.com/">Nester</a> and how her love for all things interior design gave her such a beautiful blog and so many readers. I feel like taking on my very drab home when reading her blog. I look around and think "I could do that". <br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I think about <a href="http://rosylittlethings.typepad.com/posie_gets_cozy/">Alicia</a> and <a href="http://angrychicken.typepad.com/angry_chicken/">Amy</a> and <a href="http://www.filminthefridge.com/">Film in the Fridge</a> (just to name a few) and how their craftiness and love for all things beautiful inspire me to create. I just want to sew, sew, sew after browsing their blogs!<br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I think about <a href="http://thepioneerwoman.com/">Ree</a> and <a href="http://www.latartinegourmande.com/">Bea</a> and how I just want to cook, cook, cook after reading their blogs.<br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">And now I am left with this question- what is the focus of this blog? There are so many things that I love to do! When you visit here, in what way shall I inspire you???<br />
</div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggmxAh8aGvtAbLprCif7J2g_G7wD9lyIjbiQ9i8aoCt9rda-CsmWLhZbnj9KtIGjKGp5hjzAOcPfs6tjcAvAhktIc0U-wwUf1jnDdMpaUpi1RPLXCdwA0MP988pbKS283IE6nOMVNgNps9/s1600-h/signature.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ps="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggmxAh8aGvtAbLprCif7J2g_G7wD9lyIjbiQ9i8aoCt9rda-CsmWLhZbnj9KtIGjKGp5hjzAOcPfs6tjcAvAhktIc0U-wwUf1jnDdMpaUpi1RPLXCdwA0MP988pbKS283IE6nOMVNgNps9/s200/signature.jpg" /></a>Cary K.http://www.blogger.com/profile/01634935082876452897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3244587789667943619.post-83230193923618286962009-12-26T21:02:00.000-05:002009-12-26T21:07:56.728-05:00Lil' Buddy Diapers<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">We had such a wonderful Christmas!<br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">My mother's side of the family came over Christmas Eve night for dinner. We had a delicious <a href="http://dearmrspickle.blogspot.com/2009/12/recipes.html">Roanoke Beef Tenderloin</a>- melts in your mouth!, Mashed Potatoes (<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Essentially-Lilly-Guide-Colorful-Holidays/dp/0060832444">Lilly Pulitzer's recipe</a>- it's to die for!!!), <a href="http://dearmrspickle.blogspot.com/2009/12/recipes.html">Green Bean & Tomato Casserole</a> (an unusual but delicious combination), Sweet Potato Casserole, Corn Pudding, Yeast Rolls, Honeybaked Ham, Butterbeans, Pecan Pie and <a href="http://dearmrspickle.blogspot.com/2009/12/recipes.html">Chocolate Pumpkin Pie</a>. What a delicious meal!!!<br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">While preparing dinner, I noticed everyone gathered at the laundry room door and so I stopped mashing potatoes long enough to see what all the fuss was about. A tiny and very old poodle had wandered into our garage. He was freezing and starving and looked quite pitiful so I, of course, brought him in, gave him a warm bath and fed him a little supper. He was filthy and covered in fleas. His fur was quite matted and he smelled awful. He had cataracts on his eyes and was obviously blind and appeared to be deaf as well. Poor little guy!<br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">We gave him a flea pill and the fleas were all dead in about 30 minutes (it's called Capstar for those interested- it is amazing!). Once he was cozy and full, he curled up in a blanket and went to sleep.<br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">I knew he belonged to someone because he was house broken. He would bark and I would take him out. He would potty and then I would bring him back in- such a little sweetie!<br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">We don't have a dog. We used to have an Old English Sheepdog named Lacey. She was a very smart and beautiful dog. She was 14 when she started having seizures. The vet put her on medication for the seizures but over time the meds stopped working and the seizures were happening more often. They would cause her to be unable to move and she often lost control of her bowels. Our daughter was less than a year old at the time, so it was unnerving to allow her to be around Lacey because you never knew what would happen.<br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">The day my husband took her to the vet and returned home without her was such a sad day. When he got home it was apparent that he had been crying but he didn't want to talk about it, so I just loved him and tried to cheer him up. <br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">We have been talking about possible getting a dog again, but my husband isn't the easiest to persuade. His heart still belongs to Lacey and I'm not sure he's ready to get another dog. But finding this sweet little poodle was almost like a sign. We jokingly kept calling him "a christmas miracle".<br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">My brother (17) and sister (19- I am 30) and I love to watch Elf (with Will Ferrell), it's one of our favorite Christmas comedies. We started calling the poodle "Lil' Buddy Diapers" (if you've seen the movie then you'll remember the part when the baby crawls out of Santa's bag and the elf reads the diaper and says "I think his name is Lil' Buddy Diapers"), mostly as a joke, but it sort of stuck and everytime one of my kids would call him we all just busted out laughing because it was so funny to hear them say "Lil' Buddy Diapers" so seriously. We're stupid, I know!<br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">We just fell in love with LBD. He was such a sweet little lapdog- possible the ugliest dog you've ever seen, but the sweetest and most well behaved all the same. He slept in our bedroom on top of a big, warm quilt. He would sleep most of the day and wake up only when he had to potty or was hungry. I emailed the local newspaper to run an ad to try to find the owners and had decided to take him to the vet on Monday and possibly to the groomers.<br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">Tonight our summer babysitter came over to see the kids and I asked her if she knew anyone in the neighborhood that had lost a little old poodle (her parents live down the road) and of course, she did. One of her friends had lost his dog- he had her since he was 3. She immediately called him and he came right over and identified Lil' Buddy Diapers as "Nestle" (apparently Nestle used to be chocolate brown but age had left him very gray. He was so excited to have found him and we were excited that Nestle was going home to his family, but it also bittersweet because Nestle had become part of our family. We had bathed him and fed him by hand (he didn't have any teeth!). We had loved him and cared for him and now he was leaving us.<br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">Nestle is 15 years old, deaf, blind and toothless, but he was our little Christmas miracle. He lives just a few houses down the street so I'm sure we will visit often. My dad said something good would come of all this. I sure hope so because I'm awfully sad that he's gone. <br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">The Bible says that we often entertain angels, perhaps that's how Nestle (or Lil' Buddy Diapers, it's so much more fun to say) found our doorstep. Maybe it was time for us to open our hearts and our home to a dog again. <br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">It's funny how Christmas magic works.<br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">(I'm trying to find a picture of LBD- my sister took a thousand, so maybe she will email them to me.)<br />
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</div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggmxAh8aGvtAbLprCif7J2g_G7wD9lyIjbiQ9i8aoCt9rda-CsmWLhZbnj9KtIGjKGp5hjzAOcPfs6tjcAvAhktIc0U-wwUf1jnDdMpaUpi1RPLXCdwA0MP988pbKS283IE6nOMVNgNps9/s1600-h/signature.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ps="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggmxAh8aGvtAbLprCif7J2g_G7wD9lyIjbiQ9i8aoCt9rda-CsmWLhZbnj9KtIGjKGp5hjzAOcPfs6tjcAvAhktIc0U-wwUf1jnDdMpaUpi1RPLXCdwA0MP988pbKS283IE6nOMVNgNps9/s200/signature.jpg" /></a>Cary K.http://www.blogger.com/profile/01634935082876452897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3244587789667943619.post-28064947448153740032009-12-26T21:01:00.000-05:002009-12-26T21:01:20.355-05:00Recipes<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><strong><span style="font-size: large;">Roanoke Beef Tenderloin</span></strong><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">1 well-trimmed whole beef tenderloin<br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">1 teaspoon white pepper<br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">1 tablespoon Lawry's Seasoned Salt<br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">1 teaspoon garlic salt<br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">1/4 teaspoon oregano<br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">1 teaspoon salt<br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce<br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">1 cup water<br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">Place beef on large sheet of aluminum foil. Mix pepper, seasoned salt, garlic salt and oregano; rub on beef and wrap in foil. Refrigerate for 12 hours. Remove 2 hours before cooking. Place beef in cooking pan and sprinkle with salt and worcestershire sauce. Add a cup of water to the pan and cook 35 minutes at 400 degrees rare to medium-rare.<br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">(You may have to cook a little longer depending on size of tenderloin.) Perfect every time!<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><strong><span style="font-size: large;">Green Bean & Tomato Casserole</span></strong><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">4 cans of French Cut Green Beans<br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">2 cans of Stewed Tomatoes<br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">1 bag of Shredded Cheddar Cheese<br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">(You could use fresh ingredients, but I'm all about saving time!)<br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">Strain the water from the beans and mix the beans, tomatoes and cheese in a large bowl. Pour mixture into a pyrex dish and sprinkle a little cheese on top. Bake in a 350 degree oven for about 30 minutes, or until cheese starts to bubble.<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><strong><span style="font-size: large;">Chocolate Pumpkin Pie</span></strong><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Pumpkin Pie Mix, Prepared<br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">1 cup of Semi-Sweet or Milk Chocolate Morsels<br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">1 Pie Crust<br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">Prepare pie mix. Cover bottom of pie crust with chocolate chips. Pour mix over chocolate chips and bake as directed. A delicious twist on an old recipe!<br />
</div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggmxAh8aGvtAbLprCif7J2g_G7wD9lyIjbiQ9i8aoCt9rda-CsmWLhZbnj9KtIGjKGp5hjzAOcPfs6tjcAvAhktIc0U-wwUf1jnDdMpaUpi1RPLXCdwA0MP988pbKS283IE6nOMVNgNps9/s1600-h/signature.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ps="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggmxAh8aGvtAbLprCif7J2g_G7wD9lyIjbiQ9i8aoCt9rda-CsmWLhZbnj9KtIGjKGp5hjzAOcPfs6tjcAvAhktIc0U-wwUf1jnDdMpaUpi1RPLXCdwA0MP988pbKS283IE6nOMVNgNps9/s200/signature.jpg" /></a>Cary K.http://www.blogger.com/profile/01634935082876452897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3244587789667943619.post-44343505606940623442009-12-24T00:23:00.000-05:002009-12-24T00:23:14.448-05:00It's Just Me<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">I suppose I should begin by telling you a little about myself. I am first and foremost a Christian, but I am not perfect. I have my own personal battles that I encounter every single day, just like everyone else. Like smoking. I love to smoke and I have to fight the urge every single day. Even when you have gone a year or more without smoking you still occasionally encounter that strong desire to smoke. Sometimes I give in and other times I keep on moving and shove the thought deep into the pits of my mind, where they will surely resurface soon enough.<br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">I am a wife. Marriage is a funny thing. I wouldn't trade it for the single life for all the wealth of the world, but sometimes it is extremely difficult being one of two. There is always someone else to consider when making decisions, even small decisions such as what to eat for dinner. And then there are the money decisions. I am a spender. I will be the first to admit that money burns a hole in pocket! My husband is a saver. Therein lies a teensy weensy problem: finances. I have just today (for the ten-thousandth time, i'm sure) admitted that I have a spending problem. So now it's time for therapy. Unfortunately, the only type of therapy that I am familiar with is retail therapy, so I'm not really sure how rehab will go. I will keep you posted.<br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">I am a mommy. My husband and I have two wonderful children. Our firstborn, I will call her CC, is a very sweet and even-tempered four year old. She has a (very tender) heart of gold. She is patient and kind. She doesn't like mornings and enjoys sleeping in. She is a night owl and loves to cuddle with her mommy. <br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">Our second child, PK, is a strong willed (to say the very least) two year old. He has been a test since the day he was conceived. He keeps us on our toes. He is constantly breaking things and tearing up things. However, having said all that, he is very sweet (when he wants to be) and very cute (I know I am partial because I am his mother, but he really is a gorgeous child). You will certainly hear more about him later.<br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">I am a preschool teacher. I have 17 children total: 13 on a daily basis and 4 after-schoolers. I adore my job. I stayed at home for 5 years and returned to work a couple of months ago. I took the job temporarily when asked by the preschool director if I would be willing to fill in until she found a lead teacher. The first couple of weeks were tough. I had a hard time adjusting to my new schedule and a room filled with little personalities that I was unfamiliar with. The third week I began to open up to each child and absorb their differences and disciplinary needs. That is when I began to love my job. By the fourth week I was certain that I had finally found my niche. <br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">I am a member of a large family. My parents are still married and I have two younger siblings. I am very close to my entire family and I am very excited to host Christmas Eve dinner at my home tomorrow night. Christmas Eve is a very special time for our family and to hold the festivities in my home means the world to me.<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">It is very nice to meet you and I look forward to your visits in the future!<br />
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</div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggmxAh8aGvtAbLprCif7J2g_G7wD9lyIjbiQ9i8aoCt9rda-CsmWLhZbnj9KtIGjKGp5hjzAOcPfs6tjcAvAhktIc0U-wwUf1jnDdMpaUpi1RPLXCdwA0MP988pbKS283IE6nOMVNgNps9/s1600-h/signature.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ps="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggmxAh8aGvtAbLprCif7J2g_G7wD9lyIjbiQ9i8aoCt9rda-CsmWLhZbnj9KtIGjKGp5hjzAOcPfs6tjcAvAhktIc0U-wwUf1jnDdMpaUpi1RPLXCdwA0MP988pbKS283IE6nOMVNgNps9/s200/signature.jpg" /></a>Cary K.http://www.blogger.com/profile/01634935082876452897noreply@blogger.com0