tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-75421535122149526512024-03-13T14:21:25.249-04:00modern gardenGretahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13678221019546045834noreply@blogger.comBlogger544125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7542153512214952651.post-17171877237018361502019-06-03T09:38:00.003-04:002019-06-03T23:57:02.915-04:00expat life : our first year(ish) in the netherlands!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="image2.png" src="https://attachment.outlook.live.net/owa/greta.r.ford@hotmail.com/service.svc/s/GetAttachmentThumbnail?id=AQMkADAwATZiZmYAZC1hMDIzLTZjNjMtMDACLTAwCgBGAAADzkTS1gbdF0yMDADx%2F5EHGwcAXGpzp8QSAkOQQWzWCOZKUgAAAgEMAAAAXGpzp8QSAkOQQWzWCOZKUgADYrpKjAAAAAESABAAJSeynt1tbQBLq28T7v%2FcI8E%3D&thumbnailType=2&owa=outlook.live.com&scriptVer=2019052703.04&isc=1&X-OWA-CANARY=WV648lmPxkiT5hSAlvrXZCAQJoyg6NYY8zxOEHQBmqe03DcSJgHwQcjlQ1m6znwORIGcwKL1XpY.&token=eyJhbGciOiJSUzI1NiIsImtpZCI6IjA2MDBGOUY2NzQ2MjA3MzdFNzM0MDRFMjg3QzQ1QTgxOENCN0NFQjgiLCJ4NXQiOiJCZ0Q1OW5SaUJ6Zm5OQVRpaDhSYWdZeTN6cmciLCJ0eXAiOiJKV1QifQ.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.oPmQqtpl4WO9MvDxTg3vSag12NXEEb5RtYaq3OPlFoyAX6KMvBKZN-acgFKvP2_ez-fdgYoy_ydEw-F0i89zpnr-l_8ag9CqGrcHSiDjV9tt-33Jx-J2xDYt5V7UqNoX0x6SpOo8DSQ6hfoXdCQi7KpsViHCGLCpRsCEa_UxmwqIIU8BHyN890seT8ZGyLZky73pFXrxlOcVkgxPFg_7S-dw40VaND2HB3Fh_U1LUe1I10VqdwPlDHzWbwWdy7Csq5ffYzbZzcPO7DYNtbwsM3A2o_rwF1vw3jROqu9YbxM6Uo6W0YJzdEfZofdR0i6FYbXk_WiILFJfE8PPsgix7A&animation=true" /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">"So how are you doing over there?!?!?!"</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">It's a common and innocent question that, as an expat, you get all the time. I usually give an honest answer, which is: "Okay!"</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">We <i>are</i> okay.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Some days we LOVE it here in the Netherlands, if the sun is shining, if we've gone on a long bike ride, if we've finally made it to a museum or park we've been talking about for months. With three kids we tend to stay close to home, but sometimes we venture out and see the cool stuff. Having our third baby just before we moved here probably took a bit of the adventure out of our experience. We rent a house in a quiet neighborhood on the outskirts (it kills the city girl in me to write 'suburbs') because when we were moving I couldn't imagine functioning in the bustling city center with an infant and two small kids! </span></span><br />
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<span style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Other days I long for home and stare at the calendar wanting it to magically jump ahead to the end of our assignment.</span></span></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu_beInDoNucNFhnnJssyQzwLApc23XsR933BuCs2-HqEE0s8mKWbPYUxfIRLftzdWpknDR-FPs4XAjV9fAjgoMaf1panSjHLRlH-9AoxxQKP-2-BpPc8thiA6JofyqgM6s1bygAlRyM8/s1600/expat10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu_beInDoNucNFhnnJssyQzwLApc23XsR933BuCs2-HqEE0s8mKWbPYUxfIRLftzdWpknDR-FPs4XAjV9fAjgoMaf1panSjHLRlH-9AoxxQKP-2-BpPc8thiA6JofyqgM6s1bygAlRyM8/s640/expat10.jpg" width="480" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: small;">just waiting for the bus, living our best lives.</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Please don't read this as anything other than me being real. YES, I am very grateful that we get to travel around to other countries and see new places with the kids. The school year is structured a bit differently here (shorter summer, more long breaks during the school year) so we take advantage of traveling during those breaks. I live for our adventures! But the fact is that the exciting adventures are 5% of our time here. The rest is just normal life.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">At four months into our assignment I shared my thoughts in <b><a href="https://modgarden.blogspot.com/2018/06/expat-life-truths-about-first-four.html">this post</a></b>. The first four months were hard.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">After six months things really started feeling more comfortable here.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">After nine months I felt confident, even!</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">After nearly a year and a half? The shimmer has worn off a bit. Life is so much easier, but not as exciting, if that makes sense. There is a flow of normalcy to our world now.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: medium;">A few of the things I've learned here, about Dutch life and about myself...</span></b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">1. No, I'll probably never stop missing Target.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">2. I <i>do</i> miss seeing people lose their s*** sometimes. The Dutch seem very stoic and very practical. This is nice...but also, sometimes maddening! They will matter-of-factly point out when you are doing something against the rules, whether those rules be "official" or simply rules they believe all people should just follow. Example : If it is a bit chilly and you aren't wearing a scarf they will point out your error. Dress appropriately for all weather, all the time. Use the correct bike lanes. Enter bus from front and exit in the back. If you are carrying more than two grocery bags it is too much food. Et cetera.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">3. I looooooooove riding my bicycle and think all cities should have bike lanes like the Netherlands has. It is awesome!</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4XfUgliUyv9IKgEG_po8yujekfbVpzNpvQokWIjzNUVhDbx2oYT9LbgGlc1PgpWye-OovJl9MbIfuXFoOeiZXWxh1YwQY0e2weRnB6AAh-N9USICrUEBo2DSVc7Tc0kBXhlqfySPA3Yw/s1600/expat9.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4XfUgliUyv9IKgEG_po8yujekfbVpzNpvQokWIjzNUVhDbx2oYT9LbgGlc1PgpWye-OovJl9MbIfuXFoOeiZXWxh1YwQY0e2weRnB6AAh-N9USICrUEBo2DSVc7Tc0kBXhlqfySPA3Yw/s640/expat9.JPG" width="360" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">4. People seem healthier here, in general. I guess everyone is just biking everywhere and not buying very much food. (see #8!) </span></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2xBwZO5Fp3086k-x782Xg5pf3_0RDwEDkHxfes-NL97y-zUHlv4IZxZ0pMxIx3UhGGt-KgwA_uxEdRbLwR91FgHRq2f86ojUbXOw2H8fWOheTlJSn5Sa4kT3b5sbVAuWmKvhVc7tuj98/s1600/expat3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2xBwZO5Fp3086k-x782Xg5pf3_0RDwEDkHxfes-NL97y-zUHlv4IZxZ0pMxIx3UhGGt-KgwA_uxEdRbLwR91FgHRq2f86ojUbXOw2H8fWOheTlJSn5Sa4kT3b5sbVAuWmKvhVc7tuj98/s640/expat3.jpg" width="480" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: x-small;">There are adventures to foreign lands, but mostly it is just our everyday adventures...like walking along the canals every day with Whit.</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">5 . Stores have VERY limited hours. For example, Sundays and Mondays most stores don't open until noon, grocery stores are not open past ten or open late on Sundays, so you definitely need to get your stuff while you can!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">6. On that note, if you don't buy your bread before 6pm you might not get bread. Also, if you don't eat it in a few days you'll need more bread, as it gets moldy fast!</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">7. There is one facing of bagels in the grocery store (branded "American bagels") and if you want microwave popcorn you have two options : sweet or salty. However, there is an entire 4 ft section of mayonnaise! Big love for mayonnaise here. And sprinkles! </span></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDs3-m09iwSqPzs9SEAqWo_Ryn2UT6ukPaDopplgfXQ9bt-q6SqjGjgYU3rLftEjks-tDbyG0utFV6IiCrissPdwIMLoQrXx3b1Su7wCA22PgY3rud4GZLCJblhi2LFOAdiw72dj9crwU/s1600/expat2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="751" data-original-width="960" height="500" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDs3-m09iwSqPzs9SEAqWo_Ryn2UT6ukPaDopplgfXQ9bt-q6SqjGjgYU3rLftEjks-tDbyG0utFV6IiCrissPdwIMLoQrXx3b1Su7wCA22PgY3rud4GZLCJblhi2LFOAdiw72dj9crwU/s640/expat2.JPG" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: small;">A couple dear friends I have made. </span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br />8. While I'm on this whole grocery store tangent : I ALWAYS seem to have have the most groceries in my cart of anyone in line. An elderly Dutch woman asked me in a concerned voice the other day, "Where will you put all of that?" as she gestured at my overflowing shopping cart. (The refrigerators here are tiny! And you can't buy in bulk.) Most people here go by the philosophy of "buy what you need for the day and then come back tomorrow." I guess they don't have three kids, one being a baby who really hates being in a cart. Side note: None of the carts here have seat buckles! And<span style="background-color: white;"> they require a coin to ensure you always return it to the corral. Also, make sure you bring your bags as you'll pay for new ones - no free bags 'round here.</span></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmKGzJvaPEO-bdenTGSDHQngMCpt48AjdWB-tLKd3uNoROIe9AVBxl0jQMOVWFgmXV6HjjAB3FiS-TEVgZwyg6mrwnYqbAUUaDPGkwkHJcBa6swWiRXjFI_oMGDzYQeDEPDriXlrT44LU/s1600/expat8.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1227" data-original-width="1233" height="636" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmKGzJvaPEO-bdenTGSDHQngMCpt48AjdWB-tLKd3uNoROIe9AVBxl0jQMOVWFgmXV6HjjAB3FiS-TEVgZwyg6mrwnYqbAUUaDPGkwkHJcBa6swWiRXjFI_oMGDzYQeDEPDriXlrT44LU/s640/expat8.JPG" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: small;">having friends + family come visit is THE BEST when you're an expat!</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">9. Amsterdam is <b>not</b> the super trashy, horrifyingly vulgar place some Americans think it is...even the Red Light district. It is pretty clean here, and I have felt very safe in general! People are quiet and mainly keep to themselves. Any loud crazies in Amsterdam are usually tourists. If you've been to Bourbon St. in New Orleans...well, it is nothing like that. I adore New Orleans, it is one of my top five favorite cities, but it is full of drama and interesting characters! Amsterdam has tourists and the Dutch. (see #2) </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">10. So much daylight! (But not necessarily sunlight.) In the spring and summer it is bright out from 5am until 11pm. Literally bright as day. It is confusing for the kids at bedtime. Blackout shades are a must.</span></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9G-b-ieA1rCCbb0TurC-Nr3xEDzwq24vmp9qoQVXOCzwbHg0lDlE5boAw1n0j6LWjL2IAC7jNkw94hUwqPMXt-qIKqHrMr8ntU_sCae70ZTkpbDz11MEK4rf0hkR0l77x76cxzDs0A_E/s1600/expat.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9G-b-ieA1rCCbb0TurC-Nr3xEDzwq24vmp9qoQVXOCzwbHg0lDlE5boAw1n0j6LWjL2IAC7jNkw94hUwqPMXt-qIKqHrMr8ntU_sCae70ZTkpbDz11MEK4rf0hkR0l77x76cxzDs0A_E/s640/expat.jpg" width="480" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: small;">5am. So bright!</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">11. Flower and plant selection is SO GOOD HERE. Quite inexpensive, and extra lovely! There is no excuse not to buy yourself fresh flowers all the time. </span></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm1zQb0rCZQzdEIvVmsV4vfLgfsqCSX8QWsFWZkKF88TKa92ie34mJ7lNpO5mTTNIXhh9LrOez3-NmQxWHIM9GPmgm5BDFPn9-2fX20sEHnY5szfJmp7S_LA-dn84WhoEGiWyw_v3ELrA/s1600/expat7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm1zQb0rCZQzdEIvVmsV4vfLgfsqCSX8QWsFWZkKF88TKa92ie34mJ7lNpO5mTTNIXhh9LrOez3-NmQxWHIM9GPmgm5BDFPn9-2fX20sEHnY5szfJmp7S_LA-dn84WhoEGiWyw_v3ELrA/s640/expat7.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: small;">I try to get a fresh bouquet every week!</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">12. We won't be an expat family for life - or probably even more than a few years. Some fall in love with this expat life and the perks that go with it (and there are many!) Financially, if you move abroad on a corporate expat package it can be an amazing gift! That was one of our main reasons we took this assignment. Our goal is to be<span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 0px; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 0px; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"> fully debt-free by the time we turn 40, and get back to the States with our mortgage completely paid off. </span></span><span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 0px; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Because of this goal we chose a modest home here within our expat </span><span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 0px; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">home allowance </span><span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 0px; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">(and collect rent on our home in the US </span><span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 0px; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 0px; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">to fast-track the mortgage pay down</span><span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 0px; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">.) We drive the only car option </span><span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 0px; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">we </span><span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 0px; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">were given in the package (a super boring station wagon that we can barely squeeze our tiny blondies into.) </span><span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 0px; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"> I still buy inexpensive clothes and accessories. We still operate by our Dave Ramsey "cash envelope system"</span> - <span style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 0px; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">which doesn't work quite as well here, thanks to many Dutch cashless lanes. (Better have your PIN card!) </span></span></span><span style="border: 0px; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">The only things we DO spend more money on here </span><span style="border: 0px; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">than we used to are travel and babysitting!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">I share all that to say : <b>expat life is different for everyone!!!! </b>It all depends on what you want to get out of it. You make choices that work for your family and situation and goals. You might take your compensation package and add your normal mortgage spending to live a more stylish European lifestyle. You might splurge for the huge SUV (they are freakin pricey here!) You might hire an au pair or someone to clean your home every week (which is all comparatively less expensive here than in the States, but more expensive apparently than other countries.) Your kids might be older and easier to take on fun excursions (or maybe they <i>are</i> tiny but you are <i>way</i> more chill than I am!)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Being an expat is definitely an amazing experience, no matter how you do it. If I could go back I wouldn't change my mind - I'd do this again in a heartbeat.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">That being said, it has taught me to more fully appreciate the simple things...</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">such as Target and 24-hour grocery stores.</span>Gretahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13678221019546045834noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7542153512214952651.post-60724016406548317112019-05-13T09:29:00.000-04:002019-05-13T09:29:01.283-04:00meant for motherhood. yes, even me.I never thought I'd be a mom. Sure I'd daydream about the husband and house and kids, but I never <i>really</i> thought it would happen for me.<br />
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You see, I was never super nurturing. I didn't push around my dolls in a tiny stroller and pretend I was their mommy. I was not a sweet older sister to my little brother - tormented him relentlessly is more accurate. Then as a teenager, while I thought it was fun to help with Bible School at church, I rarely babysat and had no desire to hold tiny babies or change diapers. <br />
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No one ever said to me in my younger years "You are going to be such a great mom someday." <br />
Not even once.<br />
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<b>But the truth is this : God has much better ideas about you than other people do.</b><br />
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In my twenties I told myself all kinds of lies, like I wasn't deserving of motherhood. That motherhood was for other women, and I'd probably be physically unable to get pregnant.<br />
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Then - motherhood was thrown to me like a fastball. (And I suck at sports.) Hubby and I had been married three years, had the house and the dog, I was approaching thirty. A baby seemed like the next logical step. I didn't get my hopes up going into the process...but it happened before I could even comprehend it.<br />
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As soon as I knew there was a baby inside me, there was a radical shift in my mindset. I almost heard God whispering, <i>"<b>This</b> is what I want for you. None of that other stuff you are doing or have done. The selfish stuff, the unhealthy stuff. Give that up and take this. This is the thing I have for you and it will save you. This is grace." </i><br />
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Sure, the whole first year of motherhood I was a complete mess. I hadn't a clue what I was doing. I made tons of mistakes. I stressed out and read a million parenting books. I probably gave Cormac permanent anxiety from all my hovering and helicoptering I did during his baby years.<br />
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Eight years later I'm still a mess. I yell at my kids, nag them and my husband, am rather disorganized and have dropped the ball about plenty of school stuff (thankfully Cormac is SUPER organized and reminds me of the important details.)<br />
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If I compare myself to other moms it could leave me paralyzed. Sometimes I look at social media and think : <i>Why is it that some moms seemingly can do it all and have it all and I can barely do the minimum? </i></div>
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Then I stop the comparing and I remember <u>the grace</u>. I remember the things I do right with my kids. I love laughing with them and goofing around. I acknowledge their feelings and make sure they know they can express them and feel them all safely. I read to them voraciously and tell them about Jesus and say I'm sorry when I screw up.<br />
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I remember that God meant <i>me</i> for these kids. That my past experiences can help me parent them. Motherhood has forced me to address issues I had pushed down, causing me to seek help and work through things and grow even further as a mom and a person.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK7xEkO3FD6rakXtv3kYLZH1vysvDZl2cinrUOPiv_fAdcx6c4YriBmRv24LNQlzgu8tdf2armzxRct8ADa14SaRUUJso72hRfjuAes5M-msXdidFZcCDa_JjTdMWAwPyP6Svuvc2hAkM/s1600/IMG_9362.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK7xEkO3FD6rakXtv3kYLZH1vysvDZl2cinrUOPiv_fAdcx6c4YriBmRv24LNQlzgu8tdf2armzxRct8ADa14SaRUUJso72hRfjuAes5M-msXdidFZcCDa_JjTdMWAwPyP6Svuvc2hAkM/s640/IMG_9362.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I will always be a work in progress. Always.<br />
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However, now I see that I <i>was</i> meant for motherhood. Even me.<br />
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I wish I could go back to that spirited little girl, that angsty teen, and that hot mess of a twenty-something version of myself, grasp her hands and tell her lovingly, "You are going to be a great mom, someday. What you are going through now will make you that mom."<br />
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May is Mental Health Awareness Month and I encourage you to check in with your kids and with your own self, address issues that arise in a timely way, and get help when necessary. You are helping write their story, and even though you won't be perfect and you are <b>not</b> meant to be a perfect parent, you <i>can</i> help them by caring what they are going through and paying attention. <br />
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Gretahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13678221019546045834noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7542153512214952651.post-21965432171658181172019-03-31T01:22:00.001-04:002019-03-31T01:22:06.780-04:00fearfully + wonderfully.Recently my daughter came home told me how she had cried at school that day.<br />
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When I asked her why she said, "Some of the kids made fun of me today before gym - they saw my belly and laughed. So I didn't want to change."<br />
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My mama heart sank.<br />
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Already? In Kindergarten? Body shaming? I ached with disappointment that my joyful, happy daughter was already having her confidence chipped away by comments such as this.<br />
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I remember being teased as a pre-pubescent kid - about my non-existent breasts, my super-oily, blemish-ridden skin. I remember forgetting all the good things about myself in those moments, and feeling defined by the supposed flaw being publicly pointed out.<br />
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But I don't remember it being at the tiny, tender age of five.<br />
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I know that this is only the first incident of many when one of my children will come home crying, hurt by a comment made by someone else. I know they have to learn to deal with it, because this will unfortunately occur all throughout their lives.<br />
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I know all this - and yet it doesn't make it any easier.<br />
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<i>Dang. </i>Parenting is rough and seriously each day comes with a new challenge. I was just hoping this one would come much later.<br />
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So how should we deal with this gracefully as parents - particularly as mothers? Body image is a big topic. It is one I have personally struggled with, having grown up being sent a very clear message that what you look like is important.<br />
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The fact is we cannot prevent the comments or opinions of others. As Rachel Hollis often quotes her therapist : "Other people's opinions are none of your business!" I love that. But can a five-year-old abide by that truth?<br />
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My daughter is awesome -- she is funny, and bold, and caring. Those things are what matter. She has amazing qualities that are to be praised! She was made on purpose, by a great and loving God.<br />
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<i>For you created my inmost being; You knit me together in my mother's womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well. (Psalm 139:13-14)</i><br />
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Besides teaching our kids that inner beauty is more important than physical appearance, we can also try our best to set a good example of kindness and encouragement - to other people...but also, just as importantly, to ourselves.<br />
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I am telling all this to myself most of all, because I could write all day about my shortcomings as a mom and insecurities. I used to promise myself I would not self-criticize in front of my daughter...but I can't say I've been 100% successful at that. She has probably heard me body-shame myself, and it hurts to even write that. But tomorrow is always a new day, and all I can do is keep striving and showing up. To speak to myself with love, instead of criticism - particularly regarding my body. My kids are hearing all of it, and it may be helping them "build the house" they end up living in.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYBiVGh0x7BhngmTpk_gC3YG8n6hBlJ_5oiLnFNfpw_RWNwJuPN4ByPB_tP5vMt1ESCwjYCIgRGZFNssRR8IKz1UKPpAtIGYKCaUTyjaxfU5b3pHD52n29JlZ618-3GNqRPJ9TmZEn4dw/s1600/thumbnail_image1+%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="659" data-original-width="659" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYBiVGh0x7BhngmTpk_gC3YG8n6hBlJ_5oiLnFNfpw_RWNwJuPN4ByPB_tP5vMt1ESCwjYCIgRGZFNssRR8IKz1UKPpAtIGYKCaUTyjaxfU5b3pHD52n29JlZ618-3GNqRPJ9TmZEn4dw/s640/thumbnail_image1+%25281%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">source : @hellosunshine IG</span></td></tr>
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Recently it was National Women's Day, and there was <b>so much love</b> going around social media regarding women. It was day that was inspiring and so full of positivity!<br />
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Let's not keep the "girl power" vibe just to one day, though! Let's try to teach our daughters every single day where their true value lies - and that is definitely NOT in their size or shape.<br />
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Let's teach ourselves that, too.Gretahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13678221019546045834noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7542153512214952651.post-10888661218521477592018-11-02T06:26:00.002-04:002018-11-02T06:44:45.444-04:00santorini<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Santorini. </div>
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It was meant to be our ten year 'second honeymoon' trip, </div>
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but then <b>life happened.</b></div>
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Literally. </div>
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I got pregnant with Whitman and was nine months along and HUGE when our anniversary came around last September. </div>
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So we had a baby, waited until he was one year old, and coordinated a visit from Paul's mom to come to the Netherlands to visit us. She graciously agreed to watch our kids for five days while we escaped for our first "just us" trip in ages. It worked out and I am so, so grateful.</div>
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Greece had been on my personal travel bucket list for quite a while. You know how you have that place in your mind that you somehow just <i>know</i> you are going to love?</div>
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That was Santorini for me.</div>
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I was attracted to the cliffside cities of white cave buildings, blue domes, and sunset views, </div>
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and this island met all my aesthetic expectations. So pretty!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWdyifQPzB8ncUB7coOb7NtjTaYONEOeffVE6TQBx2wtw6Q3KMxggC5ApdzMWE0wt8U4SCJsDBi-ArmrDcraQc7WINqfT9wwD-JPUAQmeK_PnrChi4ECXv55KaWzwwcXUtuDeCCpo4NgA/s1600/IMG_2033.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWdyifQPzB8ncUB7coOb7NtjTaYONEOeffVE6TQBx2wtw6Q3KMxggC5ApdzMWE0wt8U4SCJsDBi-ArmrDcraQc7WINqfT9wwD-JPUAQmeK_PnrChi4ECXv55KaWzwwcXUtuDeCCpo4NgA/s640/IMG_2033.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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We stayed in a hotel in Oia (pronounced WEE-ah, which I got wrong 90% of the time) right in the cliffs above Amoudi Bay. </div>
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Santorini is probably one of the most unique places I've ever been. Everything is on a cliff. It is literally the caldera of an ancient volcano. The buildings set on the cliffsides are the quintessential white you'd expect, and the blue contrast of the doors and trim are lovely. Add vibrant bursts of pink bougainvillea and the whole place was one photo opportunity after another. I kept saying, "Is this even real?" so I guess my expectations were met as far as how beautiful it is!</div>
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I loved our little cave suite, adorned simply, yet with antiques and books. It also had a French press and fresh grounds to make your coffee...not the usual pod coffee maker or electric tea pot with instant coffee. I'm not that fancy and had never made coffee with a French press...so obviously I found a Youtube video and figured it out really quick. It was one of my favorite moments on the trip. The coffee tasted divine and I learned something new!</div>
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Our place was technically a "honeymoon suite" and while lovely, it was not exactly private. Each night when we watched the sunset over the Aegean Sea, there were a few New Zealanders also kind of "with" us...on <i>their</i> little patio just over our shoulders. It was cozy...but the view was worth it!</div>
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It wasn't all bougainvillea and sunshine, though! If there is any downside to Santorini it would be that it is <i>very</i> touristy (a cruise port.) When the ships would dock and cruisers disembark the narrow streets would become almost impossible to walk through. I know, I know...I'm a tourist, too. But, <i>ugh.</i></div>
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Also, don't pack any heels if you head to this island, as it is a very rocky, sandy, dusty, steep place to walk. TONS of steps, and let's not forget the donkey dung. </div>
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The food is pretty tasty in Greece! (Spain is still my favorite foodie destination, so far.) </div>
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<b>What to eat? </b>Moussaka (a layered dish sort of like lasagna, but with potatoes at the bottom and no pasta) Santorini salad (basically a Greek salad but better) hummus and freshly baked pita bread, souvlaki (meat skewers) and any fish that are local to the Aegean. </div>
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<b>What to drink?</b> Mythos beer (local and SO GOOD!) and mastika (a Greek liqueur that tastes like pine but is nice to sip after dinner) </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQmGZduTPI99Sv19tps_LluoU4w8tkGVyJfWcNpnpZHON2iFVuGq3wQGdWI511pEPCOpqPEN3E6A2HYxGD3SE7dV6OP-iHs9qbpFzn1JZKg4o1TKwaIm-wPppZ1r5j2zsrtgsl7aowpgw/s1600/IMG_2005.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQmGZduTPI99Sv19tps_LluoU4w8tkGVyJfWcNpnpZHON2iFVuGq3wQGdWI511pEPCOpqPEN3E6A2HYxGD3SE7dV6OP-iHs9qbpFzn1JZKg4o1TKwaIm-wPppZ1r5j2zsrtgsl7aowpgw/s640/IMG_2005.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Paul sippin' some mastika after dinner our first night. </td></tr>
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<b>Here are some photos from where we stayed, as well as our first day in Santorini...</b></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5luHGARtYoCeI4niE6UJ925Kx-kjTAry-YS3lIxJ5XYYZQyvUsGTn9iqMTXawjFueeMUQnrEUz93y832ytxzC3rjoKNlAhwW1Lgg7ZoZ3kTlbl-O92xmufauSd_iNQlJ_C2cSPQsKw7E/s1600/IMG_1950.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5luHGARtYoCeI4niE6UJ925Kx-kjTAry-YS3lIxJ5XYYZQyvUsGTn9iqMTXawjFueeMUQnrEUz93y832ytxzC3rjoKNlAhwW1Lgg7ZoZ3kTlbl-O92xmufauSd_iNQlJ_C2cSPQsKw7E/s640/IMG_1950.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">our cave suite.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTRJZk5pB-NRRlOblP_YqaUV4QuT-p_d4-D8rjLjMJs50JpdxjIzXuDNhUy5EYy-Pt0aePDZt3Tsrr4M-s_wls6s31EMyzZdNjee-vBNNImtlOVGvGoocLAR8fCj3DLZV2Q3FVlI0NpME/s1600/IMG_1952.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTRJZk5pB-NRRlOblP_YqaUV4QuT-p_d4-D8rjLjMJs50JpdxjIzXuDNhUy5EYy-Pt0aePDZt3Tsrr4M-s_wls6s31EMyzZdNjee-vBNNImtlOVGvGoocLAR8fCj3DLZV2Q3FVlI0NpME/s640/IMG_1952.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I loved the view from our little patio. Any place you stay on this side of Oia and you get a view that is amazing.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiW8TlyZv8KsUo-eLPJDr6c_vnXj2bM_cyCF90MJi3uwN2l-b92DZbVovkuROmy3xn9KMxGfHnJct9YhDYL1HKuL2IGIs5Zm0nVyXCx_goZrPAMpEoshdIteBpjTJgp_w_GpHz3ZFCsmYo/s1600/IMG_2361.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiW8TlyZv8KsUo-eLPJDr6c_vnXj2bM_cyCF90MJi3uwN2l-b92DZbVovkuROmy3xn9KMxGfHnJct9YhDYL1HKuL2IGIs5Zm0nVyXCx_goZrPAMpEoshdIteBpjTJgp_w_GpHz3ZFCsmYo/s640/IMG_2361.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">they had these cute little rope + bead hangers for "do not disturb" </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1lzkAXSqrCpUN64KWqes41x0NCPrBnNLA7Obo_rYTKTaEpQ6jHc6t9yC1GA352yVHO6ZyvkaOZtFGm1WWWPz9JMStyOxLY5baBiIlJp9rKgSDTI2T-PMDmoIBwU-njkbdXTRd0YTZhTY/s1600/IMG_2372.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="812" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1lzkAXSqrCpUN64KWqes41x0NCPrBnNLA7Obo_rYTKTaEpQ6jHc6t9yC1GA352yVHO6ZyvkaOZtFGm1WWWPz9JMStyOxLY5baBiIlJp9rKgSDTI2T-PMDmoIBwU-njkbdXTRd0YTZhTY/s640/IMG_2372.JPG" width="360" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">looking down at the steep steps descending to Amoudi Bay.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLuM6zxEB45j2QH1NnxAhLVa8kCepzoerKSsksvjmeAf70q-sbHOVU8JVcZgBiksVaY-uYnUsrpAj_oGswnvBYZ__tEz-J6wtxXoYoFgeezNQtKNS-bbKkioHV2Tub4NYvjerCMWa0bq4/s1600/IMG_1958.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLuM6zxEB45j2QH1NnxAhLVa8kCepzoerKSsksvjmeAf70q-sbHOVU8JVcZgBiksVaY-uYnUsrpAj_oGswnvBYZ__tEz-J6wtxXoYoFgeezNQtKNS-bbKkioHV2Tub4NYvjerCMWa0bq4/s640/IMG_1958.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">our first meal there! Ate way too much seafood down by the bay.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgBVcXzAuNE_h0H5LYVwx6-kmd2SDEaPRG6qvZyiYKnM-18DRrMwFZvP_i3xtcRBN4r9YuWAziTuFz0tS-R2ioW4gyYIwrNx71HrSXelujQpoCgPa-v0u_v-6PnM259wHYaP_P47ndPng/s1600/IMG_1932.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgBVcXzAuNE_h0H5LYVwx6-kmd2SDEaPRG6qvZyiYKnM-18DRrMwFZvP_i3xtcRBN4r9YuWAziTuFz0tS-R2ioW4gyYIwrNx71HrSXelujQpoCgPa-v0u_v-6PnM259wHYaP_P47ndPng/s640/IMG_1932.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">looking up at Oia. </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj97SWeMIc9uFSJJxreRD3nylizPVQpDdCigKZ4Fd11jb2CmM1NYem0rU-GjzRaogjRCyp8ByHeahle7DBVuviBQJzodL2fIH3wvPWLMRDWGZJS8XESfDuOYqgFuqMVSsg5Gdr15tpif6w/s1600/IMG_1902.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj97SWeMIc9uFSJJxreRD3nylizPVQpDdCigKZ4Fd11jb2CmM1NYem0rU-GjzRaogjRCyp8ByHeahle7DBVuviBQJzodL2fIH3wvPWLMRDWGZJS8XESfDuOYqgFuqMVSsg5Gdr15tpif6w/s640/IMG_1902.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">donkeys heading up the steps of Amoudi Bay.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilHU_zsVpW9KQdfsiSlx9BpfiA8JK5wFYCFzw-_7avhYZ_babv9Ujv5V9Ndow412bmrUGH7w7mug8bSXrZq0pblsspzcyacZ4HgBWADoZoPWOnT1hbQEia3NLTpqXsOhBb0bKqNP8zR4U/s1600/IMG_1906.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilHU_zsVpW9KQdfsiSlx9BpfiA8JK5wFYCFzw-_7avhYZ_babv9Ujv5V9Ndow412bmrUGH7w7mug8bSXrZq0pblsspzcyacZ4HgBWADoZoPWOnT1hbQEia3NLTpqXsOhBb0bKqNP8zR4U/s640/IMG_1906.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">me and a donkey. </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDEo7eyaGfTRgItk1lm3GxG-j3i0_-ZN7R2o4EMl_PCZV_SZjg16GcIrSe9j7DtR8uTP6MC_FwCIA4hthMDyOfXcTzVyUasu0DGs7IzWZkKCXFllmjBDMcjnUarZV6NmPQJ6tG5aaxgkM/s1600/IMG_1937.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDEo7eyaGfTRgItk1lm3GxG-j3i0_-ZN7R2o4EMl_PCZV_SZjg16GcIrSe9j7DtR8uTP6MC_FwCIA4hthMDyOfXcTzVyUasu0DGs7IzWZkKCXFllmjBDMcjnUarZV6NmPQJ6tG5aaxgkM/s640/IMG_1937.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Looking up at Oia</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2H5JSTz7vjXYD1pt8CB0mA35qX2RnMb5Lq1K2yqE_FajexAvE8W7yuRTN4pv8-QzfGcDOrwkpJ9Y6TwZ3G1yc8dOy1YTZXRPOmYWN28bDDFMpHwMfHtQaNZhV3F8vZs2xA7pXfmQN138/s1600/IMG_1912.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2H5JSTz7vjXYD1pt8CB0mA35qX2RnMb5Lq1K2yqE_FajexAvE8W7yuRTN4pv8-QzfGcDOrwkpJ9Y6TwZ3G1yc8dOy1YTZXRPOmYWN28bDDFMpHwMfHtQaNZhV3F8vZs2xA7pXfmQN138/s640/IMG_1912.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I drank more Mythos than wine on this trip. Such a good beer!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy5V31QXt7esme99f01iziK5Mqi7wAOfTXSmhUMiv-fUvxB0-kASoHdmc8lJ1Dd-CE26CQ2RKRLcVS2TDy7R1VHcb-mBCBkaLg4DnGXAVnnTg3YFMwepKQ6rYb3AxdssKnsVWIGfO_6Iw/s1600/IMG_1892.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy5V31QXt7esme99f01iziK5Mqi7wAOfTXSmhUMiv-fUvxB0-kASoHdmc8lJ1Dd-CE26CQ2RKRLcVS2TDy7R1VHcb-mBCBkaLg4DnGXAVnnTg3YFMwepKQ6rYb3AxdssKnsVWIGfO_6Iw/s640/IMG_1892.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtMtFcmDYngxsX9MuM_HmuJSk4Fjfjt6rKa0U9CH6XgrXtEpwCgStAzQVifB8XoPLdxSAtTxNvYfswhlaaWodiH6qO8lU72xt6mvGUNKcZzlTKlc85KKTiNA6N6ZBU-aYNXJUU5nVgdxw/s1600/IMG_2373.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtMtFcmDYngxsX9MuM_HmuJSk4Fjfjt6rKa0U9CH6XgrXtEpwCgStAzQVifB8XoPLdxSAtTxNvYfswhlaaWodiH6qO8lU72xt6mvGUNKcZzlTKlc85KKTiNA6N6ZBU-aYNXJUU5nVgdxw/s640/IMG_2373.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Found a little spot that had the best casual Greek eats. This fresh pita bread has ruined all other pita for me, forever.</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj24QkCT0VkSEo1wY0V3zeQ9_EG8Sqp9mRKllcGWG2ZID306hgnG3Pn5xRqIJarg0BpdWVEsjJkZkGxaRDvRpNiypxjwzQA6N1GWXWjmazhb2RYwsy_-Vaa6TrF8Md6yHfKjukZBVR1xLw/s1600/IMG_1897.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj24QkCT0VkSEo1wY0V3zeQ9_EG8Sqp9mRKllcGWG2ZID306hgnG3Pn5xRqIJarg0BpdWVEsjJkZkGxaRDvRpNiypxjwzQA6N1GWXWjmazhb2RYwsy_-Vaa6TrF8Md6yHfKjukZBVR1xLw/s640/IMG_1897.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZRJrwJ1POq3YuR28lnsk-Q53F0BERVkFGp8v_PVvx_Jp3HLgmn0ONQEJv7Vrgmj18xeKhcta8LXTzsull_j9SBGOYwijyxpto2Ggqg6n0Tq6Sq7NX8yBHo8wh4w9GNAFF0HF_Jd4-aoI/s1600/IMG_1913.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZRJrwJ1POq3YuR28lnsk-Q53F0BERVkFGp8v_PVvx_Jp3HLgmn0ONQEJv7Vrgmj18xeKhcta8LXTzsull_j9SBGOYwijyxpto2Ggqg6n0Tq6Sq7NX8yBHo8wh4w9GNAFF0HF_Jd4-aoI/s640/IMG_1913.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;">Santorini salad...so good! </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAvkYTgjO0OscMAMNUP6zwztKVw0hL6aTjRkOjEn54WkSXlNxrekZC9rkNkCgwL5jIZv_wyrr1jl8UCFHWlHlO46HJOomwQm3gvHHK2U4xtDQUgAikWQKnprdzNDuKC3sHuhsibPuJKQ8/s1600/IMG_1915.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAvkYTgjO0OscMAMNUP6zwztKVw0hL6aTjRkOjEn54WkSXlNxrekZC9rkNkCgwL5jIZv_wyrr1jl8UCFHWlHlO46HJOomwQm3gvHHK2U4xtDQUgAikWQKnprdzNDuKC3sHuhsibPuJKQ8/s640/IMG_1915.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;">swimmers and sunbathers gather here - with a cliff to jump off on the left!</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_cTOU0FuK4QoOYACPCR0DL1hwIAZ1I6VSVtlnoYvfOca2Tlbsj0ew5a_hqUVJfWu-RCIFipdQDJqbLrAwsPoqxEJGj0FcHotg4cge5nBLP_e6IDlhhsESLmI1j0Q-2pZQKXKObuafMDQ/s1600/IMG_1917.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="960" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_cTOU0FuK4QoOYACPCR0DL1hwIAZ1I6VSVtlnoYvfOca2Tlbsj0ew5a_hqUVJfWu-RCIFipdQDJqbLrAwsPoqxEJGj0FcHotg4cge5nBLP_e6IDlhhsESLmI1j0Q-2pZQKXKObuafMDQ/s640/IMG_1917.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9SejAzIpCENR697orC192Ys0aEoJLSRWm_4GdJ8w3oCGqX5q-7TPQYse8Y6EBhRzAguF5p9Eh9f4gjhyphenhyphenTS4d0TUJlh3pLDqsG4D_A2hXhmQmFGo85hH1ZksqaXpU8zEI-h-wtAsRlxGc/s1600/IMG_1928.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9SejAzIpCENR697orC192Ys0aEoJLSRWm_4GdJ8w3oCGqX5q-7TPQYse8Y6EBhRzAguF5p9Eh9f4gjhyphenhyphenTS4d0TUJlh3pLDqsG4D_A2hXhmQmFGo85hH1ZksqaXpU8zEI-h-wtAsRlxGc/s640/IMG_1928.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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Over the four days we were there we had plenty of opportunities to walk through the narrow streets of Oia, lined with shops and restaurants. One shop I'd highly recommend visiting if you are on Santorini is Atlantis Books. Small and cave-like, it is a book shop after a book lover's heart. So cool and quirky and a wall full of gorgeous first editions that can be yours if you have at least a couple thousand Euros to spend on it. We didn't, but I did buy the souvenir map for five Euros.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I didn't inquire about cat rentals (Paul is allergic) but thought this was fun.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJT-Kgxc1wzv20qhLfmtb2GVqFDImFtXmQun_8L9ISDQzQTLG7Mqc_1f_J3izVBGlMS3GyVOLC0GzhI_lWOOx1PnGOcIk-ry3IsVRdvpOvNz5dEJAFF9YqvVLweRIn7TzGVL0bKJPkQCc/s1600/43751587_10217701708915250_6079083632582983680_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJT-Kgxc1wzv20qhLfmtb2GVqFDImFtXmQun_8L9ISDQzQTLG7Mqc_1f_J3izVBGlMS3GyVOLC0GzhI_lWOOx1PnGOcIk-ry3IsVRdvpOvNz5dEJAFF9YqvVLweRIn7TzGVL0bKJPkQCc/s640/43751587_10217701708915250_6079083632582983680_n.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">so many quotes on the cave walls of Atlantis Books.</td></tr>
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<span style="text-align: start;">We took one day and made it a hiking day. If you want to get exercise </span><i style="text-align: start;">and</i><span style="text-align: start;"> a million gorgeous views of the cliffside cities of Fira and Oia, then make the roughly six mile hike from one to the other. It is a well-marked route, heavily traveled in the city areas but fairly desolate once you get outside the cities. You hike along the cliff with the sea in view most of the time, passing churches and many, many, many bridal couples getting their photos professionally taken amidst the gorgeous backdrops of cliffs and sea. Santorini is clearly a popular spot for weddings, so prepare your heart to see many white gowns during your stay. </span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;">hiking along the caldera.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">this gives a bit of perspective of the "volcano" </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0a3voQb84DcB7clbjpkIMNPL7HllnQz_H_BfVhAOse59qgNmOKtTXcVpHNJ2bzAkGCr3m9LoH2lIVPAsa2c5vnj7D_8jNrO3M6TOsjkLgLvnbVTx6vdCE7KpaBAEag8dDbew-V0hHJRc/s1600/43879350_10217701705715170_3199851781999820800_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0a3voQb84DcB7clbjpkIMNPL7HllnQz_H_BfVhAOse59qgNmOKtTXcVpHNJ2bzAkGCr3m9LoH2lIVPAsa2c5vnj7D_8jNrO3M6TOsjkLgLvnbVTx6vdCE7KpaBAEag8dDbew-V0hHJRc/s640/43879350_10217701705715170_3199851781999820800_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">crazy winds, sun has set, but we're still hiking!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ7U1sDaZQcRYYM6b3f7lD-0i9YVEHBgW90flhTufvLZbMUPtYPMrtpHJjSRlckBuk3RT-vSejUfQuX2S1YwYvQZGhdMe6VQ1mSt_TG9zQs2daDBlMdX6QnVpYzu3e-tbkHO4qwVyaEzE/s1600/IMG_2432.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ7U1sDaZQcRYYM6b3f7lD-0i9YVEHBgW90flhTufvLZbMUPtYPMrtpHJjSRlckBuk3RT-vSejUfQuX2S1YwYvQZGhdMe6VQ1mSt_TG9zQs2daDBlMdX6QnVpYzu3e-tbkHO4qwVyaEzE/s640/IMG_2432.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">our hike from Fira to Oia ended in the dark, so we got to see the city lights! </td></tr>
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If you want a beach vacation, I wouldn't recommend Santorini. It does have various beaches (red, white and black sand) but if you are staying on the "sunset side" of Santorini it may be quite a journey to get to one. We took a 2 hour bus ride to get to the black sand beach in Perissa on day two of our trip. (It would definitely be quicker to take a cab or rent a car!) The water was warm, but the beach was more rocky than sandy. We swam a bit, relaxed a bit, and then wandered a bit to find a lunch spot. It was a really nice time, but in hindsight I would have rented a car and left earlier in the day!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIwScituhkXft_QoHpIEYXuBuXc-FZPK7Ut7FLj_A7NhLf1hGUt78Ue2G0r09-iQhCZSGjhy0leNTZUwHmVJVJY-NxlXaryGI9oKkV36GRx2ZFD3b6VzcToiA0uvAIFqpmhVPPVsZg6k4/s1600/IMG_E2080.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIwScituhkXft_QoHpIEYXuBuXc-FZPK7Ut7FLj_A7NhLf1hGUt78Ue2G0r09-iQhCZSGjhy0leNTZUwHmVJVJY-NxlXaryGI9oKkV36GRx2ZFD3b6VzcToiA0uvAIFqpmhVPPVsZg6k4/s640/IMG_E2080.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">looking out from the boardwalk at the black sand beach area.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYG8iX_61kXcR1Hyhqe2LJ2xFe49NXnz_W3JDRASDuC06lOUoakaIfN2JUWAhxoAe5eARq4ITxOnalSB4tx-ziha-hQPgaU8c6Gw8LDs9aAGsGamaqxWsir4xhbgqfVTUQuRvk25QxJAQ/s1600/IMG_2048.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYG8iX_61kXcR1Hyhqe2LJ2xFe49NXnz_W3JDRASDuC06lOUoakaIfN2JUWAhxoAe5eARq4ITxOnalSB4tx-ziha-hQPgaU8c6Gw8LDs9aAGsGamaqxWsir4xhbgqfVTUQuRvk25QxJAQ/s640/IMG_2048.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">we got chairs right next to that cliff, so we were a bit protected from the gusty winds!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-o74FOcT4cwJjdxiT5yjHwr8T8BJFh5ohodbij39fnCriUI49FGgmA0piSWMW4lUhoJ02TDHHDA183o7vhbnDb3lkShfFB8LHjebasFhrxe8NvE9CeLMzdqb_IAKrZoneYNxKs34342M/s1600/IMG_2055.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="1280" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-o74FOcT4cwJjdxiT5yjHwr8T8BJFh5ohodbij39fnCriUI49FGgmA0piSWMW4lUhoJ02TDHHDA183o7vhbnDb3lkShfFB8LHjebasFhrxe8NvE9CeLMzdqb_IAKrZoneYNxKs34342M/s640/IMG_2055.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">nerdy beach selfie!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1R2r3KYWnlhXUNtHZMUImf8fmYdQxVb2RHwDq-IyAGrlSq4h-qJS7k_b7sRydNJwoxPM1AwRjhttcCxmS4npOuJi74kGXHLR7OxihWXxRpICEJ4VtTzsyuHQxqLvuHEVp9qi0k5wALFk/s1600/IMG_2086.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1R2r3KYWnlhXUNtHZMUImf8fmYdQxVb2RHwDq-IyAGrlSq4h-qJS7k_b7sRydNJwoxPM1AwRjhttcCxmS4npOuJi74kGXHLR7OxihWXxRpICEJ4VtTzsyuHQxqLvuHEVp9qi0k5wALFk/s640/IMG_2086.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">it had a fun beach boardwalk with your typical array of shops and restaurants - a fun vibe!</td></tr>
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While I love seeing historical places and doing tours sometimes, to be honest what I prefer to do on vacation is not have an agenda and simply relax. Neither of us like an over-scheduled trip. We both like naps, reading for hours, and getting pizza to eat in our room <i>at least</i> once every vacay. We have also been known to seek out a local movie theater and do a movie date. Even in an exotic spot. I'm sure some find that disturbing but I am totally okay with it. (Although I kinda wish we would have done a dinner/movie date at Volkan Cinema, where they were only showing My Big Fat Greek Wedding and Mamma Mia!)<br />
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Alas, no movies this time, but plenty of book reading and napping and coffee drinking.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDmJO5OuJZ-ARf5RpmIWp4YyHVPFXcSYDwAKOeIlxAvpZZVzdSXP5DFvcadvVF_vWlTOHULcLMjDEwlZmyWUqyHBAcFp6dMXqptmWcghiSnHUE0hQjHZsH7j86xFrt4qo0kbJJsKGO0xc/s1600/IMG_E2349.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="509" data-original-width="509" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDmJO5OuJZ-ARf5RpmIWp4YyHVPFXcSYDwAKOeIlxAvpZZVzdSXP5DFvcadvVF_vWlTOHULcLMjDEwlZmyWUqyHBAcFp6dMXqptmWcghiSnHUE0hQjHZsH7j86xFrt4qo0kbJJsKGO0xc/s640/IMG_E2349.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">freshly Frenchly pressed.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpdYv9ydCnMoSsXC8Q8C0iOlHiGmuHij3WIJ2J5FxKgjr0t_JdnyNYzNfcpTxyIJOk7nc2aZhmb9-WsQDOYFw7AkP2MsP7l768SduRKZMZ1Is56uWaL3DyCdOqkkUeH9nL4w7mXvBsIWo/s1600/43851739_10217701708875249_3362557285044846592_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpdYv9ydCnMoSsXC8Q8C0iOlHiGmuHij3WIJ2J5FxKgjr0t_JdnyNYzNfcpTxyIJOk7nc2aZhmb9-WsQDOYFw7AkP2MsP7l768SduRKZMZ1Is56uWaL3DyCdOqkkUeH9nL4w7mXvBsIWo/s640/43851739_10217701708875249_3362557285044846592_n.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">hot shower, fuzzy white robe, and fresh coffee. this is all I need on vacation, really.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-rbgcfOBenkI_D1CJmHEiX2SRIo0bKgkTwKoEFgl5KLLWeN2gEHUPEvOHy3NRwktwuaHDcNxB0SmFbPdcgqcmrSEikf_lr4BQh_zPFeRntdj2fGdSux7niRbDnCmKT4LVFJu-G7pVZW4/s1600/IMG_E2363.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-rbgcfOBenkI_D1CJmHEiX2SRIo0bKgkTwKoEFgl5KLLWeN2gEHUPEvOHy3NRwktwuaHDcNxB0SmFbPdcgqcmrSEikf_lr4BQh_zPFeRntdj2fGdSux7niRbDnCmKT4LVFJu-G7pVZW4/s640/IMG_E2363.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">good morning!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0yWQs_WxKxvpgd7gcCdaGLxDgVvB49SuNehoFzJz73veUVGdj5tv-h63bV4EnLEL43smwrCD_ZjLqX8wX9Wu9xLK7RtkDjdwvZ7CkaHAq67rp0WoLu5cgTjr1gwC8QpzKFQR5PQqP8UE/s1600/44775316_10217802547196144_155412837554978816_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="541" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0yWQs_WxKxvpgd7gcCdaGLxDgVvB49SuNehoFzJz73veUVGdj5tv-h63bV4EnLEL43smwrCD_ZjLqX8wX9Wu9xLK7RtkDjdwvZ7CkaHAq67rp0WoLu5cgTjr1gwC8QpzKFQR5PQqP8UE/s1600/44775316_10217802547196144_155412837554978816_n.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">a big breakfast is also a must.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW20oLuilVXSeWfmhtGgU7uPLBK_21kbiO2Prz3LkwkjXHkF5nTXJhBFrS97sHLPqkxhjOva9BdQyclqHw3wTjbbtadAdQOJZIH6sWT_AlNwDDVpG3uXRVn49RFrMsrsajK4kz3vlO1Dk/s1600/43723151_10217701707435213_5566369755549401088_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW20oLuilVXSeWfmhtGgU7uPLBK_21kbiO2Prz3LkwkjXHkF5nTXJhBFrS97sHLPqkxhjOva9BdQyclqHw3wTjbbtadAdQOJZIH6sWT_AlNwDDVpG3uXRVn49RFrMsrsajK4kz3vlO1Dk/s640/43723151_10217701707435213_5566369755549401088_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">These were hung over our bed. To inspire romance? Is this a Greek thing? I didn't ask...</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTRFx1DBbeTKpSQePRfVNOnqmUsnT8RG8NFD4rX6yRxYLOlkz-s1UwNsPQjEZfH4bs3eK0X12akMt20ppz7CPBh-5Fv7Ql4mBaazKHN03KYh4htTBwfXFECO7A0xYNXYbWstfL9pTp2tk/s1600/44030763_10217701707275209_1063304069923209216_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTRFx1DBbeTKpSQePRfVNOnqmUsnT8RG8NFD4rX6yRxYLOlkz-s1UwNsPQjEZfH4bs3eK0X12akMt20ppz7CPBh-5Fv7Ql4mBaazKHN03KYh4htTBwfXFECO7A0xYNXYbWstfL9pTp2tk/s640/44030763_10217701707275209_1063304069923209216_n.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">lunch on our last day. me drinking beer again. it was cloudy but clearly very bright out! cheers!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOeDm9KddsKVo8R7VRtfH87DTngFpZJgzexmlzXbwZvDu_ZwXksXKSifEcg_CnL02cSKG44RtQAOmGMOrkHUz9_m1SQmcQ-ZCYijqAtKKhIsS0L4_n38gdFERT83W7bgk7Q0alXF6OSmA/s1600/43723193_10217701707395212_4800969745467703296_n-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOeDm9KddsKVo8R7VRtfH87DTngFpZJgzexmlzXbwZvDu_ZwXksXKSifEcg_CnL02cSKG44RtQAOmGMOrkHUz9_m1SQmcQ-ZCYijqAtKKhIsS0L4_n38gdFERT83W7bgk7Q0alXF6OSmA/s640/43723193_10217701707395212_4800969745467703296_n-1.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I had to snap one last bougainvillea shot.</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsIpWgKOIS-CujWy1k2Bo8J18mUujWOaLksqd9DqNS9HDBVqrhojHj7HCk5wy8_HUjxv8XIRn9bn06OSK3GfaUtnNLW5ubbTLZIjUe-uJBZzQQDODtKez7vI_8zcMphZ6fnieekHfbw4o/s1600/43688256_10217701705595167_7895819064663080960_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsIpWgKOIS-CujWy1k2Bo8J18mUujWOaLksqd9DqNS9HDBVqrhojHj7HCk5wy8_HUjxv8XIRn9bn06OSK3GfaUtnNLW5ubbTLZIjUe-uJBZzQQDODtKez7vI_8zcMphZ6fnieekHfbw4o/s640/43688256_10217701705595167_7895819064663080960_n.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjxq9z3_gb_soYfGtsy4XFFUH7RUyHbcYaDflSvEJ4SO-dfNsQfBufDqQk8lXY2g7f1iAJWmr4EBRHKfsMJ5wB6hi63JykACaW_f5Fn7Cifa41edbK_lrB32f5uVQFQV4HEQFt9Y3e0i4/s1600/43734270_10217701708795247_4795014249325789184_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjxq9z3_gb_soYfGtsy4XFFUH7RUyHbcYaDflSvEJ4SO-dfNsQfBufDqQk8lXY2g7f1iAJWmr4EBRHKfsMJ5wB6hi63JykACaW_f5Fn7Cifa41edbK_lrB32f5uVQFQV4HEQFt9Y3e0i4/s640/43734270_10217701708795247_4795014249325789184_n.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">recommend this restaurant, Apsithia, in Oia for a romantic dinner with excellent authentic food and great service</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidUHJoDinNAlxdeK6hl4vMB29j-q9hY3oGwt5sRr8cRPpBc-pxiYClo1grAzuUEO0yESDWLP89lq7P6FvqBoretv5qSo9Yh1ne_p2SlcTR2RnrMDq7kyZQ2-dE9dqqFFqXJi8hnnZp-C4/s1600/43741214_10217701708835248_615398998823403520_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidUHJoDinNAlxdeK6hl4vMB29j-q9hY3oGwt5sRr8cRPpBc-pxiYClo1grAzuUEO0yESDWLP89lq7P6FvqBoretv5qSo9Yh1ne_p2SlcTR2RnrMDq7kyZQ2-dE9dqqFFqXJi8hnnZp-C4/s640/43741214_10217701708835248_615398998823403520_n.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">indulged in all traditional greek dishes!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBBGdWQ2hMIPNpLzfjY2g2UoVG1qnTj-1LuxkNwWB_SwJiyABC7S4b0QNtZ4fX3uIb9Fi9dKXhaN4g4ulNIf4XsbLKAaVKeiNIb5q7vGuW_1yf8bTnhBh4XxRMel840XKVtR6ZdL_sekA/s1600/43788521_10217701707475214_3968802548919304192_n-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBBGdWQ2hMIPNpLzfjY2g2UoVG1qnTj-1LuxkNwWB_SwJiyABC7S4b0QNtZ4fX3uIb9Fi9dKXhaN4g4ulNIf4XsbLKAaVKeiNIb5q7vGuW_1yf8bTnhBh4XxRMel840XKVtR6ZdL_sekA/s640/43788521_10217701707475214_3968802548919304192_n-1.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">the morning we left was hazy and even windier than before. little did we know that hurricane winds were going to hit soon after! </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4FwN0zEbmLOz5AhVZ321-niiH6k0DOd9BpxzHoc2BRZAIZd17hQXisgb4-3VnLrfgavEF5kRYRfydJ7s0dDjw74LHfqtZKaZZNmQiO6mQXQVEQuSkna60H7FLaAmFpU0g2qx430s_TN4/s1600/43878615_10217701707315210_43534024735457280_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4FwN0zEbmLOz5AhVZ321-niiH6k0DOd9BpxzHoc2BRZAIZd17hQXisgb4-3VnLrfgavEF5kRYRfydJ7s0dDjw74LHfqtZKaZZNmQiO6mQXQVEQuSkna60H7FLaAmFpU0g2qx430s_TN4/s640/43878615_10217701707315210_43534024735457280_n.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">even on a cloudy day Santorini is pretty</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoIKZKnR71SV21NetuCiP_xwDB51tWoTpghUqXAptGylWJedtFiVBsovwM72eQMUquAW_YH7H8uOShZVIY0Bw0Gp9gHLqg7fk9P3DXM_Z_UK1Lbhtsh48MCgLhKYgtmlfbJOE5E-GNQ5o/s1600/IMG_2442.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoIKZKnR71SV21NetuCiP_xwDB51tWoTpghUqXAptGylWJedtFiVBsovwM72eQMUquAW_YH7H8uOShZVIY0Bw0Gp9gHLqg7fk9P3DXM_Z_UK1Lbhtsh48MCgLhKYgtmlfbJOE5E-GNQ5o/s640/IMG_2442.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">typical blue dome and cascading flowers. </td></tr>
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Finally, the most lovely part of Santorini may be the famous sunset view you can see from one side of the island. We wanted to avoid the crowds and chose a hotel with a view so we could enjoy from our patio, while soaking in a warm hot tub. The first night was the clearest, and we were treated to a sunset sky full of all the colors of the rainbow...</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">can you see the people gathered up on the wall to watch the sunset?</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1zRIrayBRNydVgt0b8txQNVoUAiZ6NCM5YG-mRRSzs_1BPEuIjXqGZFyCYrYjypXesDrbf8JvSbX7cLGRBgI37S4vjsS_6Fqegsw5LGCXpobNIJ4XdozIBQHEnW7t_jgxZHWheiazQSg/s1600/43951327_10217701708755246_2275581378315681792_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1zRIrayBRNydVgt0b8txQNVoUAiZ6NCM5YG-mRRSzs_1BPEuIjXqGZFyCYrYjypXesDrbf8JvSbX7cLGRBgI37S4vjsS_6Fqegsw5LGCXpobNIJ4XdozIBQHEnW7t_jgxZHWheiazQSg/s640/43951327_10217701708755246_2275581378315681792_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">me on my perch watching the sunset.</td></tr>
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It was one of those moments during a trip that unexpectedly take your breath away. I'll treasure that first night sunset always. </div>
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<b>+ + + + + + + </b></div>
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<span style="text-align: start;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">So, Santorini is finally checked off my list!</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Have you been? I would love to hear about your Santorini experience! </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">What place is at the top of your dream travel list? </span></div>
Gretahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13678221019546045834noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7542153512214952651.post-7252251167615433512018-09-26T05:24:00.001-04:002018-09-26T05:34:43.265-04:00one last first birthday post.The 'firsts' are dwindling down...<br />
and now we have come to the season of 'lasts.'<br />
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That may sound sad, and in some ways it is. I cry a bit inside (and sometimes outside) when I realize I won't get to see another of our babies crawl the first time, or take their first steps, or make that funny stink-face when they eat their first bite of mushy baby food.<br />
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These milestones that made my heart burn with mama pride and awe at the growth of our babes and thankfulness that I got to see them all happen...well, they will become fuzzy and fade with each new season of parenthood. So I write these blog posts, and set photographs to music that makes my cheesy mama heart swell, as a way to remember as much as I can.<br />
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We survived our 'last first year' of parenthood. The night wakings and the teeth popping through at inopportune times (like when you move to a new country.) The overwhelm of having an infant and two other small, spirited, loud children. 'Survival mode' took on a whole new meaning with the addition of a third babe.<br />
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With my first baby I was always stressed I was doing something wrong, and constantly had my nose in a parenting book during nap times. I was completely clueless, and when I look back on it I can't even believe how easy Cormac was in reality. (I mean, there was just one of him!)<br />
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With Finola I was so much calmer -- in my sweet spot of parenting. I put into practice all I had just learned with Cormac, and though not without its challenges, life was pretty grand.<br />
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Then Whit came along and I morphed quickly into "hot mess mama" - surviving on coffee and easy dinners, hustling to keep up with three babes, plus my own interests, and the house, and basically never getting anything done. It's a season, though, and albeit a super hard one I am just trying to breathe and enjoy and meet each unique kiddo where they are...and give myself grace.<br />
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Whit's first birthday was unlike the other two we've celebrated -- just a tiny celebration at our home with our little fam plus the happy addition of Mimi visiting from the US. We ate cupcakes I definitely didn't bake, and blew bubbles, and Whit loved all the balloons strewn everywhere. It was simple and just perfect for this stage of our lives.<br />
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A bit about Whit...<br />
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My clingiest baby. A definite mama's boy. Doused in oils since day one. He's had to go with the flow this year, enduring a lot of travel, changes, and of course the noise and lack of personal space from his raucous older sibs. He is also my skinniest babe, with barely any rolls...and no hair! (I was also a very bald babe, so I think there is hope!) As far as teething, he started popping teeth the quickest...and somehow he has been blessed with his two-year-old molars already. I breastfed him the longest...partly because I knew it was my last chance to do it. I also probably let him get away with the most...I mean, he is, truly, the baby of the fam. Our last.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large; text-align: center;">Here are some of my favorite photographs from your first year of life, sweet Whitty P...</span><br />
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Gretahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13678221019546045834noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7542153512214952651.post-49325621394466284682018-08-29T04:47:00.004-04:002018-08-29T07:07:15.113-04:00the first trip home.When you take an expat assignment, one of the sacrifices is leaving a life that may have taken years to build. You're basically starting at ground zero. You may be leaving family, best friends, your dream home, and perhaps even a job you love (if you're going for your spouse's career.)<br />
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After six months in the Netherlands, muddling through the process of starting over, we crossed back over the pond for our first trip home.<br />
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I approached it all with a bit of trepidation, not just because I was flying with three small children sans Hubby (but <i>with</i> in-laws on board to help, thanks and praise!) but because I didn't know how I would <i>feel </i>being back. Would I cry tears of relief? Would I pick up with relationships without missing a beat? Or would I miss our new life and feel no regrets about our choice to leave for a few years? <br />
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What happened was a little bit of both.<br />
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Our first day stateside, back in the humid July air of Kentucky, all my kids (and me, quite frankly) woke up at the unholy hour of 2:30am and were awake for the day. Wide awake. So as not to severely annoy my in-laws (a different set than traveled with) the four of us hung out upstairs in the guest bedroom, eating snacks and probably being louder than necessary pre-sunrise.<br />
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Later that day, as I went for a run in the heavy air through their Louisville subdivision, I had plenty of thoughts of things I realized I missed. The humidity wasn't one of them, but the friendliness of strangers you pass by was. (Dutch people keep to themselves if you don't know them. Unless you do something they feel the need to correct you on. Then they will make sure to tell you very matter-of-factly.)<br />
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My kids had missed their grandparents, for sure. After a day of relaxing and adjusting to the time difference, Finola said to me quite seriously, "Mom, today was a really good day." It honestly had been, and all we had done is relax and draw with sidewalk chalk. Sometimes you need that.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFqmFd9T14Mv_bb0-XSmjjbQrSumAzkp4W5eEAyReTWSeVQPQO2FkW5tIHGwvfabyLMa04akjauHT1NsTvIjYzs86bY-aEsu1sBMlQH74Wr5mFuC6GeirxifWSj3cx6BuQjxa6pAU69rU/s1600/IMG_0392.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFqmFd9T14Mv_bb0-XSmjjbQrSumAzkp4W5eEAyReTWSeVQPQO2FkW5tIHGwvfabyLMa04akjauHT1NsTvIjYzs86bY-aEsu1sBMlQH74Wr5mFuC6GeirxifWSj3cx6BuQjxa6pAU69rU/s640/IMG_0392.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">chess with great grandpa Bubba.</td></tr>
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I also got to spend a few days with dear friends back in our neighborhood. It was so fun to get some time with some girlfriends I hadn't seen in six months. I saw as many as I could in a short time period! I wish I had more photos! Being in Holland has been a bit isolating for me, so it was a nice reminder that I can still hang out socially in groups with relative ease. I also got to snuggle a few babies that had been born while we've been away, which was a total treasure.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnaS-OLnrtO-Y2yp_7HtR6DMptl8xJQfJ19zRmPBKdfICldTkDwHYUGVD9oFw0KgifWxDMSPvoeFnM46OLNeFi6xH7lgRaFpShXmE1ANGquApFaBpJKKKJQ9YoxFCBVAeGhn7uWeWc4x0/s1600/IMG_0464.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="1280" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnaS-OLnrtO-Y2yp_7HtR6DMptl8xJQfJ19zRmPBKdfICldTkDwHYUGVD9oFw0KgifWxDMSPvoeFnM46OLNeFi6xH7lgRaFpShXmE1ANGquApFaBpJKKKJQ9YoxFCBVAeGhn7uWeWc4x0/s640/IMG_0464.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">dinner out with sweet friends in Cincinnati.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpUYqTFr0TyRFOu3VMnVsDbd4V4XaZNkau345hyHZTQbn2GkormrOMvR1dr7xvyhyuDB_NTvLTMVYQlRzB08zr8Z51oZM6-Jnu1MR2wckNdEBDRXrbob3vqCYUxDNa1svd321Iv6_kv74/s1600/IMG_E0461+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="676" data-original-width="756" height="572" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpUYqTFr0TyRFOu3VMnVsDbd4V4XaZNkau345hyHZTQbn2GkormrOMvR1dr7xvyhyuDB_NTvLTMVYQlRzB08zr8Z51oZM6-Jnu1MR2wckNdEBDRXrbob3vqCYUxDNa1svd321Iv6_kv74/s640/IMG_E0461+2.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">love all of these ladies. </td></tr>
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After ten days in Kentucky and a tearful goodbye at the airport with the grandparents, the kids and I flew solo to Minneapolis. We met up with Hubby at MSP and headed to my tiny hometown in Minnesota for a few days at the hobby farm I grew up on. Always relaxing, always life-giving to be in the fresh air and calm environment of home. Spent precious time with both my brothers, my sister-in-law, niece and nephew, and my parents. We made the most of the time : sipping Gunflint Red, relaxing on the farm, canoeing, and even hiking a tiny bit as well.<br />
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As the days dwindled and we approached the time to fly back to the Netherlands, I felt...well, not a lot. Usually after being away from "normal life" for a while I crave my routines and the familiarity of home. Not this time. My heart felt a bit heavy to leave the US. I realized that while our life in the Netherlands is good, or perhaps it is slowly transfiguring into something quite nice...it isn't there yet. I knew I was going back to a house that didn't quite feel like home (yet?) and the distance between family and dear friends seemed even more wide.<br />
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Is this normal? I'm not sure.<br />
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I know God has His reasons for leading us abroad, and there is so much to be said for how I've grown and been pushed out of my comfort zone in even six months.<br />
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Plus, I also know there are more adventures to be had!<br />
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Only regret from this trip home? Not bringing an entire extra suitcase to fill with Target purchases. Not a joke.<br />
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Here are some more moments from our trip back...<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGmEmYDW9EuYtZ4LxAPqoJi-Wdes3z92SYtFOr1P7Bg3C1anN0qK-djTBJHF9XMYssKr5kJ2bUksaR2GrqeKgptz5TxnjraRxEezv8ODCfeSHl85hqXrOiAGJS9SEYNy7friGUn6vmeak/s1600/IMG_0397.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGmEmYDW9EuYtZ4LxAPqoJi-Wdes3z92SYtFOr1P7Bg3C1anN0qK-djTBJHF9XMYssKr5kJ2bUksaR2GrqeKgptz5TxnjraRxEezv8ODCfeSHl85hqXrOiAGJS9SEYNy7friGUn6vmeak/s640/IMG_0397.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Baby Whit finally allowed himself to be held by people other than myself...mostly when I was not present.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2RsIKWl_12iXktlDGvfvSbdtcldEXaGIdFEFCBUHBA8uiYryHlq_fiMRPreuyRQxdq899uDdx5ZUeQxMXGw4WlAOubRM5tHB6mhj-Pq9V0pBr0EXhena4CTwERHqDv9BKzkXsWOhVg-I/s1600/IMG_0409.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2RsIKWl_12iXktlDGvfvSbdtcldEXaGIdFEFCBUHBA8uiYryHlq_fiMRPreuyRQxdq899uDdx5ZUeQxMXGw4WlAOubRM5tHB6mhj-Pq9V0pBr0EXhena4CTwERHqDv9BKzkXsWOhVg-I/s640/IMG_0409.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">kisses from auntie Marvie</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo-guNid4snZviaLHImRXXBVere1aE0F1clqUkP4VpRBQw4XOp_QC_2DkV_0qT4sxObk7FECewKDIscTy5YByvJW4ccW_3Dw8PptUZ2U2jL3TGCmTGT2t1UEVUEc-HJecKx1FoREXb7EU/s1600/IMG_0410.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1560" data-original-width="864" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo-guNid4snZviaLHImRXXBVere1aE0F1clqUkP4VpRBQw4XOp_QC_2DkV_0qT4sxObk7FECewKDIscTy5YByvJW4ccW_3Dw8PptUZ2U2jL3TGCmTGT2t1UEVUEc-HJecKx1FoREXb7EU/s640/IMG_0410.JPG" width="354" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cormac got a bonus USA birthday celebration! (where cake tastes like cake.) </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCJl54WpaJPirt-uw8S6Z8vBqsSEdG0NPcltLAERRhJIi9kdzqfFonwSxBCV-evOIfNfC1C7r3O9_-luAKazytZr6Y4KXcKkkw9klbpMsbUsSfJPeVsvsffcdeLtURLA6BPlYjXCulxJ4/s1600/IMG_0476.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCJl54WpaJPirt-uw8S6Z8vBqsSEdG0NPcltLAERRhJIi9kdzqfFonwSxBCV-evOIfNfC1C7r3O9_-luAKazytZr6Y4KXcKkkw9klbpMsbUsSfJPeVsvsffcdeLtURLA6BPlYjXCulxJ4/s640/IMG_0476.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">last shot with mimi + arcy at the airport</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBjKvny0aU8G61R7UAqtlCnexCRGLDxoxEpPYyhdnwgYy4mnvKqtGGUTFoo5x0oHbXSr1jTEeyIuT4mobvLue9g-M5gvklkNuUkGVMLxwUe8J4ABxrI1RExGSzwDNK04fmkcBHgdky-c8/s640/IMG_0485.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="480" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">the playhouse in mn</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBjKvny0aU8G61R7UAqtlCnexCRGLDxoxEpPYyhdnwgYy4mnvKqtGGUTFoo5x0oHbXSr1jTEeyIuT4mobvLue9g-M5gvklkNuUkGVMLxwUe8J4ABxrI1RExGSzwDNK04fmkcBHgdky-c8/s1600/IMG_0485.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0vZPRr4wGaXKGQf3GvGQbjHKqMT3AaofRNNEJkLfJazeUM6iAxdlWUfK0ffcoV4MoEVAnwyVgrxkoqwNlQFFAdmUQqzphE4KDq9EFbx3xw2Pk9EKCb_412lSBzL6FMaFqvWXD90uQ3lg/s1600/IMG_0492.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0vZPRr4wGaXKGQf3GvGQbjHKqMT3AaofRNNEJkLfJazeUM6iAxdlWUfK0ffcoV4MoEVAnwyVgrxkoqwNlQFFAdmUQqzphE4KDq9EFbx3xw2Pk9EKCb_412lSBzL6FMaFqvWXD90uQ3lg/s640/IMG_0492.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">the weather was perfect in mn.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0ez6YUW6LL1FKhfssBm8WNrSgVeFKy3o3KXMOzI4_fHX5w0Ajm8q1YNgJFOD3pn4ipbgTrNs5EK3p1ZmGaxEKxP75GQY7d43mHuLeJaJoYTZb-rP0cd9ZwLcS1vHeck1BE-TMZW2d4HU/s1600/IMG_0502.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0ez6YUW6LL1FKhfssBm8WNrSgVeFKy3o3KXMOzI4_fHX5w0Ajm8q1YNgJFOD3pn4ipbgTrNs5EK3p1ZmGaxEKxP75GQY7d43mHuLeJaJoYTZb-rP0cd9ZwLcS1vHeck1BE-TMZW2d4HU/s640/IMG_0502.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">getting my summer wildflower fix.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWspY3jOHYlG-2qLAxY1jtmVxdOO_oZfmpgrYUKBTMqJFpQLgPvvJiIUQAGu4BSRSXrq3J9sDneWaqW6CorQlE4TXfOhX3lP72gizSlty4WQ0Ig0Y3-iRXZyf0joAWq9CmU350c7Xqx70/s1600/IMG_0504.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWspY3jOHYlG-2qLAxY1jtmVxdOO_oZfmpgrYUKBTMqJFpQLgPvvJiIUQAGu4BSRSXrq3J9sDneWaqW6CorQlE4TXfOhX3lP72gizSlty4WQ0Ig0Y3-iRXZyf0joAWq9CmU350c7Xqx70/s640/IMG_0504.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I took as many walks around the trail as possible (fewer now that I have another tiny babe!) </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhknEoIYb29HvG2pbGF-iYwi4tqJ2FZUlpTKd7pBUf7NI4BpAui71Adp4e3rJZ5rm_esbLtxMV10HA9k4afW3tIAXyEzQZvPvT-jp7uy6uwk2CWRgzuuGF-4w7AHuCiwa25bIQIS1hBQE4/s1600/IMG_0506.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhknEoIYb29HvG2pbGF-iYwi4tqJ2FZUlpTKd7pBUf7NI4BpAui71Adp4e3rJZ5rm_esbLtxMV10HA9k4afW3tIAXyEzQZvPvT-jp7uy6uwk2CWRgzuuGF-4w7AHuCiwa25bIQIS1hBQE4/s640/IMG_0506.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">nature walk with uncle spence.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVUzByzXbQEjlZ8KU0R9YSz81OahE03cIUYEnSbAeAzKzcAWUVdcMxZHrh6_0hNb1Rkpzd4vKlTJmlfEZWQNCBJLsourSFL_Tv0H8KERHXROV2oanTk0jeGMnD9LwNNXlQcKo9eT8LBwA/s1600/IMG_0509.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVUzByzXbQEjlZ8KU0R9YSz81OahE03cIUYEnSbAeAzKzcAWUVdcMxZHrh6_0hNb1Rkpzd4vKlTJmlfEZWQNCBJLsourSFL_Tv0H8KERHXROV2oanTk0jeGMnD9LwNNXlQcKo9eT8LBwA/s640/IMG_0509.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">yoshi hunting.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijjSM4rV27YodKc5aGPp_8yVRMgA3QHKBgQdOVVCfx30tpX5xpeZpL4veTi-RT7pjKQzFFSGU4IEYa9QBImJN5oS_hn9YWN7F37xuU64q8qGKfv1tXuXajeXu4MdP6srNViJ90yCmXfto/s1600/IMG_0528.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="960" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijjSM4rV27YodKc5aGPp_8yVRMgA3QHKBgQdOVVCfx30tpX5xpeZpL4veTi-RT7pjKQzFFSGU4IEYa9QBImJN5oS_hn9YWN7F37xuU64q8qGKfv1tXuXajeXu4MdP6srNViJ90yCmXfto/s640/IMG_0528.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">my darling, constant companion.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUgG31175-p9_K6uizoS0q-7Z7GDJi7J26pK1iHgkTK0L0olmOAbGwln7xN6UNZFNwjRioA95lBDT0twtiaoWDXuK30B2OA9WKGAd_AUcsVLviP5BVmXABD6-hpvpzLnufSnr7YnNudAk/s1600/IMG_0539.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUgG31175-p9_K6uizoS0q-7Z7GDJi7J26pK1iHgkTK0L0olmOAbGwln7xN6UNZFNwjRioA95lBDT0twtiaoWDXuK30B2OA9WKGAd_AUcsVLviP5BVmXABD6-hpvpzLnufSnr7YnNudAk/s640/IMG_0539.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">swimming at the cousins' house.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSh2YMzrYkEOpPOaM85W3iiLuIrHDYRJa-KVIy55dSZehPDgdRcEYkFDdYb8TmKVxM_3KPsVBOsMKYLkWIHAcEMYZNzaORosspPqIZEl-1Gpt4GjbJtpizaBX7DOmIro7hAM7hlSEmwGk/s1600/IMG_0544.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSh2YMzrYkEOpPOaM85W3iiLuIrHDYRJa-KVIy55dSZehPDgdRcEYkFDdYb8TmKVxM_3KPsVBOsMKYLkWIHAcEMYZNzaORosspPqIZEl-1Gpt4GjbJtpizaBX7DOmIro7hAM7hlSEmwGk/s640/IMG_0544.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5RyE-B4-8cqopvBDUj7vpsjB1VmgUNVSc5_adZxmIUbvpXjHW1rXMBLqUpEOilUa75lH4UAeupa010WabBeNRdtQ_92zFRZA8-vx0bB2lcj4MI5gvOZ4UUARMmp2jmwgcSrWGVhiYyw0/s1600/IMG_0547.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="812" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5RyE-B4-8cqopvBDUj7vpsjB1VmgUNVSc5_adZxmIUbvpXjHW1rXMBLqUpEOilUa75lH4UAeupa010WabBeNRdtQ_92zFRZA8-vx0bB2lcj4MI5gvOZ4UUARMmp2jmwgcSrWGVhiYyw0/s640/IMG_0547.JPG" width="360" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Add caption</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFp3mEZZifOwlCQ3xZNB1UsqCT4qXPKq7Wm3MgeFYAl47SORrRnb8pnLljoomH_6yQnTM-CjjWzgBXGAntADU-WPGsEB_u9N0xpc2-CBywX1PR7V23S3bD8lwBMtX9Qu1rSpmXaY5CKJ4/s1600/IMG_0565.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFp3mEZZifOwlCQ3xZNB1UsqCT4qXPKq7Wm3MgeFYAl47SORrRnb8pnLljoomH_6yQnTM-CjjWzgBXGAntADU-WPGsEB_u9N0xpc2-CBywX1PR7V23S3bD8lwBMtX9Qu1rSpmXaY5CKJ4/s640/IMG_0565.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">swinging with grandpa, singing songs I used to sing with him, too.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPrOsKtzC-XPD2POr-U8gK2WXfgb1Rb9lZw5EgdiLv0T2kEVSnrretHsATJyZiT51eATe0hYCIq2zeeXevnD8QzY6cPNJchhq-nzJoiEgYjetX3NEDpXNFLWQRuw8bP7SGSvzxER5_RNk/s1600/IMG_0569.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPrOsKtzC-XPD2POr-U8gK2WXfgb1Rb9lZw5EgdiLv0T2kEVSnrretHsATJyZiT51eATe0hYCIq2zeeXevnD8QzY6cPNJchhq-nzJoiEgYjetX3NEDpXNFLWQRuw8bP7SGSvzxER5_RNk/s640/IMG_0569.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Whit found the best seat in the house.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggglyzDjgmu2j2SysO7Fwy-xr36qbT4esS3s8DXhMf6JddZLCd3IVwzVq8AlVarstCJSXSYLYNcp0NLSoBBqNcfhaYRQstX17-v46AnyrQYq0h74NO6Y7kV411LKQkqbMrwps-PC_PFmg/s1600/IMG_0575.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggglyzDjgmu2j2SysO7Fwy-xr36qbT4esS3s8DXhMf6JddZLCd3IVwzVq8AlVarstCJSXSYLYNcp0NLSoBBqNcfhaYRQstX17-v46AnyrQYq0h74NO6Y7kV411LKQkqbMrwps-PC_PFmg/s640/IMG_0575.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">a newer addition! my mama shares my love for limelight hydrangea. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghmo1z2jIKWmoS1SICPrAOIg3dgDQ9XnRbcQHob7BwcANsLJiftPsv-dCXDuHd3ttVoe4d2Z2TppSLYvyMT2ttieDbVEDA_vGQPGlW3-x2GRvJFlMWzIwpKvA1Wbzvo-mvtsw-vLhCg9M/s1600/IMG_0580.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghmo1z2jIKWmoS1SICPrAOIg3dgDQ9XnRbcQHob7BwcANsLJiftPsv-dCXDuHd3ttVoe4d2Z2TppSLYvyMT2ttieDbVEDA_vGQPGlW3-x2GRvJFlMWzIwpKvA1Wbzvo-mvtsw-vLhCg9M/s640/IMG_0580.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">campfire night.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7QxyTC0h1XCNQvPA8vibaLC0SL8QhCI1YsSCZHj6w-xVskZPIKLB6X-0BIAjjWbTWs0TPmZ6WIT48crp_UKL93jcGM2U1F63W5jujg8wgAXoqtg7o94tlBpy6L3AyR5xiHTY7XitxaYg/s1600/IMG_0596.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="720" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7QxyTC0h1XCNQvPA8vibaLC0SL8QhCI1YsSCZHj6w-xVskZPIKLB6X-0BIAjjWbTWs0TPmZ6WIT48crp_UKL93jcGM2U1F63W5jujg8wgAXoqtg7o94tlBpy6L3AyR5xiHTY7XitxaYg/s640/IMG_0596.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">trying our best to fill up the ginormous barnwood table Spence built.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSmdwTItaGA__lZrrCuW7_gbwisUCaqP0eTi133vokY1qnzBNszzCKqDK1VY0oEne3GwgZbIPOP64xBqRULMRwc2YdBBtLsxyv5h48Gz7MCAAspsGbuf5932330-Oeg2SOJHk_aBJlDJU/s1600/IMG_0605.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSmdwTItaGA__lZrrCuW7_gbwisUCaqP0eTi133vokY1qnzBNszzCKqDK1VY0oEne3GwgZbIPOP64xBqRULMRwc2YdBBtLsxyv5h48Gz7MCAAspsGbuf5932330-Oeg2SOJHk_aBJlDJU/s640/IMG_0605.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">missing the rest of our fam in Montana! </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisgM2QeY-P2GbOuHPM0cRlf7V2FvKKrkCvkFZhyphenhyphenRnTD7TpwvM0kiZP0Hu14IIEh_RL5GaDJvXBHvRXg-O4sTLuDJITvuhaioWBe2G6Lpwnw6ZdEIZavFHjm85X2RuT_trzCSaQ4HuEbig/s640/IMG_0616.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="640" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hubby and I got a date night to get dinner with friends in Mpls.</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisgM2QeY-P2GbOuHPM0cRlf7V2FvKKrkCvkFZhyphenhyphenRnTD7TpwvM0kiZP0Hu14IIEh_RL5GaDJvXBHvRXg-O4sTLuDJITvuhaioWBe2G6Lpwnw6ZdEIZavFHjm85X2RuT_trzCSaQ4HuEbig/s1600/IMG_0616.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjE24Y_AFMr6G8V2Xp8QOgIFRH4VgShnkJKHPOBZB4veV-bW0OP8ayps6yBhOQJ5781kway-6HWx2Y2RpIMs8fjscg2XONINBmp9KkiMCkAtsB32RxgAczZu24pwQ5afVD-WcYS1Pra_vU/s1600/IMG_0618.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjE24Y_AFMr6G8V2Xp8QOgIFRH4VgShnkJKHPOBZB4veV-bW0OP8ayps6yBhOQJ5781kway-6HWx2Y2RpIMs8fjscg2XONINBmp9KkiMCkAtsB32RxgAczZu24pwQ5afVD-WcYS1Pra_vU/s640/IMG_0618.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">early morning reading + coffee (and bird + bunny watching.) </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhk5a9IcJWoa4SoyfiezRZwy-bu4eKoBaMH0OXWcmwM5IojCELEb6d3DT9LT60ZnFE4j5gDimnG6aISdhcG2r3FqIf68wQtpTPnJsfiQQUM9lPsOL__UglYSErrzLO3D5oOev2jrCSLQkA/s1600/IMG_0629.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhk5a9IcJWoa4SoyfiezRZwy-bu4eKoBaMH0OXWcmwM5IojCELEb6d3DT9LT60ZnFE4j5gDimnG6aISdhcG2r3FqIf68wQtpTPnJsfiQQUM9lPsOL__UglYSErrzLO3D5oOev2jrCSLQkA/s640/IMG_0629.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">blondies first time canoeing!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOqwIdmOIFQlRPjYBYVqD3zhlv9kw6pm1Hfsb81ti867ZhqFQdMisVunGtdunsovwjDlVnSO1yfYgP3xvWCIpMXrkaVfWcCfn3g1dhF1pHMGRWJ29S07bTocnV2JEqu4qEe7qVXC2lqYQ/s1600/IMG_0632.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOqwIdmOIFQlRPjYBYVqD3zhlv9kw6pm1Hfsb81ti867ZhqFQdMisVunGtdunsovwjDlVnSO1yfYgP3xvWCIpMXrkaVfWcCfn3g1dhF1pHMGRWJ29S07bTocnV2JEqu4qEe7qVXC2lqYQ/s640/IMG_0632.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">they still talk about this...especially in the current when we stopped for lunch!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzkcyQd_r68EUSu7z1oUO4oNvAuWM-VeFpF5vqRBmj9AiY0bMPbh3Vs264i4kPpcnwI4JB0g28yCAuMSNWf6xy_CNSK3YrE9Xlr4QMoQ8aDdwoCPX4vZ_7A4d0h2DBI36g0p3A2mK5NZY/s1600/IMG_0646.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzkcyQd_r68EUSu7z1oUO4oNvAuWM-VeFpF5vqRBmj9AiY0bMPbh3Vs264i4kPpcnwI4JB0g28yCAuMSNWf6xy_CNSK3YrE9Xlr4QMoQ8aDdwoCPX4vZ_7A4d0h2DBI36g0p3A2mK5NZY/s640/IMG_0646.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">zumbro river.</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgba9OgCEED_3E1SOT306zPuwjAS3G6sn3yk6tkusgcJiapKuaX4v-I7sDAIlJKL42OmuG0MYb7ZJxT8CUCG0Yg5OktdmypbO_9J8q-LXeiTHVtZNomXa64o7MZLuheBHBmfxggcq-hVUE/s1600/IMG_0648.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgba9OgCEED_3E1SOT306zPuwjAS3G6sn3yk6tkusgcJiapKuaX4v-I7sDAIlJKL42OmuG0MYb7ZJxT8CUCG0Yg5OktdmypbO_9J8q-LXeiTHVtZNomXa64o7MZLuheBHBmfxggcq-hVUE/s640/IMG_0648.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I'm just makin' sure no one falls overboard. #momlife</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiw_yfJZUidz43ZyxSwL2SVshWmFMXC0Yx3kTl8AV-n4UDe2AT-aBTRvVMjKfSpfnFOcDVdKnrHfMXiD2IIXFo3n0Zbs0ji-ig8n9DgJGZOFtjw2uSg804Wy9fTKMwpVfTsZ-XK8SeonM/s1600/IMG_0668.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="723" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiw_yfJZUidz43ZyxSwL2SVshWmFMXC0Yx3kTl8AV-n4UDe2AT-aBTRvVMjKfSpfnFOcDVdKnrHfMXiD2IIXFo3n0Zbs0ji-ig8n9DgJGZOFtjw2uSg804Wy9fTKMwpVfTsZ-XK8SeonM/s640/IMG_0668.JPG" width="360" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">me and ma girl in the Old Town.</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyEpFlaxMgsQ-NuzuH5v-iEcBHwvaxTQPQqeMbOvfxxpDyozi9KzUvw1Gz90cOCv8FHOX4XrT2jCDC1XDHiqYegRnCusAQ9xrkyt3C867zc_xYKZPpOb_67JRV29IFlKRUKCrPgOjoyhI/s1600/40337303_10217338794322612_2804156685537509376_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="540" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyEpFlaxMgsQ-NuzuH5v-iEcBHwvaxTQPQqeMbOvfxxpDyozi9KzUvw1Gz90cOCv8FHOX4XrT2jCDC1XDHiqYegRnCusAQ9xrkyt3C867zc_xYKZPpOb_67JRV29IFlKRUKCrPgOjoyhI/s640/40337303_10217338794322612_2804156685537509376_n.jpg" width="360" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLQ9tg5PiHQrJ3qS-uwaGybhuyTWVEDypywrraj-X4IgCvvkQMebz9gU3MtACjYTFK5-CegL-1Pd_JFsvefpAL5esrjH47BTtU7z-vP6yY1NasUvSBA6yffPW5qb8TOp6gnGQIzEgVRlw/s1600/40414415_10217338794242610_1474895265549778944_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="540" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLQ9tg5PiHQrJ3qS-uwaGybhuyTWVEDypywrraj-X4IgCvvkQMebz9gU3MtACjYTFK5-CegL-1Pd_JFsvefpAL5esrjH47BTtU7z-vP6yY1NasUvSBA6yffPW5qb8TOp6gnGQIzEgVRlw/s640/40414415_10217338794242610_1474895265549778944_n.jpg" width="360" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">on 'top of the world' with grampa</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxE89Cz0oruINWqE3v6PT6NfdGQ-qR-Wad3UX5A0X68GUXWN-5VJ6ytGkIN8M5bFRuqIEXQHF1d0quL8gQ-y1SteN3GKSIxv9-gjvt2vmeElnttDxYicJ49FgLHJRzeKD5dIIwAKt8-Ew/s1600/40441561_10217338792842575_635504668448915456_n+%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="540" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxE89Cz0oruINWqE3v6PT6NfdGQ-qR-Wad3UX5A0X68GUXWN-5VJ6ytGkIN8M5bFRuqIEXQHF1d0quL8gQ-y1SteN3GKSIxv9-gjvt2vmeElnttDxYicJ49FgLHJRzeKD5dIIwAKt8-Ew/s640/40441561_10217338792842575_635504668448915456_n+%25281%2529.jpg" width="360" /></a></div>
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+ + + + +</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Now it is back to school! </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">I hope everyone had a lovely summer holiday!</span></div>
Gretahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13678221019546045834noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7542153512214952651.post-10974969147680929542018-07-12T04:50:00.000-04:002018-07-12T04:59:44.552-04:00morocco. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggGG-svaEb1hk7dXHGj0rP4VgKRFqNMhowWCneFQFLtRkC4FpS8qZFQQf_bIP6cFMXbtjANBRRURTPUqFGbxWTQu4lAq4BjH9xUc367toAE3Y7fTrFrjnx7PnLt3pinPWoJC9p7rhYsf0/s1600/36326995_10216843668584778_5412792376563335168_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggGG-svaEb1hk7dXHGj0rP4VgKRFqNMhowWCneFQFLtRkC4FpS8qZFQQf_bIP6cFMXbtjANBRRURTPUqFGbxWTQu4lAq4BjH9xUc367toAE3Y7fTrFrjnx7PnLt3pinPWoJC9p7rhYsf0/s640/36326995_10216843668584778_5412792376563335168_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
This is <u>not</u> a how-to about how to get around Morocco.<br />
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In fact, I will not claim, even after spending a week there, that I know much about it. (Except that it is beautiful.)<br />
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What I <u>do</u> know is that going to an all-inclusive beach resort with kids is wonderful...and going to a beach resort with a kids club is even more wonderful! Just sayin'.<br />
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Honestly, Morocco was never on my travel bucket list, but we knew during this past spring break that we wanted to head to a warm beach locale. So we scouted out all the options within a five hour flight from the Netherlands (by "we" I mean my husband) and settled on Morocco. The idea of flying into Casablanca sounded romantic, and he chose an all-inclusive resort that seemed to fit all our needs.<br />
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Sure we would be all in one hotel room, including the baby...but it would be worth it, right!?<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguE4IdDvM7i1HUv4oswAvzNx2J4F8ERlHzkZGlypyke-_0fy49-crsDTMozu-c3i042mu61dCBuC9V-CR9vr3NnMsK2ScVERRyCnof7o2ra3wcBygM5EK4lWTUQCYB-ebLhBj_wUACbf0/s1600/36329398_10216843627303746_5898720032925417472_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguE4IdDvM7i1HUv4oswAvzNx2J4F8ERlHzkZGlypyke-_0fy49-crsDTMozu-c3i042mu61dCBuC9V-CR9vr3NnMsK2ScVERRyCnof7o2ra3wcBygM5EK4lWTUQCYB-ebLhBj_wUACbf0/s640/36329398_10216843627303746_5898720032925417472_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">three kids, two adults, one hotel room - no problem!</td></tr>
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Yes, it actually was totally fine. Baby Whit got plenty of naps, and was able to fall asleep in a pack-n-play in the tiny dark hallway in our room.<br />
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It was our first time on the continent of Africa, which in itself was pretty exciting! The views from our hotel were pure heaven. It was this gorgeous desert oasis, meticulously landscaped with desert flora. The beach was super windy and the ocean waves were big and a bit much for our kids, but we did experience a fabulous sunset one night, with the beach all to ourselves.<br />
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Every day was spent pretty much the same way. I find that with so many kids you gotta have a routine...at least that is how our fam functions best. We got up and went to the buffet for breakfast (which somehow never got old.) The kids then played at the kids club for an hour or so while I went to the gym and Paul and Whitman took a morning nap. Then we would all go to the pool for a while, or the beach. Whitman and I would then go back to the room and rest while Paul and the kids would keep hanging out. Eventually we would all meet up for a <i>super</i> late poolside lunch - always ordering the same thing (sliders, quesadillas, maybe a margarita for mama) Finally, bellies full, we would all go back to the room to relax, playing cards, simply resting from the sunshine, until dinner.<br />
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The kids loved the buffet, which had every type of cuisine imaginable and many, many, many dessert options, which is pretty much their favorite thing in life.<br />
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The employees of the resort were extremely friendly. especially with the kids. At first it was kind of disconcerting how affectionate they would be, picking up our babes and kissing them on the cheek. A couple of times I had to politely ask them not to take selfies with our kids! Finally, someone asked Paul if it made us uncomfortable how much attention they were getting, and Paul politely tried to explain that it kinda did. (Also, we both just wanted a bit of personal space after a while. Sometimes three members of the waitstaff would be at our table, all trying to play with our kids! Just let us have dinner, ya'll!) Then the employee explained to Paul that it was a normal part of Moroccan culture to be very affectionate with children, even kids of strangers, and <i>especially</i> babies. So we tried to be understanding, yet politely enforce boundaries.<br />
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One morning we hired a driver (since we had no car) and let the kids play in the kids club for the morning so we could take a day trip into the nearby city of El Jadida. I really wanted to go to an open air marketplace and buy some goods, and perhaps experience just a taste of the typical culture in Morocco (versus the giant, grandiose bubble that was our resort.)<br />
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So Paul and I and Baby Whit (who wasn't a fan of baby club) spent a couple hours strolling and buying a few things to remember our time there. Super lovely and probably exactly what you'd imagine a Moroccan market area to be like! We went pretty early in the day so it wasn't very busy yet. I'm sure it would get a bit crazy by afternoon, so I'm glad we got there when we did.<br />
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Another night Paul and I had a romantic date night (well, with Baby Whit, who we pushed around in the stroller until he fell asleep) and had dinner at one of the resort restaurants. We went with the authentic Moroccan one. So good! It was super dark in there, though, and you sat on these low tables with benches and lots of pillows. They gave you flashlights to be able to see the menu!<br />
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Here are some views of that night, and the rest of our time in Morocco...<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3tSYdHTmATcFQGCFr2hpai8NSAj4vOAWsq8W8RA9OQeOBJXA6tnfqoA62pKMt4DoOEwdO6lCGHCogvGVITPy0-XPdCl0XzKn8t9AaikTt4tP89WrCpin0jitDctBM7jhu5BgjTMepQXU/s1600/36687829_10216891596062935_8697861631180275712_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3tSYdHTmATcFQGCFr2hpai8NSAj4vOAWsq8W8RA9OQeOBJXA6tnfqoA62pKMt4DoOEwdO6lCGHCogvGVITPy0-XPdCl0XzKn8t9AaikTt4tP89WrCpin0jitDctBM7jhu5BgjTMepQXU/s640/36687829_10216891596062935_8697861631180275712_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">moroccan dinner date.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyhMBdAr6YsaODqeCj53-RXl0PHqEaeE0i6W6tJkKuYX55iXXiJe3leFgVjJKLviJ_vN3PcDL2DEGgjsvgiaE3YbYg8ILz3GydInd0Zs8FkXbld5MITROm1DQqL5tVZ_OwLOIaQ0gYgu4/s1600/36645582_10216891592982858_4704657307173126144_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyhMBdAr6YsaODqeCj53-RXl0PHqEaeE0i6W6tJkKuYX55iXXiJe3leFgVjJKLviJ_vN3PcDL2DEGgjsvgiaE3YbYg8ILz3GydInd0Zs8FkXbld5MITROm1DQqL5tVZ_OwLOIaQ0gYgu4/s640/36645582_10216891592982858_4704657307173126144_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRUVJhxEwPIxtx67vK7a5nD5K5qKiipgTkiTahVleTap8toXxviOq58oeVcguK-37AhjZaz03CLafpnVEuTgkZmN0dqVHAgwDDorNt9vqvQAuw256Lsi-yW0n2DDEp6GasgE7x2HqPT1k/s1600/36271702_10216843667584753_3019104057647169536_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRUVJhxEwPIxtx67vK7a5nD5K5qKiipgTkiTahVleTap8toXxviOq58oeVcguK-37AhjZaz03CLafpnVEuTgkZmN0dqVHAgwDDorNt9vqvQAuw256Lsi-yW0n2DDEp6GasgE7x2HqPT1k/s640/36271702_10216843667584753_3019104057647169536_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">little blondie, big ocean</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvc3sLyBCxmsR-XG8N715wLIXRBFHSjG-6uzc4BE75TpjSWLK7DLGUVhNkF7A_0hBDfA3lT17PBSXRIxTCYOCO4AjbGxxFe0sXo1Xu68CV9kvuSIoP3nL47VVoN08ctMLMKB0ovkM1oW8/s1600/36281694_10216843628023764_8957245396359315456_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvc3sLyBCxmsR-XG8N715wLIXRBFHSjG-6uzc4BE75TpjSWLK7DLGUVhNkF7A_0hBDfA3lT17PBSXRIxTCYOCO4AjbGxxFe0sXo1Xu68CV9kvuSIoP3nL47VVoN08ctMLMKB0ovkM1oW8/s640/36281694_10216843628023764_8957245396359315456_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">my morning cappuccino.</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCe6o3ZRlvkn0m97SYH7fQUJ3ex3GbHUkDJ-iQR8rCfv7XLKkei5sle1FZanbVhpDO8zRqn13KkxdYms_m5gQtSfai_0ECfd_6tnFMLcQ8cjV3kWfDDW1eO92KzGvpKYQYCL0C1nDqgXs/s1600/36282604_10216843643064140_8382523165212934144_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCe6o3ZRlvkn0m97SYH7fQUJ3ex3GbHUkDJ-iQR8rCfv7XLKkei5sle1FZanbVhpDO8zRqn13KkxdYms_m5gQtSfai_0ECfd_6tnFMLcQ8cjV3kWfDDW1eO92KzGvpKYQYCL0C1nDqgXs/s640/36282604_10216843643064140_8382523165212934144_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">the landscaping was something out of my dreams.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikAbF7MQzajacXXlcOsFl6Ly9v-xujsAhVi2ugE73tCMJeJh8gUAuEA8CWM8hERGbb37aE83B8W07GP0ordwVFJKihhJp1zHiPz2G8kGsDDktiII-8DJQuOJLuMvqtnR8g1wfCYl2mDy0/s1600/36288227_10216843628063765_777733996514639872_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="908" data-original-width="908" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikAbF7MQzajacXXlcOsFl6Ly9v-xujsAhVi2ugE73tCMJeJh8gUAuEA8CWM8hERGbb37aE83B8W07GP0ordwVFJKihhJp1zHiPz2G8kGsDDktiII-8DJQuOJLuMvqtnR8g1wfCYl2mDy0/s640/36288227_10216843628063765_777733996514639872_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">in the center of all the buildings was this pool </td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEu5foXCF-wnOEKoYuP1JsZ8XMTcHrQiYRnYcNp5jM8-eiaq_l0pyRarmwKdQvewqWl3rRRbciX0POgXwMZGoGF9O8q5muf5CxXeZmtk4Ho6yjxeuJyfx-fKK4qfk7HzPM2HoVq619Flk/s1600/36288551_10216843627023739_373052990950473728_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEu5foXCF-wnOEKoYuP1JsZ8XMTcHrQiYRnYcNp5jM8-eiaq_l0pyRarmwKdQvewqWl3rRRbciX0POgXwMZGoGF9O8q5muf5CxXeZmtk4Ho6yjxeuJyfx-fKK4qfk7HzPM2HoVq619Flk/s640/36288551_10216843627023739_373052990950473728_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Baby Whit couldn't crawl yet...so that made things a bit easier.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkPLyjUucNUj58xjBMu8jPFCmXzaOcPcSy0dDq9UaxnaypZ3LY9_CxzBfaf3wlK943jgGUoNHCvP53nK5dRB9AxxUROLiJ7HLE23HIz_dvZ_ddQEJmCuIBZIkGz4K-BOripX2Uuz3JigY/s1600/36295914_10216843641664105_1813243640848318464_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkPLyjUucNUj58xjBMu8jPFCmXzaOcPcSy0dDq9UaxnaypZ3LY9_CxzBfaf3wlK943jgGUoNHCvP53nK5dRB9AxxUROLiJ7HLE23HIz_dvZ_ddQEJmCuIBZIkGz4K-BOripX2Uuz3JigY/s640/36295914_10216843641664105_1813243640848318464_n.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Paul and the kiddos in the surf.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNstlFn7c66E4HJJXO26W6kHn46NFSLeG6l4T5tYgITrYg_aTZrQQAHH2ve9x0vIuV5Bu7LjmvbJRorEJiaKlhKmlCE1eTtgG0lvB2hIoUbDbnBYZTbXVa8Iqp3RNiC12d3p0qO785cqg/s1600/36299129_10216843640544077_7269115187930595328_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNstlFn7c66E4HJJXO26W6kHn46NFSLeG6l4T5tYgITrYg_aTZrQQAHH2ve9x0vIuV5Bu7LjmvbJRorEJiaKlhKmlCE1eTtgG0lvB2hIoUbDbnBYZTbXVa8Iqp3RNiC12d3p0qO785cqg/s640/36299129_10216843640544077_7269115187930595328_n.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">the sea is good for everyone's soul.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-xl0TzGkjZNEXwMuD7tjAuhPPWE9pBX-z4llpC-DG7B3YCyLpYjcErRC46lzLbNyzGyaCnHO2RlL46rRcSW4s2tMaahEh-44oJpT19dduOcjHhKcBJ2gNN5peze49u3sR2u8mCnWZh5Y/s1600/36300549_10216843640464075_6893831103203770368_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-xl0TzGkjZNEXwMuD7tjAuhPPWE9pBX-z4llpC-DG7B3YCyLpYjcErRC46lzLbNyzGyaCnHO2RlL46rRcSW4s2tMaahEh-44oJpT19dduOcjHhKcBJ2gNN5peze49u3sR2u8mCnWZh5Y/s640/36300549_10216843640464075_6893831103203770368_n.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">she is a wave chaser.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgz4s5YUJTqiPNW1YEDnv87bxDVkR0hUDAgI4LEINmbQv6TBESP6JjBt_1QCerA9qoIR_jTqC9S4w3n8MDeUAeY37tuoCVu-D7cvpmydXvfol2ncpGJ0BVuOwG8c7-kpitCXY9YT7KeLeQ/s1600/36301161_10216843628103766_1165080002971041792_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgz4s5YUJTqiPNW1YEDnv87bxDVkR0hUDAgI4LEINmbQv6TBESP6JjBt_1QCerA9qoIR_jTqC9S4w3n8MDeUAeY37tuoCVu-D7cvpmydXvfol2ncpGJ0BVuOwG8c7-kpitCXY9YT7KeLeQ/s640/36301161_10216843628103766_1165080002971041792_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">my morning walk from the fitness center to the beach.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0Iq1yqNmf6aL4gjKur4GFIFVn_ZJ5ER8ZqaqM4fbeVZLOrtNM3CmUXMMsXEGCCetmXzM76Ztv0X08s5_u-bJdYPIUrWryZ6bXfXX9usucMTClPms6ZXyepU0VxuoOipTiY24Hc__WPQ4/s1600/36313578_10216843667984763_113548305262182400_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0Iq1yqNmf6aL4gjKur4GFIFVn_ZJ5ER8ZqaqM4fbeVZLOrtNM3CmUXMMsXEGCCetmXzM76Ztv0X08s5_u-bJdYPIUrWryZ6bXfXX9usucMTClPms6ZXyepU0VxuoOipTiY24Hc__WPQ4/s640/36313578_10216843667984763_113548305262182400_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">hello ocean!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpEVFrYmXNL5mX1dTPFT0Lo4EgDHSCB40lxNWbCKGk_1m_YUkQJWPYj1hyphenhyphenjpwQc5F6rgc1MR7nHvLL9ijWm8mdH48wMEnAjSFT-n2FLDkm22FiyNkGjmGrSr0ECUf9IGrPlUTyyUuRFiU/s1600/36315617_10216843627223744_4355377342458101760_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpEVFrYmXNL5mX1dTPFT0Lo4EgDHSCB40lxNWbCKGk_1m_YUkQJWPYj1hyphenhyphenjpwQc5F6rgc1MR7nHvLL9ijWm8mdH48wMEnAjSFT-n2FLDkm22FiyNkGjmGrSr0ECUf9IGrPlUTyyUuRFiU/s640/36315617_10216843627223744_4355377342458101760_n.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">my beachy girl.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEQf9XSyZYQHbPDMHFO-QM73HLDRzkl1t90Sa5aIOzjNDb-huXcWZv8wnrht4LxaKEoZGhiHx1vft2q_GLBVUI-pIYL48gVrQjBA43YTxuezDtbgsowajSKOpIFAwD-pX2Z87eAZ2g5sA/s1600/36316647_10216843668944787_8939864265007824896_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEQf9XSyZYQHbPDMHFO-QM73HLDRzkl1t90Sa5aIOzjNDb-huXcWZv8wnrht4LxaKEoZGhiHx1vft2q_GLBVUI-pIYL48gVrQjBA43YTxuezDtbgsowajSKOpIFAwD-pX2Z87eAZ2g5sA/s640/36316647_10216843668944787_8939864265007824896_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">desert plant heaven.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAZondROWQrpf_jxV3PwF4kDTyqgiE8jm3O8n9-SYzmHuBSb_K6G0ajsTg30dVF3QbTk5FOKDix1sMtcmg14blx9_Yi7oyP5xbKvZPOmuJdzkV-y9E6qZpfqPRsiL-wSYzbXMBYZDHXSE/s1600/36324378_10216843640424074_7452523696062726144_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAZondROWQrpf_jxV3PwF4kDTyqgiE8jm3O8n9-SYzmHuBSb_K6G0ajsTg30dVF3QbTk5FOKDix1sMtcmg14blx9_Yi7oyP5xbKvZPOmuJdzkV-y9E6qZpfqPRsiL-wSYzbXMBYZDHXSE/s640/36324378_10216843640424074_7452523696062726144_n.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">my shell finder.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvwy2cMshsn5fHKhallOZORIAp4Mesebt9MzmNzJid_JWg50i59xQCPfCPGM7VjurplKzeMocyN3utHLgpKkqj6Oe3CbhUQfLyoPOunIKbiuc7jAHzJ1kZnJyikiwJLipj2aGnYY6hvdg/s1600/36330935_10216843644304171_9028347050936238080_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvwy2cMshsn5fHKhallOZORIAp4Mesebt9MzmNzJid_JWg50i59xQCPfCPGM7VjurplKzeMocyN3utHLgpKkqj6Oe3CbhUQfLyoPOunIKbiuc7jAHzJ1kZnJyikiwJLipj2aGnYY6hvdg/s640/36330935_10216843644304171_9028347050936238080_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEix2BZOjuYLnajokIGYgcqU6EVzKTz7q0UupPLgKMwn9fFNN3maS_CjOLQuZlS54YsmgAhngUBjAFQqOkpK3UqtbNsWLynYnTUx8jCP8OZxPWthMq-BzosZy4DSyMzhutexr9Nr7jgygGA/s1600/36342062_10216843668664780_4888351026903515136_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEix2BZOjuYLnajokIGYgcqU6EVzKTz7q0UupPLgKMwn9fFNN3maS_CjOLQuZlS54YsmgAhngUBjAFQqOkpK3UqtbNsWLynYnTUx8jCP8OZxPWthMq-BzosZy4DSyMzhutexr9Nr7jgygGA/s640/36342062_10216843668664780_4888351026903515136_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I didn't swim in the ocean on this trip at all...but Whit and I enjoyed it anyway!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbqzW6UYLoUI_-KxMJ-M8dPbbyOifS7gPYZpgz2sLE8SAqNrJ0qSOBYti3HloZtadx4_A78NECqtJ_FJ-gqkClwcFACCfYlxQPlPeuq2BnCqz2h99sJe-wUWyoLu7fFvIpexKYwNZq_Tc/s1600/36425805_10216879924771160_1458272281825378304_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbqzW6UYLoUI_-KxMJ-M8dPbbyOifS7gPYZpgz2sLE8SAqNrJ0qSOBYti3HloZtadx4_A78NECqtJ_FJ-gqkClwcFACCfYlxQPlPeuq2BnCqz2h99sJe-wUWyoLu7fFvIpexKYwNZq_Tc/s640/36425805_10216879924771160_1458272281825378304_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">when we first arrived - tired from travel but loving it so far!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUZVP6JTSUudRA8uEMhrJTxUwDnhaZtMdNy0wnjh2JfWBjCXylGcmAZOrK0YgmPlGZTDFXJ7zl0srCCELphp1UVYqcMT5-q7ZjuZF6KhuWl__BudSepR_PFnOrWyysNQMSlW3VqitJROE/s1600/36508080_10216879926451202_1059621268610875392_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUZVP6JTSUudRA8uEMhrJTxUwDnhaZtMdNy0wnjh2JfWBjCXylGcmAZOrK0YgmPlGZTDFXJ7zl0srCCELphp1UVYqcMT5-q7ZjuZF6KhuWl__BudSepR_PFnOrWyysNQMSlW3VqitJROE/s640/36508080_10216879926451202_1059621268610875392_n.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">what most pics of all three look like.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidoRsyFo8MV4Yg_QEYTCkxrspjpDUOaBgbKsaPRn4iTX15e4lgwUYNeIIC5WZPIKrrJdJYNb_PmkFDkgQnIxQxJT7MCs5FoWUdhqLnlMB5LvM6CMR2CzHNDhlvwknuVilHI3WEKDLgkr4/s1600/36511070_10216879928011241_3382549979850604544_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidoRsyFo8MV4Yg_QEYTCkxrspjpDUOaBgbKsaPRn4iTX15e4lgwUYNeIIC5WZPIKrrJdJYNb_PmkFDkgQnIxQxJT7MCs5FoWUdhqLnlMB5LvM6CMR2CzHNDhlvwknuVilHI3WEKDLgkr4/s640/36511070_10216879928011241_3382549979850604544_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">my lunch. every.single.day.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-JRmL_YykjjBWqgQv8Uc-qtGgTW-miaZZHjQxqp09lI-NvKy99CzF5MtF9i5F2D109jc7KDNEjcqrGRux2anPS0KoOU2yj7VpKAWLDaP7z1A6LZ41ct9uocIHYDXndxos_3bqE3QNEOU/s1600/36511225_10216879923411126_7798319931199586304_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="926" data-original-width="694" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-JRmL_YykjjBWqgQv8Uc-qtGgTW-miaZZHjQxqp09lI-NvKy99CzF5MtF9i5F2D109jc7KDNEjcqrGRux2anPS0KoOU2yj7VpKAWLDaP7z1A6LZ41ct9uocIHYDXndxos_3bqE3QNEOU/s640/36511225_10216879923411126_7798319931199586304_n.jpg" width="478" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>"This place is fancy!" </i></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiAkHOtmYi2DUdflJC9Tn1tWXy12ZNEJM6ZrfFjBO6-VZ6JulwHiU3lVfFojnTeXyRDNGCdWx0VsaiJ50sCf1RjLTu47P9dJyhawQvq9pRkxbrXCO2LU0aOKVNuP7hw_-42MJ2rpNKhl4/s1600/36514107_10216879924731159_7729784489517252608_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiAkHOtmYi2DUdflJC9Tn1tWXy12ZNEJM6ZrfFjBO6-VZ6JulwHiU3lVfFojnTeXyRDNGCdWx0VsaiJ50sCf1RjLTu47P9dJyhawQvq9pRkxbrXCO2LU0aOKVNuP7hw_-42MJ2rpNKhl4/s640/36514107_10216879924731159_7729784489517252608_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">sis + bro - morning snuggles</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizPBF1jplNJ1sB8XubygDhm0kbii9ExKdMHfdHvfLxWwz0M6nnQLJjRqtqr0wYbVLPeBT9N5F0DFBV0JKLZwoyR1IMKcStuQZEPBRwHRm0dVQnr0hGcofWZ8RySDynaVPU36TEh5kwbCU/s1600/36518793_10216879972892363_2329670603008638976_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizPBF1jplNJ1sB8XubygDhm0kbii9ExKdMHfdHvfLxWwz0M6nnQLJjRqtqr0wYbVLPeBT9N5F0DFBV0JKLZwoyR1IMKcStuQZEPBRwHRm0dVQnr0hGcofWZ8RySDynaVPU36TEh5kwbCU/s640/36518793_10216879972892363_2329670603008638976_n.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Finola's only request the whole trip was to see the sunset. we made a whole night of it!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgS37N0GkH_mz-e4zEm567WyjmEmrtsT5W2XzdRZ_xWfR4FI9BcZ7pw1rGzhJUz9YsCRPMxhzgi6_2XMAUGu8VBolDytl-PZerae-pLOEKvRMiUTnktyN2b8FjRMDGDQEgGw7W3ejjdEcc/s1600/36534422_10216879927771235_4207292432074670080_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgS37N0GkH_mz-e4zEm567WyjmEmrtsT5W2XzdRZ_xWfR4FI9BcZ7pw1rGzhJUz9YsCRPMxhzgi6_2XMAUGu8VBolDytl-PZerae-pLOEKvRMiUTnktyN2b8FjRMDGDQEgGw7W3ejjdEcc/s640/36534422_10216879927771235_4207292432074670080_n.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">yes please on an afternoon margarita by the pool.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnt_Gp3uU0H52tBPlJRHSsCSXu6g1LCw6Cs6MgZl4WqiEEB3j1Q_0foJSYRKK_DxuGOv9wdm7aBbWB7a6kPCydeETgGsoX_wf48jHpYkSOK6rvafSNC7kmDbZc8Ogc6ejMlbpplddDB10/s1600/36554091_10216879967892238_943586542356529152_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="542" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnt_Gp3uU0H52tBPlJRHSsCSXu6g1LCw6Cs6MgZl4WqiEEB3j1Q_0foJSYRKK_DxuGOv9wdm7aBbWB7a6kPCydeETgGsoX_wf48jHpYkSOK6rvafSNC7kmDbZc8Ogc6ejMlbpplddDB10/s640/36554091_10216879967892238_943586542356529152_n.jpg" width="360" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">mama selfie - poolside.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglQWyoWIizIHrA7bHNLLWK8s4gwzuAVoaFsIU28Ag7f3zmHocZZXYUpAMqsSfnzBRxUMzZMwemux_sZ-Lvz6IvBOrYMGIyrugiAUsgQafvmOs88ybBbCKKALvK1RyDKaeg6W7mUTTu1wI/s1600/36563788_10216879924611156_3104643227609726976_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglQWyoWIizIHrA7bHNLLWK8s4gwzuAVoaFsIU28Ag7f3zmHocZZXYUpAMqsSfnzBRxUMzZMwemux_sZ-Lvz6IvBOrYMGIyrugiAUsgQafvmOs88ybBbCKKALvK1RyDKaeg6W7mUTTu1wI/s640/36563788_10216879924611156_3104643227609726976_n.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">sometimes the third child gets left to his own devices. thankfully he couldn't crawl away at that point.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoTbR847UZ6Ef6si1oyyqCmGUVpQJwZW8kM0VybIJ6qoM4gsK6gQPtFpCles9VHgD8m2P89IFa6W_FU3Izv-v20vQzXbpQbqOp89JUXP6EWbwh-cUIV4C2wMsFyWoGFKuZD6h3bERWPwE/s1600/36564977_10216879924691158_9065118744153423872_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoTbR847UZ6Ef6si1oyyqCmGUVpQJwZW8kM0VybIJ6qoM4gsK6gQPtFpCles9VHgD8m2P89IFa6W_FU3Izv-v20vQzXbpQbqOp89JUXP6EWbwh-cUIV4C2wMsFyWoGFKuZD6h3bERWPwE/s640/36564977_10216879924691158_9065118744153423872_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Don't worry, there was always an older sibling running by...and a parent with an eye out.</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLTfvTWqEoWui0Ygnuv7RcPuJSIsGcwbMxz2IQJzaxV8xhGwF5xyx9ZCofrcx003tOHxSO_Fn1tS-ofn2QleBBuuxskR-hCYMvJc6sdjOhkW9cjYStDk_qujXBlQkYttx9i79LpkF5bHg/s1600/36560240_10216891412778353_4810697653119614976_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLTfvTWqEoWui0Ygnuv7RcPuJSIsGcwbMxz2IQJzaxV8xhGwF5xyx9ZCofrcx003tOHxSO_Fn1tS-ofn2QleBBuuxskR-hCYMvJc6sdjOhkW9cjYStDk_qujXBlQkYttx9i79LpkF5bHg/s640/36560240_10216891412778353_4810697653119614976_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">El Jadida seaport.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN0ZhRMtUTW6tnmukJdblUPw3Aovar-PfOgdupVrRZ6VfgYJ3P85_wexqCa0bdObd_5b7SXoebmz6ilL0greCro1338nnApo9G4A5ipaK027DqLVX63OL2XvNWUlJQakCOGwGVWJ8Z4Hc/s1600/36571977_10216891620423544_5476172809518448640_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN0ZhRMtUTW6tnmukJdblUPw3Aovar-PfOgdupVrRZ6VfgYJ3P85_wexqCa0bdObd_5b7SXoebmz6ilL0greCro1338nnApo9G4A5ipaK027DqLVX63OL2XvNWUlJQakCOGwGVWJ8Z4Hc/s640/36571977_10216891620423544_5476172809518448640_n.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">playing hearts. basically what we did each late afternoon post-lunch.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBFEFhmAqYSL4rI950WwZ1ncCYus9sap9nM7ZKGtf5jxhj4P6IoWNjC8lTImsLNVhVEDOHg_zZe2UCSRhCekBHuhXNnW8QFPWvyETPqVvQwJkrX6Jt6pq2HzPX5Y9GelK2R8_4T7gqeeY/s1600/36573666_10216891683585123_4359760279274258432_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBFEFhmAqYSL4rI950WwZ1ncCYus9sap9nM7ZKGtf5jxhj4P6IoWNjC8lTImsLNVhVEDOHg_zZe2UCSRhCekBHuhXNnW8QFPWvyETPqVvQwJkrX6Jt6pq2HzPX5Y9GelK2R8_4T7gqeeY/s640/36573666_10216891683585123_4359760279274258432_n.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">she made a heart-shaped pizza to share. like a best friends necklace...but better!</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjC7xJE3KIaeArrEtNzfTGfeIAlA8jjHwgvFSBBFph5F1Vu9OctSx48uipJl_9Ik_UivnI_tsqhadCG0TxZ4ooKP5F6pRbXz4tbCH6f_gq756O0xeOnV_8E6vqYPL2yFy38fargo3qsSZE/s1600/36573765_10216891597422969_4141169808529948672_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="541" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjC7xJE3KIaeArrEtNzfTGfeIAlA8jjHwgvFSBBFph5F1Vu9OctSx48uipJl_9Ik_UivnI_tsqhadCG0TxZ4ooKP5F6pRbXz4tbCH6f_gq756O0xeOnV_8E6vqYPL2yFy38fargo3qsSZE/s640/36573765_10216891597422969_4141169808529948672_n.jpg" width="360" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFKc6ghMspDCEJ0eVvfdbfqiZ-yYcWvSTvqJeTVCCg9kFOsO4joghXDI1xodJQOLZagD94JtII5aJJUn2_F2OTjLv6oPRDFlmkXVx9N13kRXrnfceHJdsdho-gaKSgaoTm2mTbUIRc8C0/s1600/36575297_10216891592902856_4262761664119570432_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="721" data-original-width="960" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFKc6ghMspDCEJ0eVvfdbfqiZ-yYcWvSTvqJeTVCCg9kFOsO4joghXDI1xodJQOLZagD94JtII5aJJUn2_F2OTjLv6oPRDFlmkXVx9N13kRXrnfceHJdsdho-gaKSgaoTm2mTbUIRc8C0/s640/36575297_10216891592902856_4262761664119570432_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">super dark selfie at our date night dinner! </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf2UKoUcYBA_UJ6qpSMWOoT-tq_tm-Kv5Pt3A307xJp6jP3a0cUt9W4ENPFLj-HD3-GZ8Bltwtz1Dq23TSWh9zv-jV07EapdHMk35oIiuYfzCKBXBmG92YnUzKdhX1bRoWIYqxe_xA-H0/s1600/36575335_10216891413938382_6508564689847320576_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf2UKoUcYBA_UJ6qpSMWOoT-tq_tm-Kv5Pt3A307xJp6jP3a0cUt9W4ENPFLj-HD3-GZ8Bltwtz1Dq23TSWh9zv-jV07EapdHMk35oIiuYfzCKBXBmG92YnUzKdhX1bRoWIYqxe_xA-H0/s640/36575335_10216891413938382_6508564689847320576_n.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">standing up on a rooftop looking out at the El Jadida seaport.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8VrQtrKFHXtHw47jG2JSfDTd9_xjuytnQuqmDZk6mGWKwBzrHVFW7TqcEP0LMoLnsWPOUucfnUzWr7bPRh3NTXthAXbryhRDQuOgAnzaI941kW5BWlcDrqcdGiZ_gLIjCZaEpikuZe5Y/s1600/36578790_10216891616343442_3546790912229113856_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8VrQtrKFHXtHw47jG2JSfDTd9_xjuytnQuqmDZk6mGWKwBzrHVFW7TqcEP0LMoLnsWPOUucfnUzWr7bPRh3NTXthAXbryhRDQuOgAnzaI941kW5BWlcDrqcdGiZ_gLIjCZaEpikuZe5Y/s640/36578790_10216891616343442_3546790912229113856_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">on the way to the airport to go home. baby Whit was wore out from this vacay.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMngsnXfnCphLZAY4M8Pxrn5vJUJwsgbCSOmWsW9MSZmBkFDonHljRyMGSsGy2KVWrhm3c0UhhCPL1PIpPZFbnKvs27cVzT6VNN7BZgeQnmJNDrr0hLl8SRQ-SK_cp6259SCZHh4B5CFw/s1600/36583095_10216891684705151_7163908860208480256_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMngsnXfnCphLZAY4M8Pxrn5vJUJwsgbCSOmWsW9MSZmBkFDonHljRyMGSsGy2KVWrhm3c0UhhCPL1PIpPZFbnKvs27cVzT6VNN7BZgeQnmJNDrr0hLl8SRQ-SK_cp6259SCZHh4B5CFw/s640/36583095_10216891684705151_7163908860208480256_n.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">giant fiddle leaf figs in the courtyard.</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbnb8M93nqSdDjf_zenJlLHHcFgcsDN7tlCFlNkdv6z4YAplOR7dI3XlUPOjL16VyyiIyhssA_BCOtoJu45Uch6Y_-M6nhTNT8u5Aqbt5oNLLlVmLiQPUTjzuwu_RpknOUmCK98vWYLqs/s1600/36587783_10216891361817079_8756315934215372800_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="540" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbnb8M93nqSdDjf_zenJlLHHcFgcsDN7tlCFlNkdv6z4YAplOR7dI3XlUPOjL16VyyiIyhssA_BCOtoJu45Uch6Y_-M6nhTNT8u5Aqbt5oNLLlVmLiQPUTjzuwu_RpknOUmCK98vWYLqs/s640/36587783_10216891361817079_8756315934215372800_n.jpg" width="360" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNFYWh2RG1mO_gABorp9uLslQuEim42ohpyxoRiB2N6Kb_XGFgQIqJYzRQai0Td-MP-gSyE0y5wkl7GndOSmcc4tP_19NVbt0Q16f-GbsRwdEj34kIxAwIa0IvYSIMf4P2mSUYqVbBJ_4/s1600/36591803_10216891385617674_8654411319652384768_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="858" data-original-width="858" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNFYWh2RG1mO_gABorp9uLslQuEim42ohpyxoRiB2N6Kb_XGFgQIqJYzRQai0Td-MP-gSyE0y5wkl7GndOSmcc4tP_19NVbt0Q16f-GbsRwdEj34kIxAwIa0IvYSIMf4P2mSUYqVbBJ_4/s640/36591803_10216891385617674_8654411319652384768_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Just check out that reflection.</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLACI-YbDr5CJtMEfEfVlg-PXNHLejHxo-RVNasct6JPKskSQ5xRTronCTa80xtwoWzPuqgtcxzZLF2S5nJa4HkFXUIYRNXRB8iPfd0kj7SA0OcOBRUt6EawRG1TTYrf6i3SBVdl6oTtM/s1600/36594218_10216891396297941_4737726979099328512_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="921" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLACI-YbDr5CJtMEfEfVlg-PXNHLejHxo-RVNasct6JPKskSQ5xRTronCTa80xtwoWzPuqgtcxzZLF2S5nJa4HkFXUIYRNXRB8iPfd0kj7SA0OcOBRUt6EawRG1TTYrf6i3SBVdl6oTtM/s640/36594218_10216891396297941_4737726979099328512_n.jpg" width="614" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPZPK6f-JYejPoJHQbu6R4_Z_8zt0nPmgEPkeVKRoGvKlkZPAl_I4d7XANgDtTYc4oBNtotCfPJzE97RT8jZaiIQl-7A5DjwAKDH0bXAO22gCuH1Ots8CExFuBqD3njMDTXY8IJxExG7U/s1600/36596349_10216891416578448_1604093297767219200_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPZPK6f-JYejPoJHQbu6R4_Z_8zt0nPmgEPkeVKRoGvKlkZPAl_I4d7XANgDtTYc4oBNtotCfPJzE97RT8jZaiIQl-7A5DjwAKDH0bXAO22gCuH1Ots8CExFuBqD3njMDTXY8IJxExG7U/s640/36596349_10216891416578448_1604093297767219200_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDNjf3u99n9MX59q1Ak7qBuh9nBggdyS8_mLjoCGm3ec6jDXnYyP7Mn3LvWCLte1Ppjoh0Z4g8UXVD3cXZ-cQrrPFOeTam9vlGX_3cYlepXlglTcM-BC6bJgi3HSF2n2kzRZJ8YAPnrO0/s1600/36601386_10216891591662825_8022632780145885184_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDNjf3u99n9MX59q1Ak7qBuh9nBggdyS8_mLjoCGm3ec6jDXnYyP7Mn3LvWCLte1Ppjoh0Z4g8UXVD3cXZ-cQrrPFOeTam9vlGX_3cYlepXlglTcM-BC6bJgi3HSF2n2kzRZJ8YAPnrO0/s640/36601386_10216891591662825_8022632780145885184_n.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">one day Fin and I went down the waterslide about fifty times.</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsqOQPU0Ssrq37ch-_pi80RUcwDLqv6Q5QXRLncdY5yuCkqkVc91SQA2cHxAr0PNrA65cnC8OFdEqDjJvMXPiUm03SVY4gHaiiBDJ61ivTUFYVpLdl2EYRBn6X8EM0iuYrbMvyU9zoEus/s1600/36607627_10216891416778453_304638594331443200_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsqOQPU0Ssrq37ch-_pi80RUcwDLqv6Q5QXRLncdY5yuCkqkVc91SQA2cHxAr0PNrA65cnC8OFdEqDjJvMXPiUm03SVY4gHaiiBDJ61ivTUFYVpLdl2EYRBn6X8EM0iuYrbMvyU9zoEus/s640/36607627_10216891416778453_304638594331443200_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDImMImXnuy3douwJtDtInwJv0LiwbEKgt6fYEkz6of7zh2nkpKNGGLn0c3FQuQo8rTRzM5wwae8whOtzjE0NWfUUAmCxJB5kV_HNgUruqWPPTyXmQ_x8QgrVSOoq8HnDwphzIw_3r5Kw/s1600/36607991_10216891419458520_4392473125317509120_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDImMImXnuy3douwJtDtInwJv0LiwbEKgt6fYEkz6of7zh2nkpKNGGLn0c3FQuQo8rTRzM5wwae8whOtzjE0NWfUUAmCxJB5kV_HNgUruqWPPTyXmQ_x8QgrVSOoq8HnDwphzIw_3r5Kw/s640/36607991_10216891419458520_4392473125317509120_n.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">each morning I would see horses on the beach.</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZYxb25GUP315siTyNhCWV_xcJeqGFpwDtty04KiB8ILBOOZQtu19DzZIYVWDVYYzZD5Ymc7W9EiPKm-v_GpwasLHl2_0KTRTbf7PXDN5O4sfmzQxwsvqYZfeIX7z-3rtzU5Kdy93f0L4/s1600/36611136_10216891398217989_1347590038304587776_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZYxb25GUP315siTyNhCWV_xcJeqGFpwDtty04KiB8ILBOOZQtu19DzZIYVWDVYYzZD5Ymc7W9EiPKm-v_GpwasLHl2_0KTRTbf7PXDN5O4sfmzQxwsvqYZfeIX7z-3rtzU5Kdy93f0L4/s640/36611136_10216891398217989_1347590038304587776_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig2MxTsiii-Jqnicn6ZhEGVr4B2_LzyDIlKAms0GDLJDlyvjkIRUn8XlzLha-apuZ-xudPGZEWYPnxjwux0H5iSiOIofHYu1fYCVgDEOdEd5EaKIJVclCtDsSukmCPp6kNu5996OXlfhA/s1600/36613360_10216891391097811_8394132689447288832_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig2MxTsiii-Jqnicn6ZhEGVr4B2_LzyDIlKAms0GDLJDlyvjkIRUn8XlzLha-apuZ-xudPGZEWYPnxjwux0H5iSiOIofHYu1fYCVgDEOdEd5EaKIJVclCtDsSukmCPp6kNu5996OXlfhA/s640/36613360_10216891391097811_8394132689447288832_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGbVZgI2bUCW4PQGO6nrgTbCSqoRVZptalLdi6DSWhyJ2IqaSDGsii_BJxuFUJlze9hHISnAGK6gPF8Kq3uyvbVYLkp0C7nx3hASLdWQIXVrC4Tur6hDU3BL2oulJq0OsbeYbo7oOc1_I/s1600/36617132_10216891385697676_3893683038336319488_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGbVZgI2bUCW4PQGO6nrgTbCSqoRVZptalLdi6DSWhyJ2IqaSDGsii_BJxuFUJlze9hHISnAGK6gPF8Kq3uyvbVYLkp0C7nx3hASLdWQIXVrC4Tur6hDU3BL2oulJq0OsbeYbo7oOc1_I/s640/36617132_10216891385697676_3893683038336319488_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqsZeL2fRaXfQlQCZWMxHqvNu5M_EHGaJZoJWMW11sWc7eBIc6YoHZcCNZ82QtCFEz-P3XV83PGox6ksWV5y5WTbqaU184RhiqGWQUGYSgVLRBhTJnCSuXOv9Tg37tDyfhJ-EH7FEfifY/s1600/36617134_10216891363337117_2327813326005862400_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqsZeL2fRaXfQlQCZWMxHqvNu5M_EHGaJZoJWMW11sWc7eBIc6YoHZcCNZ82QtCFEz-P3XV83PGox6ksWV5y5WTbqaU184RhiqGWQUGYSgVLRBhTJnCSuXOv9Tg37tDyfhJ-EH7FEfifY/s640/36617134_10216891363337117_2327813326005862400_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">the light of the fading sun was so beautiful.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiTyZgNAFfbJqQHepTgc0qqFvmY4qlh72U1-yXP-D2EnQyuqu7BTA9MtacYgDT3TfoweynYkS5nJlQsSTmuEyNfv_QfkT7FbfZGORvJb22Tv6lYTHj3faLDXXNohMJpdFcMc7w3fTrrGI/s1600/36623732_10216891425498671_2987603530547724288_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiTyZgNAFfbJqQHepTgc0qqFvmY4qlh72U1-yXP-D2EnQyuqu7BTA9MtacYgDT3TfoweynYkS5nJlQsSTmuEyNfv_QfkT7FbfZGORvJb22Tv6lYTHj3faLDXXNohMJpdFcMc7w3fTrrGI/s640/36623732_10216891425498671_2987603530547724288_n.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">this girl has no fear and probably went down that waterslide about 400 times.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlgd-c8GidICh9x67ba7Imi6DkHuMCGYyQCOq0fGu2W0_QmXXF4qYwQqcHoDkIeM3om3RUPpaVN_usGmP78X8FkT4BtUNlC4Xr9gr6geDU3CPnhoI8cXKAqMJ3zTKiTe1Zm04Jo9yVrQg/s1600/36628913_10216891684905156_5271125487349923840_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlgd-c8GidICh9x67ba7Imi6DkHuMCGYyQCOq0fGu2W0_QmXXF4qYwQqcHoDkIeM3om3RUPpaVN_usGmP78X8FkT4BtUNlC4Xr9gr6geDU3CPnhoI8cXKAqMJ3zTKiTe1Zm04Jo9yVrQg/s640/36628913_10216891684905156_5271125487349923840_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">coffee with heart.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEI_CwHvgT_Ot4T4njZSLbBb-NAdq4_zn9ZQAVA8-Mgbvwu4EFZNQZ0N7pGMLc2Vixm4yK-GeCtR8VKJ7E0Exwb4JX8J3ztFF-EomK0CQw1Com7_S8UIlHW-86D0WA9LgujiXDpX-RjYE/s1600/36628983_10216891398297991_8284659814227771392_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEI_CwHvgT_Ot4T4njZSLbBb-NAdq4_zn9ZQAVA8-Mgbvwu4EFZNQZ0N7pGMLc2Vixm4yK-GeCtR8VKJ7E0Exwb4JX8J3ztFF-EomK0CQw1Com7_S8UIlHW-86D0WA9LgujiXDpX-RjYE/s640/36628983_10216891398297991_8284659814227771392_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">you know, just contemplating life + nature.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8tApFfwt8HMJeCaDRTHeffCey0b1rVyd6zVKwI1CTCggo0mjg860NanmDkfQle7NTxcn_l2kOJKwVuZyILKy2igDGCkVGH-0qd8wp6fpCppEiGZ_5K6A-6dqxHWXp_lFYYmKeGQHOIKM/s1600/36630553_10216891419578523_2259857722088357888_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8tApFfwt8HMJeCaDRTHeffCey0b1rVyd6zVKwI1CTCggo0mjg860NanmDkfQle7NTxcn_l2kOJKwVuZyILKy2igDGCkVGH-0qd8wp6fpCppEiGZ_5K6A-6dqxHWXp_lFYYmKeGQHOIKM/s640/36630553_10216891419578523_2259857722088357888_n.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">post-workout ocean foot soak.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMBFE7iMVMY4uPdavEUpWg978wSydVam3sArQSl7ZnA9ZppUicA_3OPW7otCtrSWnQIfT8BWIlcdsVA-rol2o2IvcprINTpbaRfokNg_TIWhH4GLW_ixbsZcnQ0uNAjXatWYOrO0PgRkk/s1600/36649136_10216891391137812_4592724021283389440_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFRvh5fXf-WCDQwdLa0BaTc6nQPW-wZc6qYMlRU-iEnl_XcwCUC2C7y5lhL7Vp9LYaRjIz9mVXb2HY0LcJGQyzbxOVzB-icuSlF4WGuVLzQBYZa1_AUZXXIaWBsuU0HqCJj25FBxBilxw/s1600/36650894_10216891412058335_3366631336403009536_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFRvh5fXf-WCDQwdLa0BaTc6nQPW-wZc6qYMlRU-iEnl_XcwCUC2C7y5lhL7Vp9LYaRjIz9mVXb2HY0LcJGQyzbxOVzB-icuSlF4WGuVLzQBYZa1_AUZXXIaWBsuU0HqCJj25FBxBilxw/s640/36650894_10216891412058335_3366631336403009536_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">okay, I'll live in this house.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimkQvdgzscQvaY8O9OXsbFQUZbMqeJkoDyiWP0OWBLuFYvpcWHF3puNM24zoHJqo56VD8V94GRYL7VrYSjtASg4qbcMOmY4vSsu4UInwR4mQZOiTFQ_UScUwskOuF12e-XKI558-xxhfw/s1600/36654581_10216891595862930_1134669547161255936_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="671" data-original-width="895" height="478" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimkQvdgzscQvaY8O9OXsbFQUZbMqeJkoDyiWP0OWBLuFYvpcWHF3puNM24zoHJqo56VD8V94GRYL7VrYSjtASg4qbcMOmY4vSsu4UInwR4mQZOiTFQ_UScUwskOuF12e-XKI558-xxhfw/s640/36654581_10216891595862930_1134669547161255936_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">view from our room was okay.</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbu6B8rBOByRCTy2NX1ZU3VE4Ua0b_URMkpx2w6cYZDpHUwXdEJIQRpztk3Stf9qJ0ou6b__7rwFBjHZZg-sZs50MyIsDYHav7owWPAoNq5n0UV9aLMWx2vRwk5AOX3N9MyXF3VNLViKc/s1600/36661717_10216891418098486_813058470436667392_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbu6B8rBOByRCTy2NX1ZU3VE4Ua0b_URMkpx2w6cYZDpHUwXdEJIQRpztk3Stf9qJ0ou6b__7rwFBjHZZg-sZs50MyIsDYHav7owWPAoNq5n0UV9aLMWx2vRwk5AOX3N9MyXF3VNLViKc/s640/36661717_10216891418098486_813058470436667392_n.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgx4nyj1cRO91HA3lJeejSKeV8tnrLqkxVvA0keLeIi62KurqxHWZke6bzTHyBTZQ43jOpy1U92pN0auip9ux2E6CUakx6Kp3YDvlSX-rpDXN75YR54lpGY_i98qHlV-JB_ekUjWAc7HiU/s1600/36665252_10216891617583473_553330519463428096_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgx4nyj1cRO91HA3lJeejSKeV8tnrLqkxVvA0keLeIi62KurqxHWZke6bzTHyBTZQ43jOpy1U92pN0auip9ux2E6CUakx6Kp3YDvlSX-rpDXN75YR54lpGY_i98qHlV-JB_ekUjWAc7HiU/s640/36665252_10216891617583473_553330519463428096_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">heading to the airport to go home. daddy covered in kids.</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioulnpsk_Bfdr9Czq7mF1TDsYKE6KKKgMKq6bj5jGtyIAK-SaZpzFrgQWZQxUA4_XI_OIFkostgrX2Zv6rV6owslAHRN34R06bG_7VLkeTcI7vLZPO1hL-wUsnT1RSVNvsZGmtMq2gOf8/s1600/36665795_10216891387097711_8240517845461499904_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioulnpsk_Bfdr9Czq7mF1TDsYKE6KKKgMKq6bj5jGtyIAK-SaZpzFrgQWZQxUA4_XI_OIFkostgrX2Zv6rV6owslAHRN34R06bG_7VLkeTcI7vLZPO1hL-wUsnT1RSVNvsZGmtMq2gOf8/s640/36665795_10216891387097711_8240517845461499904_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie2_jLLpDiEdoptuMG1IDofiSkJPLwWZhcRCRBTk_aVpzVJYZFnyGy-6lkenkL-VjmismqYHcqBuCrhHE3os69YRWIb06TUCURnHPXbmuoJWakntXV-LTRjftKEanGjHXtvEJpyD38BDY/s1600/36667475_10216891594182888_5908536721846304768_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="721" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie2_jLLpDiEdoptuMG1IDofiSkJPLwWZhcRCRBTk_aVpzVJYZFnyGy-6lkenkL-VjmismqYHcqBuCrhHE3os69YRWIb06TUCURnHPXbmuoJWakntXV-LTRjftKEanGjHXtvEJpyD38BDY/s640/36667475_10216891594182888_5908536721846304768_n.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">the cutest little date crasher.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6ckBU70SORezRNCc64m5d5E6iOSBxvDcyRqpQuClhT98qu9HakLqvWoN-IAo9Wq8A4x-2my7CM8G7obbJDFM2syvRsYQJ0od6EtzDRhWr8VGM0hyphenhyphenKZ3nyOHvFAkICO6OG89WXnJdaxIk/s1600/36681167_10216891411298316_3219320920292196352_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6ckBU70SORezRNCc64m5d5E6iOSBxvDcyRqpQuClhT98qu9HakLqvWoN-IAo9Wq8A4x-2my7CM8G7obbJDFM2syvRsYQJ0od6EtzDRhWr8VGM0hyphenhyphenKZ3nyOHvFAkICO6OG89WXnJdaxIk/s640/36681167_10216891411298316_3219320920292196352_n.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">we love each other.</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3bxQ_yDTAHOOP92lJln6h6wnFq8irKAf19RZioh0tQuZYyxn-TQ4d2H4G9VxfCirACl1gZcB5iY8Pvyw5Z1yY65DjcuaG9KsHoEWHdegR-LUOt7gIvBasZl5ZQY2U0nDwlImmbkl4K0w/s1600/36696347_10216891415378418_1632163902638784512_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3bxQ_yDTAHOOP92lJln6h6wnFq8irKAf19RZioh0tQuZYyxn-TQ4d2H4G9VxfCirACl1gZcB5iY8Pvyw5Z1yY65DjcuaG9KsHoEWHdegR-LUOt7gIvBasZl5ZQY2U0nDwlImmbkl4K0w/s640/36696347_10216891415378418_1632163902638784512_n.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPybChS3p8WLyuUfCyUbcmpejfGrNcvz312Dfmx7-XpeJY-xmNbBxrPlBhqEXB2r_LpcoVfIEVSfkupsdDZ2HnTrgxZYHEoALNQMu0ggHWsxdOrRdt_WmbnnkvBD6ADfee9E7oLYRVs28/s1600/36712072_10216891416698451_5178694088878194688_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPybChS3p8WLyuUfCyUbcmpejfGrNcvz312Dfmx7-XpeJY-xmNbBxrPlBhqEXB2r_LpcoVfIEVSfkupsdDZ2HnTrgxZYHEoALNQMu0ggHWsxdOrRdt_WmbnnkvBD6ADfee9E7oLYRVs28/s640/36712072_10216891416698451_5178694088878194688_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">love this plant-filled walkway in el jadida.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">sorry, but not sorry, for all the sunset pics. </td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Overall, I loved our week in Morocco. It was a much-needed time of rest for all of us. </span></div>
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Gretahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13678221019546045834noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7542153512214952651.post-91019948587999942062018-06-11T04:00:00.003-04:002018-06-11T04:00:34.422-04:00expat life : the truths about the first four months.I'd love to write this post about how moving to a brand new country across the ocean has been pretty dang glorious. How these first four months have opened my eyes to new cultural experiences and I've met tons of new friends and explored all of Amsterdam! I wish I could tell you how glamorous it has been! People keep telling me my photographs on Instagram look like it is "so amazing" here and that we're "adjusting well" and are "living the life." Therefore, I'm faced with the fact that even well-meaning social media posts can warp reality.<br />
<br />
I'd also like to believe this blog is about truth. So, let me write the truths for you, friends! The beautiful truths <i>and</i> the hard truths about our first four months as ex-pats...<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Let's begin with the hard. </span><br />
<br />
In February I started off super <b>brave</b> (my 'word for the year') and cast aside all my fears and moved here to the Netherlands, with Hubby and three little kiddos. We lived in temporary hotel housing until our belongings arrived several weeks later on a ship and were delivered to our rental home. The kids started a brand new school during that time, Finola's first time doing full-day. It was exciting to ditch our huge 'Merican SUV and navigate the public transportation, stare out of our high-rise apartment at the Amsterdam skyline and sunrises, walk through the parks and get mauled by overly aggressive pigeons. It all felt so cool and new!<br />
<br />
Then we moved into our new house, a rental in the 'burbs.<br />
Surrounded by boxes and blank walls, reality set in.<br />
<br />
<i>Welcome to starting your life over! This isn't a vacation - this is your new normal. (PS There is no family or friends around to help. And your baby is teething like whoa and waking up every two hours.)</i><br />
<br />
Immediately upon moving in we all got the flu. Bad. As in I personally was more sick than I'd been since childhood. I lost eight pounds (of baby weight, mind you...so I wasn't wasting away) and didn't leave our house at all for two weeks. Five days of it Paul was in China on business and I was alone with the kids, in a depressed fog, trying to stay afloat in all areas of life while battling that virus. The worst.<br />
<br />
Finally the fog lifted and I set about trying to get our house in order and feeling like home. We had chosen a fine rental house with plenty of space in a quiet, family-friendly neighborhood. But I soon started to miss our beautiful Victorian back in Kentucky. Lots. (Right now three bachelors are living in it and enjoying all our renovations. I think about it and die a bit inside. Okay, I'm being dramatic...but also kinda truthful.) <br />
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There was a lot of thought put into our renovation...and time spent. Maybe too much? I believe God wanted us away from that for a while. <br />
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Yes, this move has made me question all aspects of life. I have had moments of extreme loneliness., missing friends and relatives. I have had moments of feeling isolated and without purpose. I will flip-flop between confidence and shyness, bravery and fear. There are days of anger and wondering God's purpose in bringing us here -- and then other days the "why" is so obvious it is shocking.<br />
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I really do believe He has perfect timing, and from what I can tell this experience is meant to be both enriching and utterly humbling for me. To grow us as a family and in our marriage. To stretch us. To show us what is important. To open our eyes to that which we took for granted.<br />
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We have had plenty of stressful moments where I have literally said, in tears, "I don't think I can stay here. It is too hard." Then the next day I look out at the canals, or I take a run by the flower farms, or I get a text from a new friend, and I think, <i>Maybe I'll make it through this after all. </i><br />
<br />
I think many ex-pats experience the same thing -- a hard first few months. All of a sudden all you have is each other. Which is so beautiful...and humbling. And sometimes painfully hard.<br />
<br />
Then you grow, and adjust, and begin to adapt to your new home. Your heart opens enough to start breathing fully again and enjoying things. And that is where I am at in this moment, four months in - finally breathing normally again.<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Okay, so now let's talk about the beautiful truths, because there have been plenty of those, too! </span><br />
<ul>
<li>Riding a bike again for the first time since eighth grade! I love, love, love cruising around on our bikes, both solo and as a family! Paul and I have gone on several dates biking around to different locales and it was the most exhilarated I've felt in years! I seriously feel like a kid again every time I am on my bike, zooming along the bike paths with the wind whipping through my hair. We even biked to church on Sunday! It's my favorite thing.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>We've been able to travel as a family to Paris and Morocco. Both trips were so different and complete treasures. Paul and I have traveled internationally together before, and I've no doubt our romantic getaways would have continued. But without this move I honestly don't think I'd have taken on Paris with three littles, or Morocco with a tiny baby. (That's a hard no, honestly.) Definitely looking forward to more family adventures here! </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>I started running consistently again! It is so nice running along the road beside beautiful canals, farms and fields. Currently looking for a half marathon to register for, as I honestly believe being registered for a race is mental health necessity for me. 100% serious. </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>The kids go to an awesome international school, have made some friends, and are adjusting just just fine. Cormac does, however, miss all the rules and order of Catholic school. (Not kidding.) Finola, on the other hand, is thriving in the more Montessori-style of classroom. </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Whitman is growing like a little weed, sprouting teeth, crawling to everything he shouldn't, yelling loudly to get attention, making giant messes and all with a sweet grin that will make you forgive him in a heartbeat. He might be my loudest and most persistent child yet. God help us.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>The weather has been lovely! Springtime here, which may be an anomaly, has been warm and sunny and breezy. </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>We live within an hour of the sea! You don't know how good this is for my soul. I've gone twice, and can't wait to visit more beachy spots this summer!</li>
</ul>
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A lot to be thankful for, amidst the tough stuff and the heart work.</div>
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So I'll grow with the hard, and cling to the beautiful.<br />
<br />
+ + + + + + + + +<br />
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Some random moments from our first four months...<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9ZD2dz0-WT9pZQSuKCEDHF2QOlFw_FNjPhd72u_lZQqJI366Y9_GApUR3XUvAW9Lp0MPI3fbyswCIywIg8rdsbjOiato5No5WDNBFfU-aWYXeOWcleWAcckmhTMuna4nzEOMVIDMZy0w/s1600/34555632_10216676207678360_2870943620263837696_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9ZD2dz0-WT9pZQSuKCEDHF2QOlFw_FNjPhd72u_lZQqJI366Y9_GApUR3XUvAW9Lp0MPI3fbyswCIywIg8rdsbjOiato5No5WDNBFfU-aWYXeOWcleWAcckmhTMuna4nzEOMVIDMZy0w/s640/34555632_10216676207678360_2870943620263837696_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;">bikes + canals forever and ever.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;">Riding the metro with Whit right after we arrived. It was February and very, very cold + windy.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQdSmRkrg0VTAIM7dkE8R98-aVCsHdJnpfVLeVaVZa-c934k_sbdhjFdbaGMrNJPaAb9XloWxV28XAQJO2mQHrMslNO_PAxRditC0zpRYmCAqiBdYDr5NLgr6qi4xg54M6rAQyb6HdnMw/s1600/IMG_5553.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1278" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQdSmRkrg0VTAIM7dkE8R98-aVCsHdJnpfVLeVaVZa-c934k_sbdhjFdbaGMrNJPaAb9XloWxV28XAQJO2mQHrMslNO_PAxRditC0zpRYmCAqiBdYDr5NLgr6qi4xg54M6rAQyb6HdnMw/s640/IMG_5553.JPG" width="360" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;">our temporary high-rise view in the land of tulips. sunset and sunrise every day.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihl2dHkmbuAv3CeAlpnirQvtxQayULyz_6cKGF8n0Svx0LD4WqsaVuETkOvnCH4Sr3DRpmBVBomiU7cRhaOo0_xcC8kboM2Tc1kf94qlyA7a4T-fmFGdO5UhIHQRh4FyCE2fvyVHBBg3Q/s1600/IMG_5483+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="640" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihl2dHkmbuAv3CeAlpnirQvtxQayULyz_6cKGF8n0Svx0LD4WqsaVuETkOvnCH4Sr3DRpmBVBomiU7cRhaOo0_xcC8kboM2Tc1kf94qlyA7a4T-fmFGdO5UhIHQRh4FyCE2fvyVHBBg3Q/s640/IMG_5483+2.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;">the new house. notice the creepy fingers in the mail slot.</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqvy48oJ2b8piYYDI_pnKDwFuqFU-dBh9w_C5S4Foem-pp8u4z00kEoZ5bhGQfJAU0nOrgIRD2zDkMEyMcDYbTTiu5obqaYChxxk-Z3PWvth57sIasp2RLFmUJgQ132ZbUVtsy1SqLT3I/s1600/IMG_5730.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqvy48oJ2b8piYYDI_pnKDwFuqFU-dBh9w_C5S4Foem-pp8u4z00kEoZ5bhGQfJAU0nOrgIRD2zDkMEyMcDYbTTiu5obqaYChxxk-Z3PWvth57sIasp2RLFmUJgQ132ZbUVtsy1SqLT3I/s640/IMG_5730.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;">After the movers first delivered our stuff to the new place. we are still getting settled even after four months.</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTsgV2NcJ3MBLaHDX-y1WMLvTRWEK1umheCt49nu3k7kZNLXvJD98CmpnMuTKI11sy1aVcnlNZrYTFjJcs2QrxCpLb_ffxI8ntK06mqYoYTocHwalFmw9o_qJz-VOEgE6PwkdO5v3VNjY/s1600/34559851_10216676111235949_5769562643983499264_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTsgV2NcJ3MBLaHDX-y1WMLvTRWEK1umheCt49nu3k7kZNLXvJD98CmpnMuTKI11sy1aVcnlNZrYTFjJcs2QrxCpLb_ffxI8ntK06mqYoYTocHwalFmw9o_qJz-VOEgE6PwkdO5v3VNjY/s640/34559851_10216676111235949_5769562643983499264_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">on one of our many, many stroller walks to the grocery store - before I was brave enough to drive a car!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA0epLJkHItHhnrBOO9c_wv0nROLIM6LtQDVCiQVGBzu7JqtlnaLguJhmPAn5svWPkEzSE2zzZeUMedDd4cefQRP2CjhQdOfvTkem6N94C1vRXjihgUsiwJJ1ooF-GEaSqJIqnjdGBC94/s1600/34476844_10216676323161247_138424343523753984_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA0epLJkHItHhnrBOO9c_wv0nROLIM6LtQDVCiQVGBzu7JqtlnaLguJhmPAn5svWPkEzSE2zzZeUMedDd4cefQRP2CjhQdOfvTkem6N94C1vRXjihgUsiwJJ1ooF-GEaSqJIqnjdGBC94/s640/34476844_10216676323161247_138424343523753984_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">the metro stop near our house goes all the way to centraal station! </td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcx4G1pyOzqLPcBqY5VYHyBpE-UzfQJiIEfv9n5MfrdHKVRF3BE2Zu1z5XXpaJMqmXPBSukBZUzc0oU-FPg_kmUNAzIWS1HXvlwTeEyJQfq38XA_DnhQVa9oV8Df0RENZij6rP8PqnMZA/s1600/34534746_10216676322081220_2249046082518515712_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="721" data-original-width="960" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcx4G1pyOzqLPcBqY5VYHyBpE-UzfQJiIEfv9n5MfrdHKVRF3BE2Zu1z5XXpaJMqmXPBSukBZUzc0oU-FPg_kmUNAzIWS1HXvlwTeEyJQfq38XA_DnhQVa9oV8Df0RENZij6rP8PqnMZA/s640/34534746_10216676322081220_2249046082518515712_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This date night back in late March has been our only venture to the actual city center, thus far. #reality</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5gbtNjkQejSpTbeZTyj-Lz4NGojd9XhfHNo0rZYN9mbnIVdXdAFTJ9pqodyHu3gK8OwIaLMvaPurA_i1039TbjwPQOLiLxb3EfTcsRP3aucgzQTKPMwYzzlb_ROtq9mNd_c5QLSXdEG0/s1600/34581748_10216676326361327_1379789064525316096_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="768" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5gbtNjkQejSpTbeZTyj-Lz4NGojd9XhfHNo0rZYN9mbnIVdXdAFTJ9pqodyHu3gK8OwIaLMvaPurA_i1039TbjwPQOLiLxb3EfTcsRP3aucgzQTKPMwYzzlb_ROtq9mNd_c5QLSXdEG0/s640/34581748_10216676326361327_1379789064525316096_n.jpg" width="512" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">red light district - post-flu. I remember how sick I had been just looking at this pic.</td></tr>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTtu8d7QRrXpudDkevqUbw97ezCDWTsRrdT6D3h4zKMcQAFiHmSqw9bIbgqQZEQRbd-sRH8k0tRvl7tZrewFy5LYG8cpGcPT2XDvw839kTTgCbFGzPBRmAbnpDopj6mVUrSpAU0N1Z8OY/s1600/34483247_10216676326001318_3783348042921410560_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTtu8d7QRrXpudDkevqUbw97ezCDWTsRrdT6D3h4zKMcQAFiHmSqw9bIbgqQZEQRbd-sRH8k0tRvl7tZrewFy5LYG8cpGcPT2XDvw839kTTgCbFGzPBRmAbnpDopj6mVUrSpAU0N1Z8OY/s640/34483247_10216676326001318_3783348042921410560_n.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyq1oAYAZ5vVs-0lB3KBm58QYWZqN-HWNnfsU0nE_OLwFL4rqyjTDGkgsC0Hs2xB6SlLTAbuxn20rsn9Kmy1xLNJuptxygFxl3uDE02WThWg3WShzSLoOQ1qIcpM4Z-0j26_bAD0r0fvo/s1600/34687007_10216676321681210_2718015326800314368_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="541" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyq1oAYAZ5vVs-0lB3KBm58QYWZqN-HWNnfsU0nE_OLwFL4rqyjTDGkgsC0Hs2xB6SlLTAbuxn20rsn9Kmy1xLNJuptxygFxl3uDE02WThWg3WShzSLoOQ1qIcpM4Z-0j26_bAD0r0fvo/s640/34687007_10216676321681210_2718015326800314368_n.jpg" width="360" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">ducked into a random sushi place during our rainy date night.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-BuJ96Fr0aqF9tTW4U15vmyahnD2r8JPAIJEtg1u8bhwJmMz_d7ansSThTAipVBSQSd_bSoN2H0wnSkYPFtNUSwkR1wGUQr6Pd5ENJr4SCsFWd5xp0z5X_UXciR1vZPunD9nDDCP3LtE/s1600/IMG_7405.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-BuJ96Fr0aqF9tTW4U15vmyahnD2r8JPAIJEtg1u8bhwJmMz_d7ansSThTAipVBSQSd_bSoN2H0wnSkYPFtNUSwkR1wGUQr6Pd5ENJr4SCsFWd5xp0z5X_UXciR1vZPunD9nDDCP3LtE/s640/IMG_7405.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">a walk in the nearby forest in early spring.</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg30NgRs2pSb5oCnkNpcJLFTvC62R2j52CVkZ2Dae8p_S27AnMAjxzizqXnAolcgAS7c4kNuNLs0W0NQWD5FEkASoaoZzxEmboescCGMa2sHFeKyxGTzZrlKiznfzg2bZS52wW7IZCvpBA/s1600/34557766_10216676110075920_3653245911498227712_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg30NgRs2pSb5oCnkNpcJLFTvC62R2j52CVkZ2Dae8p_S27AnMAjxzizqXnAolcgAS7c4kNuNLs0W0NQWD5FEkASoaoZzxEmboescCGMa2sHFeKyxGTzZrlKiznfzg2bZS52wW7IZCvpBA/s640/34557766_10216676110075920_3653245911498227712_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;">I'm still trying to decorate our quirky home built in the 1970s. </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPMa1XmWCPIxi_lNfSYqczGMGYM5ldhrnmMA93Qj3rJJ9RIgZr1Z7Gt2a9ZR5S7x0NS_VBqeSeGGQRj0D091GwcD5rZrOH6vxA_q72f9NLKN9UOej5hjTqyMg_q9EtS8pwS2zQA1z4w54/s1600/34606716_10216676205518306_3871117460551761920_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPMa1XmWCPIxi_lNfSYqczGMGYM5ldhrnmMA93Qj3rJJ9RIgZr1Z7Gt2a9ZR5S7x0NS_VBqeSeGGQRj0D091GwcD5rZrOH6vxA_q72f9NLKN9UOej5hjTqyMg_q9EtS8pwS2zQA1z4w54/s640/34606716_10216676205518306_3871117460551761920_n.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;">Twice a week I pick the kids up from school and we all ride the Metro home. We are quite a crew!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYvSFog0QkQ3zMtjxrTBgIzVZU4XR-Dv-6hRWQHOl-PDroWoi7MQNV5__atZsKgLb778z9yqInqWreWzTAt1EHoIXbT9UHZjc7z7Dtyp9zGQKUctZIGRJiceRfqG_9h1ywfGzqir_egVs/s1600/34787955_10216703617483588_586253604155817984_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="541" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYvSFog0QkQ3zMtjxrTBgIzVZU4XR-Dv-6hRWQHOl-PDroWoi7MQNV5__atZsKgLb778z9yqInqWreWzTAt1EHoIXbT9UHZjc7z7Dtyp9zGQKUctZIGRJiceRfqG_9h1ywfGzqir_egVs/s640/34787955_10216703617483588_586253604155817984_n.jpg" width="360" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dutch beach vibes.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr8aGSYink567Om-oqkdwOJEN7rzeFp3g3seiZMrNlJiO30fOPCY21vPm0gxA_JzyZMwbXzIefkE7W8vuvRWxXslgRwmwM_kP48kFG-W4Od-PKeEKpXeESVSePk2D6WIHUoq8ympFccTo/s1600/34791789_10216703613683493_5211395432999026688_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr8aGSYink567Om-oqkdwOJEN7rzeFp3g3seiZMrNlJiO30fOPCY21vPm0gxA_JzyZMwbXzIefkE7W8vuvRWxXslgRwmwM_kP48kFG-W4Od-PKeEKpXeESVSePk2D6WIHUoq8ympFccTo/s640/34791789_10216703613683493_5211395432999026688_n.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Enjoying a tapas fest in Amsterdam on Mother's Day. </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmYKVMh_2KGCNLmMA8hvWiV0Sejl0I7HEyt1XQLUXEsGtdw_ICeqTnVrP73e5xkbzgj2oKkiabnPmc734fHWJPxu3_ACGw8uUui2mAGF68-ssuFnly-QRxILCxj7UUNBdR3sAbSGh5KNs/s1600/34795297_10216703616283558_1944440331801985024_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmYKVMh_2KGCNLmMA8hvWiV0Sejl0I7HEyt1XQLUXEsGtdw_ICeqTnVrP73e5xkbzgj2oKkiabnPmc734fHWJPxu3_ACGw8uUui2mAGF68-ssuFnly-QRxILCxj7UUNBdR3sAbSGh5KNs/s640/34795297_10216703616283558_1944440331801985024_n.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Brothers on a beach day!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvqD2OwFDpnjGN2ZNxETveFLnB0tLV6bmkOic_sQJpJf3jopzg5DfdZajjUfaQvhiEOdVyxsAX-MMFxoyJsZgZdEoL8rTIZAWkQQrx12TmRt9mPq3EnGkWgnDjJQAd_Q8VFKLC3cwb8vs/s1600/34812984_10216703616323559_1810961449846046720_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvqD2OwFDpnjGN2ZNxETveFLnB0tLV6bmkOic_sQJpJf3jopzg5DfdZajjUfaQvhiEOdVyxsAX-MMFxoyJsZgZdEoL8rTIZAWkQQrx12TmRt9mPq3EnGkWgnDjJQAd_Q8VFKLC3cwb8vs/s640/34812984_10216703616323559_1810961449846046720_n.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">hanging out on the grassy knoll with some neighbor friends.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjclrepdfwIsb3w9I4ghAAYEmqImWaYTpgeIfxTWYtj64Z8TLWuJfH_9_SFxCFJknsx53JFUdmtl_6dPpxUQTiQJE8Y3WJYZ8gTJrtEMb0UMp91vqfC6mQkPHlzXlKjBFLDb2Pq6qvG7DM/s1600/34827320_10216703647524339_6727765754617266176_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjclrepdfwIsb3w9I4ghAAYEmqImWaYTpgeIfxTWYtj64Z8TLWuJfH_9_SFxCFJknsx53JFUdmtl_6dPpxUQTiQJE8Y3WJYZ8gTJrtEMb0UMp91vqfC6mQkPHlzXlKjBFLDb2Pq6qvG7DM/s640/34827320_10216703647524339_6727765754617266176_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">beautiful spring canals.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3-10TwEpRfXw34eI7_kmzp5uDT_BgwmcOUmLvaUbIi-aQ2gF8594ASmY6ssi1IANqoNOAJs1UiSfVvD9z5D12aFRYt_Zh4jdvSlG7OZisFjCelMqggGQhFIjrht2pjhP-PQPWntwgH0g/s1600/34845825_10216703646004301_7634016403967705088_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3-10TwEpRfXw34eI7_kmzp5uDT_BgwmcOUmLvaUbIi-aQ2gF8594ASmY6ssi1IANqoNOAJs1UiSfVvD9z5D12aFRYt_Zh4jdvSlG7OZisFjCelMqggGQhFIjrht2pjhP-PQPWntwgH0g/s640/34845825_10216703646004301_7634016403967705088_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Celebrated our very first 'King's Day'</td></tr>
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<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGW5RnSUsCTWnbk9oUVZZDUx4aXYu72JRsOsxerEGaZOQEFH2hjPUekAoij0BetY92cPUVMaOwN_xpBp77Q439cXPn0W_lEhBP1IM5fb6tZZAlmOiRDoEbm7vUzyPEN-sQ_uxIPhLqpm4/s1600/34859936_10216703645884298_6264714133455765504_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGW5RnSUsCTWnbk9oUVZZDUx4aXYu72JRsOsxerEGaZOQEFH2hjPUekAoij0BetY92cPUVMaOwN_xpBp77Q439cXPn0W_lEhBP1IM5fb6tZZAlmOiRDoEbm7vUzyPEN-sQ_uxIPhLqpm4/s640/34859936_10216703645884298_6264714133455765504_n.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;">Whit hanging on King's Day at the home of some new friends! </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHSs0P5_SlHvWJWCWNAcj3UQCIjN48XtesLXW1uW4WU8ALQuZBR1fVFP_J9vBnqWf0C3HbZ5kIO8z7ZcKgUOsoz44G1ycYuE0_dZP1xm8D9iDj56iMoXKplMPwcQrpEehptPVJ2EtC2ac/s1600/34848975_10216703647484338_7684841526530146304_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHSs0P5_SlHvWJWCWNAcj3UQCIjN48XtesLXW1uW4WU8ALQuZBR1fVFP_J9vBnqWf0C3HbZ5kIO8z7ZcKgUOsoz44G1ycYuE0_dZP1xm8D9iDj56iMoXKplMPwcQrpEehptPVJ2EtC2ac/s640/34848975_10216703647484338_7684841526530146304_n.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I never tire of the wildflowers in our 'hood.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSziO_nminMHW3Hial01X6u8_Ste5mmu6S-VPS1Fs6aKg2-G1SeKnjhKvnmvSvyx_8FlJp9EgVmWD3Cdz5hpDUWwvHAnze7HGHytTKXAIlRszruleJkH5RR2cOlVTyctA9U1LRtRxyPnI/s640/34864516_10216703644124254_1446860893022322688_n.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="480" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Finola getting artsy at school. One of her art teachers is our landlord and she sends me pics! </td></tr>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSziO_nminMHW3Hial01X6u8_Ste5mmu6S-VPS1Fs6aKg2-G1SeKnjhKvnmvSvyx_8FlJp9EgVmWD3Cdz5hpDUWwvHAnze7HGHytTKXAIlRszruleJkH5RR2cOlVTyctA9U1LRtRxyPnI/s1600/34864516_10216703644124254_1446860893022322688_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><br /></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSziO_nminMHW3Hial01X6u8_Ste5mmu6S-VPS1Fs6aKg2-G1SeKnjhKvnmvSvyx_8FlJp9EgVmWD3Cdz5hpDUWwvHAnze7HGHytTKXAIlRszruleJkH5RR2cOlVTyctA9U1LRtRxyPnI/s1600/34864516_10216703644124254_1446860893022322688_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><br />
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<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs6zRb1XpO_nL2ifJvHwNjTGpsVGlnuu1xHfZ4bbU1okWl2hSa8u0na8UQBWI95CgYjkVDFj9OoE-saZpQoWAmBkE9JZOXF0o5oPz5a_xpqbl84Ekrb1nWG_7Lus1TOHJ485Kq229Ft50/s1600/34484892_10216676323201248_958764518693928960_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs6zRb1XpO_nL2ifJvHwNjTGpsVGlnuu1xHfZ4bbU1okWl2hSa8u0na8UQBWI95CgYjkVDFj9OoE-saZpQoWAmBkE9JZOXF0o5oPz5a_xpqbl84Ekrb1nWG_7Lus1TOHJ485Kq229Ft50/s640/34484892_10216676323201248_958764518693928960_n.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;">Proud of his artwork at school.</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUdXghzhLRnJ-38q2Fr_HBK8PbbhknAGwlFRymvRMBb51WZDc3zWeihDZKk8CNYg2hUyZIqd_EIP_SW0HNzAeZtJHYvrF2rTy73arMqZidQtOScOLOaPq3qwn6udF9iIbaFks65c9W7uU/s1600/34849144_10216703616203556_858964747343626240_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUdXghzhLRnJ-38q2Fr_HBK8PbbhknAGwlFRymvRMBb51WZDc3zWeihDZKk8CNYg2hUyZIqd_EIP_SW0HNzAeZtJHYvrF2rTy73arMqZidQtOScOLOaPq3qwn6udF9iIbaFks65c9W7uU/s640/34849144_10216703616203556_858964747343626240_n.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">a windmill on our drive to the seaside.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDomd4WF7tczIG723bgguQuVfJ2IDMj1RdbYrKe6yqwMaNNF3c3e0CrfwkjIC2i_XRGHzdkve16aOwogHWk-g3FH7UMS1KC_4OdS0xgXvryH69kYK30QclJgqNfL0LQeKwq0BGnYRDFOQ/s1600/34855629_10216703614923524_8223303985906319360_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDomd4WF7tczIG723bgguQuVfJ2IDMj1RdbYrKe6yqwMaNNF3c3e0CrfwkjIC2i_XRGHzdkve16aOwogHWk-g3FH7UMS1KC_4OdS0xgXvryH69kYK30QclJgqNfL0LQeKwq0BGnYRDFOQ/s640/34855629_10216703614923524_8223303985906319360_n.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">red poppies at the metro stop near our house. </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="541" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHtdXJmc08rkTjc4hTMOpWbSDc7CgGGzewqliBV-fGTB2n1yvrs7xTd16HLdN2Xe_j4su0xEm7A7MHG9zzYxWYGecv-PitScenPrc0FwtPJ1B5Tdz9NjqH-neGQcnZ3_NKexoTjq4XwH8/s640/34857449_10216703641524189_5540495906190655488_n.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="360" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">IKEA with the three kids is an adventure in itself!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDNrzXty9qfizaYNe9ApzxF7u7FsSILs3hSGpATsfHR74p85DSk-MwioODYVKczN7vxs91QrxyK-crJGy3PnvhbTCwkPDS-0bxWDd7r0C1ddYdAc5LXFzP7xoghyphenhyphenrbdt9ubxtTgwJdWE0/s1600/34862141_10216703617603591_1819079230093262848_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDNrzXty9qfizaYNe9ApzxF7u7FsSILs3hSGpATsfHR74p85DSk-MwioODYVKczN7vxs91QrxyK-crJGy3PnvhbTCwkPDS-0bxWDd7r0C1ddYdAc5LXFzP7xoghyphenhyphenrbdt9ubxtTgwJdWE0/s640/34862141_10216703617603591_1819079230093262848_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cormac and his unending search for shells.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho-E5xA3knQgjjJebgUsZCujDsw0LMOKSp1IhOe18O8sf7IHmmbg862hFSnySOYtLhEvitkv4LMZAvkN87SV9_dFgOr-nqzIFiNgDxk-pYbpIoBzKyomRtKBk2_TdEbEvfk0_62eiFGIs/s1600/34863380_10216703641604191_6522134707738509312_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho-E5xA3knQgjjJebgUsZCujDsw0LMOKSp1IhOe18O8sf7IHmmbg862hFSnySOYtLhEvitkv4LMZAvkN87SV9_dFgOr-nqzIFiNgDxk-pYbpIoBzKyomRtKBk2_TdEbEvfk0_62eiFGIs/s640/34863380_10216703641604191_6522134707738509312_n.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">winter on the metro.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTOAL6HOGZINelgVlEU8c-TegeFcBpYUZGKLesnNdoRFw_hClxEEjuHi83UyUqFk5LGwXVqH8J-PxKnRfKESe-qqElTilvfrIzWy3w8jjGyNZLlp9fsJUnzHIemf00fEtqolTdHVAmARI/s1600/34872852_10216703613723494_6707119516112912384_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTOAL6HOGZINelgVlEU8c-TegeFcBpYUZGKLesnNdoRFw_hClxEEjuHi83UyUqFk5LGwXVqH8J-PxKnRfKESe-qqElTilvfrIzWy3w8jjGyNZLlp9fsJUnzHIemf00fEtqolTdHVAmARI/s640/34872852_10216703613723494_6707119516112912384_n.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">at one of the many parks near our house. playground and duck pond around every corner.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkgQE7nouEr6o7gWwMvEDNpvgBsIEQuo-PtQi7v9WhOXF5r-UuSQVums3OQh3iD9NWVMKhrvzpckV9TnkjmBLQ0IyiDivAAb5gfv1OpAtlMfiScvdP5eX7Fs4PUZj7yihu9maeqJ-XNJU/s1600/35058298_10216703617563590_4371297600813400064_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkgQE7nouEr6o7gWwMvEDNpvgBsIEQuo-PtQi7v9WhOXF5r-UuSQVums3OQh3iD9NWVMKhrvzpckV9TnkjmBLQ0IyiDivAAb5gfv1OpAtlMfiScvdP5eX7Fs4PUZj7yihu9maeqJ-XNJU/s640/35058298_10216703617563590_4371297600813400064_n.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">After four months, the blondies are adjusting, too - and dare I say, thriving.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFJTUW5rAo93fH6RkCyhi-SnqKXA_7FJQKNJOZ4mbEJxjyvMU9A1741YJdkkvaelzIhiyMzRd7LAoKP5WdTsQWLzRr6gcQ4wCNQlF-RUWmnDd7vcJox9MjZmyJTboGNU25jzvVcq8ORNQ/s1600/34880781_10216703644284258_3831819355901919232_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFJTUW5rAo93fH6RkCyhi-SnqKXA_7FJQKNJOZ4mbEJxjyvMU9A1741YJdkkvaelzIhiyMzRd7LAoKP5WdTsQWLzRr6gcQ4wCNQlF-RUWmnDd7vcJox9MjZmyJTboGNU25jzvVcq8ORNQ/s640/34880781_10216703644284258_3831819355901919232_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">we have experienced a LOT of wiggly teeth, sprouting teeth and losing teeth since our arrival here.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5NHvkn7uu2LIjtXwiBYWAn50LTSNdReEyCnP0eFGf3zu7Zz5XTsc3pE-RJSHCPoHjRRreQIiJnu1PCD2nILn2jc0R7m5O7iJFFFB7gSwE8hdU3mq1eukBwQfmIVET8arMXXovJCNYa6Y/s1600/34919508_10216703647284333_6113376730238418944_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5NHvkn7uu2LIjtXwiBYWAn50LTSNdReEyCnP0eFGf3zu7Zz5XTsc3pE-RJSHCPoHjRRreQIiJnu1PCD2nILn2jc0R7m5O7iJFFFB7gSwE8hdU3mq1eukBwQfmIVET8arMXXovJCNYa6Y/s640/34919508_10216703647284333_6113376730238418944_n.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Finola and I found our new date spot (to replace Target.) Hello Hema! </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_YaSj5-Lu-eXd9rTxDhVndgBvzL2wJ04AuxrVZbcTMZsDEakQfRmmw8gwLbkl7HHiDmaWjQtjHUTSLkPcEEcA-uLWCVWgZVjA38Sg5gHYYOjW9piGHWxdKNFWh3KEctSOu1nFnwqj1Lc/s1600/35051067_10216703647444337_3027129191154843648_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_YaSj5-Lu-eXd9rTxDhVndgBvzL2wJ04AuxrVZbcTMZsDEakQfRmmw8gwLbkl7HHiDmaWjQtjHUTSLkPcEEcA-uLWCVWgZVjA38Sg5gHYYOjW9piGHWxdKNFWh3KEctSOu1nFnwqj1Lc/s640/35051067_10216703647444337_3027129191154843648_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We eat a lot of sweets here. #coping #dutchlovesweets</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjziq3fSkbxv9gZchGPpQiD2cC_9_L3CjZGSAX8m2XPSap-0kBKerCtfUF7dSp2-AsS1UsSHqHAMrern2xYheQPK9MyYR-6WkYjThCf7uebzszc35h5fkDzCC17I_v0CgdO2zkgFr4ZVTY/s1600/34962450_10216703613803496_2466501475010871296_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjziq3fSkbxv9gZchGPpQiD2cC_9_L3CjZGSAX8m2XPSap-0kBKerCtfUF7dSp2-AsS1UsSHqHAMrern2xYheQPK9MyYR-6WkYjThCf7uebzszc35h5fkDzCC17I_v0CgdO2zkgFr4ZVTY/s640/34962450_10216703613803496_2466501475010871296_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We have embraced the bike life. Paul even takes all three at once! #superdad</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjLzwwLnnqatczrYNRCMqlY3umQd1OFNcS9ieiGE9YdhvDUtcFIRfHlnHzD4zbfaLvcQoRHmHjMsn33U-hOgW0q-p-YDknYluhhxM7RsXpbtY6cr8e02VGqdyNPgKTxLLhWZYD5o3fsZc/s1600/34963251_10216703617683593_6256661413373149184_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjLzwwLnnqatczrYNRCMqlY3umQd1OFNcS9ieiGE9YdhvDUtcFIRfHlnHzD4zbfaLvcQoRHmHjMsn33U-hOgW0q-p-YDknYluhhxM7RsXpbtY6cr8e02VGqdyNPgKTxLLhWZYD5o3fsZc/s640/34963251_10216703617683593_6256661413373149184_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">These two are now only one year apart in school instead of two. It is as fun and full of drama as you'd imagine.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJTdqxJDWfPh-sLpcBeglTHWKu8Vls4fI8ZhPNqXtmX3U4rQwoG20VsqN5l1KytSqBN09x9rlUq8epE4ZEhAL_p7_J05etBtHksByGT8HCbUfM43stU6-lFy321bLYBJT129KfqgSD4g4/s1600/34984895_10216703644444262_582986156245778432_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJTdqxJDWfPh-sLpcBeglTHWKu8Vls4fI8ZhPNqXtmX3U4rQwoG20VsqN5l1KytSqBN09x9rlUq8epE4ZEhAL_p7_J05etBtHksByGT8HCbUfM43stU6-lFy321bLYBJT129KfqgSD4g4/s640/34984895_10216703644444262_582986156245778432_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Family picnic at the Amsterdamse Bos (the forest). </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkL2TWPY7Et7nPu9T7rGS5tQDWbmwNoJmHp9BeUsmkVpGyslacldxyt20numKdLmyBAvDxOgHtfVcWItiySZFQEMRjCcauDLEZAmLvEmpOC8KU_KT6KVbTiB_051mki5rvGhuEeLZCPto/s1600/34984956_10216703616243557_3243879985672355840_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkL2TWPY7Et7nPu9T7rGS5tQDWbmwNoJmHp9BeUsmkVpGyslacldxyt20numKdLmyBAvDxOgHtfVcWItiySZFQEMRjCcauDLEZAmLvEmpOC8KU_KT6KVbTiB_051mki5rvGhuEeLZCPto/s640/34984956_10216703616243557_3243879985672355840_n.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mostly our lives are just everyday stuff like this, though.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4SuJSHsn6LeAbRTqNYFUinQcj66mIwYpVA_uiZUjPpVygq6anGZwlOoqQ0xOAmxoKqgK0LC5ZeLPFc10gNXhzjBoVyOq4FmkHR43b6oTLlDPRJCkhtKEmgq2sylPxM7WPiFO80Cl9g_E/s1600/35052231_10216703615123529_5629954203746041856_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4SuJSHsn6LeAbRTqNYFUinQcj66mIwYpVA_uiZUjPpVygq6anGZwlOoqQ0xOAmxoKqgK0LC5ZeLPFc10gNXhzjBoVyOq4FmkHR43b6oTLlDPRJCkhtKEmgq2sylPxM7WPiFO80Cl9g_E/s640/35052231_10216703615123529_5629954203746041856_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fresh flowers every week! My little splurge since moving here.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_stsv5pHBo3rrcu99a8a5KMCWApzNx1otzgR0sB-u1HNij4dkgO24IwPySngSuO2UQz992cBffMaTZLb3sQm3paSy0EbAxpGP9h-iI_FSQQDFjWCXX1zhcntcqX2tjtKasDCKuYFIcLM/s1600/35062477_10216703616163555_6598429969913741312_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="541" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_stsv5pHBo3rrcu99a8a5KMCWApzNx1otzgR0sB-u1HNij4dkgO24IwPySngSuO2UQz992cBffMaTZLb3sQm3paSy0EbAxpGP9h-iI_FSQQDFjWCXX1zhcntcqX2tjtKasDCKuYFIcLM/s640/35062477_10216703616163555_6598429969913741312_n.jpg" width="360" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yep, this kid is as happy as he seems in pics.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmPGXNc91FoI7A0_YY123vCVKnPNhG1w09Dxvfezm-sawNK1Se7VGPstnTRA6vb0G-OmOVfiOjIPdUbZAj-9i_dSPXduC5Q4maD52WNv3YrBZtfqdkaYV_yHMIwab6YmLJCRJWL2beces/s1600/35123965_10216703614883523_2570873531105542144_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmPGXNc91FoI7A0_YY123vCVKnPNhG1w09Dxvfezm-sawNK1Se7VGPstnTRA6vb0G-OmOVfiOjIPdUbZAj-9i_dSPXduC5Q4maD52WNv3YrBZtfqdkaYV_yHMIwab6YmLJCRJWL2beces/s640/35123965_10216703614883523_2570873531105542144_n.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Finola celebrating birthday #5 with her class at school!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoX1pHk2ytnkXKXHmYsSgnn0lfWKwbEp8RlrKyO90TedO04YQaYOhyrOsM44RtjBac2kCf-T13uTSS1WZrJUFKmPj2SDkpolde2BCfCyYEeBXK2nUz47zA2T7cPYJosSzXYsWud6gPXPQ/s1600/34888974_10216705960062151_8307768112669786112_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="540" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoX1pHk2ytnkXKXHmYsSgnn0lfWKwbEp8RlrKyO90TedO04YQaYOhyrOsM44RtjBac2kCf-T13uTSS1WZrJUFKmPj2SDkpolde2BCfCyYEeBXK2nUz47zA2T7cPYJosSzXYsWud6gPXPQ/s640/34888974_10216705960062151_8307768112669786112_n.jpg" width="360" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Date night on bikes! My favorite thing now.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkU4NSLYwjulJNmElHWrNj7-OaeBQbjoz9iqAPbaZgMM8b6TuvJFlS4j0jpP1oD3ZQDgA_qZsZofQmJA-aBEI324XWUtxPTy1ghqSqoWZUQ4IFMeV-JeEDRMYfRHa9L0W_eLCuRTEMfk0/s1600/35142996_10216703646044302_8544867671961763840_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkU4NSLYwjulJNmElHWrNj7-OaeBQbjoz9iqAPbaZgMM8b6TuvJFlS4j0jpP1oD3ZQDgA_qZsZofQmJA-aBEI324XWUtxPTy1ghqSqoWZUQ4IFMeV-JeEDRMYfRHa9L0W_eLCuRTEMfk0/s640/35142996_10216703646044302_8544867671961763840_n.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Walking trails along the neighborhood canals.</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjj0PjAjvkZa5N9KMZNTak2OVw5R39d_01wg9-k4pel8Jnvt2vC_3MoY8QBEbXLpyxOQjXatSVkEo33hbF3kpUf3x5JVqxsDDK9PqxsGQ4NsfZWmbGWh2qZNLCsRfmDg5GQjJ2zVE0hKJw/s1600/34963257_10216703615003526_3848169390159691776_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjj0PjAjvkZa5N9KMZNTak2OVw5R39d_01wg9-k4pel8Jnvt2vC_3MoY8QBEbXLpyxOQjXatSVkEo33hbF3kpUf3x5JVqxsDDK9PqxsGQ4NsfZWmbGWh2qZNLCsRfmDg5GQjJ2zVE0hKJw/s640/34963257_10216703615003526_3848169390159691776_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"Home is wherever I am with you."</td></tr>
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</div>
Gretahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13678221019546045834noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7542153512214952651.post-48271562702487847322018-05-11T09:44:00.001-04:002018-05-11T09:44:03.138-04:00how to enjoy paris - with three tiny children! <span style="font-size: large;">We decided to embark on our ex-pat adventure to the Netherlands for a few key reasons, with one being that we wanted to travel more around Europe and beyond!</span><br />
<br />
I sat talking with a mama at coffee when the kids first started school here. She was a seasoned ex-pat with several kiddos of her own, and she had that fabulous, confident aura of wisdom about her.<br />
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So I asked, "Where would you recommend we take our kids first for a long weekend?"<br />
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"Paris!" was her immediate response, and she started rattling off all the amazing things that are kid-friendly in the City of Love.<br />
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I listened a bit doubtfully. Paris? From what I remember on my high school German trip, it was kinda crazy, with a bunch of museums, masses of tourists, and crazy drivers. (Thankfully we were in a tour bus!) However, I had once told Finola, my almost five-year-old, that I would take her to the Eiffel Tower and we would have a picture together there -- just here and I! She loved the idea and we subsequently talked about it on a regular basis.<br />
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Now was our chance!<br />
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Despite my doubts, our first long weekend here - Easter! - we were hopping in our newly-acquired station wagon and driving across the border to France.<br />
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First, let me say, driving across Europe is a<i> delight</i> - if for the gas stations alone! Forget dirty truck stops with Icee machines and an obligatory Subway or Mickey D's. French gas stations are gourmet! I was pleasantly surprised to find a hot food cafeteria, which sold fresh bread, IG-worthy desserts, and next to the checkout...bottles of wine! Which they will uncork for you, but not re-cork...so...might want to have a wine stopper in your purse. Just sayin'. I threw away some perfectly good <b style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">rosé</b>.<br />
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And if you are judging me for drinking wine at a gas station while on a road trip with kids...then you probably don't have kids. Or you don't have three kids. Or your kids have devices which keep them quiet in the car. And hey, I wasn't driving, so, I indulged. <i>Viva la France!</i><br />
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<b>Without further<i> adieu</i>, here are a few mama tips for seriously enjoying Paris with your three small kids...</b><br />
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<b>1. Stay within walking distance of the Eiffel Tower.</b> We walked about 30 minutes to get there, taking in the charm of the Parisian streets, and stopping for crepes if we were hungry at the cafes that abound. We have three kids - ages 6, 4, and 6 months - so thirty minutes was about our max. We pushed the baby in the sit-n-stand and the older two took turns riding, too. We also brought a baby carrier along to be able to mix things up!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfRZMagva_a9xSNYBAVjindBhj5MtZrBcrK9dyzNjDyj_Yf_dn9lX4Pjo2JKiT-tLP4pwbB-z1L33HbRfFlr3UQX-kgIvFtzLWHl1o27DyinHwIb4_JKvX27_WmJ8O0umt3fc_AdS33Ow/s1600/IMG_7333.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfRZMagva_a9xSNYBAVjindBhj5MtZrBcrK9dyzNjDyj_Yf_dn9lX4Pjo2JKiT-tLP4pwbB-z1L33HbRfFlr3UQX-kgIvFtzLWHl1o27DyinHwIb4_JKvX27_WmJ8O0umt3fc_AdS33Ow/s640/IMG_7333.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuytwnsix21lWZBfWG8wkXEGZPkqlhEaqd945RTxMgW4hMQRE_2HVNC4DR859v8rfAFN-D467Fx5_w5WiSz7fvQnZUjRUzWHti0DmZtjGTPoxkJ-QWHSpDZGPKjieCf9MBukbwz62ji6I/s1600/31180212_10216325716916310_5225761673402384384_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuytwnsix21lWZBfWG8wkXEGZPkqlhEaqd945RTxMgW4hMQRE_2HVNC4DR859v8rfAFN-D467Fx5_w5WiSz7fvQnZUjRUzWHti0DmZtjGTPoxkJ-QWHSpDZGPKjieCf9MBukbwz62ji6I/s640/31180212_10216325716916310_5225761673402384384_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of the days stopped for crepes + coffee at Le Dome, a cafe super close the Eiffel Tower.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ4rU67xuPm1pXi5RE5B6RGedQZemdJw8yV8zkPI6YPjaAy_TzE-LjdJBX1kjuyBV308CTo5MWp2k3X2V3XlbljIGeVkbTKOpdMzvsrWDN5aOK7f1HbE0eUAl_4Huewz0U5FuBd2F2_ao/s1600/31062246_10216325716876309_1859955962857652224_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ4rU67xuPm1pXi5RE5B6RGedQZemdJw8yV8zkPI6YPjaAy_TzE-LjdJBX1kjuyBV308CTo5MWp2k3X2V3XlbljIGeVkbTKOpdMzvsrWDN5aOK7f1HbE0eUAl_4Huewz0U5FuBd2F2_ao/s640/31062246_10216325716876309_1859955962857652224_n.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A mama-daughter 'cheers' to Paris!</td></tr>
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<b>2. When choosing a spot - rent a private Parisian apartment, rather than a hotel.</b> Find one with kid-friendly bedrooms and toys! I much prefer having some personal space when traveling with kids, and when they have a separate bedroom everyone wins. I mean everyone. On every level. Just sayin. ;) I loved ours, as it was in the city and convenient to everything, and I felt for the weekend as though we were real Parisians. Also, was no more expensive than getting a hotel in the same area.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4LNWwOHHWne_yQJ8gkZrgawX4w6vJTQV4wVXUnRBoIuaNgaU-wxsygjoWenDSB9771cYXxgjlqeoWYi-v8DS4KzWXPoKLaJC0CupGRnP4dH3eIaJK9wmyY4RIMX_okZg6cbx6PQXT4Uk/s1600/IMG_6891.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="640" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4LNWwOHHWne_yQJ8gkZrgawX4w6vJTQV4wVXUnRBoIuaNgaU-wxsygjoWenDSB9771cYXxgjlqeoWYi-v8DS4KzWXPoKLaJC0CupGRnP4dH3eIaJK9wmyY4RIMX_okZg6cbx6PQXT4Uk/s640/IMG_6891.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">we had a lovely terrace with city views.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxIIbbf0WTBRKox83A6acpaui0HBx149dBKDyabop52Hv3sRMbvq7g8K_ghc31dyXrbkMDyrw3DenWRu8Oy1SH6x3mUxPu9DdTG1ljlFmauPVcVOrzuEuyirGm-vdRCM9lVJvqv6ysa2c/s1600/IMG_6865.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="640" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxIIbbf0WTBRKox83A6acpaui0HBx149dBKDyabop52Hv3sRMbvq7g8K_ghc31dyXrbkMDyrw3DenWRu8Oy1SH6x3mUxPu9DdTG1ljlFmauPVcVOrzuEuyirGm-vdRCM9lVJvqv6ysa2c/s640/IMG_6865.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">our place was beyond adorable. you cannot get this charm at a hotel.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidW-9XTCg7WS7CkRXjm0IzK0dxwDlOV0SgdIIhLrX_smK7IuuPfmzpfa7W_pdhCM5WVbhgfg9Ki4zGhjemvceBjzX-UOtsdk1tsgQYEy6DKg5JvEKlDGZhANvmGPAs8-bI3ZPGmmHnEhU/s1600/IMG_6884.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="640" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidW-9XTCg7WS7CkRXjm0IzK0dxwDlOV0SgdIIhLrX_smK7IuuPfmzpfa7W_pdhCM5WVbhgfg9Ki4zGhjemvceBjzX-UOtsdk1tsgQYEy6DKg5JvEKlDGZhANvmGPAs8-bI3ZPGmmHnEhU/s640/IMG_6884.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">the blondies adored their bedroom.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk74ralwtIL6aNrhkFBYEsPpSfY16EJm5P3iaooKuz5JNPhvUdjgOJfZ7Q6FpcMbvNXKyDU7yLtpdHO95SmeHfeWq57PbVChPiD2J55ojTqeYHl469MgXfDHMkMT8-ADrZwC6wh0aM_rU/s1600/IMG_6888.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="640" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk74ralwtIL6aNrhkFBYEsPpSfY16EJm5P3iaooKuz5JNPhvUdjgOJfZ7Q6FpcMbvNXKyDU7yLtpdHO95SmeHfeWq57PbVChPiD2J55ojTqeYHl469MgXfDHMkMT8-ADrZwC6wh0aM_rU/s640/IMG_6888.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Baby Whit probably enjoyed himself as well.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB9v6TzaOTKg5bddae-XHnNAD5BbH8lpwUawgz-yYBhr3KY1y49oMhxdIzRBxZv5WlM4nHGIEPXqVleVqbpyg83jYOhYdBeJN5hp7zfRueshHc3qAMtRSehqP6UiIUsktbEqbxJsFA01I/s1600/IMG_7363.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="1280" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB9v6TzaOTKg5bddae-XHnNAD5BbH8lpwUawgz-yYBhr3KY1y49oMhxdIzRBxZv5WlM4nHGIEPXqVleVqbpyg83jYOhYdBeJN5hp7zfRueshHc3qAMtRSehqP6UiIUsktbEqbxJsFA01I/s640/IMG_7363.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">hubby did breakfast runs to the market each morning.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH7sm1kxQOjzke-fJ947lG8z7TtKbFa1QsJconIJF5FcjrCHgLVXlDYbRzWInsZMpaexAWPhLi7MbnAczXAuAzdIF23kVf7Hk6hMPxJRPzcB-N4cFYlHlfoTPDFaaV8HxK5DbjPRTTRuo/s1600/IMG_7323.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="1280" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH7sm1kxQOjzke-fJ947lG8z7TtKbFa1QsJconIJF5FcjrCHgLVXlDYbRzWInsZMpaexAWPhLi7MbnAczXAuAzdIF23kVf7Hk6hMPxJRPzcB-N4cFYlHlfoTPDFaaV8HxK5DbjPRTTRuo/s640/IMG_7323.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">most of our meals were purchases at a little market across from the street. oh, and we ordered pizza twice. #noshame</td></tr>
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<b>3. Go to the Eiffel Tower at dark!</b> Let the kids run around (you know, near you) while you and your love drink wine or champagne underneath it! This happened for us at about 9pm. Just throw a reasonable bedtime out the window that night! At 10pm the Tower started twinkling! My advice is to bring your own bottle of wine (and that trusty bottle opener) or you'll spend 25 euros for a mediocre bottle of red. Wine is inexpensive at the grocery shops along the walk there.<br />
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<b>4. Spend an entire day hanging out around the Eiffel Tower.</b> (Do you sense a theme here?) With kids this is the way to go! There are many super cute, fenced playgrounds that provide a beautiful view of the tower. Pick up a baguette, some fancy cheeses, and an assortment of tapas at one of the supermarkets on your walk there. Or there is the loveliest food stand with red metal tables right by the playground with the mini-carousel. The pastries and sandwiches there are so, so delicious. There is also hot mulled wine, and really good coffee. You can sit and stare at the Eiffel Tower as you enjoy it all. Your kids can act like fools and run around the lawns, which would normally make you crazy but<i> cest la vie </i>you are in Paris at a casual outside park and it is encouraged that they run and act like normal little kids.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqEpmYPrQ4-NgTQAIlDuejIcYcvGN7PFJzHZvqGNC5tRc5hopMXvEKfDJOhcvc2k42fRCDRID33mAuKVDaIzWDTUy7edAyGTiPrW21gruB1ef5OhziU_E9M7Jk67EnTKSHB8lvVq9HxOE/s1600/IMG_6975.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqEpmYPrQ4-NgTQAIlDuejIcYcvGN7PFJzHZvqGNC5tRc5hopMXvEKfDJOhcvc2k42fRCDRID33mAuKVDaIzWDTUy7edAyGTiPrW21gruB1ef5OhziU_E9M7Jk67EnTKSHB8lvVq9HxOE/s640/IMG_6975.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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<b>5. Buy some cheap felt berets and then head to one of the two BIG carousels beneath the tower.</b> Buy a ticket and hop right on with your kiddos! (There was no line when we went, even on a busy Saturday!) One of my favorite moments was on that carousel, going around and around and looking up at the Tower. It was pretty surreal. I kept thinking, <i>Is this real life, or an Audrey Hepburn movie?</i><br />
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<b>6. Take a leisurely walk along the Seine River. </b>You could also take a river cruise if you've got the time. We simply walked from the carousel to the ferris wheel, which wasn't that far (maybe took a half hour) and there was a lovely little playground along the way. If you are walking on the same side of the Seine as the Eiffel Tower, towards the ferris wheel you can't miss it.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">taking a break as we crossed the Seine.</td></tr>
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<b>7. Take a ride on the huge ferris wheel and see an amazing 360 degree view of Paris! </b> Our kiddos loved this! The line was not that long, even for a Saturday on Easter weekend, and it provided a nice break from the walking.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I was legit terrified but did it for the kiddos! </td></tr>
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<b>8. Visit the Louvre...even if you don't go inside at all. </b>The Louvre is totally worth the ticket price, and I've heard there are companies that do awesome private tours that cater to young children. Had we had another day I may have booked it. But we got to the Louvre at the end of a long day and pretty much all we did was walk around the glass pyramids and take some family pics. Worth it! The walk up to it is a lovely park with lots of sculptures, and when you get to the huge courtyard with the pyramids there is plenty of space for the kiddos to run, while listening to live music.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our only family pic not taken with a selfie stick. </td></tr>
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<b>9. Bring a selfie stick. </b>This is my favorite advice to give for traveling anywhere with tiny kids. You're gonna want some family pics, obviously. Sure, you can ask strangers to take them. That could turn out completely fine. But with tiny kids it is hard to get a good one in one or two shots. Also, they love to see themselves in selfie mode, so you'll tend to get better smiles/expressions. <i> Also</i>, you can take a billion photos and not feel like you are bothering anyone (except your family...but that's okay, they love you!) Bonus tip : the best pics are when you yell "Everyone look silly!!!!!!" but then you and your partner do NOT act silly but smile happily. Your kids look adorable and will more likely be smiling, and you will not look annoyed because you're trying to coerce them into taking a nice family pic. Win-Win.<br />
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<b>10. Embrace a <i>laissez-faire</i> attitude!</b> When traveling with littles, don't have a rigid schedule. Keep it all very simple, and embrace all life's small pleasures. Literally, my only agenda for this trip was to get our entire family up on the Eiffel Tower. Guess what? That didn't even happen. We did, however, all make it to the Tower at night to see it twinkle. They took pics of their mom and dad kissing and toasting with plastic cups of wine underneath it. On the final night, the older two went with my husband while I stayed at our apartment with the baby. They made it to the first level, walking up the stairs, despite a huge line and Finola almost having a meltdown before they got there. We did all the other things mentioned above, at a very slow pace, and knowing that at any time the kids could decide it was time to grab an Uber home.<br />
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So was a weekend in Paris worth it with three littles? YES. Every moment. Sweet memories were made, without any crazy drama from either parent. Hurray!<br />
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<i>That</i> is what our kids will remember - that we were happy.<br />
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And maybe the Eiffel Tower, too.<br />
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Gretahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13678221019546045834noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7542153512214952651.post-61501504676587828762018-01-29T09:47:00.001-05:002018-01-29T09:47:39.652-05:00brave.<span style="font-size: x-large;">"Life is a daring adventure, or it is nothing at all." </span><br />
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I have always found this quote inspiring. Well, when I say "always" I mean since I started doodling it in my college notebooks (which I still keep, yes, every single one) along with random self-written poetry and the epic beginnings of many, many novels (all still unfinished.) </div>
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I can say, even as a young girl walking endlessly around the perimeter of our farm, that I've always craved adventure. I have tried to "say yes" to most opportunities that have come up in my life, especially pertaining to travel.<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Some examples (paraphrased by me)... </span></div>
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<b>Dad:</b> "Wanna drive 24 hours straight and climb this 11,000 ft mountain with a group of us and then immediate drive back home?" <i> </i></div>
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<i><b>Me :</b> Sure!</i></div>
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<b>Friends:</b> "Wanna come visit me in NYC {Dallas, Fargo, Boston, Canada, etc, etc.}?!?!?" </div>
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<i><b>Me:</b> Alright! Booking flight now. </i></div>
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<b>Dad:</b> "Wanna be a counselor on this church youth group trip, even though you just flunked out of your first year of college and have no clue what your next step will be and probably should be getting your life together? PS - there are mountains involved!" </div>
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<i><b>Me:</b> Sign me up!</i></div>
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<b>Future Hubby: </b>"Wanna move back from the new state you <i>just </i>moved to two weeks ago and continue dating me, oh yeah, <b>and</b> get an apartment together for a few months even though that is something you swore you'd never do and your parents might literally murder you?" </div>
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<i><b>Me: </b>Yes - that feels like the right risk to take!</i></div>
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<i>(PS...we ended up married, oh, like six years later, so... yeah... Also, my parents think he is awesome him so it ended up okay.)</i></div>
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<b>Future Hubby:</b> "Wanna move (again) to another state and see if our relationship might <i>really</i> work (living separately this time) now that we are four years older?"</div>
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<i><b>Me: </b>Um...alright! </i><br />
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<b>My Parents: </b> Wanna fly to visit us in Prague and travel around Europe for a couple weeks, even though you<b> </b><i>just</i> birthed your first baby and are basically hot mess?<br />
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<b>Me:</b> <i>Are there beer gardens? Then yes.</i><br />
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Hubby: </b>"Wanna move to Amsterdam even though we just finished our dream home renovation and everything finally feels settled in life, oh and you just had another baby?"<br />
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<i><b>Me: </b>Yes. God help me, but yes.</i><br />
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<b>Oily Friend: </b>"Wanna fly from Amsterdam to Seattle to hang out for a few days with twenty women you only know through Facebook and Instagram?" </div>
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<i><b>Me: </b>Yaaaaaaaaaaaaas! </i><br />
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These are just some of the examples. It hasn't always been convenient or seemed like the ideal time, but I have never regretted a travel adventure so I will keep on saying 'yes' whenever it is possible. </div>
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However, this spirit of bravery cannot be limited to travel. I have begun to think about other areas in my life that I've started to be more adventurous in, or that I want to be.<br />
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Motherhood. Friendships. My business. Witnessing about Christ.<br />
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All require a spirit of adventure if life is to be experienced to the full!<br />
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So that is what I am working on this year. My word is 'brave.'<br />
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I want to speak my truth courageously, and set about doing things that I never thought I could do before. I want to attempt things that previously I've been too scared to do, believing the lie that those things aren't meant for someone like me.<br />
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I'm casting off limitations I've put on myself and living 'wild + free.'<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1UcUQe_1PBVFbbk_oQd0zgRKAsr_FcefTwulaKpVcwm9yTdE0rlZFROkoqE2GyN0bLOiSECcr9EJrGT7y9KpmDZh6uf1fuaIfvIlex0bbK5A2bGQNH2zv0ETHycsgbTdJMQutmpEAr4E/s1600/brave.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="1280" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1UcUQe_1PBVFbbk_oQd0zgRKAsr_FcefTwulaKpVcwm9yTdE0rlZFROkoqE2GyN0bLOiSECcr9EJrGT7y9KpmDZh6uf1fuaIfvIlex0bbK5A2bGQNH2zv0ETHycsgbTdJMQutmpEAr4E/s640/brave.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">What area of life are you most adventurous? </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Where would you like to be more so? </span></div>
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Gretahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13678221019546045834noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7542153512214952651.post-75884864405916104242017-12-09T06:51:00.002-05:002017-12-10T06:14:32.814-05:00a new adventure.<span style="font-size: x-large;">Since his birth I've staring at the wall of Baby Whit's nursery a lot. (The chair where I nurse faces it, so...)</span><br />
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Upon that wall are these words...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmycP6WE234UTuoC7NUzCNlocaRpLkplz_4QmNqA_wnRqsuRUZ5iS4kiCNVX7fvz6ey1ej9vW8UyFwF5lpCqEGQx805a3Onjusw6RJSi7l8Vudhn-4WBJn2AZ1ziTrX8o_GgmhW30i2t8/s1600/IMG_1340.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmycP6WE234UTuoC7NUzCNlocaRpLkplz_4QmNqA_wnRqsuRUZ5iS4kiCNVX7fvz6ey1ej9vW8UyFwF5lpCqEGQx805a3Onjusw6RJSi7l8Vudhn-4WBJn2AZ1ziTrX8o_GgmhW30i2t8/s640/IMG_1340.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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When I first hung this piece of artwork up, I thought - "This is perfect for our new baby! It is all about having an adventurous spirit and trusting God and being 'born for such a time as this!'" I loved it and thought it could inspire our babe as he grows up.<br />
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But I now know these words were actually meant for<b> me.</b><br />
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You see, recently an opportunity presented itself to our little family. My husband was offered a position in his company that would mean we would have to relocate to Europe - for several years at least. <br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Exciting! Adventurous! Scary! </span> I questioned God's timing. Why would this come about now, when we have a brand new baby? When we have built solid friendships here and a sense of community - both in our neighborhood and church and beyond? When everything seemed so comfortable and safe?<br />
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But as my husband reminded me recently:<br />
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<b><i>"Life begins at the edge of your comfort zone."</i></b><br />
<b><i><br /></i></b>Such a great quote. God doesn't give us our best life by keeping things "safe" - he wants us to trust in Him. I believe that sometimes He pushes us to our limits so that we learn to trust Him and that nothing else is going to give us his level of comfort and peace. Not jobs, not houses, not people, not stuff...just Him.<br />
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So I sat there in the nursery, butt glued to the chair, breastfeeding our tiny new babe day after day, staring up at the those words in clear, bold black and white font...and it was like God was speaking straight to my heart.<br />
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<i><b>I</b> was born for such a time as this.<b> I</b> needed to give God room in my life to prove himself faithful. <b> I </b>needed to let faith, not fear be my guide. All of it. Speaking to <b>me.</b> For this time, about this decision, right now.</i><br />
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Hubby and I are no strangers to adventure, or uprooting our lives. He moved to Minnesota from Kentucky at age twenty -- and praise the Lord that he made that move...as it led us to meet each other!<br />
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Then he moved to Jackson, Tennessee for a job after he graduated college, where he began his career and made some amazing friends.<br />
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I briefly (brief as in two weeks) moved from St. Paul, MN to Portland, OR before deciding to move right back to continue to date Paul, and see where our relationship might lead. Then I moved from Minnesota to Cincinnati after I graduated college, leaving the only state I'd ever lived in and pretty much everything I'd ever known...again, to see if a relationship with my now-husband could work. (It does!)<br />
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We survived all those moves, those big changes, and as I look back, each one enriched our lives in some way or taught us something invaluable. In each situation we had each other, so I guess that says something about our relationship and God's plan.<br />
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So, after several weeks of prayer and discussion, and me staring up at that the words of that sign, Hubby and I decided to accept the job and move our family across the ocean. We will move sometime in early spring!<br />
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I have no idea how I'll cope raising three small children in a foreign country. <br />
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I have no if it will be good or not-so-good for my mental state.<br />
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But those are all uncertainties that I will pray about and give to God.<br />
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For those curious we will be moving to Amsterdam. We have traveled there together once, before we ever thought we would end up moving there. (Read about that trip <a href="http://modgarden.blogspot.com/2015/10/amsterdam.html">here</a>.)<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo32gfBVko8GAk_UxFBODtmzQCjlBAnKQeJ_w10aj65a8-dJvsLLMM3kjFoBO2cKDNmWoA4vzGF4Uz8MuEhQxj3fiUV6eA6raYIuUSBOkoh2PPYaHmbXDWMA4NPcMCtx0sMecAdx5mgnw/s1600/11149542_10207800606513878_2916327252428354687_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo32gfBVko8GAk_UxFBODtmzQCjlBAnKQeJ_w10aj65a8-dJvsLLMM3kjFoBO2cKDNmWoA4vzGF4Uz8MuEhQxj3fiUV6eA6raYIuUSBOkoh2PPYaHmbXDWMA4NPcMCtx0sMecAdx5mgnw/s640/11149542_10207800606513878_2916327252428354687_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">in the city.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3GRbvNRx5nYzQlcXdSIE9biv-Y0W5h7JAOg_vEl2hBc2i-eHbpfTPBqFMRo7LI8zgErqzA1hE3bQ0pmUWGGGfxZlxPoQhiCr8x91cLETfbEwVC6psXFsxBrsUlbfHrHvAyJLD8fks3Us/s1600/12036848_10207800559272697_5263461364410800206_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3GRbvNRx5nYzQlcXdSIE9biv-Y0W5h7JAOg_vEl2hBc2i-eHbpfTPBqFMRo7LI8zgErqzA1hE3bQ0pmUWGGGfxZlxPoQhiCr8x91cLETfbEwVC6psXFsxBrsUlbfHrHvAyJLD8fks3Us/s640/12036848_10207800559272697_5263461364410800206_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">in the country.</td></tr>
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<span style="text-align: start;">Prayers would be much appreciated, friends, as well as advice from others who have done the ex-pat thing. We are both nervous and excited about what life may bring!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Have you ever had to move due to a job opportunity? </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Is there a new opportunity in your life that excites you, but you are avoiding because it seems a bit scary or uncomfortable?</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Friend, my prayer for you is to pray, trust, and go boldly!</span></div>
Gretahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13678221019546045834noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7542153512214952651.post-18051013729961244042017-09-27T11:04:00.000-04:002017-09-28T11:09:09.101-04:00baby whit // a birth story.<blockquote class="tr_bq" style="text-align: left;">
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Each birth story is unique, raw and real - teaching us about love and, ultimately, about ourselves.</span><br />
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When I birthed Cormac six years ago (at precisely 4:44pm on a blazing hot July day) that first night I thought nothing of writing his birth story, but spent the entire time bedridden, still with zero feeling from the waist down, catheter inserted, completely exhausted, with absolutely no idea what to do with the sweet, hungry, crying baby whose diapers my husband had to change. I didn't write his story until months later, when I finally felt like I had processed it all, and was not in a new mama haze.<br />
<a href="http://modgarden.blogspot.com/2011/11/day-seven-one-story-you-want-to-tell.html"><br /></a>
<a href="http://modgarden.blogspot.com/2011/11/day-seven-one-story-you-want-to-tell.html">// Read that story here //</a><br />
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I remember after birthing Finola I sat up that entire first night (she was born at 9:12pm) grinning happily to myself, high on birth hormones, and writing out her birth story in my head as she rested peacefully in my arms. I refused to put her down. Everything had gone in such a way I wanted to replay it over and over in my mind.<br />
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<a href="http://modgarden.blogspot.com/2013/06/finolas-birth-story-part-3-short-sweet.html">// Read that story here //</a><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Flash forward four years.</span> I'm older. Maybe a bit wiser, but mostly older. And much more tired. <br />
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Hubby and I finally decided, after much prayer and deliberation, to give it another whirl, leave it up to God and see what happens. We wound up very quickly with a positive pregnancy test back in early January. (Oh, those Christmastime conceptions!)<br />
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While I didn't blog much about it, mostly tiny blurbs on Instagram, this pregnancy was very similar to my others. Lots of first trimester all-day nausea, a lovely second tri, and then a very uncomfortable third tri. Weirdly, I gained the exact same about of weight each time, although this time I focused more on eating healthy, rather than hitting the gym every single day as I did with Finola. Being older I was simply more tired, more busy with the other two children, and to be honest it just got really uncomfortable doing cardio. <br />
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Even without being on the treadmill all the time I really thought this baby would come early, like Finola did. But at my 36 week check I was only dilated 1-2cm (versus 5cm at that point with Fin!)<br />
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So I decided to stop getting cervical checks. It is optional at my midwife practice and honestly I was feeling a bit unprepared to give birth anyway, as our nursery was basically a hollow shell at that point. <br />
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The month before my due date was spent hustling to get the nursery, and my mind, prepared for a third baby.<br />
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In that final week I thought I could go into labor at any time. The Braxton-Hicks contractions I'd been having for quite a while got a bit more intense but nothing timeable. Almost every night I'd wake up from them, or severe heartburn, and then go back to bed after an hour of no real action. In truth, I dreaded going into labor during the night because I didn't want to go into the process super tired, and didn't want to stress about getting in touch with someone to come stay with the kids. <br />
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I believe I was mentally blocking this labor.<br />
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My due date of September 13th came and went. I couldn't believe it. Wasn't the third baby supposed to come early and basically fly out??? Kidding. I didn't really think it would go quicker but honestly did think I would go early.<br />
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I was mentally preparing for the labor and birthing as best I could. It was the same "plan" as last time, but this time I'd be incorporating my essential oils into the process. Every day I diffused oils like Valor, Peace + Calming, and Release in our home - to help get my mind and body supported for the birth. I applied Joy and Sacred Mountain to my skin and my diffuser bracelet regularly to feel grounded and happy for baby's arrival. <br />
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I had also read a couple books on hypnobirthing, although I admit I didn't wholeheartedly buy into it -- an "easy, pain-free birth." To be clear, I think that <i>can</i> happen...but when you doubt something I don't think your brain is able to hurdle that doubt and block the pain. You have to truly believe it...<br />
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...and I was more in the "This is going to hurt like hell, but I'm powerful enough to let my body do it's job" mindset. Warrior versus zen mama. <br />
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We hired a doula again to be there as my liason with hospital staff and emotional support birthing coach. I know most people just have their husband/partner be that...but Paul knows he is best appreciated as a silent encourager who is simply present with me.<br />
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Here is how it all officially went down - early on a Saturday morning, with the other two kids already safely in Louisville with their grandparents (phew!)<br />
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<i><b>3:30am</b></i><br />
I woke up with a contraction that was stronger than the usual Braxton-Hicks. Knowing I was several days past due and that I could be in labor at any time, I got up immediately, noted the time, and tentatively started gathering some last minute items to put in our bags. I had slept in the comfy tank dress I had worn the day before because I really wanting it to be my "birthing outfit" -- as opposed to a hospital gown. As the contractions continued every ten minutes or so, I washed my face, brushed my teeth, and got ready to leave. Something in my gut (or uterus) told me <b>this was it.</b> The contractions were now about 8 minutes apart and there was noticeably more pressure. And some bleeding, which was another good sign.<br />
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<i><b>4:30am</b></i><br />
Texted my doula to let her know about the consistent contractions, and that I planned to call my midwife soon. I told her most likely would be heading to the hospital. Then I woke Paul up and told him that Baby's arrival was imminent! Called midwife office and when the midwife on duty called back she said she would meet me at the hospital. I reminded her (as I was told to) that last time I went really quickly. But I think that since my last check (weeks ago) was only 1-2cm no one seemed really worried.<br />
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<b><i>5:00am</i></b><br />
Texted doula that we were headed to hospital and would meet her there!<br />
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<b><i>5:30am</i></b><br />
We arrived at the hospital, which was quiet in the early morning hour. Encountered a random person, presumably a new dad, who led us to the floor where we were supposed to check in. I had been having pretty intense contractions since we arrived -- and was finding it hard to concentrate on his friendly and excited banter. Paul chatted with him while I silently breathed through each surge. <br />
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When the nurses at registration heard my last check was 1-2cm (weeks ago!) they had me fill out a bunch of paperwork and then put me in triage.<br />
<i><br /></i><i>Triage nurse : "Here is a gown to put on." </i><br />
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<i>Me : "Um...can I just wear this?" gesturing to my tank dress.</i><br />
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<i>Triage nurse, blank-faced : "Um...I guess so."</i><br />
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She immediately starts to hook me up to the fetal monitor. I interject that I don't want to be hooked up to the fetal monitor. She says she needs to have at least 15 minutes of fetal monitoring. I agree only when she tells me she will then take me off the monitor. I did not want to be stuck to a machine in any way.<br />
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At this point, with the doula not having arrived yet, I am direly wishing I had brought a copy of my birth plan. I was having some scary flashbacks to my experience laboring in the hospital with Cormac, when I felt completely alone and that none of my birth preferences were being adhered to. I now knew I had to speak up for myself and make sure things happened the way I wanted...or at least as much as I could.<br />
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By this point the contraction intensity was about a seven and they were only about two minutes apart. The nurse checked me and pronounced me 5-6cm dilated and 90% effaced. Good progress but I was surprised I wasn't farther along.<br />
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I was very anxious to get to my labor/delivery room and out of triage. All the tub rooms were occupied, but I was told I would at least have a shower. Waiting to get unhooked from the monitor was taking what felt like a lifetime.<br />
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<b>6:20am</b><br />
Finally, when the contractions were starting to become blinding, and still no sign of my doula or midwife to check me, I was brought to my room, still hooked to monitor. I got through a few contractions lying on the table, and then asked if I could labor in the shower. The contractions were now about only a minute apart. This forced the nurse to unhook me from the monitor. I was feeling very nauseous, and the pressure "down there" was becoming so intense that I had to stumble bow-legged to the shower, legs shaking violently. Mentally I was trying to hold it together, trying to be calm and breathe through each contraction steadily, in through my nose <i>ABCDEFG</i>, out through my mouth<i> HIJKLMNOP</i>, or something to that effect. I knew I had to stay on top of every contraction, but was finding it very difficult.<br />
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Paul, for his part, knowing I did not want to be touched or hear his chipper words of encouragement, set about plugging in my diffuser, dropping in some Peace and Calming, and texting my doula for her status.<br />
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<b>6:40am</b><br />
My doula arrives I believe at approximately this time. I feel a sense of relief in some ways that I finally have someone to help me through the last, most difficult waves.<br />
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In the 45-60 seconds of relief between contractions, I kept asking for my midwife. <br />
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"Where is the midwife?!?! She needs to check me." I knew I was close. I felt all the things I felt when I transitioned with Finola.<br />
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Including : the sense that I could no longer deliver naturally. I was starting to feel panicked.<br />
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"Okay, I am too old for this. I need the epidural. Order me the epidural <i>now." </i><br />
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Both Paul and my doula told me I <i>could</i> do it, I'd done it before, etc. etc. I was hearing none of it, as I felt literally like I would die if I couldn't push the baby out soon. The "urge to push" is what I was experiencing. In fact, most likely I had transitioned in the shower and probably reached 10cm fifteen minutes prior. <br />
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I was then informed the midwife was on her way. I was disappointed it wasn't one that I saw regularly. In fact, this was the midwife I'd only seen one time throughout my pregnancy! <br />
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<b>7:00am</b><br />
Midwife gets there, I get on the table quickly to be checked, still dripping wet and naked from the shower. She immediately exclaims happily, "You're complete! You can start pushing!" <br />
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Music to my ears! <br />
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For the next seven minutes, I was in the zone. Conscious of everything.<br />
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The huge light descended from the ceiling. The room filled with people. Women. Paul was the only male.<br />
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The doula and a nurse held my knees up by my head as I quickly recalled how to "bear down" and push when a contraction happened. <br />
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"Here's one!" I exclaimed and did whatever I could to make that baby come on out. Yep, I totally pooped on the table and I couldn't care less. <br />
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I screamed each time I pushed. Not the gutteral, animal moans I did with Finola. High-pitched shrieks. Three of them. In the back of my mind I silently apologized to any other laboring mamas hearing me from neighboring rooms.<br />
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<b><i>7:07am</i></b><br />
I felt the baby's head come out. There was no stopping now - I gave another loud shriek and pushed!<br />
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The rest of baby slid out quickly.<br />
<br />
The greatest relief. Honest first thought : "I did it...and I'm never gonna have to do it again." There was no sadness...just absolute certainty.<br />
<br />
Somewhere in the chaos of the room, with Baby shrieking all kinds of new baby cries, I heard Paul announce, "It's a boy!" <br />
<br />
I felt ambivalent about the gender. Baby was out. Baby was crying. It was good.<br />
<br />
I cried, too. A brief, ugly cry.<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEwLuNGoz8WakOT5rqKmtT3XmuUZ5XkIrg2be7FLNfJw5kWPPvfzQMXtEBxGXz-PpoG9ZaJRa_rk1WaXfYlPuBpwCccQ9LkkLxUX07n5zLgIpJD5O_cjHFQVzCLkgqWiJ4qZBKrKv7c1k/s1600/IMG_1522.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEwLuNGoz8WakOT5rqKmtT3XmuUZ5XkIrg2be7FLNfJw5kWPPvfzQMXtEBxGXz-PpoG9ZaJRa_rk1WaXfYlPuBpwCccQ9LkkLxUX07n5zLgIpJD5O_cjHFQVzCLkgqWiJ4qZBKrKv7c1k/s640/IMG_1522.jpg" width="638" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">this is real. the best feeling. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
When they handed him to me and I marveled at his tiny size. So much smaller than the other two. Long delicate fingers and toes. I held him close while the midwife went immediately about the business of delivering the placenta, etc.<br />
<br />
"Whitman Paul is his name," I heard Paul say, so they could write it on the board. But they only wrote Whitman, along with the date and time.<br />
<br />
"Baby Whit," I said lovingly to him and him alone, knowing the name would be perfect for him.<br />
<br />
The birthing hormones were surging through my body as I put him to breast not long after. He latched as if he had been practicing every day for the past nine months. We were off to a good start together.<br />
<br />
Everything ended well, baby in arms, a beautiful boy. Praise be to God.<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><span style="font-size: x-large;">"...and your very flesh shall be a great poem and have its richest fluency not only in its words but in the silent lines of its lips and face and between the lashes of your eyes and in every motion and joint of your body." </span>- Walt Whitman, </i>Leaves of Grass</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxCGhMEkJ4QBSQO4-TXz1PMa33CKr5upDZFNgIz8hPKl-bEPGPS4Hym0o5b2aKxpcCAnGYJRr3XPFCcBQInDZTyOTFZaO9AnDYmOcP9m_c8IS-wwCroFGPqQb4X9hsBhjX7B9vqhv39mE/s1600/IMG_1608.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxCGhMEkJ4QBSQO4-TXz1PMa33CKr5upDZFNgIz8hPKl-bEPGPS4Hym0o5b2aKxpcCAnGYJRr3XPFCcBQInDZTyOTFZaO9AnDYmOcP9m_c8IS-wwCroFGPqQb4X9hsBhjX7B9vqhv39mE/s640/IMG_1608.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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We LOVE you Baby Whit.</div>
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And because your journey began way back in January, with a completely overwhelmed mama finding out she was preggo...</div>
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...here is a look back at all of it.</div>
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/2WA4JLtvlck" width="560"></iframe></div>
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Gretahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13678221019546045834noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7542153512214952651.post-78231990986809362272017-09-08T06:55:00.001-04:002017-09-08T06:55:13.920-04:00ten years. <div style="text-align: center;">
Today we've reached double-digits.</div>
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Ten years of marriage! </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5sHZgfqJVmrWJEYRU7A526EiNDbOUArkgx94MiOq-s50vVtHlIkS9fUByEE2mXPVUtZM971x6Dec0MmFbj-SDDpwh2KQvPCZfdbN6S3tndWE7bAOtiJnKhANee551zc4YTDpe0QCcKFg/s1600/198961_1003247802231_9194_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="603" data-original-width="402" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5sHZgfqJVmrWJEYRU7A526EiNDbOUArkgx94MiOq-s50vVtHlIkS9fUByEE2mXPVUtZM971x6Dec0MmFbj-SDDpwh2KQvPCZfdbN6S3tndWE7bAOtiJnKhANee551zc4YTDpe0QCcKFg/s640/198961_1003247802231_9194_n.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
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We've gone from nice tans and well-chiseled abs...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdnpyMtonB0v5v1uHtY1vrofvfDqWwrvppDfnkudijsqnOPCnhHgXTQgjmsE-eaSQl-hcwTeN_OSsv_sGjYG_UWFPdkFnxv9cgpmgloAJ_u3znHC5CCoIncTMHXxBEuYfjG2JAGWCMoJc/s1600/156575_1738446261733_3778602_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="720" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdnpyMtonB0v5v1uHtY1vrofvfDqWwrvppDfnkudijsqnOPCnhHgXTQgjmsE-eaSQl-hcwTeN_OSsv_sGjYG_UWFPdkFnxv9cgpmgloAJ_u3znHC5CCoIncTMHXxBEuYfjG2JAGWCMoJc/s640/156575_1738446261733_3778602_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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To...well, sort of pasty and our abs have gone taken a leave of absence for one reason or another.</div>
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But hey - at least we still travel, right? </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyJP02ePnwy2WZ3JthXPQ356D_j1-rGddQ2eRUyI-RMN5v-w8eMNrkRAjxlhF-WwhOq0cW5T2LJZN5WB03htaUaEhR1y0Iof_7bO0fgKLn9ibDXzzsMIfsuidZeZOeUtt49Hv9lsafbnY/s1600/2015-02-23+11.41.52+1.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyJP02ePnwy2WZ3JthXPQ356D_j1-rGddQ2eRUyI-RMN5v-w8eMNrkRAjxlhF-WwhOq0cW5T2LJZN5WB03htaUaEhR1y0Iof_7bO0fgKLn9ibDXzzsMIfsuidZeZOeUtt49Hv9lsafbnY/s640/2015-02-23+11.41.52+1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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We have had lots of fun, both pre-kids and with kids!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEio8lKC0uNxPCn7Yr5INYl7KbegbBfuk2jCK9c7UYaseKx_04rR2BYorQSqL-FP5T6g2cEg-QHT4jvwsAgGT8aox9BFw9EuGISe91BlCfNw2r-ZoboSGlV4ja9jtQ3O5BisLu1x9yRGwsk/s1600/562171_10101934412783195_1159737274_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /><img border="0" data-original-height="403" data-original-width="403" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEio8lKC0uNxPCn7Yr5INYl7KbegbBfuk2jCK9c7UYaseKx_04rR2BYorQSqL-FP5T6g2cEg-QHT4jvwsAgGT8aox9BFw9EuGISe91BlCfNw2r-ZoboSGlV4ja9jtQ3O5BisLu1x9yRGwsk/s640/562171_10101934412783195_1159737274_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim45jadVj084A90PB0DziZVVkY-GkyTUg4KX4NhqRU-A0ASzBm4AHr7CSrsP3zQNSzD8e_3kN4ngYYGfm2bQTeRaSit4mRCQG1voNnmXnZd4DUglQ95ZJ9WUdbIlyxvVkokxxVqJmQZEw/s1600/15672695_10211794832927042_5001226500746841529_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="526" data-original-width="526" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim45jadVj084A90PB0DziZVVkY-GkyTUg4KX4NhqRU-A0ASzBm4AHr7CSrsP3zQNSzD8e_3kN4ngYYGfm2bQTeRaSit4mRCQG1voNnmXnZd4DUglQ95ZJ9WUdbIlyxvVkokxxVqJmQZEw/s640/15672695_10211794832927042_5001226500746841529_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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We've been blessed with two smart and lively blondies...who give us challenges, of course. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGIr0BhAc_a6gHIg5_1TrUi0N3HvOxZ3PROZ-EqLYDI3yeMP3Qw0I9tSD0XfdcIEpQxyBysyDPgVdTKRNMJ-q7KqUeY2t1aKo20v19HJ96DlmXD6DL3lfnCoRaRqAGqQnZ6EckLmt3SZ8/s1600/IMG_9464.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGIr0BhAc_a6gHIg5_1TrUi0N3HvOxZ3PROZ-EqLYDI3yeMP3Qw0I9tSD0XfdcIEpQxyBysyDPgVdTKRNMJ-q7KqUeY2t1aKo20v19HJ96DlmXD6DL3lfnCoRaRqAGqQnZ6EckLmt3SZ8/s640/IMG_9464.jpg" width="640" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_iCBpY3Mp44INTOYfXWDneTFJpPnsnW5edsjKMmDdebxsuf2WBkqY9A5W43N0GOJNo6Q2RKr2UWKXMw7MPTYUfF4iH05gmAutt9nUjRHKOox_UseRvHVTSWWp5MVsitDV1dlFmoIOVro/s1600/IMG_1017+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="902" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_iCBpY3Mp44INTOYfXWDneTFJpPnsnW5edsjKMmDdebxsuf2WBkqY9A5W43N0GOJNo6Q2RKr2UWKXMw7MPTYUfF4iH05gmAutt9nUjRHKOox_UseRvHVTSWWp5MVsitDV1dlFmoIOVro/s640/IMG_1017+2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
I look forward to this eleventh year, raising one more tiny baby with you, getting through more reno projects, Cormac's first year of kindergarten and all the new things for our smart + perceptive + sensitive kid, and Finola's mood swings and BIG joyous personality that both delight us and wear us out.</div>
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I promise that someday I'll nag you less about the renovations. Someday you'll come home and I'll have made a more creative meal than "chicken + rice + cheese" (AKA whatever I had left since somehow we've eaten everything fresh) or "I seriously cannot cook tonight so can you please get us takeout???" </div>
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<br /></div>
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Someday I'll have more interesting things to say, besides "Oh my gosh Finola {-did the most hilarious thing in Target today!"} or {-made me want to cry in Target today."} </div>
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Someday we'll spend an entire Saturday binge watching TV shows again, and go on late night walks, and take super romantic vacations, and it will be so very "adult" again.</div>
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<br /></div>
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But until that 'someday,' which I know will come much quicker than either of us want it to, please know this:</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Ten years later I still love you dearly. Our life is less simple, but no less lovely. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7uVzWvxfhVs1ot2tA83KITdKAI2HLetsEub3CO3LuR6ipK2OeyrM692cTUvbvC3pKNJhnj0MK6bJN7hHjCTCfpceHeyKqz31vnDAlXXmoiITy8rcTY2kKaz_ejC4AQn2YbJ4Z5-xWe8I/s1600/188527_1003246082188_5769_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="402" data-original-width="604" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7uVzWvxfhVs1ot2tA83KITdKAI2HLetsEub3CO3LuR6ipK2OeyrM692cTUvbvC3pKNJhnj0MK6bJN7hHjCTCfpceHeyKqz31vnDAlXXmoiITy8rcTY2kKaz_ejC4AQn2YbJ4Z5-xWe8I/s640/188527_1003246082188_5769_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Ten years later you are still the only man I would ever marry.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjza2UtoVBhZIcgsmb7CVPio3ges3jAlfH3cU-45K72WXTIcjz6ZPCpqdnnDqrRJrgpFT5ND556l2ouseC4InvQKhnsHZ2zsROXlOeuUaELLc6VwILFTiOZ8DR9C82A1P0bdz90rGPfiV0/s1600/IMG_8921.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="960" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjza2UtoVBhZIcgsmb7CVPio3ges3jAlfH3cU-45K72WXTIcjz6ZPCpqdnnDqrRJrgpFT5ND556l2ouseC4InvQKhnsHZ2zsROXlOeuUaELLc6VwILFTiOZ8DR9C82A1P0bdz90rGPfiV0/s640/IMG_8921.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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I pray for many, many more years with you.</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Happy anniversary!</span></div>
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(PS : Your present is this blog post...and a baby!) </div>
Gretahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13678221019546045834noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7542153512214952651.post-14714956678211870882017-09-06T06:30:00.000-04:002017-09-06T06:34:03.941-04:00oils + my birth plan. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">I am kinda stunned to be typing that I am officially 39 weeks. It's about to get real, ya'll!</span></div>
<br />
This is my third time around, and is is my very first official <span style="font-size: x-large;">oily birth plan. </span><br />
<br />
Had I heard that term a few years ago I would have been like, "Welp, that sounds <i>gross</i>."<br />
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<br /></div>
<span style="font-size: x-large;">However, I've learned that essential oils can truly support you physically and mentally before, during, and after childbirth. </span><br />
<br />
With Finola my doula brought oils to warm so that my midwife could soften the perineum and prevent tearing or the need for an episiotomy. That was amazing in that my recovery time was MUCH shorter not having to heal from that! At that point that was my only experience with essential oils, but it was a positive one.<br />
Since becoming a part of <span style="font-size: x-large;"><a href="https://www.youngliving.com/vo/#/signup/new-start?sponsorid=11612269&enrollerid=11612269&isocountrycode=US&culture=en-US&type=member">Young Living</a></span> and researching oils and birthing I know that this time I want to incorporate a few other oils into the process. So here it is, my...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgd-FhxJKJWwbHGEZe2JbZC8mvm0rGk_owsdDt3CQnQonYRcYGQ8ZXsaG9sPIHsYjORvvpVvr7bOBwekNgX6P0T0u0uXav8WH_FA6Odb2T1uL3MKO7RX8o6IhiAXKOe07hjrK-PJXqbtmk/s1600/IMG_1110.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgd-FhxJKJWwbHGEZe2JbZC8mvm0rGk_owsdDt3CQnQonYRcYGQ8ZXsaG9sPIHsYjORvvpVvr7bOBwekNgX6P0T0u0uXav8WH_FA6Odb2T1uL3MKO7RX8o6IhiAXKOe07hjrK-PJXqbtmk/s640/IMG_1110.PNG" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><a href="https://www.youngliving.com/en_US/products/release-essential-oil">Release</a></span> - to diffuse in the days leading up to my due date -- or as soon as I start having official signs of labor. This has a beautiful scent and promotes the release of negative emotions. I really want to go into things with a positive mindset so that the experience is the best it can be for both me and babe. <br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><a href="https://www.youngliving.com/en_US/products/peppermint-essential-oil">Peppermint</a></span> - for nausea support, something that I experienced last time when I neared the transition stage. <br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><a href="https://www.youngliving.com/en_US/products/valor-essential-oil">Valor</a></span> - I have a roller blend which consists of several oils, but mainly Valor, which I call 'brave mama' that I use regularly. I plan to roll on shoulders during the birthing process to promote empowerment and confidence! I've also recently been putting drops on my lava stone diffuser bracelet to boost my bravery for this birth. <br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><a href="https://www.youngliving.com/en_US/products/peace-calming-essential-oil">Peace + Calming</a> - </span>to diffuse in the birthing room, for obvious reasons.<br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><a href="https://www.youngliving.com/en_US/products/frankincense-essential-oil">Frankincense</a></span> - to anoint the baby after birth. Perhaps more of a symbolic, romantic thing...but I love the idea of this so my Frank will be ready. Plus, it is such a lovely grounding oil. Also can be used in direct application to perineal area during birth. Frank is a wonderful skin support oil!<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: x-large;">Other oils in 'My Bag' :</span></b><br />
<b>Panaway roller</b> - comes in starter kit and I basically always have a roller ball fitment on it! This one is good for aching muscles! Also to roll on temples/back of neck for headaches!<br />
<b>Thieves roller</b> - for general wellness support - can't go a day without this one!<br />
<b>Rose Ointment</b> - for lips, décolletage, any other dry/chapped skin issues.<br />
<b>Fennel</b> - to support a healthy milk supply<br />
<b>Gentle Baby</b> - to wear and diffuse once babe has arrived. The most beautiful scent!<br />
<br />
So those are the oils what I will have on-hand for myself and my birth support team at the hospital (hubby, doula, midwife, and nurses.) I have already made sure this is all going to be acceptable. I'm not sure all traditional obstetricians would be cool with all the oily goodness, so if you desire an oily birth make sure to talk in-depth with your doc/midwife WAY ahead of time (like, as soon as you know you are preggo) about their views and what may or may not be allowed in the birthing room. (It may inspire you to choose a different doc/venue!)<br />
<br />
I also make sure that eating/drinking will be allowed if need be during my labor process. While I want to labor at home for as long as possible, I also know that "stuff happens" and if I have to spend a lot of time in the labor/delivery room I might need sustenance. Not all hospitals are cool with that, especially if you think you might opt for an epidural. So again, ask ahead of time.<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">A few books I've read + found helpful:</span></div>
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<ul>
<li style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Ina-Mays-Guide-Childbirth-Gaskin/dp/0553381156/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1504662590&sr=8-1&keywords=ina+may%27s+guide+to+childbirth">Ina May's Guide to Childbirth</a> by Ina May Gaskin</li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Essential-Natural-Remedies-Pregnancy-Childbirth/dp/098169540X/ref=sr_1_3?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1504693095&sr=1-3&keywords=gentle+babies">Gentle Babies</a> by Debra Raybern </li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/HypnoBirthing-natural-approach-comfortable-birthing/dp/0757302661/ref=sr_1_2?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1504693161&sr=1-2&keywords=hypnobirthing">Hypnobirthing : The Mongan Method</a> by Marie M. Mongan</li>
</ul>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">As with all plans, it could change at the last minute! </span> I've learned to expect the unexpected with birthing babies. But, it <i>is</i> nice to have a some sort of plan you desire written out and discussed with your birth support team in advance, so everyone is on the same page with your desires, whatever they may be. <br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Have you used oils during pregnancy + birthing? If so, what else would you recommend?</span></div>
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Gretahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13678221019546045834noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7542153512214952651.post-44440672413616108102017-08-21T13:14:00.001-04:002017-08-21T13:14:21.211-04:00nursery inspirations for a third babe.I have only four weeks until my due date...which is pretty crazy. Even crazier is the fact, as of writing this, our nursery for Baby Three is no where near being done. Eek!<br />
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Eventually it will get finished, I know. Even if baby has to sleep in a pack-n-play for a few weeks (not ideal, but we would survive.)<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Here is what I am dreaming of for this babe's nursery....</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDHUtXDsgFbfZTwf_im2ELWgGFiaPuMa6U3NjBrGyBnzAgkJXejw1UpJLd5LW_xIY7ja9GOFdkoVpPmaUfKsJaU5u0PNDtVeRVVyPG4gQbffxsW0Izy2DGykj1U0t4cvcJRXNk-NcPDSU/s1600/pagejonesphotoinstagram.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="664" data-original-width="564" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDHUtXDsgFbfZTwf_im2ELWgGFiaPuMa6U3NjBrGyBnzAgkJXejw1UpJLd5LW_xIY7ja9GOFdkoVpPmaUfKsJaU5u0PNDtVeRVVyPG4gQbffxsW0Izy2DGykj1U0t4cvcJRXNk-NcPDSU/s640/pagejonesphotoinstagram.jpg" width="542" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">source : @paigejonesphoto (instagram) </td></tr>
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I love the white walls, and minimal decor in this inspiration pic. Our nursery is tiny, so bright, white and simple is ideal! Baby's new nursery is our former 'master bath' - so it is conveniently located next to our room for night feedings. However, the furnishings will have to be different than our former two nurseries (see Cormac's in <a href="http://modgarden.blogspot.com/2011/06/nursery-reveal.html">this post</a> and Finola's in <a href="http://modgarden.blogspot.com/2016/08/finolas-room-update.html">this one</a>) due to the size. Um, and my style!<br />
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My style has <b>completely</b> changed in the past six years! What you'll see in this nursery is more of a minimalist, boho-style, rather than traditional. We are selling our white sleigh crib and instead using the very simple IKEA Sniglar crib (in the picture above) which we bought four years ago after second-guessing Cormac's big boy bed after Finola was born. I am glad it will get some additional use!<br />
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I can no longer fit my HUGE IKEA white chair + ottoman in the baby space, so we will most likely be seeking other, smaller options for my nursing chair. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV6lna30enqESFOJgRJl9XZN3yv2Vxq_T374bkr4vlk1kOiQ0JGyC6OOfS9M1XWTmSRSyMseSm8ZUlTTYNWD4xCWR6c7CGqJcQPixjZ_cnfB5TQ8-hfxTTLIFEFwICelqIwm-omzSORbY/s1600/domino.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="564" data-original-width="564" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV6lna30enqESFOJgRJl9XZN3yv2Vxq_T374bkr4vlk1kOiQ0JGyC6OOfS9M1XWTmSRSyMseSm8ZUlTTYNWD4xCWR6c7CGqJcQPixjZ_cnfB5TQ8-hfxTTLIFEFwICelqIwm-omzSORbY/s640/domino.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">source : domino</td></tr>
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Other items we already have for the room : the existing changing table dresser (kinda huge, but with three spacious drawers will serve as basically ALL of baby's storage - as there is no closet in this room.) Also, I have a piece of art that I for sure want to hang over the crib, as well as a new light fixture that I am in love with! <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSDuz2U9AH85kq10ez52zI8yV4RKR-Z9_7a2aHYzIRNxgfJDQmnadAr07tdUCLG0woImkpYtibPlqbk5PtV0SLD8BRHQJm6C2tPF6nkeeGOo5l3cVVsF8LZJU7L9x8Q4IAcNG7vz88_fY/s1600/projectnursery.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1122" data-original-width="1600" height="448" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSDuz2U9AH85kq10ez52zI8yV4RKR-Z9_7a2aHYzIRNxgfJDQmnadAr07tdUCLG0woImkpYtibPlqbk5PtV0SLD8BRHQJm6C2tPF6nkeeGOo5l3cVVsF8LZJU7L9x8Q4IAcNG7vz88_fY/s640/projectnursery.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">source: project nursery</td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Other desires...</span><br />
<b>+ Plants! </b> A fiddle leaf fig in a cute basket would be ideal. And various hanging in front of the window in some white macrame hangers.<br />
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<b>+ A bold rug! </b> The walls will be white, so I'd love some big personality on the floor.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEnMcdcpW8tvl2vdLegdTiIULBf7_oywIVlxoxPQtNTaXAlOrovLjRDRotpu3ObDG0w8TnkO0ZUQRzJqkbkb3ucKYrTwOmI4WQ1Po1IQQ891FSkQ88rZ7USoe5Uj65OhPqYNUSR7r5fKI/s1600/projectnursery.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="480" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEnMcdcpW8tvl2vdLegdTiIULBf7_oywIVlxoxPQtNTaXAlOrovLjRDRotpu3ObDG0w8TnkO0ZUQRzJqkbkb3ucKYrTwOmI4WQ1Po1IQQ891FSkQ88rZ7USoe5Uj65OhPqYNUSR7r5fKI/s640/projectnursery.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">source : project nursery</td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Here is what we started out with...</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8GeEbf23m7z9YvHrBySo6Jm4GsH3XQUc2FrFV0eeC5GBdS9NY4Ig_UK_4DNr7g4GlMGG39-TR9RZOMLAGIyQgeInZGYNctMkRYnuDOFYZNsxuZUm60r607nZQyVEHygfWVJd74rR4KLM/s1600/nursery3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8GeEbf23m7z9YvHrBySo6Jm4GsH3XQUc2FrFV0eeC5GBdS9NY4Ig_UK_4DNr7g4GlMGG39-TR9RZOMLAGIyQgeInZGYNctMkRYnuDOFYZNsxuZUm60r607nZQyVEHygfWVJd74rR4KLM/s640/nursery3.jpg" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Baby's room six years ago...a little drab and dark! Um, and a bathroom.</td></tr>
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<span style="text-align: left;">Since this pic all the bathroom fixtures are gone, and we have painted the walls bright white and installed new wide-plank flooring. Still so much to do, but so exciting to start completely over, with a fresh space.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I'll be sure to post some before + afters when all is complete!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Happy Monday! </span></div>
Gretahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13678221019546045834noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7542153512214952651.post-69393717433916644002017-07-17T11:05:00.001-04:002017-07-18T17:09:13.939-04:00six years.<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5C1iyRkZOq6aPJ9gyRFO4i-wyNUab4D0TMWfzAqw5-5Z-YN5NuMsdhMmC7cS23ZD-9Kw95r99UI455UFMHcBf3nXOGdZdiWCCPGrwObu3LT5GN2WLJZtzsKfI-17zTp_Lfd_DYKLOIXE/s1600/IMG_9640.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5C1iyRkZOq6aPJ9gyRFO4i-wyNUab4D0TMWfzAqw5-5Z-YN5NuMsdhMmC7cS23ZD-9Kw95r99UI455UFMHcBf3nXOGdZdiWCCPGrwObu3LT5GN2WLJZtzsKfI-17zTp_Lfd_DYKLOIXE/s640/IMG_9640.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">his first selfie.</td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">The thirteenth marked six years since Cormac was born, and I became a mama.</span><br />
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As I reflect on his birth and motherhood, I realize how much both of these things changed me so much as a person...and I thank God for that. I often refer to Cormac as my "lifesaver baby" as, while I won't go into specific reasons, his arrival in the womb has always represented grace for me. Grace that God gave me to forgive myself and to move forward and make changes in my life. I don't believe having a baby is a "fix all" for anything, but having this baby certainly changed me for the better.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjooS2vsJCcpvOSvM3I8oIcBn8pqkfDovlKdeZWvEUHvHvWEwdX91u5ugBUShKFWIZHBhjAYDkx0Sqzm7OurBGosbFkG8Q7wHhpmH3k_wLtMDYubG4Z0Bv_HJ3A3fJmLkU_gxELUD6dbYQ/s1600/IMG_1100.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1042" data-original-width="1600" height="416" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjooS2vsJCcpvOSvM3I8oIcBn8pqkfDovlKdeZWvEUHvHvWEwdX91u5ugBUShKFWIZHBhjAYDkx0Sqzm7OurBGosbFkG8Q7wHhpmH3k_wLtMDYubG4Z0Bv_HJ3A3fJmLkU_gxELUD6dbYQ/s640/IMG_1100.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">golden hour.</td></tr>
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Cormac is smart (sometimes smarter than me), logical, joyful, analytical, highly sensitive to stimulus, thoughtful, and perceptive.<br />
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Lately he is obsessed with math and Legos and Power Rangers.<br />
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He is learning chess from Daddy and seems to love the strategy of it all. {insert blank-face emoji from me}<br />
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He likes time to himself more now, or time one-on-one with me or Hubby. While he loves time with friends (it has been so fun to see actual friendships blossom in the last year!) he seems to take after me in that large groups and over-stimulating atmospheres are not his jam and can stress him out. <i>Totally</i> get it, dude.<br />
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He is literally my biggest fan when it comes to essential oils and being supportive of my business venture in that. He asks me questions daily, always want to help me practice teaching, smells the oils and has me guess which one it is, and -- the best part -- tells me how he prays for my business. <i>What?!?!?</i> Yes, he seriously <b>tells me that.</b> Since I know how God values the prayers of little children, I feel like this is the most precious thing my son could do for me.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu7qXjFXCOWjExkFPWc3na9fW44R6Dn1WqQj7KKu4QNP_43d4AySf5DIAB0wW2QA_7DuRwES9H7M-wdJ2F1iemdKyiPKVg2W5N22eDwKU9_xRweddtdWc5fuNQI4z3Q9YsUJyWV5q2Svo/s1600/IMG_1086.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu7qXjFXCOWjExkFPWc3na9fW44R6Dn1WqQj7KKu4QNP_43d4AySf5DIAB0wW2QA_7DuRwES9H7M-wdJ2F1iemdKyiPKVg2W5N22eDwKU9_xRweddtdWc5fuNQI4z3Q9YsUJyWV5q2Svo/s640/IMG_1086.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: x-large;">The past year has contained some awesome milestones for little Mac...</span><br />
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<li>He learned the fine art of sarcasm.</li>
<li>Overcame extreme fear of water and getting water in his eyes. Now swims like a fish!</li>
<li>Figured out how to tell a (funny) joke. Like, actually having a punchline. "Was that funny, Mom? I made it up." </li>
<li>Proficient at 3rd grade level math. Okay, well, at least he can do reasoning and computation that I didn't remember doing until 3rd grade. (Learned mostly from dad.) </li>
<li>Can read and sound out words. (Does not initiate reading books by himself, though.)</li>
<li>Can articulate that he is overstimulated and needs personal space. (Learned mostly from mom.)</li>
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I'll close this birthday post with a slideshow. (I know these are out-of-fashion but my kids LOVE them.) I put some of our favorite pics from past year to Cormac's favorite song of the moment.<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">I'm glad you are so happy, Mac! You make me happy to be a mama. </span></div>
Gretahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13678221019546045834noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7542153512214952651.post-20952535115546931372017-07-06T12:28:00.001-04:002017-07-06T12:28:02.117-04:00roomie reunion : savannah, ga!<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">I am very fortunate that nearly every year for the past six years I have been able to spend a long weekend with two of my best friends from my college years. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-yPqYyy7gpEKaU4352qqnyXxs1JaISk3IROwxfrkPPznL3FGx4yiRc_If7WaX2f-3p0nmwJeQZ24bIQXYUMRkHDkJVOq3JL31loWwi4bI45VvP9AD_kcvEC1S3hOSnLpyrVMM-Ud8RXI/s1600/IMG_0260.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-yPqYyy7gpEKaU4352qqnyXxs1JaISk3IROwxfrkPPznL3FGx4yiRc_If7WaX2f-3p0nmwJeQZ24bIQXYUMRkHDkJVOq3JL31loWwi4bI45VvP9AD_kcvEC1S3hOSnLpyrVMM-Ud8RXI/s640/IMG_0260.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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No, we weren't sorority sisters.</div>
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(None of us were the sorority type.)</div>
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We didn't even ever attend the same college.</div>
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We were<strike> randomly placed together</strike> </div>
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God-appointed into each others lives</div>
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for so many reasons, I believe!</div>
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Anyway, our friendships have survived over the years, I have shared our adventures here on this blog. Here is yet another...</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Savannah, Georgia!</span></div>
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With me in my 3rd trimester of pregnancy, this was one of our tamest girlfriend trips yet...</div>
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and I <i>think</i> we were all kind of fine with that.</div>
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No "crazy first night" this time, I didn't harass any celebrities, and no one got kicked out of any pools. The only tears were only briefly shed mid-day by the least expected one of us all.</div>
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I'm proud of us, ladies! (No promises next year, though.) </div>
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I found Savannah to be dreamy, low-key, laid-back. So, so Southern and charming.</div>
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We rented the CUTEST cottage on Tybee Island, only a tiny walk from the beach. We made some homemade meals, sipped some handmade cocktails and mocktails, relaxed on the beach for a day, spent another day exploring the city by on-and-off trolley, and even did a pizza + movie night.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjUrmcxcFNZByXTh38gsmiWH3M1jHCt0HuXxr15_3vwCNJ4iTux2sO8pAXYHFYP7cmo8fVkkSiDfFNz5eVLUjhQ6AVx6ZdlQz98YFAO_gbJ5dShJ5AY_3es9t4slLBwU1tR36SE-MGzqg/s1600/20170609_162041.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjUrmcxcFNZByXTh38gsmiWH3M1jHCt0HuXxr15_3vwCNJ4iTux2sO8pAXYHFYP7cmo8fVkkSiDfFNz5eVLUjhQ6AVx6ZdlQz98YFAO_gbJ5dShJ5AY_3es9t4slLBwU1tR36SE-MGzqg/s640/20170609_162041.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZiuX-ELslkwjKw5zxDrQW-vZbVphW8csVlioltOn8zcee4US_1Yy_axFoB1iZB1MOrHN_OCQveRgYW_oPJk29785yLd0O4xJUGxWJnXSNhKGWUhsKgSQFTAmx_w9QaffXeQvaxf6Vrg4/s1600/20170609_162125.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZiuX-ELslkwjKw5zxDrQW-vZbVphW8csVlioltOn8zcee4US_1Yy_axFoB1iZB1MOrHN_OCQveRgYW_oPJk29785yLd0O4xJUGxWJnXSNhKGWUhsKgSQFTAmx_w9QaffXeQvaxf6Vrg4/s640/20170609_162125.jpg" width="640" /></a><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSAJKcp-kFG5CRwxlpnzjYAXrxJ9-jVcCNFBCfNtKCOqvVzc2MKAN5I7L52F3CEEoOzU3Dfq3a-6V1GnJGu9sHwkcSuqrpH7x1dS60oy2fQu-umUtDEoq9pd-E5SCIQ20VG-W-cCE7YtU/s1600/20170609_162213.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSAJKcp-kFG5CRwxlpnzjYAXrxJ9-jVcCNFBCfNtKCOqvVzc2MKAN5I7L52F3CEEoOzU3Dfq3a-6V1GnJGu9sHwkcSuqrpH7x1dS60oy2fQu-umUtDEoq9pd-E5SCIQ20VG-W-cCE7YtU/s640/20170609_162213.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">my sweet friends shared this adorable room...so the preggo lady could have the big bed. LOVE YOU GUYS!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhygmTbywgw8fANd4CQz5YvA5SsDCf7BerDhfy_9M3CHQZwlztRMNLlk4zyiux3YXqmuRfMv6nlihZEVFH8mzQUnP1-bhyphenhyphenSjGts77I98MfAcUidugN4ZAILoKXLECjQHmVvYYRk7Z1GDkw/s1600/20170610_194844.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhygmTbywgw8fANd4CQz5YvA5SsDCf7BerDhfy_9M3CHQZwlztRMNLlk4zyiux3YXqmuRfMv6nlihZEVFH8mzQUnP1-bhyphenhyphenSjGts77I98MfAcUidugN4ZAILoKXLECjQHmVvYYRk7Z1GDkw/s640/20170610_194844.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">homemade guacamole and fish tacos.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiG8RCSvXmiqzrPuOiHPmjkj_on8eOcrLVm_eiWNGUMouQxpNR8sgBAsqobapVehlUHlj1W417aL8pUYdrkALoyvXv6qrOWcQ_zzUQ9Hl1H4jARAlMnkISfjLGZ-lOeI2iUYV4w3WGYf3U/s1600/20170611_100650.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiG8RCSvXmiqzrPuOiHPmjkj_on8eOcrLVm_eiWNGUMouQxpNR8sgBAsqobapVehlUHlj1W417aL8pUYdrkALoyvXv6qrOWcQ_zzUQ9Hl1H4jARAlMnkISfjLGZ-lOeI2iUYV4w3WGYf3U/s640/20170611_100650.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">spanish moss covered the trees of Savannah.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsQ5mX81cpO3v9aNk3Bq6wwAAbAZyUQhRjFoCdOonODcqonc1qRoskxKzRS2xrBSFYkV9KMCuBexFrH9skKS_ce-g2F5olGfAsW_oiJLMmS8oKN09bYsErMKSid4V9BA5lHDHioJsa-mI/s1600/20170611_100959.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsQ5mX81cpO3v9aNk3Bq6wwAAbAZyUQhRjFoCdOonODcqonc1qRoskxKzRS2xrBSFYkV9KMCuBexFrH9skKS_ce-g2F5olGfAsW_oiJLMmS8oKN09bYsErMKSid4V9BA5lHDHioJsa-mI/s640/20170611_100959.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I'm sorry. I could not keep a straight face pretending to be Forrest, Forrest Gump. (The bench scene was filmed at one of the parks.)</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvV8D5y9DJwH5mnQaI6YLlMUsZuP6tXkF7BNR3z1Ior0CT3HfaDXXu7kAg6SiWx14X9EdxZ3FUw0m8kF1V6y_h2i1pTVzORrBijYvpJaEsvhunGV2rOn5-blxRThaKqeSgVIxy57we8r4/s1600/20170611_133036.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvV8D5y9DJwH5mnQaI6YLlMUsZuP6tXkF7BNR3z1Ior0CT3HfaDXXu7kAg6SiWx14X9EdxZ3FUw0m8kF1V6y_h2i1pTVzORrBijYvpJaEsvhunGV2rOn5-blxRThaKqeSgVIxy57we8r4/s640/20170611_133036.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Someone had the bright idea to put a pregnant lady in a tree. 😳 It took both my sweet friends to hoist me up here.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBh5VlUOngLdJfykWsy7ODEOOTHbI2S30hV81AC2-HwrG1HSHkC64qjoqhumo7ryDAiXpfekD2yQXDl2TO3BvHTUJKd0T8iw4y7IASd91gJDBPUGF8hiojtk7gtdJRvwrZysyK8aI8IOc/s1600/20170611_134524.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBh5VlUOngLdJfykWsy7ODEOOTHbI2S30hV81AC2-HwrG1HSHkC64qjoqhumo7ryDAiXpfekD2yQXDl2TO3BvHTUJKd0T8iw4y7IASd91gJDBPUGF8hiojtk7gtdJRvwrZysyK8aI8IOc/s640/20170611_134524.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Due to my recent read of <i>Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil</i>, I was a COMPLETE geek over the Mercer Williams house. We took the tour and I loooooved it! </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdqZoL9T5aYGrdxPxhM_tITXF1khwWbIs3uon1k7j0KnL529sewpA0NG1RFsxttRiG9mfEQso9GTGXfaPzJGemJzyxBAerSSGbt6wN6T57QSY5Ljl97q__xxatklDE5rUNsfPkDANYeE0/s1600/20170611_180608.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdqZoL9T5aYGrdxPxhM_tITXF1khwWbIs3uon1k7j0KnL529sewpA0NG1RFsxttRiG9mfEQso9GTGXfaPzJGemJzyxBAerSSGbt6wN6T57QSY5Ljl97q__xxatklDE5rUNsfPkDANYeE0/s640/20170611_180608.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I couldn't partake in the wine-drinking this year, but Beth bought this bottle for the appropriate label. </td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibAdD6rhC6SxBPU3tDOM1kkHxFBnnwwBa3mwj_lyk_c1h71CA1vZyQLQoPYbjTXJEO2-1QWIcbNbHEwImX4mYbui4whig2bfwg03NeCWqydg7MIhw2Dg0jOr6HxsibNLnhQph_tBuxGzk/s1600/IMG_0154.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibAdD6rhC6SxBPU3tDOM1kkHxFBnnwwBa3mwj_lyk_c1h71CA1vZyQLQoPYbjTXJEO2-1QWIcbNbHEwImX4mYbui4whig2bfwg03NeCWqydg7MIhw2Dg0jOr6HxsibNLnhQph_tBuxGzk/s640/IMG_0154.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgx6SMuMWQtE3N0fTgb9axoTH9FqBYlxY-iD9LeKkCW4jV2oBgsJD0Quew8IBR6LTp0tyFmhE9LtXuJd8IAMtlZYRCFAAopAMJ4Pjl61C3VPHg3EvOx6AVdkDuE-QcPZdJBjoRqgfQrS88/s1600/IMG_0156.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgx6SMuMWQtE3N0fTgb9axoTH9FqBYlxY-iD9LeKkCW4jV2oBgsJD0Quew8IBR6LTp0tyFmhE9LtXuJd8IAMtlZYRCFAAopAMJ4Pjl61C3VPHg3EvOx6AVdkDuE-QcPZdJBjoRqgfQrS88/s640/IMG_0156.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">our little rental. </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPved9XxPnA9Ju1N_oaB6Pjs29zAmenJBaK_HqVDvqOJMYedFHDDsAsm1wodHAEDpvi_TZ9fObmYuYTv6hG_XcNIhxhxJ9f4BZknC5bztU4CBN0VjzUkpBsawPoTYwjdx57Rycu3B8QB4/s1600/IMG_0157.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPved9XxPnA9Ju1N_oaB6Pjs29zAmenJBaK_HqVDvqOJMYedFHDDsAsm1wodHAEDpvi_TZ9fObmYuYTv6hG_XcNIhxhxJ9f4BZknC5bztU4CBN0VjzUkpBsawPoTYwjdx57Rycu3B8QB4/s640/IMG_0157.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I adored that our address was Cedarwood - one of my favorite oils!!!!!!!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2A8gpbYhoZViZnEdWOkJeBBbqGSTSo8vmYQHOLtmf-m9oWYUJ8_eYCcnqiJZpqhhtQCqqSHDmOXpcdY4zbrvOqcaxHx9L1aDvECfUAsz0mfKDsx-Nw6804vvzjNTBNK3My8pDQhSR0Lo/s1600/IMG_0158.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2A8gpbYhoZViZnEdWOkJeBBbqGSTSo8vmYQHOLtmf-m9oWYUJ8_eYCcnqiJZpqhhtQCqqSHDmOXpcdY4zbrvOqcaxHx9L1aDvECfUAsz0mfKDsx-Nw6804vvzjNTBNK3My8pDQhSR0Lo/s640/IMG_0158.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">this made me want to paint every wall in my house white. </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ18sNgjcTkzp7YtNn_ESvE256vcKayt_eql8xWwljpBPFNlir_nE7iC7Hl-8RWHk2v6Tedl7s6tP9ifnTPWa6rNnLUeW63uCqbuiKzS8FP5rPT0jJaHZaejBmBOeyDsTvUWTtOy0hbnE/s1600/IMG_0162.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ18sNgjcTkzp7YtNn_ESvE256vcKayt_eql8xWwljpBPFNlir_nE7iC7Hl-8RWHk2v6Tedl7s6tP9ifnTPWa6rNnLUeW63uCqbuiKzS8FP5rPT0jJaHZaejBmBOeyDsTvUWTtOy0hbnE/s640/IMG_0162.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My bedroom. So perfect. I want to come back to this sweet, artsy cottage with my little fam!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivaBUHuq4-CYancZNbFDIoY7l_hsqb8vdoDSfrUGPPhyjypWIVa_h4t-TkeMsG2MoGWa73AMiUPn9hUAR6LJvQF_eexe9FpNHzFSaXHJEvvJzoN0OjF0L-Fa5kJH9l1dSyteFFTNKd7IM/s1600/IMG_0164.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1541" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivaBUHuq4-CYancZNbFDIoY7l_hsqb8vdoDSfrUGPPhyjypWIVa_h4t-TkeMsG2MoGWa73AMiUPn9hUAR6LJvQF_eexe9FpNHzFSaXHJEvvJzoN0OjF0L-Fa5kJH9l1dSyteFFTNKd7IM/s640/IMG_0164.jpg" width="616" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Could she be any prettier?</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjefzMJ2R7rDQa69nIT53snVeho2J2KCAIkQ8G5eBV0poDtR5fc7gtIXat2yXBT6T4sNsYAOZLbCVdxk4a25oN1l3iNFbLCmp1WhNrvKoBMJjOZ_xb0Zmw-Z_K0zyPgT8KCZufGR4BtKTY/s1600/IMG_0204.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjefzMJ2R7rDQa69nIT53snVeho2J2KCAIkQ8G5eBV0poDtR5fc7gtIXat2yXBT6T4sNsYAOZLbCVdxk4a25oN1l3iNFbLCmp1WhNrvKoBMJjOZ_xb0Zmw-Z_K0zyPgT8KCZufGR4BtKTY/s640/IMG_0204.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">views on Tybee.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitlP9wr3JSNmoDf-3XYzB2H-oRgmK81SoOfM07RX42L8QrQW1arOfxW1JUt5z8-ypzR848D8xMjAtfJdqt4pYV9Ad41ULwq9Ztln6lZl1PJfLuY-sVTc-uT9I6R598ccu8XXStpxyT4Ww/s1600/IMG_0206.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitlP9wr3JSNmoDf-3XYzB2H-oRgmK81SoOfM07RX42L8QrQW1arOfxW1JUt5z8-ypzR848D8xMjAtfJdqt4pYV9Ad41ULwq9Ztln6lZl1PJfLuY-sVTc-uT9I6R598ccu8XXStpxyT4Ww/s640/IMG_0206.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My virgin pina colada. </td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtaG5Jy6WkPcLizbR61cbVn3YFRqooE9GUHhLuyvLQX5yNrcZJdQLlHGko0eoLll54xxLi1RFkqZ1OzBY0MVblxY3YmR9WsD_lehw7y2I88UHuujGNpstMpDzpXFX8RuVUdphCRSnHpRY/s1600/IMG_0207.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="963" height="638" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtaG5Jy6WkPcLizbR61cbVn3YFRqooE9GUHhLuyvLQX5yNrcZJdQLlHGko0eoLll54xxLi1RFkqZ1OzBY0MVblxY3YmR9WsD_lehw7y2I88UHuujGNpstMpDzpXFX8RuVUdphCRSnHpRY/s640/IMG_0207.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPe6pTxhmD38yfYomWqpp3MMGSBL5lCoVMHMKiV0zIT_RK7M7chKU0tgGo1AX13a_KKfTnjKyx-fvJmN5hS3NOVwy-iyDHmLGGdKuvYsFw3Cm-qWtWpS5i_WWwPxOU4kkAOrmSwj4xbWk/s1600/IMG_0235.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPe6pTxhmD38yfYomWqpp3MMGSBL5lCoVMHMKiV0zIT_RK7M7chKU0tgGo1AX13a_KKfTnjKyx-fvJmN5hS3NOVwy-iyDHmLGGdKuvYsFw3Cm-qWtWpS5i_WWwPxOU4kkAOrmSwj4xbWk/s640/IMG_0235.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me and my beach bump.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyILzWJE_2D_EgtCAt_RIfAI770FTB4XcZQAte8OstslKr3Af0KgXRsqezX4xc7Ws_V124L73bzDwbFm_0Ex1fGbYJIqjE7_G2bBK6hwpwrBbkqG9kLWfqYIah5tXwZJiNClpF1IG7kEg/s1600/IMG_0245+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyILzWJE_2D_EgtCAt_RIfAI770FTB4XcZQAte8OstslKr3Af0KgXRsqezX4xc7Ws_V124L73bzDwbFm_0Ex1fGbYJIqjE7_G2bBK6hwpwrBbkqG9kLWfqYIah5tXwZJiNClpF1IG7kEg/s640/IMG_0245+2.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">more shots of our rental...just 'cause I thought it was so adorable.</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKJ_XaKj5peJ23A6kD8cdiuQ5_DwPRfJehHBVy5jL_kIVLaZD9RIwAGD9QbA7lFyiasVkSjCciB8LAfiunxGRQ2usP0tYHEG3AnDwXIi9RwhmhIKlLGC8mhL4XxPuV0dKECwH39jCXyNs/s1600/IMG_0246.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKJ_XaKj5peJ23A6kD8cdiuQ5_DwPRfJehHBVy5jL_kIVLaZD9RIwAGD9QbA7lFyiasVkSjCciB8LAfiunxGRQ2usP0tYHEG3AnDwXIi9RwhmhIKlLGC8mhL4XxPuV0dKECwH39jCXyNs/s640/IMG_0246.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv-veZglPstSzJwb_mH_xpb0d2228IqVKHqCV68jz8IFADZ-B4Via3-LY9o4hQ0uDPcWYZmhjJ-ZrMLHBdoqVEoFZ_SQhgGdSoBuNAafcfKv5_LvwC3YOy5hq3KyHjRc4LMPItW_N9h8E/s1600/IMG_0252.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv-veZglPstSzJwb_mH_xpb0d2228IqVKHqCV68jz8IFADZ-B4Via3-LY9o4hQ0uDPcWYZmhjJ-ZrMLHBdoqVEoFZ_SQhgGdSoBuNAafcfKv5_LvwC3YOy5hq3KyHjRc4LMPItW_N9h8E/s640/IMG_0252.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">If I love you I make you guacamole.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwg1ua0wM2pB1Ji3ayoDQOGeHwgZjK5zX6e-uHRE0V8vJJQr0BsMINt6zMR9frkeo9-eW7wLtiEiZ02xlUUqbTWHGH1Tpq0pt8zr1JhxlFi3xCta2XX8T7lU49zuBX-I4xreEsuYSxLMY/s1600/IMG_0255.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="768" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwg1ua0wM2pB1Ji3ayoDQOGeHwgZjK5zX6e-uHRE0V8vJJQr0BsMINt6zMR9frkeo9-eW7wLtiEiZ02xlUUqbTWHGH1Tpq0pt8zr1JhxlFi3xCta2XX8T7lU49zuBX-I4xreEsuYSxLMY/s640/IMG_0255.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Whose is real? </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtNG0PS7E47bQnSqMKZnYe7c_c6_Qmjc8zWFnKSvx7Gn7DKmE3NLInHjpve5WKIRIuKg54f0J82YFshTlb9lq9G8Z-BAJKbWs9UYA5LqtRBryeon07aeNwG8vQ6bKKj6MYlcLupzQAE4g/s1600/IMG_0256.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="768" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtNG0PS7E47bQnSqMKZnYe7c_c6_Qmjc8zWFnKSvx7Gn7DKmE3NLInHjpve5WKIRIuKg54f0J82YFshTlb9lq9G8Z-BAJKbWs9UYA5LqtRBryeon07aeNwG8vQ6bKKj6MYlcLupzQAE4g/s640/IMG_0256.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yummy watermelon 'cocktails + mocktails' on our sun porch. Hmmm...bar franchise idea?</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwQkMhq0s09rd7nOaqrNHjpPWwkwCVwCnFyLREIJm0g7BrWVojBcc28IwUjE5TbSwDAXHRpMHdZTOSCWZ9lj852aOVJlZYkFEqrBHDBPK4VeqgD13n1BC8eV59yl91h6F7s7dd9yXt5uQ/s1600/IMG_0258.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="768" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwQkMhq0s09rd7nOaqrNHjpPWwkwCVwCnFyLREIJm0g7BrWVojBcc28IwUjE5TbSwDAXHRpMHdZTOSCWZ9lj852aOVJlZYkFEqrBHDBPK4VeqgD13n1BC8eV59yl91h6F7s7dd9yXt5uQ/s640/IMG_0258.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">some adorable succulents at our brunch stop.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="918" data-original-width="688" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilrAh8q_gYpeexYoUXmU1AtAuaM0X1qoAJjsQRKaABF-rxXqSsXkhaVIVtD-YCm0KTpZxSJvsQ1g4nSyIVq7PKii7kv7yHf6npISs77pAJi3Dtn24X1DN2gizeCHBVBF8qZZr9wMLf7Sk/s640/IMG_0261.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="478" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">There were literally posted warnings about the dangers of these historic steps. #yolo </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhPMTjkLyiKI6yqE_nLhpYdo8YPTTfbyfE7W4xvajQbZ063zZenILt_JRYXm9XnnpEXWP0oQbJ4WbWixf1bIYfbKLKaPZSiSl0hB-G7xQ8BNnBYizp3tVAYPZQwZT_lkywfxxN9WL02pI/s1600/IMG_0262.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="768" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhPMTjkLyiKI6yqE_nLhpYdo8YPTTfbyfE7W4xvajQbZ063zZenILt_JRYXm9XnnpEXWP0oQbJ4WbWixf1bIYfbKLKaPZSiSl0hB-G7xQ8BNnBYizp3tVAYPZQwZT_lkywfxxN9WL02pI/s640/IMG_0262.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Forsyth Park!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYT_NSiKdFD3AzTu1Xp-KbwXBAmely4jyiWZomkfD3AUA7VoX4uWA6QNV6gE9bjEiNqhLpPbtbAwNlGcVYeIWdhLhk3xn-2y3hNLWZH_q7SQ9U93KEBdj7beXHsTSWjp1LJGKJuYf52MA/s1600/IMG_0263.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="768" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYT_NSiKdFD3AzTu1Xp-KbwXBAmely4jyiWZomkfD3AUA7VoX4uWA6QNV6gE9bjEiNqhLpPbtbAwNlGcVYeIWdhLhk3xn-2y3hNLWZH_q7SQ9U93KEBdj7beXHsTSWjp1LJGKJuYf52MA/s640/IMG_0263.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">open-air trolley we rode around all day, hopping on and off.</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY1I4LLuCBu67TlPt31NVlys7iawQT6_sGO6I2A1yPHj4y4B2Q8OmbI5SyaTIbKCXf4Wo8ZPZId9-SxU-ROgPOMR2rbA4Kltx3ZoZHGU-V-FFAH4euYwWSYV7mTcyNuK1yx3iksUpaAIY/s1600/IMG_0266.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY1I4LLuCBu67TlPt31NVlys7iawQT6_sGO6I2A1yPHj4y4B2Q8OmbI5SyaTIbKCXf4Wo8ZPZId9-SxU-ROgPOMR2rbA4Kltx3ZoZHGU-V-FFAH4euYwWSYV7mTcyNuK1yx3iksUpaAIY/s640/IMG_0266.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4rVnfJom9FgnUn777OWuaCeQesIeOev117y6Em_kiJ0GG2t63nLkiiuS6esw-UfZVwQ7RbB1XQFk8oNli89Es13_0zNa8DBe9fUVTC0RM91WKCRW56nabopKcUK8iI7uV3LOkJHrO0hM/s1600/IMG_0298.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4rVnfJom9FgnUn777OWuaCeQesIeOev117y6Em_kiJ0GG2t63nLkiiuS6esw-UfZVwQ7RbB1XQFk8oNli89Es13_0zNa8DBe9fUVTC0RM91WKCRW56nabopKcUK8iI7uV3LOkJHrO0hM/s640/IMG_0298.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUgrCo4tBRl3DbxvbrJHrquBKjSeKj7xJBYbmFVTodS6ux3-a_cUqHv_8JEOXzc_5C_zQBue6My8oOurgIG_5lILwxlDk2P5tVe_wDXWuiOhDf3KsNh79KdWcxKfCfWyiMEc-SllWxLPI/s1600/IMG_0314.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUgrCo4tBRl3DbxvbrJHrquBKjSeKj7xJBYbmFVTodS6ux3-a_cUqHv_8JEOXzc_5C_zQBue6My8oOurgIG_5lILwxlDk2P5tVe_wDXWuiOhDf3KsNh79KdWcxKfCfWyiMEc-SllWxLPI/s640/IMG_0314.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">In the beautiful Bonaventure Cemetery on our last day.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCwNxEZsJ1XrWudapHJGm1e3lgF-wjGlrt7KnK1YAS1PU8SQrbo4c_Dlzx0KgKDDL3z1hShlbPYxadi6LdzGdJ4TP-j9_7gQVzTqaRxjTGAFhRy_Gtf30oSbryMkyWaOrLEMlxdDTmisI/s1600/IMG_0552.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="694" data-original-width="923" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCwNxEZsJ1XrWudapHJGm1e3lgF-wjGlrt7KnK1YAS1PU8SQrbo4c_Dlzx0KgKDDL3z1hShlbPYxadi6LdzGdJ4TP-j9_7gQVzTqaRxjTGAFhRy_Gtf30oSbryMkyWaOrLEMlxdDTmisI/s640/IMG_0552.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">a farewell airport selfie. </td></tr>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
I loved that we got a little beach/totally chill relaxing time, </div>
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as well as some city sight-seeing.</div>
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Perfect combo and, as always, great company.</div>
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Who knows where this next year will take us all, but I love that we continue to take these trips and make memories all over the country.</div>
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(Next up, the world?) </div>
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Our 40th birthdays are happening in just a few year...</div>
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Let's do it right, ladies!!!! 😉 </div>
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+ + + + + + +</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Reader, I hope you never stop adventuring with your best friends.</span></div>
Gretahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13678221019546045834noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7542153512214952651.post-12072909960233936772017-06-20T13:53:00.001-04:002017-06-20T13:53:40.696-04:00renovation diary : master bath // before + after<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Once there was a really, really dark bedroom. </span></div>
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Dark walls, dark trim, and dark tile on the dark, empty fireplace.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY3Q5m5xgK5YL7rWRDAGeZXAPu5CKM4LBD5v-Fo06y-M5b8e17PBgdcavAvZHCXz7vkRCEEtKTH71aFk58MPdXapcOvS9awpzg9VP5jBsiDJ9CGq5sOsEPJKhH7X2L4Wz48DR3YYrKotQ/s1600/IMG_2680.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY3Q5m5xgK5YL7rWRDAGeZXAPu5CKM4LBD5v-Fo06y-M5b8e17PBgdcavAvZHCXz7vkRCEEtKTH71aFk58MPdXapcOvS9awpzg9VP5jBsiDJ9CGq5sOsEPJKhH7X2L4Wz48DR3YYrKotQ/s640/IMG_2680.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
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Six years ago, when we purchased our 1859 Greek Revival fixer-upper, we saw this room attached to our bedroom as a temporary spot for our firstborn (then a one-year-old) while we renovated the rest of the house.</div>
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So it became Cormac's toddler room. All we did at the time was paint the walls a medium gray, then insert kid stuff. Done. I didn't hang anything on the walls or buy anything fancy.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNYNpnx57gYzWdl2zP26n7suHm96-NksYxLWvoulv5Xm5irjlsHvN4gdY_FNzkQJr9c8sAP9S8b_jh0aZqBLVRGw6MrHxPaR7cNfAKrI9vg-xej40eRyl8kl5u62QYS8Zq02D0-OUue9M/s1600/IMG_9822+%25281%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNYNpnx57gYzWdl2zP26n7suHm96-NksYxLWvoulv5Xm5irjlsHvN4gdY_FNzkQJr9c8sAP9S8b_jh0aZqBLVRGw6MrHxPaR7cNfAKrI9vg-xej40eRyl8kl5u62QYS8Zq02D0-OUue9M/s640/IMG_9822+%25281%2529.JPG" width="424" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cormac's toddler room for several years. </td></tr>
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Finally, last October we decided we were ready to begin transforming this room into an <span style="font-size: x-large;">en suite master bathroom with closet</span>. So Cormac, now a five year old, moved to his new "big kid room" and we started turning our master bath dreams into a reality.<br />
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<span style="text-align: center;">I knew the kind of bathroom I wanted: <span style="font-size: x-large;">Victorian, yet updated. Marble. Black + white. Simple, yet glam. Vintage vibes. </span><span style="font-size: large;">(</span></span><span style="text-align: center;">I posted our inspiration photos </span><a href="http://modgarden.blogspot.com/2016/11/master-bathroom-inspirations.html" style="text-align: center;">here</a><span style="text-align: center;">.)</span><br />
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That was early November of 2016. <br />
Fast forward (wait, maybe not <i>fast</i>) eight months.<br />
Yes. Eight whole months.<br />
<br />
We are finally<i> done!</i><br />
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At long last, here is the transformation. We are pretty excited to have a shower, a real closet instead of just clothing racks in our bedroom, and even a separate toilet room. Honestly, it is missing the necessary art + plants needed to make it truly feel like home to me...but you can sense the general vibe in the <span style="font-size: x-large;">before + after</span> photos below!</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_rPBUEZpiupV_QFBqu__tIk0u9JOCgeLRgLm6FxxVNk-E9k4gpsJ1QqA9ArvTWDmbVF9PaybM4PNMtMRC2RjZlWTFLz4RVAUnnpPQSMNv7dahnMC-qkar2rK2LK4o7107BmJPlR7mukw/s1600/IMG_0383.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_rPBUEZpiupV_QFBqu__tIk0u9JOCgeLRgLm6FxxVNk-E9k4gpsJ1QqA9ArvTWDmbVF9PaybM4PNMtMRC2RjZlWTFLz4RVAUnnpPQSMNv7dahnMC-qkar2rK2LK4o7107BmJPlR7mukw/s640/IMG_0383.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kept the original tile, fireplace mantle and heart pine floors. Painted all the trim and picture rails white.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-I-rrCqZffgNRr9iG3c8LDkZNwnHz8soONEszVB-ofqncdmfGQN1Su0_ZndV9toDBgGVOgsyA1ocCBtYkWraOa5jaFCxYivdrsxwKwSzc_2WgNepliIiQGL-auXfvRUszOPB3itKKCQQ/s1600/IMG_0393.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-I-rrCqZffgNRr9iG3c8LDkZNwnHz8soONEszVB-ofqncdmfGQN1Su0_ZndV9toDBgGVOgsyA1ocCBtYkWraOa5jaFCxYivdrsxwKwSzc_2WgNepliIiQGL-auXfvRUszOPB3itKKCQQ/s640/IMG_0393.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yeah, the steam shower is a bit over-the-top...but we love it!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIQIFITqEVs3PRZ_QSi99b1arJlLPbjGC3Aaf8MaU7HCVAUM8UPb4_ihczwojcmVeQkfdth67eMqMUbHB8muzW0PIvo0CgzqDWsSgGd7fnebTXGLFQvht5HIeKtjZCJ1BKI0T7Eb0KWgk/s1600/IMG_0379.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIQIFITqEVs3PRZ_QSi99b1arJlLPbjGC3Aaf8MaU7HCVAUM8UPb4_ihczwojcmVeQkfdth67eMqMUbHB8muzW0PIvo0CgzqDWsSgGd7fnebTXGLFQvht5HIeKtjZCJ1BKI0T7Eb0KWgk/s640/IMG_0379.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We widened the doorway into our bedroom and added pocket doors. The other door leads to toilet room.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3j6nlQQ3OeAmRxLlBLJeDVRcvNmhO12xgCtB-Zvxm5VnBkEfroJbOsr9fWBMl1pfY78TTb5wdA9YrO7ez1N2OY_6_1M0r90Xt9HPiWHDUZJIxA6d4klpG7MJxivUJUj5GHc-vMDSz8So/s1600/IMG_0412.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3j6nlQQ3OeAmRxLlBLJeDVRcvNmhO12xgCtB-Zvxm5VnBkEfroJbOsr9fWBMl1pfY78TTb5wdA9YrO7ez1N2OY_6_1M0r90Xt9HPiWHDUZJIxA6d4klpG7MJxivUJUj5GHc-vMDSz8So/s640/IMG_0412.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">light fixtures from overstock.com</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwXNAPM4F19p9QsgYdqCfQFEFJ62-gXyVyz5UFU0ExWBLDl6xy9_0sqxqQZroVXMFdlb0Qj317ZYY44c7dhgYmWMdHd4teiDKIPqvjkJXzOygFgN0z4KQlQr-3jRj89qUDNE9qSlpTkuk/s1600/IMG_0400.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1221" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwXNAPM4F19p9QsgYdqCfQFEFJ62-gXyVyz5UFU0ExWBLDl6xy9_0sqxqQZroVXMFdlb0Qj317ZYY44c7dhgYmWMdHd4teiDKIPqvjkJXzOygFgN0z4KQlQr-3jRj89qUDNE9qSlpTkuk/s640/IMG_0400.jpg" width="488" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Black vanity was a cheap antique find that I painted black. Furry stool from Target!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-7rjFe5wfQctUMevf_mCkNMft3Olar5Io4qUfx6qf0YUvgxjBjpWrwPtoaGHJrw15mXU4EeSamdH_h1A9MQ_X1lPQqvf9ZvqvhYKRYKLC5Iftk_9mhCUJW7U3yCPOSwZksnNQ4gAJiXo/s1600/IMG_0413.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-7rjFe5wfQctUMevf_mCkNMft3Olar5Io4qUfx6qf0YUvgxjBjpWrwPtoaGHJrw15mXU4EeSamdH_h1A9MQ_X1lPQqvf9ZvqvhYKRYKLC5Iftk_9mhCUJW7U3yCPOSwZksnNQ4gAJiXo/s640/IMG_0413.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">All hardware in room is from Signature Hardware. Countertop is quartz. Giant gold mirror was a random vintage find I purchased three years ago -- one of my favorite parts of the bathroom!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcJ-L3ca4sKDIgJAW7VCfXDb-kIb9V4yYhLz5O6MEts7Cc0NQfQbBfn7lh-kTcII0Di3wuqhGn_6WgKJOBWeWHJhipZtsB2nwQLopPA2Si_E_KGDZZoCPzsLnv57sX7kv8xWMUNXqjmpw/s1600/IMG_0414.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcJ-L3ca4sKDIgJAW7VCfXDb-kIb9V4yYhLz5O6MEts7Cc0NQfQbBfn7lh-kTcII0Di3wuqhGn_6WgKJOBWeWHJhipZtsB2nwQLopPA2Si_E_KGDZZoCPzsLnv57sX7kv8xWMUNXqjmpw/s640/IMG_0414.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">terribly lit photo...but our closet is from EasyClosets.com - installed by Hubby!</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2PpSBDP0DcoeehOVS522w_G-HNtYwtrvcz3ncXo6TzuvPw6CBf8vIGccgHp5bQ_Zak8Md7HbYLFhyphenhyphen6ZrvI4M2_2iLn5FJGebBnTI-20cBCc3wlel-QP-pkZKj9HiXfJ5ARZZB0Pt_NXw/s1600/IMG_0411.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2PpSBDP0DcoeehOVS522w_G-HNtYwtrvcz3ncXo6TzuvPw6CBf8vIGccgHp5bQ_Zak8Md7HbYLFhyphenhyphen6ZrvI4M2_2iLn5FJGebBnTI-20cBCc3wlel-QP-pkZKj9HiXfJ5ARZZB0Pt_NXw/s640/IMG_0411.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSahs3YZAYrXyor5b_Hq0Yb2Q2Qa9e-e69VDZ3FMfHU2WDiHYZHKKnOEcA4VWINdRtW6OUth6TP-fkzWA1rOMvK14rudVnQ9sBu8LLfRv0ya0GQR68iwBIGOSJH8xgu5nlX6eGNyQXCyE/s1600/IMG_0376.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSahs3YZAYrXyor5b_Hq0Yb2Q2Qa9e-e69VDZ3FMfHU2WDiHYZHKKnOEcA4VWINdRtW6OUth6TP-fkzWA1rOMvK14rudVnQ9sBu8LLfRv0ya0GQR68iwBIGOSJH8xgu5nlX6eGNyQXCyE/s640/IMG_0376.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View looking out from closet. We kept the closet open on top to let in more natural light.</td></tr>
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<br />One more <span style="font-size: x-large;">look back</span> at how far we've come...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQbUuXPuredpRl59QiADb6xeM7Jtzm5H3Ve_U84_f33eQF8RVYgmpdciOdkns_7N0dwHKsnnrfS0vCqsiKTEDXyC-iZSRFqGn4iFr4EWYaOF53X2tZg_g7vbA3l71G9DP7kcQYd6Z7wWU/s1600/IMG_9826.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQbUuXPuredpRl59QiADb6xeM7Jtzm5H3Ve_U84_f33eQF8RVYgmpdciOdkns_7N0dwHKsnnrfS0vCqsiKTEDXyC-iZSRFqGn4iFr4EWYaOF53X2tZg_g7vbA3l71G9DP7kcQYd6Z7wWU/s640/IMG_9826.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggMKbUGV5w5J2RNRKwTPMHZDUHXXjHtg2xdxwjhPjGDF4H1UyTyBS9RTeijqabbKQRHU0LzzoSUQxCduexg2KRZs5oyznab7QKpWJUB1DeSZf-1lClDVRVM1np_RNTbTRw0PNwTNtFBFU/s1600/IMG_0396.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggMKbUGV5w5J2RNRKwTPMHZDUHXXjHtg2xdxwjhPjGDF4H1UyTyBS9RTeijqabbKQRHU0LzzoSUQxCduexg2KRZs5oyznab7QKpWJUB1DeSZf-1lClDVRVM1np_RNTbTRw0PNwTNtFBFU/s640/IMG_0396.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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If it seems completely unrecognizable...well, good! :)</div>
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We still need : shutters, plants, art...but, as with all things in our home, it will happen in time. I find my style evolves over time anyway, so it is best for us not to do everything all at once.</div>
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We are glad to be done with this really drawn-out project.</div>
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Happy to have cash-flowed the entire thing (our most expensive home reno project so far.) </div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Now, onto turning our</span><span style="font-size: x-large;"> former bathroom into a cozy little nursery for the baby!</span></div>
Gretahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13678221019546045834noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7542153512214952651.post-9390415414319380502017-05-04T07:15:00.002-04:002017-05-04T07:15:42.169-04:00my kids aren't 'pleasers' - and that's okay.<span style="font-size: x-large;">My kids are a lot of things. Affectionate. Loud. Verbose. (Very verbose.)</span><br />
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But they aren't pleasers.<br />
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As parents I think we naturally hope our kids are pleasers. What I mean is, we want them to be good-natured and compliant. Pleasant to be around. Polite. Follow all the rules. Maybe even just <i>quiet.</i><br />
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That is not my children.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRdWcoBlGde7KrjOoe8PDiPIkSj_ag9e8bl1WM1nTc_R-8WSC-7pkWTIojqDIWPQrZlWnMEYOt8ieoff4HqEsQPlmEGvD6upVL1HkegTzR1Mp4Efdj2hGuHwpmeep_hU9LN2UGfInU_gU/s1600/IMG_8992.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRdWcoBlGde7KrjOoe8PDiPIkSj_ag9e8bl1WM1nTc_R-8WSC-7pkWTIojqDIWPQrZlWnMEYOt8ieoff4HqEsQPlmEGvD6upVL1HkegTzR1Mp4Efdj2hGuHwpmeep_hU9LN2UGfInU_gU/s640/IMG_8992.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">two strong-willed kiddos - lucky me! ;)</td></tr>
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They <i>can</i> be sweet and delightful - <i>if</i> they know you and you are patient enough to wait for it. But they are not the type, upon meeting them, to respond to your adult greeting with a shy smile and a tiny toddler wave. "Say 'hi' Cormac," I will urge. Sometimes he will simply ignore the whole interaction. Or he will say something completely off-the-wall, leaving the adult stupified. Finola is not much different. "Will you give me a hug?" will sometimes ellicit the response of a flat-out "Nope!" They don't give obligatory hugs. Ever. But, if they feel like it, they are the most cuddly kids I can imagine.<br />
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When they want to talk to you, and they <b>love </b>to talk, they will initiate the conversation on their terms. They will be brutally honest.<br />
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It is no surprise to me that my kids aren't pleasers. I would not describe my husband as a pleaser. Good-natured and very friendly, yes. Pleaser-personality, no. I know for a fact I am not a pleaser... although I am more conscious of my responses/actions now that I am older.<br />
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A 'pleaser' (from what I gather from self-proclaimed pleasers) is someone who often acts to appease others. Who may hold back their opinions or feelings to avoid confrontation. Who follows the established social graces, sometimes even when it goes against every fiber of their being. (Thus causing inner turmoil - or at least some discomfort.) A pleaser's default setting is to concern themselves with how they "should" act - and are very concerned with how other people are judging their actions. They want to keep the peace and make others happy, despite personal feelings.<br />
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Don't get me wrong - pleasers are wonderful people! They are usually sweet and kind and very easy to get along with. They will usually have more friends than non-pleasers. It is easy to like a pleaser.<br />
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In my family, my sister is a self-proclaimed 'recovering pleaser.' My younger brother was definitely a pleaser growing up. Spencer would always be saying, "Can't we just all get along?" He was and is the nicest guy ever.<br />
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I, however, was the opposite! A natural button-pusher. I didn't care at all (in the moment) how I was perceived. I was the child who wrinkled my nose at strangers who told me how cute I was. I would literally grunt and recoil when well-meaning adults would try to get "all up in my hamster ball" in any way. I believe I even threw a few punches as a baby. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTmRcS_ZGMhDYL0ut616ZZlPqlmxEUjAtI39sauZUxRMho1OZWVE7MO56ylq2jrtZB0gSdb3aXwmyxyVcb4RJLD4cRhbEB87WZzt2d0J48wMZ0x7y6S7npY-B4MtvMFoaze1XP5j1rr44/s1600/Scan+120260006.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTmRcS_ZGMhDYL0ut616ZZlPqlmxEUjAtI39sauZUxRMho1OZWVE7MO56ylq2jrtZB0gSdb3aXwmyxyVcb4RJLD4cRhbEB87WZzt2d0J48wMZ0x7y6S7npY-B4MtvMFoaze1XP5j1rr44/s640/Scan+120260006.jpg" width="379" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I was a textbook "non-pleaser."</td></tr>
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As I grew older I continued to embarrass/annoy my parents by giving my startlingly honest opinions and telling them (and everyone) exactly what I thought. I was hard to discipline because I questioned <i>everything</i> - and let's be honest, parents typically just want kids to hear that they are wrong and stop doing whatever it is. I wanted to discuss (argue) why things were wrong, even as a very young child. That didn't usually go over well!<br />
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I go through these same things with both my children. I get it now, Mom and Dad. It wears you down!<br />
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Although it <i>is</i> super frustrating sometimes to parent my strong-willed children, I want to emphasize the <b>positives</b> of their big personalities. There is great value in being a non-conformist. There is strength in not being afraid to give your opinion (respectfully) even when everyone else is saying something else.<br />
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And it is totally okay to say the kid equivalent of "get the heck away from me" when a someone makes you feel uncomfortable! (Real talk: My kids have shouted "Stranger danger!" around innocent bystanders outside buildings who have even glanced at them sideways. Kinda embarrassing...but at least they are aware...???)<br />
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As they grow up, I want my kids to feel empowered to not just go along with what the other kids are doing. To state very clearly if they don't like how they are being treated. To not be bullies, but definitely not be victims, either.<br />
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So mamas and dads, the next time you find yourself wishing your kid was more of a "pleaser" -- pray for God to work His will through your child's unique little personality.<br />
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<b>The world needs all kinds.</b><br />
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+ + + + + +</div>
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If you sometimes struggle, as I do, with parenting a strong-willed child, I highly encourage you to read the following article as it may help you to understand the behavior better. As a grown-up "strong-willed child" I can say that this is pretty spot-on:<br />
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<a href="http://www.ahaparenting.com/parenting-tools/positive-discipline/Parenting-Strong-Willed-Child?utm_source=Aha%21+Parenting+List&utm_campaign=b91cd84434-EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_2017_04_09&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_45e38f2e1a-b91cd84434-209580337"><span style="font-size: x-large;">Parenting Your Strong-Willed Child</span></a></div>
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(Such a great website, and Dr. Laura Markham's book <i>Peaceful Parent, Happy Kids</i> is probably my favorite parenting book of all.) </div>
Gretahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13678221019546045834noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7542153512214952651.post-88412496890277410032017-04-21T09:56:00.001-04:002017-04-21T09:56:27.632-04:00a week in the warmth // beach + lego vacay<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKCk1oZD0r155HpyoZ936CWsrOyVkLfWQDjt8-FzIaB_UYGOdfQ9hLy1BpGe1OYQ4ieTB2SyIegVKNpfwKrM1ICu85Zy1ArDCjVattHyhBGIM9rzuVY57oIfcMlb2KJGOJlhmyg0UP1Hc/s1600/IMG_9175.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKCk1oZD0r155HpyoZ936CWsrOyVkLfWQDjt8-FzIaB_UYGOdfQ9hLy1BpGe1OYQ4ieTB2SyIegVKNpfwKrM1ICu85Zy1ArDCjVattHyhBGIM9rzuVY57oIfcMlb2KJGOJlhmyg0UP1Hc/s640/IMG_9175.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Recently we got a much-needed dose of vitamin D and relaxation down in Florida.</span></div>
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We road-tripped down to my in-laws' condo in Treasure Island </div>
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and it was so, so, so nice to get out of the drear that was our weather and into the warmth + rays.</div>
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I tried to post a few things on Instagram each day for those who follow along, but here are some more photos chronicling our seven day trip...</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0dLZXus7vWGsWxBRga68zIjonDkGXBI90AUCg3VmN2s70KHEZv8_HMfYcsYXo_YyjbB7sYhCZNCUE1nHE-e-bxLd52AWJkHfx25D9dm-Bx17xiwd6xyxpJM_b0N6xZeVsroW4vkCThmE/s1600/IMG_8986.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0dLZXus7vWGsWxBRga68zIjonDkGXBI90AUCg3VmN2s70KHEZv8_HMfYcsYXo_YyjbB7sYhCZNCUE1nHE-e-bxLd52AWJkHfx25D9dm-Bx17xiwd6xyxpJM_b0N6xZeVsroW4vkCThmE/s640/IMG_8986.jpg" width="512" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My pale children are not used to bright sunshine. Don't worry - we got them sunglasses.<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVm829rNvOmrQeyadUr3m7sjtCT77tWMYfiXq_fCdYvfhrWHbwx10IfLPpVfqqeZ_AYAwXs8tBM6MStOWEQ-fOh5s_tQIXAQfGX3VXIUdwfQGadhauqGz6oEP30zhZJwRuET4KQro62H8/s1600/IMG_8987.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVm829rNvOmrQeyadUr3m7sjtCT77tWMYfiXq_fCdYvfhrWHbwx10IfLPpVfqqeZ_AYAwXs8tBM6MStOWEQ-fOh5s_tQIXAQfGX3VXIUdwfQGadhauqGz6oEP30zhZJwRuET4KQro62H8/s640/IMG_8987.JPG" width="360" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">reading this for book club - and excited for an upcoming Savannah trip!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmXVZADevRGfBe-cqSGuvk2R88kWA6gmKIE6M6NGcAkOT-yoFgC9ZQ-IyYNvVH5FlLlYuESMYf_qKw4adwTwQ48PqGVfriYKhGdjOtt_vwBDaZMUCMTn__Vm55OmPrz82xhZMaaTEZkyk/s1600/IMG_8992+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmXVZADevRGfBe-cqSGuvk2R88kWA6gmKIE6M6NGcAkOT-yoFgC9ZQ-IyYNvVH5FlLlYuESMYf_qKw4adwTwQ48PqGVfriYKhGdjOtt_vwBDaZMUCMTn__Vm55OmPrz82xhZMaaTEZkyk/s640/IMG_8992+2.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">These kids in the Burley bike trailer. A little too close for comfort most of the time.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQm2kARJRgz4u95ca3gKBgVxm6hdslm97Qw3afDYqEHMJmmjkqBqX3YBiH2niy8V_4riCq_Zkzp7mw39tU3d09l-Eq5e_PfBJFS-aCX8n2vE4nwuMd3QtWiXSPBQF9bXv6uw66FAZzBr0/s1600/IMG_8995.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQm2kARJRgz4u95ca3gKBgVxm6hdslm97Qw3afDYqEHMJmmjkqBqX3YBiH2niy8V_4riCq_Zkzp7mw39tU3d09l-Eq5e_PfBJFS-aCX8n2vE4nwuMd3QtWiXSPBQF9bXv6uw66FAZzBr0/s640/IMG_8995.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is Cormac's comfort zone at the beach. </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_1Sdgi01mNHOWJe6N0QungbsOv9iNDPv0Vj5MIwlQtUcI-69gZ7fIG9opWldsOcTNWU7ojSm-TedAeA8vKSLno6xLMzex67_KmxGx9LbtvfJvTMrxl_5PT3NbEW79nSREyX6UHet3oSw/s1600/IMG_8997.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_1Sdgi01mNHOWJe6N0QungbsOv9iNDPv0Vj5MIwlQtUcI-69gZ7fIG9opWldsOcTNWU7ojSm-TedAeA8vKSLno6xLMzex67_KmxGx9LbtvfJvTMrxl_5PT3NbEW79nSREyX6UHet3oSw/s640/IMG_8997.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Paul out in the warm Gulf waves with Fin.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggIvJpcfff8RNfS4iHhhXhQ5p23T6MsCLOOB3mbQFniUK3miHmXrMQDuPlM0uoPQm5r4-86hjXz3v0SB2zpiVV2UQs7BQuGtAxBdv8rlr3BT_ssZfm0eEFrScZTDcV1_4wfJA0VAJ2uJ0/s1600/IMG_9012.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggIvJpcfff8RNfS4iHhhXhQ5p23T6MsCLOOB3mbQFniUK3miHmXrMQDuPlM0uoPQm5r4-86hjXz3v0SB2zpiVV2UQs7BQuGtAxBdv8rlr3BT_ssZfm0eEFrScZTDcV1_4wfJA0VAJ2uJ0/s640/IMG_9012.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">She loves being immersed, literally in nature.</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAbqIIWUCwuVsVqVR3qs9WXOqPc78SgsiuiCrYzSgBHKvpsLkzHY7MorhmMTNQJLcVEYpUY8wGIF__1Qvp1fB7zI-WUAoUqxoMqF90vM-WTe9DJcrcWkuPjZdXXKbxq9JBEQRDwozniLM/s1600/IMG_9014.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAbqIIWUCwuVsVqVR3qs9WXOqPc78SgsiuiCrYzSgBHKvpsLkzHY7MorhmMTNQJLcVEYpUY8wGIF__1Qvp1fB7zI-WUAoUqxoMqF90vM-WTe9DJcrcWkuPjZdXXKbxq9JBEQRDwozniLM/s640/IMG_9014.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbzA5r2SdwYs32VV3IF5NQTNKefM5ZOt2AJjx4l50VCG33gIMvoH1MafvPLhyD6dxqB7X_mt5tU2pyThib5z43YbNeIhvmy_BVIWH0mWagO-_bZCJ0nOtHTQZSXTp9rURGho5aNuuyWAU/s1600/IMG_9017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbzA5r2SdwYs32VV3IF5NQTNKefM5ZOt2AJjx4l50VCG33gIMvoH1MafvPLhyD6dxqB7X_mt5tU2pyThib5z43YbNeIhvmy_BVIWH0mWagO-_bZCJ0nOtHTQZSXTp9rURGho5aNuuyWAU/s640/IMG_9017.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">we exfoliated a lot.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjcSZKyG30Rir0bUYihQO7d-uSecrL53BlYkoR0iCsKooZfhBdZ_ow-tQ_aKzeQ2MablNpzpOsyrmJJLQju05bN3u6b6Y9S216Fl-NYMrCSFSDUAl2L5wAjMtBOJ1bSvMnpj_vz8DjTik/s1600/IMG_9024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjcSZKyG30Rir0bUYihQO7d-uSecrL53BlYkoR0iCsKooZfhBdZ_ow-tQ_aKzeQ2MablNpzpOsyrmJJLQju05bN3u6b6Y9S216Fl-NYMrCSFSDUAl2L5wAjMtBOJ1bSvMnpj_vz8DjTik/s640/IMG_9024.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The belly even was treated to various spa treatments.</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigSPyr1D4I94F3w1BPV9HghXKE6AyirNC2SeiSnDjnhWWn_PFPxyMJwD5i8TP0WixjXFafdpz4wAD0e03A5ETssZGuvfdjJp9d6nBG_XFSTO3hnRQtBVuRuYODHOmEASzgo4bxVHT8QX8/s1600/IMG_9048+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigSPyr1D4I94F3w1BPV9HghXKE6AyirNC2SeiSnDjnhWWn_PFPxyMJwD5i8TP0WixjXFafdpz4wAD0e03A5ETssZGuvfdjJp9d6nBG_XFSTO3hnRQtBVuRuYODHOmEASzgo4bxVHT8QX8/s640/IMG_9048+2.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">relaxing on the beach...sort of.</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEis_eDwtUPWkZjsh597JwpLEE9l249Sz_CMWRiUgDx2kVVvqlEIfmtacMs0keBCEDL-CMt-p0d0R9kI66hNTlvojavGX7CNwNISU3nb4DxkEwxjZH7kt5Gau1d0GtEFhyHf4z3PxlmPC8o/s1600/IMG_9059.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEis_eDwtUPWkZjsh597JwpLEE9l249Sz_CMWRiUgDx2kVVvqlEIfmtacMs0keBCEDL-CMt-p0d0R9kI66hNTlvojavGX7CNwNISU3nb4DxkEwxjZH7kt5Gau1d0GtEFhyHf4z3PxlmPC8o/s640/IMG_9059.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">start of day two! apple eating!</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSpTIFbPOU2ANFRz5ef-s0pFPqC1ksKFnJghipaduhVsA67Q_9VKy2zWwMgbS-T9aGYKXfckcJxm5T-N2o5YV7mEGv-yjYwmIX4rnYk36svUSqKH_ULvhDVuzyrNABnVy89nZkQrR75ZE/s1600/IMG_9066.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSpTIFbPOU2ANFRz5ef-s0pFPqC1ksKFnJghipaduhVsA67Q_9VKy2zWwMgbS-T9aGYKXfckcJxm5T-N2o5YV7mEGv-yjYwmIX4rnYk36svUSqKH_ULvhDVuzyrNABnVy89nZkQrR75ZE/s640/IMG_9066.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">After day one's sunburn, hubby invested in a shirt.</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAF3cRRwrldsdo8PzQ2fEaPf6UlhezLkuO2V-Yhg70o0WLErw47wszjtIt_OOMvD4z5vTvgIpBXaS7KVirg9Ud2ihK4JyYiv2XIIKOhmR9YZKCEwPMWxPNxjM1XfFSgagUPvuidNOEa6Y/s1600/IMG_9068.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAF3cRRwrldsdo8PzQ2fEaPf6UlhezLkuO2V-Yhg70o0WLErw47wszjtIt_OOMvD4z5vTvgIpBXaS7KVirg9Ud2ihK4JyYiv2XIIKOhmR9YZKCEwPMWxPNxjM1XfFSgagUPvuidNOEa6Y/s640/IMG_9068.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The waves freak him out, but being buried in sand is totally okay.</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7uGZ7XLfSGb4jNuzFmWtQpp0At4PVPvNAmx8fQ0B8d0zBKGBsU9kvfkIPnzvTuzCSinI__UU2mkPAmfFvI9QgeB-Uo6TIxUw8rg7MnumQDn5S4ZXcWiS-rF-gzjSWHR95IIGtrPhmEKw/s1600/IMG_9072.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7uGZ7XLfSGb4jNuzFmWtQpp0At4PVPvNAmx8fQ0B8d0zBKGBsU9kvfkIPnzvTuzCSinI__UU2mkPAmfFvI9QgeB-Uo6TIxUw8rg7MnumQDn5S4ZXcWiS-rF-gzjSWHR95IIGtrPhmEKw/s640/IMG_9072.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Another reapplication of sunscreen under our new beach umbrella.</td></tr>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJnv1viKX6u1fJ76H7lqx1EG-z31prmbHctV4OuOcBofRJVUJza-elare1gQhB0K6fQZhajPXSeB-bphBqhlZi5mlilS2qhSNAOAEzfW2ShyphenhyphenaZH1WE3O8SgqEFrdN0aYev_Ua37NdJi6I/s1600/IMG_9079.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJnv1viKX6u1fJ76H7lqx1EG-z31prmbHctV4OuOcBofRJVUJza-elare1gQhB0K6fQZhajPXSeB-bphBqhlZi5mlilS2qhSNAOAEzfW2ShyphenhyphenaZH1WE3O8SgqEFrdN0aYev_Ua37NdJi6I/s640/IMG_9079.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEX8tog_UwtJRHLKSnK8ZwslNqVDSHbrfFm9T62SQg5P80RpVfSTbELd989b4j2d7uPI6Ym8a8q7hZPwEeW8q82h8Rh2jrQKYK4VRQbWTU69a0IncB2AC3mwQfw8CgkMcp3dYt8yakAqg/s1600/IMG_9082.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEX8tog_UwtJRHLKSnK8ZwslNqVDSHbrfFm9T62SQg5P80RpVfSTbELd989b4j2d7uPI6Ym8a8q7hZPwEeW8q82h8Rh2jrQKYK4VRQbWTU69a0IncB2AC3mwQfw8CgkMcp3dYt8yakAqg/s640/IMG_9082.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlFlJJMyBRY6_BpDrA6Ssgp9_JSGgr3U-4JeuyQXuanKP4-yGDEcUlV533OycQHPWke_k25cGSGjjwaCObbLdcO0oceaCcEq4xEnE1BQQc0m5tOJz8VgP5a3QH_1yM2ejvwqUmPrI3-9w/s1600/IMG_9102.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlFlJJMyBRY6_BpDrA6Ssgp9_JSGgr3U-4JeuyQXuanKP4-yGDEcUlV533OycQHPWke_k25cGSGjjwaCObbLdcO0oceaCcEq4xEnE1BQQc0m5tOJz8VgP5a3QH_1yM2ejvwqUmPrI3-9w/s640/IMG_9102.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sometimes they play so nicely together. It's like 60/40.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkfJ78AYWTRY7x_WXp-VOhLf60xuYSLsLlGArf6WJUsdVOe0q7Ga6-pZjCtMKS6h37CF6J5qJvXl3a3zCOL9DCpdizxosbxUeB0TuyEwYspt55Q33qfX8trbY73fYr6bnu-Gutcv40P38/s1600/IMG_9104.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkfJ78AYWTRY7x_WXp-VOhLf60xuYSLsLlGArf6WJUsdVOe0q7Ga6-pZjCtMKS6h37CF6J5qJvXl3a3zCOL9DCpdizxosbxUeB0TuyEwYspt55Q33qfX8trbY73fYr6bnu-Gutcv40P38/s640/IMG_9104.JPG" width="360" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sunset from the condo's lanai. </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBXEfRLlcScsg6zaEjuO34xuzZfdePHtWuIq-jtDDmpMqcot_OfUzVfsA2ljRXLfSry7gLkrDKGzCW_ocsUMoVfLSGv8Rp_1UEjM0ydThQXac3KHeL8S5_12nEwNb-5sb97XuaUmr4kjw/s1600/IMG_9114.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBXEfRLlcScsg6zaEjuO34xuzZfdePHtWuIq-jtDDmpMqcot_OfUzVfsA2ljRXLfSry7gLkrDKGzCW_ocsUMoVfLSGv8Rp_1UEjM0ydThQXac3KHeL8S5_12nEwNb-5sb97XuaUmr4kjw/s640/IMG_9114.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">my burnt feet. ow. </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhX3FgI_qe39xL3ANfKeQpBFHGpIcFlYvj23ODCSKRtgvAPix5UX5YUjpu9ys1sKGajgxs_Dlmcy46o0gM5_A0bnT2PbJhpftkQB_AuZleVmufhIqWn_hbEXRVA7Qx1w5Ot7jWKcguK3_I/s1600/IMG_9115.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhX3FgI_qe39xL3ANfKeQpBFHGpIcFlYvj23ODCSKRtgvAPix5UX5YUjpu9ys1sKGajgxs_Dlmcy46o0gM5_A0bnT2PbJhpftkQB_AuZleVmufhIqWn_hbEXRVA7Qx1w5Ot7jWKcguK3_I/s640/IMG_9115.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The only day I put on full makeup deserved a selfie! We went into St. Pete's and had a family movie date to avoid the mid-day sun. We are really into movie dates, even on vacation. </td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRykrqxvdxshNljbsachoa5x-VhoCXPH5NPY_XEmmwBgtnFQD0nMOCvRfjJb52DPzScGTElfCryKn6Ks-p3nzLRygscFKvQrCJYPoKkUdDdvhny54Si_njndhQRUGA-wIAyBi4yOkivy0/s1600/IMG_9141.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRykrqxvdxshNljbsachoa5x-VhoCXPH5NPY_XEmmwBgtnFQD0nMOCvRfjJb52DPzScGTElfCryKn6Ks-p3nzLRygscFKvQrCJYPoKkUdDdvhny54Si_njndhQRUGA-wIAyBi4yOkivy0/s640/IMG_9141.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Then later we ended the day hanging on the beach at sunset and getting ice cream.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpFzRPsBSR-2JzwpQ_315sZI1y9Itc_wlHNUzhVjZu6Z4Ts07jxNxdJcmX9HeIEZ-B71mr0QMkMPWAh4-4bSpJr_9XtaY3Wrk_EX2pXOt2JnQ9-1h7knsPU-hexgl8lV75XzuoN2hfLyg/s1600/IMG_9160.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpFzRPsBSR-2JzwpQ_315sZI1y9Itc_wlHNUzhVjZu6Z4Ts07jxNxdJcmX9HeIEZ-B71mr0QMkMPWAh4-4bSpJr_9XtaY3Wrk_EX2pXOt2JnQ9-1h7knsPU-hexgl8lV75XzuoN2hfLyg/s640/IMG_9160.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Had to dress uber-comfy for my biggest craving all vacay - Waffle House! Which is weird as I never crave waffles. </td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7uhNXVmwoHKZycsKzqlPtiw8qcT8QEsPhC_NBee4_sXXsLJ7Nir1tbVXLF3om_MgOEbf6PXzgiFcvrdDmx74USIHG-3Ys71D6M-cV6-KyO7rjPqtaZSDQnM2-A3F49O1O4UVL3nVp0FY/s640/IMG_9152.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="640" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">everyone wore their pjs or comfies! </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHzXVpBJkB89BAfYRt73ugSAPZwxG2HD3db9CB7BzTXKml-J1uYRcyY6nT0VuQr2kcUoBrZ4kA1igpn2lVW0DdK0cx4Of6uHoux8Qpvs4dI3glEnLBgLU-kJyylGsnfCt3aQuwCPj6NVs/s1600/IMG_9155.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHzXVpBJkB89BAfYRt73ugSAPZwxG2HD3db9CB7BzTXKml-J1uYRcyY6nT0VuQr2kcUoBrZ4kA1igpn2lVW0DdK0cx4Of6uHoux8Qpvs4dI3glEnLBgLU-kJyylGsnfCt3aQuwCPj6NVs/s640/IMG_9155.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cormac humored me and wore his WH hat the whole meal.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpqRCgYxl55KbOEjGOaEs0Xe9qSYfQwdu64_MTr0ik7-J0t6w9nEs9__g5nVilGlx9D_UbKQX47ih8wgb0QiSZ6Ucjqd05XOlJ5vMVML3y72PYrwi_zwReMDiORw3A12bTeSZpex1Ovmo/s1600/IMG_9223.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpqRCgYxl55KbOEjGOaEs0Xe9qSYfQwdu64_MTr0ik7-J0t6w9nEs9__g5nVilGlx9D_UbKQX47ih8wgb0QiSZ6Ucjqd05XOlJ5vMVML3y72PYrwi_zwReMDiORw3A12bTeSZpex1Ovmo/s640/IMG_9223.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Last day at the beach! This girl was born for it. Peace out, ya'll.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Daddy/Son walk up the beach. #guytime</td></tr>
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<br />After four lovely days at the beach we departed for the second part of our adventure: <span style="font-size: x-large;">Legoland.</span> Cormac had suggested this months ago after he had seen an ad for it before a movie. "We can 'Stay <i>and</i> Play!' Mom!!!!" he had told me excitedly. (Advertising money well-spent.) It was so sweet to see him pumped about it, since just this year he started getting really into Lego sets and being able to put them together completely by himself. (Praise Jesus!)<br />
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I'll be totally honest : I am sort of dreading <i>ever</i> having to go to Disney World (and Hubby is pretty much against spending the money and fighting the crazy crowds.) I figured this would be a nice alternative that would hopefully be more laid-back and non-stressful. It was! Hardly a line, so the kids got to ride a bunch of rides both the days we were there. We stayed at the Legoland Hotel, which was super-kid friendly (obviously) and the kids had a blast. I loved that there were zero lines or crowds or chaos. It's just not my bag, baby. I wish I was a chill laid-back mama who just goes with the flow and thrived on chaos...but I'm not. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">the real beds were more comfy.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fin's fave ride, besides the 3D Ninjago ride.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cormac now wants bunkbeds, of course.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLko0dsRhNpwB-ZUVFZNuYV9tyjuo_qWHigxr0DyDNuLm7FB76Oiu790VjDetQJ3GdQz34IvTGEk12cQJZtYMTA-OLigPh9U9aToi-exHAZu42Shc4FQHwE2t5xoS6qsHRGkju53pN0-g/s1600/IMG_9256.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLko0dsRhNpwB-ZUVFZNuYV9tyjuo_qWHigxr0DyDNuLm7FB76Oiu790VjDetQJ3GdQz34IvTGEk12cQJZtYMTA-OLigPh9U9aToi-exHAZu42Shc4FQHwE2t5xoS6qsHRGkju53pN0-g/s640/IMG_9256.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Blondies and Nya from Ninjago.</td></tr>
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The road trip home from Atlanta, just me and the kids after dropping Paul off at ATL to fly to London for work, was ROUGH, ya'll. Only seven hours, but I think we were all super ready to be home and out of the vehicle. <br />
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I <i>love</i> road trips, but this age with the kids is difficult to keep them entertained and not fighting with each other in such close quarters! <br />
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Seriously considering a mini-van. Not gonna lie. :D<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">All in all - it was a sweet spring break week.</span></div>
<br />Gretahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13678221019546045834noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7542153512214952651.post-38588622063966881992017-04-14T06:56:00.000-04:002017-04-14T06:56:23.923-04:00essential oils : my 'why' story<span style="font-size: x-large;">A couple months ago I'd say I knew very little about essential oils. </span><br />
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A few friends had mentioned them casually here and there, in passing. But I had no one in my life that I would call "oil-obsessed." How in the <i>world</i> did I have no "oily" friends???? Or at least none that were talking about it.<br />
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Since no one specifically shared with me, I kinda just had to get there on my own. Or God led me to it at just the right time. <i> Very </i>slowly...</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">My oil experience before being introduced to Young Living...</span></div>
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<li><b>2013 :</b><span style="font-size: x-large;"> </span>Pregnant with Finola, I desired a natural, drug-free childbirth, so I hired a doula. My amazing doula said she'd "bring oils to warm" for my delivery. I was like, "Okay lady, whatever you say!" and kind of just trusted her on it. I knew <i>nothing </i>about essential oils or how they would benefit me during childbirth. Sure enough, my doula brought those oils, warmed them, and my midwife used them to massage the opening (sorry to get graphic) as I pushed baby's head out. I had no tearing or need for episiotomy. This, my friends, is a Godsend for post-partum recovery!!!</li>
<li><b>2015 : </b>Bought a bottle of lavender from Whole Foods in the hope of making a DIY yoga mat spray. Never made the spray and the bottle sat on a shelf. <i>Doh.</i></li>
<li><b>2016 :</b> Went through a really rough year mentally. Struggled with my depression. Tried medication for several months and decided that it just wasn't for me. Kept seeking God and praying for direction. Developed some better habits and mindsets (read about <a href="http://modgarden.blogspot.com/2017/01/2016-in-words.html">that journey here</a>.) </li>
<li><b>2017 : </b>Found out I was pregnant with Baby #3! Again started thinking about natural, med-free childbirth + hiring a doula, which reminded me about that oil experience. Randomly saw a post on my Instagram feed about an online "Introduction to Essential Oils Class." It was posted by a blogger I liked and had been following since I started blogging six years ago. Cost was $10 which seemed reasonable to me. I knew <i>nothing</i> after all. So I jumped in and gave it a shot! I was also told I would be sent three oil rollers. I had no idea even what <i>that</i> meant but I was interested and wanted to go into it all with an open mind. I received my rollers and started using them immediately. One was lavender and several other oils -- for sleep. One was a thieves roller -- to promote overall wellness. The third was called "Happy" with various up-lifting oils that I could roll on during the day for a mood boost.</li>
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From what I learned in that online intro class I was beyond intrigued. Excited even! I was rolling those oils on my spine, wrists, heart, feet with wild abandon! I was using them with my kiddos. I wanted to know more about how to replace all our current household + beauty products with safer, natural, oil alternatives. <br />
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I immediately signed up for the premium starter kit, joined the community, and clicked "yes" to every class my FB community leaders were offering. (I want to learn as much as I can -- so I am still doing that!) </div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">The oils are in my life now because they seem to fit there. </span>Because of my interest in holistic health care (versus traditional medicine.) Because of my desire to do something really good for our family. Because of my need to naturally cope with depression/anxiety. </div>
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So that is why I am posting about this. I'm sure many of you reading already have oils in your life. If so - <b>yay! </b> But if not, I want to encourage you to start your own "Oil Journey!" <br />
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Your "why" may look completely different than mine. Maybe you want to figure out how to use oils with your babies/kiddos for a variety of reasons (sleep! calm!) Maybe you want to learn how oils can affect hormonal imbalance and fertility. Or soothe a skin issue. Maybe you want to supplement your income while doing something healthy/positive for your fam. Or perhaps switching to all non-toxic products in your home appeals most to you.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4DFVERS3q67OhG18wp5GuD6ixdQYqXTotvxCb2pqMJv7jxRxTdAZn6EDmlnSbhDJ5WLHAkG1v7SGaD4Xp8eGkySl8Gw-zuZ3XlnZ_L0b-gTf-HkRTWHGbtCpHFCAf3FEBn3DJtXO9AKA/s1600/IMG_1351.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4DFVERS3q67OhG18wp5GuD6ixdQYqXTotvxCb2pqMJv7jxRxTdAZn6EDmlnSbhDJ5WLHAkG1v7SGaD4Xp8eGkySl8Gw-zuZ3XlnZ_L0b-gTf-HkRTWHGbtCpHFCAf3FEBn3DJtXO9AKA/s640/IMG_1351.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">my current three favorites from the starter kit!</td></tr>
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Whatever your "why" is - at the risk of sounding like a crazy woman - oils are <b>amazing</b> and I would be remiss if I didn't share my excitement and my experience so far! As I said, I am just learning it all but am loving how positive + nourishing the whole endeavor has been. I <b>adore</b> that Finola wants me to put "happy oils" on her each morning. I love how excited Cormac gets about the "smoke machine" (uh, diffuser) and that he calls the oil bottles "special oils." </div>
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Additionally, I've been slowly weeding out products in our home that contain tons of chemicals, and replacing with natural products infused with the oils - many that I am making myself! (And saving money!!!!) A couple examples: I've made lavender room sprays for our bathrooms (took about 2 minutes to make) a HUGE vat of laundry detergent, and a headache roller that has largely alleviated the frequent headaches I've been having during this pregnancy, eliminating my need to pop Tylenol on the daily. </div>
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I was buying most of this stuff at Target anyway...why not earn points and freebies AND be using chemical-free products that I can feel good about? <br />
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If you want to join Young Living, have access to a pretty amazing community of oil lovers, and, of course, start using products that you will literally FEEL GOOD about...please call/text/email me or simply sign up using the link below. I can walk you through the process of getting started and hooked up with everything you need to feel competent and prepared to live an "oily life."<br />
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I don't want you to say, like I did, that no one ever <i>really</i> told you about oils. I am unabashedly encouraging you to seek the natural benefits of oils and clean products infused with them. I wish I had done this years ago, ya'll. All that said - </div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">I would L O V E for you to join my Young Living team and go on this journey with me! </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Right now I am offering <b>$20 back</b> on your Premium Starter Kit. Investing this kit is all you need to do to join Young Living and get started with oils! (Best purchase I've made all year!)</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEvFCs5keBjZSYox-2mtr8ewnsDfJP5rwW532jy1ofLBuZ5bE38nJZOggCKKTqWcnFCqCGL2KvrwWQKfZBxmW2LHubTxmS276HQWB8sRrttOXZgodLTW5v9VYEnskIuqHGLeIXO5JTjl0/s1600/13260168_10154826301035744_8478185318767029891_n+copy+%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEvFCs5keBjZSYox-2mtr8ewnsDfJP5rwW532jy1ofLBuZ5bE38nJZOggCKKTqWcnFCqCGL2KvrwWQKfZBxmW2LHubTxmS276HQWB8sRrttOXZgodLTW5v9VYEnskIuqHGLeIXO5JTjl0/s640/13260168_10154826301035744_8478185318767029891_n+copy+%25281%2529.jpg" width="608" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: x-large;"> </span>Regular cost is $160, but if you purchase the kit through me <b>this month</b><i> </i>I will personally refund you $20!</div>
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(Because I believe in you + this!)</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">So for $140 - you get 11 amazing oils (including: lavender, thieves, peppermint, Stress Away) a diffuser, 10 roller bottles, 2 packets of Ninxja Red (basically a delicious essential oil-infused 'juice pouch'), and various oil samples to share, as well as the product guide and starter lit.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">To take advantage of this discount you <b>need to use this link</b> to sign up : </span></div>
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<a href="https://www.youngliving.com/vo/#/signup/start?site=US&sponsorid=11612269&enrollerid=11612269" style="background-color: white; font-family: wf_segoe-ui_normal, "Segoe UI", "Segoe WP", Tahoma, Arial, "Apple Color Emoji", "Segoe UI Emoji", NotoColorEmoji, "Segoe UI Symbol", "Android Emoji", EmojiSymbols, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; outline: none; text-align: start;" target="_blank">https://www.youngliving.com/vo/#/signup/start?site=US&sponsorid=11612269&enrollerid=11612269</a></div>
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Be sure to sign up as a "member" to get the wholesale discounts on all products and start earning points that can be used to get free products! (There is no pressure/requirement to ever 'direct market/sell' to anyone - you still get the discount and perks!)<br />
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<u>Email me</u> if you have any questions at <b>greta.r.ford@hotmail.com</b> - or call/text/FB message.</div>
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Once you are signed up I can get you your <span style="font-size: large;">$20 refund</span> ASAP, and get you linked into our amazing private Facebook group where you will honestly have such fabulous support + be inspired by all the tips/recipes/advice! There are regular online classes that will teach you about the oils and specific uses. I will hold your hand through this!<br />
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The best part about Young Living - besides the oils, of course - is the support + encouragement you get from your community!<br />
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If you are still on the fence about oils I'd love to send you some samples and talk oils with you.<br />
Let me know!</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Happy Easter, friends!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;">He is risen!</span></div>
Gretahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13678221019546045834noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7542153512214952651.post-35193999901379212042017-03-30T07:39:00.000-04:002017-03-30T07:39:18.693-04:00mini-getaway : bardstown, ky<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">I remember sitting across from my husband the first night I met him.</span></div>
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We were barely twenty-years-old. Babies. </div>
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We were both living in St. Paul, Minnesota (my home state.)</div>
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He was well-spoken and seemed pretty intelligent, but for some reason when he kept mentioning his hometown it sounded garbled. Something like "I'm from the city of<i> Blou-bloul.</i>"</div>
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I was so confused. He said it various times and I thought I was going crazy.</div>
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Turns out he was saying Louisville (Looey-ville, to us northerners.) </div>
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That summer night I never would have dreamt that one day <i>Blou-bloul</i> would be a place I would go on a regular basis. That Kentucky would become my state. </div>
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That I, too, would pronounce the city in such a way.</div>
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While I still feel Minnesotan at heart, I have grown to love things about Kentucky and the South. I still call soda "pop" and casseroles "hot dishes" -- but I'll now drink sweet tea and bourbon and wear giant hats to certain events throughout the year. Occasionally I'll throw in a "ya'll" despite still retaining a slight Minnesotan accent.</div>
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Anyhow, I've enjoyed getting to know parts of Kentucky, and got to know it a bit more this past weekend.</div>
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Since my first trimester had been riddled with constant nausea, I was very excited when Hubby suggested we have a little weekend getaway, now that I was past all that, just the two of us! </div>
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The kids got to spend a couple days with the grandparents in Louisville, while we drove a little ways farther to the little town of Bardstown - famous for its bourbon festival and many nearby distilleries. Kentucky, of course, has The Bourbon Trail and this is a popular stop on that. </div>
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No bourbon was to be consumed by us, considering babe and all, but we strolled the cute town and grabbed a bite to eat at a bustling diner before driving out to our bed and breakfast.</div>
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After an hour or so in Bardstown downtown area, we headed out to our B+B, which Hubby had chosen. I was so excited it was out in the country! There was something so peaceful about it, and getting out in the fresh farm air made me think of my childhood. I made us stop on the long driveway so I could take pics of the llamas grazing (or alpaca??? the farm had both.)<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">You can see our B+B - The Maple Hill Manor - in the distance. </td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">hubby is not that tall...but these giant doors make everyone look pretty short!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">we stayed in what I called "the blue room" - which was calming and lovely. </td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">we basically kept the fireplace on our entire stay. sorry, not sorry.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Just enjoying my cozy robe and the fire. Gotta soak up the little luxuries (like silence) when you can as a mama!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM-ian-b0Nd7xOkaqOWoZk6XDlWWyN-5L9ELt1NYFgHxuRhV-IPgX3cSgyOEq5Rh3jRVjuhdAhZl2o7kVn3GnP4vRzgCje7URiQY0Wke0DNr-VFixCTzq__5bFAcNryrx1NMH3GXMZPHE/s1600/IMG_8827.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM-ian-b0Nd7xOkaqOWoZk6XDlWWyN-5L9ELt1NYFgHxuRhV-IPgX3cSgyOEq5Rh3jRVjuhdAhZl2o7kVn3GnP4vRzgCje7URiQY0Wke0DNr-VFixCTzq__5bFAcNryrx1NMH3GXMZPHE/s640/IMG_8827.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">hubby brought me my morning coffee. so thankful I can stomach black coffee again!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA0xU55TZrjwKY9A_AI2UcsnWcxwwwCNDe9Ncn9GbBunthh2SstzyFoPoLH4fo_Kj_U3SPPIo3hhRUwIHuW-6-etrwyuO2Jc306xpvVgqZl9_IGJrmVL-q3j8zwQaGgPHSHNDDyBPt2Tc/s1600/IMG_8830.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA0xU55TZrjwKY9A_AI2UcsnWcxwwwCNDe9Ncn9GbBunthh2SstzyFoPoLH4fo_Kj_U3SPPIo3hhRUwIHuW-6-etrwyuO2Jc306xpvVgqZl9_IGJrmVL-q3j8zwQaGgPHSHNDDyBPt2Tc/s640/IMG_8830.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">peaceful view from our room.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjbmt4FNiVD9oWH4UBhXETzJ-rMGOq6z9UjyOxQcnLMJN9BOaifEpDN7916uE9RBsgjiOjgJaNzhxL3bI0Q0JkRvbVb1kA93dtGCtjC3Y65BPPsERJ5QCSC78EDueawpkq1tkBtu9hF5M/s1600/IMG_8842.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjbmt4FNiVD9oWH4UBhXETzJ-rMGOq6z9UjyOxQcnLMJN9BOaifEpDN7916uE9RBsgjiOjgJaNzhxL3bI0Q0JkRvbVb1kA93dtGCtjC3Y65BPPsERJ5QCSC78EDueawpkq1tkBtu9hF5M/s640/IMG_8842.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">after all the other guests checked out we got to see all the other rooms - all gorgeous, but this pink one with an extra canopy bed was so bright and girly and sweet.</td></tr>
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The breakfast was lovely. Pretty sure I ate every bit of goodness I was offered. We were the last to eat...I wanted it to be less "people-y" in the breakfast room and to get to chat with the innkeeper one-on-one to get the history of the place. Finally, we peeked in all the other rooms and marveled at how beautiful and old the place was.</div>
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After we checked out, we went back to Bardstown and toured "My Old Kentucky Home" which is a famous mansion there. So gorgeous!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQI8hLjvf-2dZV0nqfE-LzEHadSfymlg7W2O-4JogdIU5AdrA7dTQedK_hmwlz3-P9pVpJVt0WqjKEKYJWh3AjhyphenhyphenF-f32ZO4Y5M2k_YUdyzwv7ZhjLJGdYDclTyf_cB5K5f9wj1Lz1o1M/s1600/IMG_8833.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQI8hLjvf-2dZV0nqfE-LzEHadSfymlg7W2O-4JogdIU5AdrA7dTQedK_hmwlz3-P9pVpJVt0WqjKEKYJWh3AjhyphenhyphenF-f32ZO4Y5M2k_YUdyzwv7ZhjLJGdYDclTyf_cB5K5f9wj1Lz1o1M/s640/IMG_8833.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Then, back to reality! It was a quick, mini-getaway, but just what we needed to refresh and reconnect.</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">If you only had about thirty-six hours for a getaway, </span><span style="font-size: x-large;">where would you go?</span></div>
<br />Gretahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13678221019546045834noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7542153512214952651.post-23965070376917683482017-03-14T08:11:00.001-04:002017-03-14T08:11:52.911-04:00baby three.<span style="font-size: x-large;">Another baby grows in my belly. Our third. Likely our last. One final tie-breaker blondie.</span><br />
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Since having Finola nearly four years ago I really struggled with whether or not we should have another. I went through periods of depression. Anxiety with two tiny babies, whose lives I fear for and pray over ever single day. Insecurity about my ability to raise our kids well. Frustration about the messiness and lack of control that comes with motherhood.<br />
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So for several years I prayed to God for clarity. None came. I thought maybe I would come across a "calling" in the meantime that would move my focus from pregnancy to something else fulfilling. A career outside the home? Fostering? A side business? A specific direction to take this blog?<br />
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No "calling" presented itself. Well, except the call to change a lot about myself. I wrote in <a href="http://modgarden.blogspot.com/2017/01/2016-in-words.html">this post about the spiritual and mental changes that happened in 2016</a>. I think God really needed me to change some things about how I deal with my emotions before I could even begin to think about another baby. I needed to deal with (eliminate) some sources of stress, and let go of certain things I could not change. He wanted me closer to Him, and more focused upon what really matters.<br />
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Hubby and I discussed the probability of another baby at least once a week for three years. Sometimes I was adamant it was a "no." Sometimes I would feel our family simply wasn't complete. Other times I jealously didn't want to give my attention to another child. Hubby, for his part, also waffled a bit but always said he would be happy either way. (Smart man.)<br />
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For me it was a rollercoaster of thoughts and emotions and jumbled prayers.<br />
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Finally, around the holidays we made a "decision." I put that in quotes because I think it was more that we just got tired of talking about it. We decided to stop "preventing" but also to not try to obsessively pinpoint my specific ovulation days. To just give it up to God and say whatever will be will be. <i>Lord, if you want this for us, your will be done. If not, we will be okay with that, too. </i><br />
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<b>There was a lot of relief and freedom in just giving it over to Him.</b><br />
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In my heart I thought, <i>Clearly God will say I'm not able to handle another!</i><br />
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However, lo and behold, not long after we returned from our post-Christmas trip to Minnesota I was a day late with my period. With trepidation I quickly took a pregnancy test that night right before dinner. <br />
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Positive - immediately. Of course I was excited -- but a nervous excitement! There was no ceremony when I told Paul the news. The kids were running around wild + screaming after we finished eating, and Hubby was still sitting there - so I just slid the test across the island to him and said, "Guess what!" <br />
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That was at four weeks. Now I'm fourteen weeks and while I won't go into all the minute details of my first trimester as I've done on this blog in the past, I will say that this pregnancy has been almost identical to the previous two - SUPER nauseous all day every day from week six through week twelve. Had to eat constantly, or I felt like I had to vomit. Nothing sounded appetizing, so basically I ate whatever sounded tolerable. Almost like clockwork at twelve weeks I started feeling better - at least able to enjoy eating again and prepare food without feeling like I was going to yack.<br />
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What is <i>different</i> this time I have two kiddos experiencing it right alongside me...and man, are they excited! We shared the news with them on Valentine's Day -- tying in the 'day of love' with what we love...our little family, including their new sib!<br />
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Before we shared the news I kinda thought they already knew...I wasn't really making great effort to hide my discomfort and growing belly - which started popping MUCH earlier this time. I felt like I was constantly saying to them, "Be careful of Mama's belly - please don't jump on it!" without really explaining why all of a sudden bouncing on my tummy was discouraged.<br />
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Despite all that, the kids seemed surprised and REALLY happy! <i>Phew! </i> I was nervous a bit about Finola feeling displaced as the baby (like I did when my younger bro came along) but she seems over-the-moon! She randomly exclaims, "I can't wait to meet our baby!" Cormac, not surprisingly, is constantly talking to the baby (my belly) and telling him/her EVERYTHING. Already he wants this child to be influenced by his strong opinions. Mainly, it must like "villains" and the color green.<br />
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Finola, rather than chattering loudly to my belly, whispers to it almost inaudibly. Perhaps they are sisters already telling secrets?<br />
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Of course, I know anything can happen. I'm trying to just remind myself every day of what we have, that God has plans greater than mine, and to pray for this baby just like I do for the others.<br />
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It is a delicate balance of worry and joy.<br />
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<span style="text-align: center;">Here are the few 'bump shots' I have. I meant to take cute "announcement pics" with my DSLR - but, as with probably everything else with the third child my best intentions went out the window! From one third child to another -- sorry baby, but you may need to get used to it!</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLQbCtyyX9TYJKAoNg7u6tIh6EaJMJFbVYg8WHrxbA9cEpzDhFHfxpiF_FJrHUj_Jo_WxEaAkOirxqsS7MgPuo9NfG9jpj2E4QbPn9AM4fJyUcpp3SuBWU8bWIhCQt9SwArwiDsnty2N0/s1600/IMG_8186.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLQbCtyyX9TYJKAoNg7u6tIh6EaJMJFbVYg8WHrxbA9cEpzDhFHfxpiF_FJrHUj_Jo_WxEaAkOirxqsS7MgPuo9NfG9jpj2E4QbPn9AM4fJyUcpp3SuBWU8bWIhCQt9SwArwiDsnty2N0/s640/IMG_8186.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">six weeks. baby or post-chipotle?</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisNW6dPh8dizp1rbIITuYIdQE9jyjN8WaFAM-foJF8944VpHVSMgegly0U6dlB3ff1tGez1iALp10RhMrzkHKYLaBOvxaq5-QhfHBSJNnIDHZfO33lSYGaiKPPDaY0uPln0UnKK9MBZ_E/s1600/IMG_8183.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisNW6dPh8dizp1rbIITuYIdQE9jyjN8WaFAM-foJF8944VpHVSMgegly0U6dlB3ff1tGez1iALp10RhMrzkHKYLaBOvxaq5-QhfHBSJNnIDHZfO33lSYGaiKPPDaY0uPln0UnKK9MBZ_E/s640/IMG_8183.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
Eight weeks. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzFtjxS6ZwGxlrDh0X_o_BdI8OKIUhT-q0xCuIy6f9I1GwVTtsgGHanXCb7tCjHMhOrg_9JYPiUGarOSyV1nJkQDOlyltztQg8a4VY6Uk7n3YSxiTqoflQNd2WJIaMVp1F51auKtlzD0M/s1600/IMG_1252.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzFtjxS6ZwGxlrDh0X_o_BdI8OKIUhT-q0xCuIy6f9I1GwVTtsgGHanXCb7tCjHMhOrg_9JYPiUGarOSyV1nJkQDOlyltztQg8a4VY6Uk7n3YSxiTqoflQNd2WJIaMVp1F51auKtlzD0M/s640/IMG_1252.jpg" width="302" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1IYxs4IkNkpQEk5Wupvfjz0ELYkPZdt0sZFh0tgN5VIAls9IsiRTuIaY1iUeHMUmGUsiC8S2fXveDmOfBtGObX5Cd6HwE4qXNx51eiW_odUZa26OgkSvO2sG3bVoAMLgIlQ8aLHqoXMI/s1600/IMG_1212.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1IYxs4IkNkpQEk5Wupvfjz0ELYkPZdt0sZFh0tgN5VIAls9IsiRTuIaY1iUeHMUmGUsiC8S2fXveDmOfBtGObX5Cd6HwE4qXNx51eiW_odUZa26OgkSvO2sG3bVoAMLgIlQ8aLHqoXMI/s640/IMG_1212.jpg" width="268" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjBywsz5Mcwf2idgA3zFImNa2zpBSLSvx8rs2BDK4gsS8d5eybhEC1ouC2-B8oPj98iCS4OjWdz_vi5xewBFn8HzC5uX_Gzi5bMf85XCXVeWvTiBntEOKK93xfS683oRGFqtQIu-LCbPY/s1600/IMG_8591.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjBywsz5Mcwf2idgA3zFImNa2zpBSLSvx8rs2BDK4gsS8d5eybhEC1ouC2-B8oPj98iCS4OjWdz_vi5xewBFn8HzC5uX_Gzi5bMf85XCXVeWvTiBntEOKK93xfS683oRGFqtQIu-LCbPY/s640/IMG_8591.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Getting bigger! Twelve weeks - visiting my sis in MT. </td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Our family is excited for this next chapter in our lives -- and appreciate any prayers (and advice) for being a family of five!</span></div>
Gretahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13678221019546045834noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7542153512214952651.post-52966425395485216052017-03-10T07:15:00.002-05:002017-03-10T07:15:40.343-05:00montana weekend<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhetLl0mp4JIE-N_UFuJIxQP6sWJJUxptkcz_AkzG0-u2RBIQcHC7xnHyoiB_qkt7zQ5zGhnFKrRAV-Zdyj1BcR4NVIPLfyunNNVe8QUHDbVwNPlhfozmnFSpeI4o4XcnFYpSMdhHXv9xI/s1600/IMG_8619.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhetLl0mp4JIE-N_UFuJIxQP6sWJJUxptkcz_AkzG0-u2RBIQcHC7xnHyoiB_qkt7zQ5zGhnFKrRAV-Zdyj1BcR4NVIPLfyunNNVe8QUHDbVwNPlhfozmnFSpeI4o4XcnFYpSMdhHXv9xI/s640/IMG_8619.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: x-large;">As write this, I sit in an airport, as I have many times before, collecting my thoughts at the end of a visit with my sister and her family in Montana.</span><br />
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Okay, sometimes it was a train station, me in my early twenties, young and wild and free, traveling by rail from my home state of Minnesota across the monotonous plains of northern North Dakota and eastern Montana. Then suddenly the drear landscape transformed, as though by magic, into the mountains of Glacier National Park, finally coming to a stop in Whitefish, a beautiful ski resort town near where my sister lives. <br />
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I consider it a blessing that my sister accepted a God-calling to be a teacher in Montana, fresh out of college. I don't know if I would have ever gotten to experience this state (albeit in short weekend spurts) otherwise. <br />
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I try to visit her, her husband, and their four amazing kiddos at least once a year now, despite having a family of my own and having moved in the opposite direction - Kentucky.<br />
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It wouldn't matter what state she lived in, as I've always adored my big sis and would make that effort no matter what...but the fact that she lives in such a beautiful place sure doesn't hurt.<br />
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This most recent visit was short and sweet, arriving super late Thursday night and leaving at noon on Sunday, but worth it to reconnect with family.<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">I wish I would have snapped more pics, but so it goes! Here are the few I got...</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgR1Yxi6WX6OdjqgI8qfTEXZQ1KEhSBD3_UkJqagwLdy0l681hAtc6g6byi2mkscwqQtRVd_m3dL0jOUm4lDy5TiEpFT08G24ZiVmErQMNxMyFW0TpBEHjl_EiWb12udxBsZF2biLH09t8/s1600/IMG_8600.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgR1Yxi6WX6OdjqgI8qfTEXZQ1KEhSBD3_UkJqagwLdy0l681hAtc6g6byi2mkscwqQtRVd_m3dL0jOUm4lDy5TiEpFT08G24ZiVmErQMNxMyFW0TpBEHjl_EiWb12udxBsZF2biLH09t8/s640/IMG_8600.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I loved that these two could get into silly selfies. It helped me not miss my own little ones so much.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4Q0ROEFQl9-L-bAAIyGJMg9Udewv1EaiI0GKCDRnGL7fqViNENecK-t7Cn87VZoNDG34NgVtscvMrXUs0V-tioxFU47MQqkHLP0miz5v5Yo3eSGRbjbugCEC2Rzfk3-EFxIQMk7XY1Sg/s1600/IMG_8602.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4Q0ROEFQl9-L-bAAIyGJMg9Udewv1EaiI0GKCDRnGL7fqViNENecK-t7Cn87VZoNDG34NgVtscvMrXUs0V-tioxFU47MQqkHLP0miz5v5Yo3eSGRbjbugCEC2Rzfk3-EFxIQMk7XY1Sg/s640/IMG_8602.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I got to see my sister's new house! So much charm!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk_ipk9Of-ofkf23eXUYG-rVGARiYAMKIm5-9jiVVEychkoJO3Gi98aMRGhBAKHLSLafGWstr_SCki7wJhn8k6M2ZOCukWEYunsK4ArCkV1_vv2o4wiwyJ-FqNy5ClKe9OZvoTrncYzm8/s1600/IMG_8604.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk_ipk9Of-ofkf23eXUYG-rVGARiYAMKIm5-9jiVVEychkoJO3Gi98aMRGhBAKHLSLafGWstr_SCki7wJhn8k6M2ZOCukWEYunsK4ArCkV1_vv2o4wiwyJ-FqNy5ClKe9OZvoTrncYzm8/s640/IMG_8604.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Another kitchen shot. Love this verse. Oh, and Heidi, we need to drink more wine to acquire more corks. ;)</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVB9crA92xlJYAfsDiwNsMsAlM9xb7WAvKsMa5bRRzjTXOfxZLccIvEZkhrq50GCz-Ip27O6tltuT5JW4MzShewoEeAXrk6DQqbJ5MNXWj8X7vzJs6dziluB2b4E4HqWUKXjXmPu-bWCA/s1600/IMG_8606.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVB9crA92xlJYAfsDiwNsMsAlM9xb7WAvKsMa5bRRzjTXOfxZLccIvEZkhrq50GCz-Ip27O6tltuT5JW4MzShewoEeAXrk6DQqbJ5MNXWj8X7vzJs6dziluB2b4E4HqWUKXjXmPu-bWCA/s640/IMG_8606.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dinner out with the family Friday night! I admire their bravery of taking four lil ones out to a restaurant!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8LON8e2yonwch0ExSBOFT_4VODDO1hK_NGQbK8ClO_VhntzY7sbx2L40pAd30BTrX4mFBjICAXw4wj8sYvkcI_d5-6MLyI9Y_hBGLSrjcCVDjjYhBGSphr-oARR2KyD4_XOo-4G_H0EE/s1600/IMG_8607.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8LON8e2yonwch0ExSBOFT_4VODDO1hK_NGQbK8ClO_VhntzY7sbx2L40pAd30BTrX4mFBjICAXw4wj8sYvkcI_d5-6MLyI9Y_hBGLSrjcCVDjjYhBGSphr-oARR2KyD4_XOo-4G_H0EE/s640/IMG_8607.JPG" width="360" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I taught Selah about Instagram Story...and she loved decorating some pics!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbUDdNYye7SecnVSkYLgRVMCiFjbsg4OJYKKdoRlXbzcp9pjXKkOPzwQxeWu_OtE47sQOOyZrz0kfAEPbgCQWFd73JabH0cGUThE8oao2jYtNTqr0iEWTnulgoVFJcmkVDfSQ_DNlROn4/s1600/IMG_8612.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbUDdNYye7SecnVSkYLgRVMCiFjbsg4OJYKKdoRlXbzcp9pjXKkOPzwQxeWu_OtE47sQOOyZrz0kfAEPbgCQWFd73JabH0cGUThE8oao2jYtNTqr0iEWTnulgoVFJcmkVDfSQ_DNlROn4/s640/IMG_8612.JPG" width="360" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Finola would be proud of her cuz!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxG_xg-5BJpDbySmogCxla0AnM3Ww-Gd7uo7EhyeFIIcMsH9Gg27XE_pC5Pp-QTvbhY2fYajwjCPdknSqQ0XmcsjKzRnMpfy8k9bEzruuRRmwOgWHryC-3wYrs77UUJrphuClZi-E0cQ0/s1600/IMG_8613.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxG_xg-5BJpDbySmogCxla0AnM3Ww-Gd7uo7EhyeFIIcMsH9Gg27XE_pC5Pp-QTvbhY2fYajwjCPdknSqQ0XmcsjKzRnMpfy8k9bEzruuRRmwOgWHryC-3wYrs77UUJrphuClZi-E0cQ0/s640/IMG_8613.JPG" width="360" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Logan got in on the action.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSY6vJeEmdQbgcBIBLRksnCPtjCOW02H_vPjaX-h58cVPymtI2PERNAJ5ltCkPIvh83SY1c4o52314m_NDAb9mBTPGplGK5R_xIke4aSFbO8ghvJPJA7e-TywoNZxvUqQp3s7XlXrUuL8/s1600/IMG_8616.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSY6vJeEmdQbgcBIBLRksnCPtjCOW02H_vPjaX-h58cVPymtI2PERNAJ5ltCkPIvh83SY1c4o52314m_NDAb9mBTPGplGK5R_xIke4aSFbO8ghvJPJA7e-TywoNZxvUqQp3s7XlXrUuL8/s640/IMG_8616.JPG" width="360" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">this pizza was amazing even as leftovers the next day.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1nI9_U7XUEuUTp7JgGE-Pi5KJhSpXw1MGbweYR4T84dSm5xQT3vmkFZhgfOpl-A7A-qp5EAkfqJ5HKvo_2uG7bTmafa5hxKlgPPBx1814blLrbnzYBqBrc_eKzw8BgEFvyx0pp0_olwo/s1600/IMG_8618.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1nI9_U7XUEuUTp7JgGE-Pi5KJhSpXw1MGbweYR4T84dSm5xQT3vmkFZhgfOpl-A7A-qp5EAkfqJ5HKvo_2uG7bTmafa5hxKlgPPBx1814blLrbnzYBqBrc_eKzw8BgEFvyx0pp0_olwo/s640/IMG_8618.JPG" width="360" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">More IG Story selfies.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbPr0cQmEwdb2VLYe5j0bMX3yl96_DHNK97SePqiDRxENRUK-CijYrMqIfuEWBzgf5X6RMSHkHgD_ewU6kJfaWHUR7djEog2JGflCL2cElV-XqqALDXAzBhmDZK6a0bVGldjQHAduS-hM/s1600/IMG_8621.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbPr0cQmEwdb2VLYe5j0bMX3yl96_DHNK97SePqiDRxENRUK-CijYrMqIfuEWBzgf5X6RMSHkHgD_ewU6kJfaWHUR7djEog2JGflCL2cElV-XqqALDXAzBhmDZK6a0bVGldjQHAduS-hM/s640/IMG_8621.jpg" style="cursor: move;" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We drove up to Blacktail Ski Lodge and hung out for a while, meeting up with Brian and Logan who had a father/son snowboarding date.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggsWev6v3LzLDXUMaLMzouiJKKjQuiM0jPvjUSPVvKCdU4mYF__I0_SyViaYfyu2JvZT4uh5JNoH8aDrkftm7fN74YuCMuvab864FyH1T8MRlL-1EyJWWM57UfQml7wN-8DJzndV7TbDE/s1600/IMG_8622.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggsWev6v3LzLDXUMaLMzouiJKKjQuiM0jPvjUSPVvKCdU4mYF__I0_SyViaYfyu2JvZT4uh5JNoH8aDrkftm7fN74YuCMuvab864FyH1T8MRlL-1EyJWWM57UfQml7wN-8DJzndV7TbDE/s640/IMG_8622.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">visibility of the mountains was not great, but the snow was beautiful!</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPkkxPmWL3l0ht7bTA-PfiEjmxE0d0t13481vtbwLsKFMFa7RgTJpOOgAy2sWKIr_loIjANeVu3hhi4nAPUjfe_YvUsou1YKM6WrKqtOFyLN7zPRlH8ZK6drF3OwdBhU_rJxk8niFkXVg/s1600/IMG_8627.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPkkxPmWL3l0ht7bTA-PfiEjmxE0d0t13481vtbwLsKFMFa7RgTJpOOgAy2sWKIr_loIjANeVu3hhi4nAPUjfe_YvUsou1YKM6WrKqtOFyLN7zPRlH8ZK6drF3OwdBhU_rJxk8niFkXVg/s640/IMG_8627.jpg" width="512" /></a></div>
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I ended my visit with church with the fam, and then it was immediately off to the airport, where now I sit, thankful for another opportunity to spend time with my sister in the beautiful state of Montana.<br />
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<b>P.S...</b><br />
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I am definitely wearing mascara in this random selfie, but I noticed that perhaps my <b>R+F Lash Boost </b>is starting to work???!!!!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8I4tAjWKUIAFnH_qvKcxxvS-5a8evWZu3i3UH8bdEa3BfKtNn79w81bQeUqGcCs9cjY5IhPrvXB278BW46VRF7rjC1KbuMD2eUBXOiv86kDyaMS4ae6f_t0A702HLn4QwmqRSR_BVVT4/s1600/IMG_8628.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8I4tAjWKUIAFnH_qvKcxxvS-5a8evWZu3i3UH8bdEa3BfKtNn79w81bQeUqGcCs9cjY5IhPrvXB278BW46VRF7rjC1KbuMD2eUBXOiv86kDyaMS4ae6f_t0A702HLn4QwmqRSR_BVVT4/s400/IMG_8628.jpg" width="383" /></a></div>
<b>And lastly:</b> one of the things I adore about any kind of traveling is that I make more time for reading. I was able to read several books on this trip! Two of which I highly recommend : Mitch Albom's <span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0062294431/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=0062294431&linkCode=as2&tag=9807modgarden-20&linkId=cf7b2444539c2e23ffe19db8a2a386ae" target="_blank">The Magic Strings of Frankie Presto: A Novel</a> </span><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="//ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=9807modgarden-20&l=am2&o=1&a=0062294431" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" />- SO GOOD if you are looking for a lovely and engaging fictional novel. I basically blazed through this whole thing while traveling there, it was such a page-turner. Also, got <i>really</i> close to finishing <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0718079183/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=0718079183&linkCode=as2&tag=9807modgarden-20&linkId=bcd6792f125ac4e2711bafb574f7febe" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: large;">The Magnolia Story</span></a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="//ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=9807modgarden-20&l=am2&o=1&a=0718079183" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" />while at my sister's. I ran out of time so missed the last few chapters but I was taken aback by the cool story and amazing witness of this book. Truly a couple who trusts in God and gives Him the glory! <br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Hope everyone has a lovely weekend!</span></div>
Gretahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13678221019546045834noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7542153512214952651.post-16746945925740042632017-02-10T07:23:00.003-05:002017-03-06T18:41:37.638-05:00stitch fix : february fix!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>(Note : This post contains affiliate links.)</i></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">This week I got my very first <a href="http://www.anrdoezrs.net/click-8028362-11813643">Fix</a> of 2017!</span></div>
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<a href="https://www.stitchfix.com/referral/3911301?sod=w&som=c">Stitch Fix</a> is an online personal styling service that I have been using for almost three years now. I can honestly say it has transformed my style - by helping me figure out what my style truly is - and also saved me considerable money on fashion by eliminating the need/desire to spend time shopping at a million different stores, or buying a bunch of cheap pieces that I only sort of like and don't hold up very well.</div>
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Let's just say I have donated a LOT of clothing to Goodwill over the past few years...and it wasn't anything I got from <a href="https://www.stitchfix.com/referral/3911301?sod=w&som=c">Stitch Fix</a>!</div>
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This time around I had a brand new stylist, Blake Lindsey, and she did an amazing job! </div>
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Here is what I got...</div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">#1 Quincie Keyhole Ribbed Back Knit Top (by Ink Love & Peace)</span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">#2 Kiley Ankle Zip Legging (by Rune)</span></b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivwMDqB09yo9PcgIF0UnzjNXpY9YOpkx7BNRk_7eH1AbOZlv9_vdA_d4mZ02N8F3tUAOVVwCzHCJa1T_Jg4jHkEpTOTLdn77XwvrzMwjo9nSg55Ozw8WH-RCg9PCgEbMq8nh7e7K3t_Lk/s1600/IMG_1229.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivwMDqB09yo9PcgIF0UnzjNXpY9YOpkx7BNRk_7eH1AbOZlv9_vdA_d4mZ02N8F3tUAOVVwCzHCJa1T_Jg4jHkEpTOTLdn77XwvrzMwjo9nSg55Ozw8WH-RCg9PCgEbMq8nh7e7K3t_Lk/s640/IMG_1229.jpg" width="256" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnscRPpoXyzV_QjV2mpTQVogFkFBdmerYhTix6KI1oR1-Nw3L9wVGFtxDiSHJxZGQox0913kTpoZ2zi0RjRpa3WIIk_Lg1GZtbpbhuQcPuJMuVhFo-xyyNOw46RVaxpZy5ie4ptJqqoRM/s1600/IMG_1247.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnscRPpoXyzV_QjV2mpTQVogFkFBdmerYhTix6KI1oR1-Nw3L9wVGFtxDiSHJxZGQox0913kTpoZ2zi0RjRpa3WIIk_Lg1GZtbpbhuQcPuJMuVhFo-xyyNOw46RVaxpZy5ie4ptJqqoRM/s640/IMG_1247.jpg" width="272" /></a></div>
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I think my stylists at Stitch Fix have caught on to the fact that I love heather gray. Probably I could wear plain old heather gray every single day. This tee is more of a tunic which works great with the leggings. I like that it is a hi-low cut, and that the top is more fitted, leaving the rest to hang in a flattering (not boxy) way. The keyhole detail in the back is an added bonus! I know I will wear this versatile top a lot - so it was a definite <b>keep</b>!</div>
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The leggings are a<b> keep </b>as well! I usually just buy super cheapo black yoga leggings at Target...but they inevitably get little holes in them after only a few wears. Ugh! I wanted a pair that would hold up better, with thicker material, and some sort of fun detail. I actually was hoping for a pair with some leather detail on them, but the ankle zipper on these is really fun, too! </div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">#3 Carenza Faux Wrap Jersey Dress (by Gilli)</span></b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9whow8Px4mAjhxI9Z4f65vH0q-TzpnJcy4fyuhl76yrKkgbeTWfj2NlaHq6zBeGA_JNVsPx0tzBpRBAEYPcGlfVl0cdpIJ-0eCLMiEqJ0gg5yNrwFx45_yZAVCorIPI7a_br3j9qI8f4/s1600/IMG_1288.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9whow8Px4mAjhxI9Z4f65vH0q-TzpnJcy4fyuhl76yrKkgbeTWfj2NlaHq6zBeGA_JNVsPx0tzBpRBAEYPcGlfVl0cdpIJ-0eCLMiEqJ0gg5yNrwFx45_yZAVCorIPI7a_br3j9qI8f4/s640/IMG_1288.jpg" width="346" /></a></div>
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This faux wrap dress (it doesn't really "un-wrap" but simply looks like a wrap) is so lovely! This fit perfectly on absolutely every body part -- arms, bust, butt and the just-below-the-knee length is modest and flattering for us short gals with ample hips and thighs. I wanted to keep this, but the pattern didn't excite me. It sort of reminded me of something nautical, with the navy and white. I just don't do nautical. So - <b>return!</b></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">#4 Kramer V-Neck Pullover (by Mak)</span></b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicDe0SrUgHtI6CAP2cGzy_3n1DFrta1b2c45X4Aq_H6Kl9P_DnK5JY_FtKmipt4TR0LbHebzPwygT_mv9mXW0D8If6xWwFmIgnvbN8SWi_PD3dIaJcdm0JUkov4sQSYEWA9mudueCS6fQ/s1600/IMG_1306.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicDe0SrUgHtI6CAP2cGzy_3n1DFrta1b2c45X4Aq_H6Kl9P_DnK5JY_FtKmipt4TR0LbHebzPwygT_mv9mXW0D8If6xWwFmIgnvbN8SWi_PD3dIaJcdm0JUkov4sQSYEWA9mudueCS6fQ/s640/IMG_1306.jpg" width="273" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-3uXwMk0kZBxtG2zm7Q2XhuaY5klTBjGa1bK-j4yGZPzR5b0qaZbHdKGcIHmYrTTLmwekXQ1pU6DUETbdmszyuKMrFJ0F3OaOVA1OC22w0Eo87hbkOyGMIf0tMK0ynSvDtdHGtkC0AJg/s1600/IMG_1307.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-3uXwMk0kZBxtG2zm7Q2XhuaY5klTBjGa1bK-j4yGZPzR5b0qaZbHdKGcIHmYrTTLmwekXQ1pU6DUETbdmszyuKMrFJ0F3OaOVA1OC22w0Eo87hbkOyGMIf0tMK0ynSvDtdHGtkC0AJg/s640/IMG_1307.jpg" width="284" /></a></div>
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Pale blush pink is absolutely one of my favorite colors to wear. Pretty and flattering to pretty much any skin tone. So the color of this piece was perfect, but the style fell flat for me. It was just a simple, soft, v-neck sweater. Very comfortable, but very blah for me. I loved it with my ripped jeans and nude stacked heels...but everything else I tried it on with was just <i>meh. </i>Plus, it was sort of awkward in the fit. <i> </i>So it was a <b>return.</b><br />
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<b>#5 Clarnella Cold Shoulder Top (by JELLA C)</b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOB4XxcLlIjsGbKr6eOuWheeHMh7U-6z-VsmO7oMUqGTYulUMo5bRet1mpNe1yEiQnU7ieOkkaIvMDxSjvb-GMQngHOupd-s3NNdojVi-cRfXAV7myfqd07URotG1UdaKXUZ7o82ySKDs/s1600/IMG_1272.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOB4XxcLlIjsGbKr6eOuWheeHMh7U-6z-VsmO7oMUqGTYulUMo5bRet1mpNe1yEiQnU7ieOkkaIvMDxSjvb-GMQngHOupd-s3NNdojVi-cRfXAV7myfqd07URotG1UdaKXUZ7o82ySKDs/s640/IMG_1272.jpg" width="329" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoZbCVfTLBu-SIC1L8dVlMH1pGim3SlPphkLgeFl7lnOlj17UYEMTWxd-J_BlNwGAM21nONLlE6NFnTLTBHzna8kdloFedvMiea1fggLo0nJ-wXMjB1v9ucbJid2PlzbN788374YHHKDk/s1600/IMG_1266.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoZbCVfTLBu-SIC1L8dVlMH1pGim3SlPphkLgeFl7lnOlj17UYEMTWxd-J_BlNwGAM21nONLlE6NFnTLTBHzna8kdloFedvMiea1fggLo0nJ-wXMjB1v9ucbJid2PlzbN788374YHHKDk/s640/IMG_1266.jpg" width="276" /></a></div>
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You know I love the cold-shoulder trend -- so I was excited to be sent another! I had requested a dark floral top, and I found this one to be exactly what I was looking for. I think the dark florals are moody yet so feminine. This one has the ruffle and is longer and flowy, making it super romantic. I really wasn't in need of another dressy top at all...but I couldn't resist <b>keeping</b> this one!<br />
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So there it is - my first Fix of the year! I couldn't be more please with three pieces I know I will love wearing. <br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Have you tried <a href="https://www.stitchfix.com/referral/3911301?sod=w&som=c">Stitch Fix</a> yet? </span> It has saved me so much time and effort by not having to scour boutiques during my limited free time, or battle crowds at the mall, or try on a million things at Target for maybe one that I like. <br />
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I have fewer items in my wardrobe now, but more that I truly love wearing! For me that is a win!<br />
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<a href="https://www.stitchfix.com/referral/3911301?sod=w&som=c">Stitch Fix</a> arrives when you want it to, with items hand-picked for you based on your style profile and requests to your stylist. If you are interested, you can get started by clicking the link below or any of the links in this post! <br />
<a href="http://www.jdoqocy.com/click-8028362-12518618" target="_top"></a><br />
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<img alt="" border="0" src="http://www.ftjcfx.com/image-8028362-12518618" height="400" width="400" /></div>
Gretahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13678221019546045834noreply@blogger.com0