tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-75211231764436803812024-03-19T05:27:46.864-04:00Lou-la-laA girl and her dog living it up in VermontLouhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12836218521507882427noreply@blogger.comBlogger150125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7521123176443680381.post-22759067431163306932015-01-10T14:02:00.003-05:002015-01-10T14:03:46.274-05:00DIY Medal Rack<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjUsVeSkZRyvx8362gOBYqnrfwpnfDkZJabf_nvCGl1YN4sNeVO_TTVqADXWBatNs30OkY2VtTxujqG8PoRUhQWAHtddcwEscoi4U2QLIRGycWfQvJOjvXKPZ2bAH6WAg85-oVtfyn3Q/s1600/2015-01-10+13.23.09.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="full medal rack hanging on the wall" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjUsVeSkZRyvx8362gOBYqnrfwpnfDkZJabf_nvCGl1YN4sNeVO_TTVqADXWBatNs30OkY2VtTxujqG8PoRUhQWAHtddcwEscoi4U2QLIRGycWfQvJOjvXKPZ2bAH6WAg85-oVtfyn3Q/s1600/2015-01-10+13.23.09.jpg" height="320" title="full medal rack hanging on the wall" width="240" /></a>Shortly into my running career--way faster than I would have imagined!--I had amassed a pile of bibs and medals and wasn't sure what to do with them. For a long time the medals collected on my thermostat, but I wanted a more purposeful way to keep them on display without looking cluttered. I like the idea of detaching the ribbons and using the medals as Christmas tree ornaments eventually, but (a) I don't always have a tree and (b) I still like the daily reminder of what I've accomplished!<br />
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I saw a lot of options on etsy, but none of them were quite right. So I started trying to picture what <i>would</i> be just right! And finally, today I have the finished product hanging on my wall, just a couple weeks ahead of my 2yr running anniversary.<br />
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I found the base in the unfinished wood section at Michael's craft store. Using what I had left over from another project, I started by painting the whole thing yellow, then used painters tape to make an abstract pattern, and painted alternating blocks in blues. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjX7ABi0dcvktkciuP-kYnzvDNmXFceOyUlY7kcyBAQSbPymJZ2dFX-1tgb4pLL8DCrD6XvXPnTL91w8aOk8EpjkYYBsZ1iXbhyphenhyphen1Twni4XNtJSKsR8zu4rIQEEDeaS4DDSHLTGLLD1TEQ/s1600/2014-11-24+17.41.24.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="yellow block with blue painter's tape" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjX7ABi0dcvktkciuP-kYnzvDNmXFceOyUlY7kcyBAQSbPymJZ2dFX-1tgb4pLL8DCrD6XvXPnTL91w8aOk8EpjkYYBsZ1iXbhyphenhyphen1Twni4XNtJSKsR8zu4rIQEEDeaS4DDSHLTGLLD1TEQ/s1600/2014-11-24+17.41.24.jpg" height="200" title="yellow block with blue painter's tape" width="150" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOh8FY8PXcw47lLpCngm1ZhH7tD5I0XUr4fNwPcM-crOREWfmZBckbV9l6PUWxsbdfV9uWX4QceP8AsopY9nuBoWcxaMHY02cISh79ShQW4f0uJePAlgEN-IPTsxgKLP8uWayKB61gZg/s1600/2014-11-28+22.05.16.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="block all painted with painters tape" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOh8FY8PXcw47lLpCngm1ZhH7tD5I0XUr4fNwPcM-crOREWfmZBckbV9l6PUWxsbdfV9uWX4QceP8AsopY9nuBoWcxaMHY02cISh79ShQW4f0uJePAlgEN-IPTsxgKLP8uWayKB61gZg/s1600/2014-11-28+22.05.16.jpg" height="200" title="block all painted with painters tape" width="150" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyKknTnVkoAXqXzO6lvC-mfdKBBvYLS5EIQbiqiH4cGaQP_l6CqpXYratdyIRU2hUZIf_-PaRmDtPQlTyn674RTX5KNGTznMgsRjm-JN1Ef3yB4W9B0gC16zrr7Od4yrLJY25mW0pUHg/s1600/2014-11-28+22.07.18.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="painted block, tape removed" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyKknTnVkoAXqXzO6lvC-mfdKBBvYLS5EIQbiqiH4cGaQP_l6CqpXYratdyIRU2hUZIf_-PaRmDtPQlTyn674RTX5KNGTznMgsRjm-JN1Ef3yB4W9B0gC16zrr7Od4yrLJY25mW0pUHg/s1600/2014-11-28+22.07.18.jpg" height="200" title="painted block, tape removed" width="150" /></a></div>
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<span style="text-align: start;">I am pretty pleased with how it came out! </span></div>
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<span style="text-align: start;">Added a sawtooth hanger to the back, and L-hooks to the front, and it's done!</span> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY5DLyV8hjXsZ7v52FbFnMEU1gIEsB3T9zICNliIuTKXOlUN3laPKwaFF-vRNp8JkEUdkrb4ZVQGM5asT03mhioCdbMrGrobf3N4QIRgaMT00sxNQpen90eK_fOFklTZnbeDQp2tLjvA/s1600/2015-01-10+13.23.46.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="completed medal rack hanging on the wall" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY5DLyV8hjXsZ7v52FbFnMEU1gIEsB3T9zICNliIuTKXOlUN3laPKwaFF-vRNp8JkEUdkrb4ZVQGM5asT03mhioCdbMrGrobf3N4QIRgaMT00sxNQpen90eK_fOFklTZnbeDQp2tLjvA/s1600/2015-01-10+13.23.46.jpg" height="240" title="completed medal rack" width="320" /></a></div>
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Runners, what do you do with all of your bibs and medals?</div>
<br />Louhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12836218521507882427noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7521123176443680381.post-17445841741911837582014-04-25T22:04:00.000-04:002014-04-25T22:36:22.512-04:00My second Stitch Fix!I had so much fun the first time, I had to go another round. Without further ado, here's my second Stitch Fix!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6enFiDifG5FZ2JYTmR-A2NqyKcQeXI6tf1_42RZNUNXFdD8nm02rLuJ4Ap9oDWL8A2IqPQ9_ixIlFe6H5LgpzJx1aPt3V6D9vEDi8A6SSZve-HYJkmkT9fFrI4DlARfmrwk-fYdqhtg/s1600/2014-04-22+22.38.38.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6enFiDifG5FZ2JYTmR-A2NqyKcQeXI6tf1_42RZNUNXFdD8nm02rLuJ4Ap9oDWL8A2IqPQ9_ixIlFe6H5LgpzJx1aPt3V6D9vEDi8A6SSZve-HYJkmkT9fFrI4DlARfmrwk-fYdqhtg/s1600/2014-04-22+22.38.38.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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I know, the picture quality isn't great. Should've waited for natural light. </div>
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The Fix:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOjUzQL7MZIQXaaLGrNh38f8j6V8tshwEYxXbDPstFch9PI1nMfc38I4XSvubgid4OJJ3X8cQ1q9zdiYgn9uFJ8Xm5dnHYIgOTbdaDSFBqn2Ynx0AaKMbYdryq2fhLTVMTZv5W-ozWeg/s1600/2014-04-22+22.41.36.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOjUzQL7MZIQXaaLGrNh38f8j6V8tshwEYxXbDPstFch9PI1nMfc38I4XSvubgid4OJJ3X8cQ1q9zdiYgn9uFJ8Xm5dnHYIgOTbdaDSFBqn2Ynx0AaKMbYdryq2fhLTVMTZv5W-ozWeg/s1600/2014-04-22+22.41.36.jpg" height="200" width="150" /></a>-Kensie Jeans (again) - $88</div>
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They claim these were "light pink" but I'd say "ace bandage" is more accurate. Way too close to my skin tone. And too fitted for my taste. You can see my knee caps through 'em. Weird. Nope.</div>
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In the feedback, I asked for no more skinny jeans. The one pair I have is plenty. I know they're all the rage and part of the goal is to get things I wouldn't have picked out myself, but they're really not my style.<br />
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-Elora Princess Seam Sheath Dress - $98</div>
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Paired with the cardigan, I was almost swayed...but stretchy fabric is really not my thing. If I were to eat a big lunch, people would start asking when I'm due. I need either more structure or more flow. Nope!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSbNPDmV8g0I9KpljM7iZMW_ghs0-YkNYS4xQc4IkETu4noRr8MyOxtoxUxk4p6z3auOjb7ou7Nio0f9kWNk5BGtjm7qSzQrZhJ9y39u_THQ7gIvgdZq_lq-jO5cI2KbABNEAVAzELmg/s1600/2014-04-22+22.52.01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSbNPDmV8g0I9KpljM7iZMW_ghs0-YkNYS4xQc4IkETu4noRr8MyOxtoxUxk4p6z3auOjb7ou7Nio0f9kWNk5BGtjm7qSzQrZhJ9y39u_THQ7gIvgdZq_lq-jO5cI2KbABNEAVAzELmg/s1600/2014-04-22+22.52.01.jpg" height="200" width="150" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihnxK0ATww9zG_UcfeXiFkYYwugki70crGNzeN0GJOvKAbllVJweuNgJ3t04VgaMvOHBOn-lvMADDvo6EFkQfn-eHlnEH_72xenm9CZEb9tJXrphrzEq26hX-dTWN9_Dh49Dy34xY0_Q/s1600/2014-04-22+22.53.20.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihnxK0ATww9zG_UcfeXiFkYYwugki70crGNzeN0GJOvKAbllVJweuNgJ3t04VgaMvOHBOn-lvMADDvo6EFkQfn-eHlnEH_72xenm9CZEb9tJXrphrzEq26hX-dTWN9_Dh49Dy34xY0_Q/s1600/2014-04-22+22.53.20.jpg" height="200" width="150" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcOszy3D41mfnM5KadwCCsZDp0DB1iIFMcRqDB3VA4PX3oZ7IbqIwjpRdfXjC3P8NpQsPQWimi-e-KqQTCXTNJ0seGNjgR-XWATlyt98XZDGuSYUZM9omd-LxnpKvjKuiK8QtQYMij4A/s1600/2014-04-22+22.50.00.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcOszy3D41mfnM5KadwCCsZDp0DB1iIFMcRqDB3VA4PX3oZ7IbqIwjpRdfXjC3P8NpQsPQWimi-e-KqQTCXTNJ0seGNjgR-XWATlyt98XZDGuSYUZM9omd-LxnpKvjKuiK8QtQYMij4A/s1600/2014-04-22+22.50.00.jpg" height="200" width="150" /></a> -Cathleen Split-Neck Tulip-Sleeve Blouse - $68<br />
Cute little details on the sleeves, great fabric and great colo--oh wait, <i>exactly</i> the same color as the top I kept from the first Fix! I'm trying to expand my selection here, people! Returned--but I did really like it.<br />
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But don't despair, internet! The other two items have found a lovely place in my closet!<br />
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-Filbert 3/4 Sleeve Popover Blouse - $58<br />
At first I thought, "ugh white, boring" but there are great details that make this top exactly the kind of unique stuff I was hoping for from Stitch Fix! The sleeve cuff has a cute little angle to it so that it puffs a bit at the elbows (these are technical fashion terms, don't worry if you can't keep up), and the bottom hem is doubled so it's a little heavier and hangs nicely. With a white camisole it can be office attire, and with a patterned cami it can be more fun. Keep!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRsJUVcTBfegcHwUIukfz3Iszt1TzIK77B3mm1Ts5DU863rtKxmnVlmNMN6RDBeASSqXjyePkmRTQ1QrLXmqmu51wCmyoT5MSSLSF8iimzTwFMjoxIu2itNlddorCjbjqgFV3__kiqAQ/s1600/2014-04-22+22.48.59.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRsJUVcTBfegcHwUIukfz3Iszt1TzIK77B3mm1Ts5DU863rtKxmnVlmNMN6RDBeASSqXjyePkmRTQ1QrLXmqmu51wCmyoT5MSSLSF8iimzTwFMjoxIu2itNlddorCjbjqgFV3__kiqAQ/s1600/2014-04-22+22.48.59.jpg" height="200" width="150" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA4IzrnVNw-YEfpBBJhX31k5grkBcLHFHJd45h0joJ-dwlwaH-0vODlUMvpzCEo-Wlg2SkRCKS3DKeyelv1h6vWVgg4T_gQ_Cw8xP6pv0avz8rMLEfaHhqVfh9YKZSRdJDIbpGkQyl3w/s1600/2014-04-23+18.21.04.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA4IzrnVNw-YEfpBBJhX31k5grkBcLHFHJd45h0joJ-dwlwaH-0vODlUMvpzCEo-Wlg2SkRCKS3DKeyelv1h6vWVgg4T_gQ_Cw8xP6pv0avz8rMLEfaHhqVfh9YKZSRdJDIbpGkQyl3w/s1600/2014-04-23+18.21.04.jpg" height="200" width="150" /></a></div>
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Inspired in part by the necklace in my first fix, I just ordered a few bright "statement" necklaces that'll be a fun pop of color with this. Also clearly, I think my best look is hand on hip/in pocket, head turned to my right. And the lighting around my mirror leaves a lot to be desired. </div>
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And finally, the one piece I knew I liked immediately:<br />
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-Hanneli Polka Dot Swing Skirt - $54</div>
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Fun pattern! Flattering cut! Good quality fabric, lined, great length! Will go with all kinds of tops! Keep!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_IJgjjZyUEBHCdbYNhWhJXtW1TDx_Fk8vl6TQC0ZfIVHtoc9uM_6Dl8wnBjJwLY5tTT7zJdRGYyP-K1V3rm-JxjVXEgu9msg11KvAkllkWnhpSZ5epRHdTt_GHWxSVXnvEXlJdYo_Og/s1600/2014-04-25+19.17.23.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_IJgjjZyUEBHCdbYNhWhJXtW1TDx_Fk8vl6TQC0ZfIVHtoc9uM_6Dl8wnBjJwLY5tTT7zJdRGYyP-K1V3rm-JxjVXEgu9msg11KvAkllkWnhpSZ5epRHdTt_GHWxSVXnvEXlJdYo_Og/s1600/2014-04-25+19.17.23.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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The note from my stylist specifically mentioned she looked at my Pinterest board, and I'm more convinced than ever that plays the biggest role in the selections. She also mentioned they didn't have any blazers in the right size at the moment, which was something I asked for in the feedback from my first Fix. Honestly it's for the best that I didn't like everything--who could afford it! I was lucky enough to have a <a href="https://www.stitchfix.com/referral/3497604" target="_blank">friend referral credit</a> again to help defray the cost. I scheduled my third Fix, but as popular as Stitch Fix has become lately, the soonest date wasn't until June, ahhh!! </div>
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Louhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12836218521507882427noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7521123176443680381.post-44726748511400066472014-04-05T14:07:00.001-04:002014-04-05T14:32:26.703-04:00My first Stitch Fix!(Wow. I know I hadn't written here in a while, but since I was posting over at <a href="http://lougoeswest.tumblr.com/" target="_blank">Lou Goes West</a> while in Boulder, I skipped 2013 here entirely! Oops!)<br />
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Back in February, I signed up for my first <a href="https://www.stitchfix.com/referral/3497604" target="_blank">Stitch Fix</a> delivery. Basically you fill out a style profile, set your desired price range, put together a Pinterest board (optional but really helpful, I think), and a stylist assembles a box of 5 items you'll love! When it arrives you try everything on, buy the things you want to keep, and send back the pieces you don't want. I posted about it on Facebook and was surprised to see how many of my friends were already using the service!<br />
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A couple weeks ago, my first delivery arrived! I had peeked on the site ahead of time, so I had a general idea of what was coming. A dress, two shirts, a pair of jeans, and a statement necklace.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDcZhhNmiUO9CmY0tgaEe3p5RLk1UOusQbRTxXFvjrEM1m7GtJEV_0jvQysNp5e0aIi5hd4SoAOaY6x6n56wTEiIkMVPcgxCDSh9XzAIteWhGJFhkwZMfZqR5IdInSZSmgC8n_RGP1Rg/s1600/2014-03-26+15.48.25.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDcZhhNmiUO9CmY0tgaEe3p5RLk1UOusQbRTxXFvjrEM1m7GtJEV_0jvQysNp5e0aIi5hd4SoAOaY6x6n56wTEiIkMVPcgxCDSh9XzAIteWhGJFhkwZMfZqR5IdInSZSmgC8n_RGP1Rg/s1600/2014-03-26+15.48.25.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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First of all, they nailed it with the colors. The dress was a little tight, but everything else fit surprisingly well. I gave my mom a fashion show via skype, and it happened that I had friends staying with me the day it arrived. It was super-fun and helpful to get more opinions on everything.<br />
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The Fix:<br />
-Harli belted fit & flare dress - $58<br />
a little tight, the fabric was kind of thin. overall not flattering on me.<br />
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-Bay to Baubles statement necklace - $38<br />
really cute, and looked great under the split neckline of the teal blouse.<br />
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-Kensie Jeans - $88<br />
great fit! but in the end, too similar to the skinny jeans I already have for $30 from Old Navy.<br />
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-Cicely mixed-striped top - $68<br />
looked way more flattering once it was on than I expected, but not special enough for the price.<br />
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-Colibri solid tab sleeve blouse - $48<br />
Love! high quality fabric, the perfect color, good balance of trendy and business-y<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaAL-bVV6P4bVNNyJ2E_BkEm-TFzLvrDtNRRSg1nHqW8U32-6hx4OVj9zZfnRdZaJHzk06flaOFg7v4CY0lGDGSy4HSnmGw18_buShAW2RtzHsSwXqU17yzdvyaVmnW6q59u967pqjxQ/s1600/2014-04-01+12.46.51.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaAL-bVV6P4bVNNyJ2E_BkEm-TFzLvrDtNRRSg1nHqW8U32-6hx4OVj9zZfnRdZaJHzk06flaOFg7v4CY0lGDGSy4HSnmGw18_buShAW2RtzHsSwXqU17yzdvyaVmnW6q59u967pqjxQ/s1600/2014-04-01+12.46.51.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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Though I hemmed and hawed about the necklace and jeans, in the end, this blouse is the only thing I kept from the first round. I wore it last week and got several compliments on it. I had a $25 credit from my <a href="https://www.stitchfix.com/referral/3497604" target="_blank">friend referral link</a>, so it was only $23--even better! For ALL of the items, you give feedback on fit, style, price, etc so that each time their selections get better and better.<br />
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Overall the experience was pretty fun--the anticipation, playing mix & match with pieces I already have, etc. I already scheduled a second Fix, which will arrive later this month. I've also overhauled <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/callmelou/id-wear-that/" target="_blank">my Pinterest board</a>, making sure to focus on things I want, and getting rid of things I already have.Louhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12836218521507882427noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7521123176443680381.post-46606840266347608322012-10-09T01:26:00.000-04:002012-10-09T19:45:50.520-04:00Pumpkin Cookies for all!<span 18px="18px" arial="arial" grande="grande" helvetica="helvetica" line-height:="line-height:" sans-serif="sans-serif" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;" ucida="ucida" verdana="verdana">Tonight I had the urge to bake. I started with a variation on <a href="http://whitneyinvt.tumblr.com/post/11080249700/favorite-fall-recipes" target="_blank">these pumpkin chocolate chip cookies</a>, and followed it up with a little something for RogerDog. In season, and tummy-soothing!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 18px;"><br /></span>
</span><br />
<span 18px="18px" arial="arial" grande="grande" helvetica="helvetica" line-height:="line-height:" sans-serif="sans-serif" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;" ucida="ucida" verdana="verdana"><b><u>Pumpkin Pie Dog Biscuits</u></b> </span><br />
<span 18px="18px" arial="arial" grande="grande" helvetica="helvetica" line-height:="line-height:" sans-serif="sans-serif" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;" ucida="ucida" verdana="verdana"><i>from the <a href="http://www.amazon.com/You-Bake-Dog-Biscuits-Cookbook/dp/0762423366" target="_blank">You Bake 'Em Dog Biscuits Cookbook</a></i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 18px;">Combine all dry ingredients. Blend together wet ingredients. Mix together (I always skip the separate bowls, and mix everything together from the start). Roll out and cut with cookie cutters. Line baking sheet with tin foil, bake at 350F for 30-40min.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span 18px="18px" arial="arial" grande="grande" helvetica="helvetica" line-height:="line-height:" lucida="lucida" sans-serif="sans-serif" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;" verdana="verdana">-1.5c whole wheat flour</span><br />
<span 18px="18px" arial="arial" grande="grande" helvetica="helvetica" line-height:="line-height:" lucida="lucida" sans-serif="sans-serif" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;" verdana="verdana">-2c white flour</span><br />
<span 18px="18px" arial="arial" grande="grande" helvetica="helvetica" line-height:="line-height:" lucida="lucida" sans-serif="sans-serif" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;" verdana="verdana">-1/2c rolled oats</span><br />
<span 18px="18px" arial="arial" grande="grande" helvetica="helvetica" line-height:="line-height:" lucida="lucida" sans-serif="sans-serif" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;" verdana="verdana">-1 tsp cinnamon</span><br />
<span 18px="18px" arial="arial" grande="grande" helvetica="helvetica" line-height:="line-height:" lucida="lucida" sans-serif="sans-serif" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;" verdana="verdana">-1/2 tsp nutmeg</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 18px;">-1/2c chicken broth (I just used water)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 18px;">-3/4c canned pumpkin</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 18px;">-1 Tbsp oil</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 18px;">-1 Tbsp maple syrup</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 18px;">-1 egg</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 18px;"><br /></span>
</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK12ASiylDJMTun72c_IJ4RtCjS0k-UBp_7TXr0J4JroujEXLTlm3G-Z29VNAN3kKTRwTMSlkiyb8SuXB8zqNu81_8VDQcx1fpn4UZwmMaFYeR3fzTBK1HS6Z4xEb1itVB5grm2Vfvlg/s1600/IMG_20121008_222442.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK12ASiylDJMTun72c_IJ4RtCjS0k-UBp_7TXr0J4JroujEXLTlm3G-Z29VNAN3kKTRwTMSlkiyb8SuXB8zqNu81_8VDQcx1fpn4UZwmMaFYeR3fzTBK1HS6Z4xEb1itVB5grm2Vfvlg/s320/IMG_20121008_222442.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 18px;">Roger stayed in the living room the whole time I was making these, but as soon as they came out of the oven he magically appeared at my side to taste test. Based on his reaction, these won't be around for long!</span>Louhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12836218521507882427noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7521123176443680381.post-60248837845727142292012-07-07T09:12:00.000-04:002012-07-07T22:10:39.156-04:00What makes it Home?In just a few short weeks, Roger and I will be jumping in the car and trekking out west to start our year-long adventure of living in Boulder, CO. I've been pondering for the last few months what, exactly, I would be bringing with us. I've made lists and sub-lists of what will be stored, sold, donated, tossed, and finally, brought along. It was easy at first--dishes, naturally, and pots & pans, and clothing, and bedding. And skis. And work folders. Oh, and craft supplies. And what about baking stuff? And on, and on.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzvvPXmO33Sk7PLB_mG-BjgpnmL9A_RMRGAivRSpWncqj6cMI81LLdLrPd4gxFawKcDekMIGakTcFZdCtCcZcPYPxZzY55MrnapftZHnaXrKrQoWr92FHln4esGqMemqB03J6OT0E2og/s1600/100_0761.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzvvPXmO33Sk7PLB_mG-BjgpnmL9A_RMRGAivRSpWncqj6cMI81LLdLrPd4gxFawKcDekMIGakTcFZdCtCcZcPYPxZzY55MrnapftZHnaXrKrQoWr92FHln4esGqMemqB03J6OT0E2og/s200/100_0761.JPG" width="200" /></a>I started wondering about my $15 coffee maker. Does it make sense to schlep that across the country? Well, not really. But I don't like the idea of repurchasing everything once I get there, both for financial reasons and environmental. What would happen to it at the end of my year? But I also want to have the things I need and enjoy, and not feel like I'm camping the whole time!<br />
<br />
Then, my sister Meg took a lot of that pressure off. She has graciously offered to start checking her thrift store in Breck for the things like a coffee maker, toaster, blender, cookie sheets and muffin tins. She already has enough dishes, glasses, and cooking utensils to outfit me. Both of our linen closets are stocked with LLBean sheets, so in a sense, her sheets basically ARE my sheets! AND she even emailed her close friends a list of what I'll need, to see what furniture they might be able to loan me for the year! Within two days, I had offers for a desk, stuffed chair, coffee table, dresser, TV stand, and TWO kitchen tables!<br />
<br />
Now instead of worrying about the bare necessities, I get to bring the things that will make our condo feel like <b>home</b>. I've already started a list (of course!) of what that might include:<br />
-set of 5 mixing bowls<br />
-flour & sugar canisters I painted<br />
-good knives<br />
-dish towels (all in Ithaca colors, naturally!)<br />
-a couple of my favorite mugs and pint glasses<br />
-sewing machine & craft supplies<br />
-stationery<br />
<br />
<b>What are the things in your home that make it yours? </b>I know it will all come down to what can fit in our lovely little Subaru, but I am optimistic that I'll bring the right things, and fill in the gaps with loaned/thrifted stuff. What else would you add to this list?<br />
<br />
<i>And what kind of marketing professional would I be if I didn't take this opportunity to plug tomorrow's moving sale! </i><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><a href="http://burlington.craigslist.org/gms/3122655494.html">http://burlington.craigslist.org/gms/3122655494.html</a> </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><i>This is a combination of my stuff and another friend who's moving. Spread the word!</i></span>Louhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12836218521507882427noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7521123176443680381.post-23840103296980154412012-06-06T21:04:00.000-04:002012-06-06T21:04:15.944-04:00Wordless Wednesday<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyt51HawTAyCp09ylXqvSEq6lp_I9hfGO4vrFM1blqr3YMph3Mfli2A3YtkNBBDyUdGgQKF8cR4whrK_gzOA5nCsts7gX95P9mNZaXa_Ts8GJRGoJd9Mz1nn2McSTAXwnCF0hB4cQYWQ/s1600/20120606171100.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyt51HawTAyCp09ylXqvSEq6lp_I9hfGO4vrFM1blqr3YMph3Mfli2A3YtkNBBDyUdGgQKF8cR4whrK_gzOA5nCsts7gX95P9mNZaXa_Ts8GJRGoJd9Mz1nn2McSTAXwnCF0hB4cQYWQ/s320/20120606171100.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpb84VVqaIOQ6CllJA5CWJEL904Kzlx4YpRWEsuksCC_ciL_97lwQ8cZBXy5-usKoM2UGMl3HHTpay9CAfLOt8lFVw4HodniUSG_F5ei-zeRZTAlFtgpvTCUADa5e9ymdgCz8G3WtIPA/s1600/20120606192342.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpb84VVqaIOQ6CllJA5CWJEL904Kzlx4YpRWEsuksCC_ciL_97lwQ8cZBXy5-usKoM2UGMl3HHTpay9CAfLOt8lFVw4HodniUSG_F5ei-zeRZTAlFtgpvTCUADa5e9ymdgCz8G3WtIPA/s320/20120606192342.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />Louhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12836218521507882427noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7521123176443680381.post-68212816933600232392012-04-04T21:03:00.000-04:002012-04-04T21:03:47.301-04:00Mason Jar Smoothies<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Friends, I have exciting news. Did you know that the blades of most standard blenders will fit on mason jars?! I saw it on <a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/3025924719613218/">Pinterest</a> over a month ago, and finally tested the theory this week. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8HxwiZvMGl3YIZjvi7muOasdU_w-tkFZaa7Nxxnfdl4VCeYJhUnh7acUKOdGDdswqCEuk4_xA002d3BAz197BUnS8sMlr91-Tsf7SxG6C-K0YmsaIdaQP0bmflE-CUoyC3iUFEjr9aw/s1600/100_0720.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8HxwiZvMGl3YIZjvi7muOasdU_w-tkFZaa7Nxxnfdl4VCeYJhUnh7acUKOdGDdswqCEuk4_xA002d3BAz197BUnS8sMlr91-Tsf7SxG6C-K0YmsaIdaQP0bmflE-CUoyC3iUFEjr9aw/s320/100_0720.JPG" width="213" /></a></div><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I love smoothies, but considering the mess I usually make, it was never a practical option to make one for breakfast during the week. This is a game changer. Now not only is there no pitcher to wash, the smoothie is already in the perfect to-go cup! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdB19pvWvvLWGwrF5ol8XKxp8BcVHmFCsTgDfLYH19Ijsy_sedXUstoszluXIqKb-Kb7H7OSixhEqYOe7_yRz0OpgJexWyO-ZD9iedZQYDQtyn2FmspGrkuHdjOJQpblnoE3TnO3N9Fg/s1600/100_0721.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdB19pvWvvLWGwrF5ol8XKxp8BcVHmFCsTgDfLYH19Ijsy_sedXUstoszluXIqKb-Kb7H7OSixhEqYOe7_yRz0OpgJexWyO-ZD9iedZQYDQtyn2FmspGrkuHdjOJQpblnoE3TnO3N9Fg/s320/100_0721.JPG" width="213" /></a></div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">In an attempt to jumpstart Spring in Vermont, I've been treating myself to a different fruit smoothie variety every morning this week! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit8o2Wns7W84lg2uc2sLLt_2q9xdEyKEqBTVLnvn-D-XGofGdgOUnIqVhNisPpWX1LfcKSN6xc-ttPFc-9jYoybD2GMDmT13BmYhi9NCB9eYYJ175x2yXUHSenRMz8Ub85aNacY900uQ/s1600/100_0719.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit8o2Wns7W84lg2uc2sLLt_2q9xdEyKEqBTVLnvn-D-XGofGdgOUnIqVhNisPpWX1LfcKSN6xc-ttPFc-9jYoybD2GMDmT13BmYhi9NCB9eYYJ175x2yXUHSenRMz8Ub85aNacY900uQ/s320/100_0719.JPG" width="213" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The possibilities are endless. Strawberry-watermelon-spinach smoothie, anyone? </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Breakfast is served!<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpDJINJBr2DAqmzqL7tDAtiKD-tZKzutPBze2RbAzvxp5GmrJpyRZNKZARZUpmG7ucAb2c0X1Y7h3-4mpfllANi3s4xv_hiJfKFgZs3hidljJ3QcySNmv81AZ_dlXwrO48zPaXm4v1tQ/s1600/20120404090813.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpDJINJBr2DAqmzqL7tDAtiKD-tZKzutPBze2RbAzvxp5GmrJpyRZNKZARZUpmG7ucAb2c0X1Y7h3-4mpfllANi3s4xv_hiJfKFgZs3hidljJ3QcySNmv81AZ_dlXwrO48zPaXm4v1tQ/s320/20120404090813.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Louhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12836218521507882427noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7521123176443680381.post-3892826955600118662012-03-13T22:28:00.000-04:002012-03-13T22:28:14.116-04:00Birthday Treats: Deep Dish Cookies Pies<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Had a lovely dinner with Erin and her family to celebrate her birthday! We finished the evening with these amazing creations, <a href="http://www.blueeyedbakers.com/home/2011/8/8/deep-dish-cookie-pies.html">Deep Dish Cookie Pies</a>.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2hU7Fw2ChJ6c6ls4Kp8X46TNzm7ZwWfv7R6DmXRaLMbPREv845khN2ySIS_5RxGPrpYP-rcrlb9HYLCYu7JrhIxp1A1xGzJl0qcivegpbw3oVkx005HTi844jOFw5JGP7ZCcxxdSf2w/s1600/20120313201630.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2hU7Fw2ChJ6c6ls4Kp8X46TNzm7ZwWfv7R6DmXRaLMbPREv845khN2ySIS_5RxGPrpYP-rcrlb9HYLCYu7JrhIxp1A1xGzJl0qcivegpbw3oVkx005HTi844jOFw5JGP7ZCcxxdSf2w/s320/20120313201630.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">The original recipe calls for homemade cookie dough, but trust me, the pre-made dough from the grocery is just as good when it's all gooey-melty-delicious with ice cream on top! The trick is to pull them out when they're still a little under-baked. When Meg & I made them for my birthday, we left them in a little too long and lost the soft, gooey quality that makes these so fantastic. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Deep Dish Cookie Pies: Smoosh cookie dough into ramekins, bake at 375F for about 15min. Top with ice cream, and dig in!!</div>Louhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12836218521507882427noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7521123176443680381.post-54947036239370231472012-02-12T14:01:00.000-05:002012-02-12T14:01:09.641-05:00Weekend Scenes<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">We got a dusting of snow Friday night, so first thing Saturday morning we headed to the pier to play before it all blew away. The rest of the weekend has been filled with laundry, taxes, paying bills, writing valentines, and trying to sort the clutter that has accumulated over the last month. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWoZDjQPdVSUXkWWdk7HtmhOaScbzfLqlyiI-xNq8q06TJok_4nUa6IA7NQNsSsi1NC_yQYD25rIAfYQgjoJStRnG127tPdlj7E1VuFPBa8y_SVG626UsUG_aq2bTwG0jf7DgTFqV3Ng/s1600/20120211094606.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWoZDjQPdVSUXkWWdk7HtmhOaScbzfLqlyiI-xNq8q06TJok_4nUa6IA7NQNsSsi1NC_yQYD25rIAfYQgjoJStRnG127tPdlj7E1VuFPBa8y_SVG626UsUG_aq2bTwG0jf7DgTFqV3Ng/s320/20120211094606.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Valentine Tree! (That's a thing, right?) </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5O0AUxcPvv91kiwRA7YYh_63IGXzlWe7R_WhzGkeTxNCgxV3E4rRq8G0a477GFeftDlTcB5EJqoTUvHZNT2py0FSjnP32GFE1_zbPmsUzJXI9WygqX1YGFmpy571c6ep3SXk660UJNQ/s1600/20120212134648.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5O0AUxcPvv91kiwRA7YYh_63IGXzlWe7R_WhzGkeTxNCgxV3E4rRq8G0a477GFeftDlTcB5EJqoTUvHZNT2py0FSjnP32GFE1_zbPmsUzJXI9WygqX1YGFmpy571c6ep3SXk660UJNQ/s320/20120212134648.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>Louhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12836218521507882427noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7521123176443680381.post-75022817690110974682011-11-04T12:28:00.000-04:002011-11-04T12:28:29.903-04:00Roger is Awesome.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8hzooFCawsGlZgJ336n_rBVo5SqKQoGvisgn8uUMcroJUBLVgqAOCnS0XFYLyeuVHpYn0okyp5RSaPIP2XYLopB0FmdJlYqQJLqq5N5ezXkYPDsZsOXYp6o2VvKXJeAnOFj-Wrr_bGQ/s1600/roger1sniff+%25282%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="280" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8hzooFCawsGlZgJ336n_rBVo5SqKQoGvisgn8uUMcroJUBLVgqAOCnS0XFYLyeuVHpYn0okyp5RSaPIP2XYLopB0FmdJlYqQJLqq5N5ezXkYPDsZsOXYp6o2VvKXJeAnOFj-Wrr_bGQ/s320/roger1sniff+%25282%2529.jpg" width="320" /></a>So, I adopted Roger when he was a year and a half. He had been in Vermont for 6mo, transferred up from a shelter in Florida. Other than a couple vaccination records I was able to hunt down, I knew pretty much nothing about his life up to that point. He was sort of a nervous fella, but we took to each other right away and the rest is history. <br />
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Recently, we've become mayor of our vet's office trying to figure out why Roger needs to pee 10x a night. Urine tests, blood tests, and this morning: x-rays. We still don't know why he's peeing so much. But we do know a little bit more about his life B.V. (before Vermont).<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjGPy9qQsUfQqNHh2YxB9Qafofx3s1YT3bhezqa8kQpwpKK6E4GgWXbVVU2f9bi3o6WknOQlcSHcETE9CrvWM-J2Q8U2xK5z2E-TpZ00UGj0mQXaS6IimlOFVAeCcxy_EAFm6FDjON1g/s1600/20111104094220.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjGPy9qQsUfQqNHh2YxB9Qafofx3s1YT3bhezqa8kQpwpKK6E4GgWXbVVU2f9bi3o6WknOQlcSHcETE9CrvWM-J2Q8U2xK5z2E-TpZ00UGj0mQXaS6IimlOFVAeCcxy_EAFm6FDjON1g/s320/20111104094220.jpg" width="240" /></a>The vet brought me back to see the x-rays. <i>That's a lot of kidney stones,</i> I thought to myself. "Where did you get Roger?" he asked. "Humane Society of Chittenden County," I responded. "Uh huh. Well, it appears that he's been shot, at least twice, at some point in his past." And then I realized what the x-rays were showing. That constellation of glowing dots on the left hip x-ray was bird shot! And a BB lodged directly under his spine!<br />
<br />
To say my jaw dropped would be the only accurate description for my reaction. I stood there staring back and forth from one x-ray to the other to Roger to Dr Eustis and back. Someone shot my dog? Some asshole SHOT a PUPPY?? TWICE?!?! Well I guess that explains why he used to be a nervous dog!!<br />
<br />
He went on to explain that since they weren't causing Roger any problems, we would just leave them in there. If the BB had been to one side or the other, it might be what's causing his current problems, but right in the middle it's just lodged in muscle.<br />
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I don't really have a good way to sum this up, other than to say hug your dog.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi-gEaFpvRRSuPpsh0yRzUA_CBB53XxWDVFX49S0UjctegCaWhN07WkEFv6XYaOS6BaS8EdlKcBeEg8iXCd0rN4HlTMgH_TxbffqfjXOvPsu73WNCGzRLCyfuOpCDvu1QMHgdiFfYIPw/s1600/20111104094230.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi-gEaFpvRRSuPpsh0yRzUA_CBB53XxWDVFX49S0UjctegCaWhN07WkEFv6XYaOS6BaS8EdlKcBeEg8iXCd0rN4HlTMgH_TxbffqfjXOvPsu73WNCGzRLCyfuOpCDvu1QMHgdiFfYIPw/s400/20111104094230.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>Louhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12836218521507882427noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7521123176443680381.post-69315918420451313082011-09-18T11:20:00.001-04:002011-09-18T11:20:58.736-04:00Sunday Scenes<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLh8w6CVh_nHKkOYR0zP7o4MZWowzJ_6xprlCGX0BuXDWS-kuJw927ME0fIX06EsSAyuh-JiVEeLLbCXgNrW5vF2ULK_7TLt-TYy7DuP7AKoiihd8K1f2zIX1xHU8zuFVHYSwIVaBM1A/s1600/20110918110827.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLh8w6CVh_nHKkOYR0zP7o4MZWowzJ_6xprlCGX0BuXDWS-kuJw927ME0fIX06EsSAyuh-JiVEeLLbCXgNrW5vF2ULK_7TLt-TYy7DuP7AKoiihd8K1f2zIX1xHU8zuFVHYSwIVaBM1A/s320/20110918110827.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Getting a little jump on the work week</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9t5Na9NbjGOx1fUwLX_hvYeooGYumR_MKQDMqa_TwzuadRva3k-kOKDu24OCpdwWItbBGeINq87osULiCxtsK1wpTlmzggLH7OJxGwU3OuG9jb2if5Kb4erelr9PD-I6tXelyZAp-Ew/s1600/20110918110030.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9t5Na9NbjGOx1fUwLX_hvYeooGYumR_MKQDMqa_TwzuadRva3k-kOKDu24OCpdwWItbBGeINq87osULiCxtsK1wpTlmzggLH7OJxGwU3OuG9jb2if5Kb4erelr9PD-I6tXelyZAp-Ew/s320/20110918110030.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Cucumbers, carrots, tomatoes</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5wve_F79kMuC-EvPqXBMtB2x7AlwjpbFfR_JmIMTzOUwNerg-HY_-kshhZidQH9ZGMu-Ie4i7PTNZaxfssCas-TUUIBRgQriAzRFS-pKVq-AHWAbopJ7WHdr5ngEhCXk0cTxZ3wK-bQ/s1600/20110918110141.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5wve_F79kMuC-EvPqXBMtB2x7AlwjpbFfR_JmIMTzOUwNerg-HY_-kshhZidQH9ZGMu-Ie4i7PTNZaxfssCas-TUUIBRgQriAzRFS-pKVq-AHWAbopJ7WHdr5ngEhCXk0cTxZ3wK-bQ/s320/20110918110141.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Smile turning into a yawn </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwvitMhmzr81wLmuMv0P-VEijGAy4ZsFUJ9oyOCZITjxbQmONEdCZI03WwZedwmgN8PzkWjGPtTXq1q2QH9cbXtLKAvVrVvprKqOUeUngckc3_PCpzSzv2_uqalj8Rw9XSUvy554ovkw/s1600/20110918110255.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwvitMhmzr81wLmuMv0P-VEijGAy4ZsFUJ9oyOCZITjxbQmONEdCZI03WwZedwmgN8PzkWjGPtTXq1q2QH9cbXtLKAvVrVvprKqOUeUngckc3_PCpzSzv2_uqalj8Rw9XSUvy554ovkw/s320/20110918110255.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Sunday bone = happy dog</span></div>Louhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12836218521507882427noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7521123176443680381.post-52733595086329532812011-08-22T10:46:00.000-04:002011-08-22T10:46:36.133-04:00Campfire Cuisine with Christie & Lou<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Since our Memorial Day camping trip was four days long, we decided to get a little adventurous with our breakfast and dinner menus! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>Dinner #1: Cheddarwurst, corn on the cob, potato salad</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I mean, the park was called Cobscook, we couldn't NOT have corn one night, right? </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEik9YhE8Qebmzpdue-ruONsJwVNkx3N1LSEowiST8ZK2vWy0PBkhyphenhyphen7RHSRHvDMJfxTtfpnAe-k_Yqmx44BjHHuIybvLnh6iQ3GuNLWOHfC3M8HOjgcnOQ1qz9TAmrVBz4aJoTUG4DRoqA/s1600/100_0550.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEik9YhE8Qebmzpdue-ruONsJwVNkx3N1LSEowiST8ZK2vWy0PBkhyphenhyphen7RHSRHvDMJfxTtfpnAe-k_Yqmx44BjHHuIybvLnh6iQ3GuNLWOHfC3M8HOjgcnOQ1qz9TAmrVBz4aJoTUG4DRoqA/s320/100_0550.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<b>Breakfast #1: Pancakes & Bacon</b> (no picture)<br />
I brought two boxes of firewood with me, but thanks to the damp chilly coastal weather, we needed more by morning. Unfortunately, we were awake and wanting coffee before the ranger station was open. Not fun. But finally we were able to get firewood, quickly followed by coffee and warmth and BREAKFAST!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnZfw6NqwAGFhyx8i45cP8otzQRP6PdjJ27HvlGWnbkFqIDjrK4L0n0gCCU2_KeuZcvsClhgFQyhvRkof-uim2sSJqFVUyhqkfmSHNgLp-lcrgxElBpCYsjtFCXeVvkkRcL7jPkXudAQ/s1600/100_0552.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnZfw6NqwAGFhyx8i45cP8otzQRP6PdjJ27HvlGWnbkFqIDjrK4L0n0gCCU2_KeuZcvsClhgFQyhvRkof-uim2sSJqFVUyhqkfmSHNgLp-lcrgxElBpCYsjtFCXeVvkkRcL7jPkXudAQ/s320/100_0552.JPG" width="213" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Clearly, the ranger station had some pretty high-quality, dry well-seasoned wood. All firewood foams like that, right? </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj33A-vRh5PpeyC3kkn17ndsdqnTygholQuQj1qyABU4mSziH89l8SoAM0q2YD1apVRWBTUZEKqQK2Jg_ldDtPszor8Djt68CgBDa4Watk2iplkNCT0DR_2btRV_UYJLhs-eR9jN2sSPQ/s1600/100_0579.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj33A-vRh5PpeyC3kkn17ndsdqnTygholQuQj1qyABU4mSziH89l8SoAM0q2YD1apVRWBTUZEKqQK2Jg_ldDtPszor8Djt68CgBDa4Watk2iplkNCT0DR_2btRV_UYJLhs-eR9jN2sSPQ/s320/100_0579.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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<b>Dinner #2: Boboli pizza with peppers & bacon, salad</b><br />
After successfully cooking Boboli pizza on a wood stove for our Bolton hut trip last February, I couldn't resist trying it over an open campfire. It was delicious! Crispy on the bottom and toasty on the edges, all melty and gooey on the top.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ22OcdowutW2ucGI_8X9gUG5Ni_5WVG6GTRyWtZ4FWpxlqDTQ0_Z_94HwubHj4Sh2iVxkInGjU8Oeoj0Jx3izwnMVLivVFjrkfqE3Cw5c1PnMk77iedtgRMipC3NZcF4jCpr0yfh7Iw/s1600/100_0591.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ22OcdowutW2ucGI_8X9gUG5Ni_5WVG6GTRyWtZ4FWpxlqDTQ0_Z_94HwubHj4Sh2iVxkInGjU8Oeoj0Jx3izwnMVLivVFjrkfqE3Cw5c1PnMk77iedtgRMipC3NZcF4jCpr0yfh7Iw/s320/100_0591.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<b>Breakfast #2: Trash Can Breakfast</b><br />
In looking up possible dinners, I came across a bunch of "trash can" recipes. Basically, this means you throw everything into a coffee can, cover with tin foil, and stick it in or over the fire. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnV0io_UTlR8_xyWk3nii-32C5fjH84oiGJUDdgKVzWZIB6eK5lS3pBKHpThq1MjcRVFx6W8LIzZTjN0DAJF0TdvQ2ZHRTJC0h3lFBgk0tpR-rXs4CCwzTkqKl5spHxKp1c3dmJOgtLA/s1600/100_0592.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnV0io_UTlR8_xyWk3nii-32C5fjH84oiGJUDdgKVzWZIB6eK5lS3pBKHpThq1MjcRVFx6W8LIzZTjN0DAJF0TdvQ2ZHRTJC0h3lFBgk0tpR-rXs4CCwzTkqKl5spHxKp1c3dmJOgtLA/s320/100_0592.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">For our trash can breakfast, we added eggs, sausage, and veggies. Once it's all cooked, top with shredded cheese and dig in! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG7YD5xcNi4LAt14OXqJ5WZdkWW9BQFk11svvkrymYCVMXXO5epcn-g7NmZc8HrzX4suFf4MamYKepm4AQkuz9YW6B_GCF8FYmBmXuhaDGLNXUwQcny5ukWJ-5uR1mG6RbHkHpJFRR0w/s1600/100_0593.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG7YD5xcNi4LAt14OXqJ5WZdkWW9BQFk11svvkrymYCVMXXO5epcn-g7NmZc8HrzX4suFf4MamYKepm4AQkuz9YW6B_GCF8FYmBmXuhaDGLNXUwQcny5ukWJ-5uR1mG6RbHkHpJFRR0w/s320/100_0593.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<b>Dinner #3: Leftovers</b><br />
We had planned on veggie burgers for our final dinner, but unfortunately they didn't stay frozen solid enough to stay together on the grill so we ate another round of Cheddarwurst, leftover pizza, potato salad, and garden salad. We also had plenty of cheese & crackers, trail mix, and watermelon, which is what we had for lunch each day.<br />
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<b>Breakfast #3: Orange Peel Muffins</b><br />
I cooked these Sunday night as a to-go breakfast for Monday morning. I wasn't quite sure how they would turn out, but I think they were pretty good! It's a good thing, too, because we had to pack up and leave in a hurry, narrowly missing a serious downpour early Monday morning!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLt4ZDQ8JMiLhkZIPnKiOsAb5z3fIbb_dswV9j-XlFnRtV1ONKNZyDNQ2L2PN-AQmtRTPD0GI-SH5B6pqjNgQlHcgqY_oqmNCnR9u1Hr5aET4PfMFqpL3iyWFkW7uv8Fyx4KvADBIIpg/s1600/100_0595.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLt4ZDQ8JMiLhkZIPnKiOsAb5z3fIbb_dswV9j-XlFnRtV1ONKNZyDNQ2L2PN-AQmtRTPD0GI-SH5B6pqjNgQlHcgqY_oqmNCnR9u1Hr5aET4PfMFqpL3iyWFkW7uv8Fyx4KvADBIIpg/s320/100_0595.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSOxwaC2iomQzDKFOX-x7rGcyER-dXnO4Rg4A7rxf-7m65Iua87TWKuWrkGJhCkHm_L0wVUs4ddQo_Fk_XN5X7Rp4dKa5wJOIjY8eWv6O67ZWKC8y4FTbuYUnPjg02TpZNcwojJtifJA/s1600/100_0596.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSOxwaC2iomQzDKFOX-x7rGcyER-dXnO4Rg4A7rxf-7m65Iua87TWKuWrkGJhCkHm_L0wVUs4ddQo_Fk_XN5X7Rp4dKa5wJOIjY8eWv6O67ZWKC8y4FTbuYUnPjg02TpZNcwojJtifJA/s320/100_0596.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<b>Desserts: Banana Boats!</b><br />
Don't think we skipped dessert! Banana boats are made by slicing a banana the long way and stuffing with desired filling, wrapping it in tinfoil and cooking it a bit to soften and melt everything. Let it cool a bit, then eat with a spoon! We tried chocolate & peanut butter one night, and chocolate & marshmallows another night. Success!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPiVa5ca8r5HvrGqs4zYeLvxKLV_qyJCwGfJFSFZ23sTcUTYfBJp3occEFNZsx53L3WoacOcEj4qZYxPAzP1jASJnuKC3VA1S8MMK-Y2PQuEBz8Na410QpvIRY7YBbyKTuFrSyIPQo2Q/s1600/100_0600.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPiVa5ca8r5HvrGqs4zYeLvxKLV_qyJCwGfJFSFZ23sTcUTYfBJp3occEFNZsx53L3WoacOcEj4qZYxPAzP1jASJnuKC3VA1S8MMK-Y2PQuEBz8Na410QpvIRY7YBbyKTuFrSyIPQo2Q/s320/100_0600.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
Louhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12836218521507882427noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7521123176443680381.post-6554631773270774442011-08-21T23:02:00.004-04:002011-08-21T23:13:18.656-04:00Camping with Bruno & Christie!<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">I can't believe it's taken me this long to post about our Maine camping adventure!! Lots of dogs, lots of food, lots of firewood, and probably more than our fair share of damp weather made for the best Memorial Day Weekend camping trip ever!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 14px;">We picked Cobscook Bay State Park on the Maine coast because it was about the same (sevenish hour) </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 14px;">driving distance for both of us. We booked the last remaining oceanfront campsite for the whole holiday weekend, Friday through Monday. It was a bit of a risk, since we had to book it way in advance and </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 14px;">could possibly have four days of lousy weather, lousy site, or w</span>orse.<br />
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<b>But we were so lucky!</b> The campground was beautiful, and the sites were really spread out with plenty of woods in between so we <span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 14px;">had privacy. Based on the availability when we booked, we expected the park to be jam-packed, but we lucked out there too, and only had people in the site next to us for our last night (and they slept in their </span>van)!<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 14px;"><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 14px;">Here's the crew: Bruno, Roger, Farley, Christie (and me)</span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5NUANtKaNOquAXKoFEoXrsQ9FRMS3mrqRXUZ1QZ7bePYdC6lbXkQAA5ffaVFjqrf5VgTDIqmK56J7UNQoP37mAbWk0xaIfuzLykUkFQ5RsyDwYYss7V1Yg9BRdwN0Qd3haJ_b9sQcFw/s1600/100_0556.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black; font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5NUANtKaNOquAXKoFEoXrsQ9FRMS3mrqRXUZ1QZ7bePYdC6lbXkQAA5ffaVFjqrf5VgTDIqmK56J7UNQoP37mAbWk0xaIfuzLykUkFQ5RsyDwYYss7V1Yg9BRdwN0Qd3haJ_b9sQcFw/s400/100_0556.JPG" width="400" /></span></a></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; line-height: 14px;"><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;">Getting settled in...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMuUM1GPexzKc_UZOhltlFOuBUsoF7MyX8ftab3XyNi3CMyKExnvaNCzjG_FzDmt3wQ5bI_cGwxa3DX9cRPE0dWUogtBHlVQt-YY8WmwKjc6gHe4A2lVC5EiCjAvNm93C2SOSmtSBVyA/s1600/100_0539.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMuUM1GPexzKc_UZOhltlFOuBUsoF7MyX8ftab3XyNi3CMyKExnvaNCzjG_FzDmt3wQ5bI_cGwxa3DX9cRPE0dWUogtBHlVQt-YY8WmwKjc6gHe4A2lVC5EiCjAvNm93C2SOSmtSBVyA/s320/100_0539.JPG" width="320" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Bruno and Roger played lots and lots of Table Fort.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjviQcjk7MLl_tn8n3EUS-TIosQywcH6E072d1osiky7BSgm3i52UfKuikOm9BfK-gS1xMe6RX7t2HmzReETap69irQjFlHLG3kxWzuqFvfcRqLW6_HVbqHHX0OUcqANLBMyZYuKPwvAQ/s1600/100_0540.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjviQcjk7MLl_tn8n3EUS-TIosQywcH6E072d1osiky7BSgm3i52UfKuikOm9BfK-gS1xMe6RX7t2HmzReETap69irQjFlHLG3kxWzuqFvfcRqLW6_HVbqHHX0OUcqANLBMyZYuKPwvAQ/s320/100_0540.JPG" width="320" /></span></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"> Heading out on our hike!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNO4StLj3Yn8ZFuBeLba1QRBTmOiWmbObp4NuVz8CowBlwHB1T4tVWNTqTwzkuQfaNA5cDkXnTOceV4LYMj_HP0ZgA6KSBi2yIJAuynK2ObskMdtWuqcFJ9GyJ0idtH09u8nniUWbYVg/s1600/100_0553.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNO4StLj3Yn8ZFuBeLba1QRBTmOiWmbObp4NuVz8CowBlwHB1T4tVWNTqTwzkuQfaNA5cDkXnTOceV4LYMj_HP0ZgA6KSBi2yIJAuynK2ObskMdtWuqcFJ9GyJ0idtH09u8nniUWbYVg/s320/100_0553.JPG" width="320" /></span></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"> The website described the only trail in the park as a "nature walk" so we were expecting a mellow, easy stroll. There was another park nearby that we discussed driving to, in case we were up for more of a challenge. But it was definitely enough of a hike! We ended up doing it both days, with slight variations. We never saw anyone else, so the doggies got to be off-leash the whole time. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs3smKzujtA0hc6diEBf3LQeRDmPezEQhdqKEjdsA1StVsNjcNH0oEs9yOEtCvPaXDljuybLkgKky6HIWcJx0lrT1vZuqZWQxgjnLVlms9vltihci5ivUbaxCOhSC7V9iHv9wAHyenCA/s1600/100_0554.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs3smKzujtA0hc6diEBf3LQeRDmPezEQhdqKEjdsA1StVsNjcNH0oEs9yOEtCvPaXDljuybLkgKky6HIWcJx0lrT1vZuqZWQxgjnLVlms9vltihci5ivUbaxCOhSC7V9iHv9wAHyenCA/s320/100_0554.JPG" width="320" /></span></a></div><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">Back in front of the campfire, tired and happy after our hike. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghwOsB-0r2oqPSDXG0s6q0haH4BCNyoEjuvkH_wVwNqdqHtPZscDu-7UsagvKYM3iQAu9H6t690uhiTR1q3aHeBcWXX_Xb5-nrP_FzqOCt6adI55KHxXRUXGf8LvzHsBIKyvpovM8gKg/s1600/100_0580.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghwOsB-0r2oqPSDXG0s6q0haH4BCNyoEjuvkH_wVwNqdqHtPZscDu-7UsagvKYM3iQAu9H6t690uhiTR1q3aHeBcWXX_Xb5-nrP_FzqOCt6adI55KHxXRUXGf8LvzHsBIKyvpovM8gKg/s320/100_0580.JPG" width="320" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqx2CZoh3g4kPnU1WdTfkEH4uEDaUQygGi2il3TabV1C2mX4UT9Wl6Vrvf0NKf_HXNMJawkxDJY7ZAjK09xDhyphenhyphenc7YoxfeYxSqVOmFkQvEgoRTv3eIVPreF07MIjz5vjtoQrWl1pXhyphenhyphengQ/s1600/100_0549.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqx2CZoh3g4kPnU1WdTfkEH4uEDaUQygGi2il3TabV1C2mX4UT9Wl6Vrvf0NKf_HXNMJawkxDJY7ZAjK09xDhyphenhyphenc7YoxfeYxSqVOmFkQvEgoRTv3eIVPreF07MIjz5vjtoQrWl1pXhyphenhyphengQ/s400/100_0549.JPG" width="400" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Up next: some of the great food from our trip!</div>Louhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12836218521507882427noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7521123176443680381.post-10101492695677786872011-04-23T21:06:00.003-04:002011-04-23T21:47:49.535-04:00Crepe-A-Week Update<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ3wJz75NIXjm9CXJI9sCbIyl77Yhx_5N0a-71sSIPulsmAOpooB5y1lm_L9m6VJeDEh-hu3G36qbJDpWMCUz8JiDaMwjSsrm7VlehhMRIwVa3jaXUDZp_bwYE-cwhONqWSawZE5Iatg/s1600/100_0514.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ3wJz75NIXjm9CXJI9sCbIyl77Yhx_5N0a-71sSIPulsmAOpooB5y1lm_L9m6VJeDEh-hu3G36qbJDpWMCUz8JiDaMwjSsrm7VlehhMRIwVa3jaXUDZp_bwYE-cwhONqWSawZE5Iatg/s320/100_0514.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Atlantic Moster (Breakfast Menu), enjoyed at home</td></tr>
</tbody></table>It's probably lucky for you readers that I'm a terrible food writer. If I were a better food writer, I would be posting every week about the amazing <a href="http://www.skinnypancake.com/">Skinny Pancake</a> crepes I'm eating and you would all be sick of hearing about it. Lucky for you, I usually don't even remember to take a picture before digging in!<br />
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I was sick all this past week, so I didn't get to my crepe until Saturday night. I called ahead, and arrived before it was ready so I took a seat at the bar. Watching the crepe chef at work was truly hypnotizing, and my appetite was piqued by the time mine was boxed and ready. It's still a bit chilly to dine al freso, so Roger and I walked home with it. Tonight I chose the Cannelloni Crepe, and it was fantastic! It came with a generous side salad with their house dressing. It's been rumored they were considering bottling their dressing, and if that ever happens I'll be first in line to buy a bottle.<br />
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I may not be turning into <a href="http://patlikestoeat.blogspot.com/">Pat Likes To Eat</a> any time soon, but I am good at spreadsheets, so I can tell you that nine weeks into my year of crepes, I've eaten $93.35 worth (not including taxes). My favorite new discoveries are the Chicken Cordon Blue Crepe, and the Vegan Monster. Once the weather gets warm enough, I'm looking forward to enjoying some of the sweet classics on the patio!Louhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12836218521507882427noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7521123176443680381.post-62038787271722799692011-03-20T15:46:00.001-04:002011-03-20T17:34:57.885-04:00Sunday Funday<div style="text-align: center;">Started with breakfast at Handy's with one of my favorite all-grown-up Gotta Campers.<br />
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</div><div style="text-align: center;">Followed by a little fun at the pier, listening to the ice break up & melt, </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheL-rO_LyOAckyPUUmp9AoCTSBOgd0ncMKj18wYBTJXMqAu14OMnhIGqJw8kqXTSZ3PK7xu5nOwpzPZzB86ZVtFjVREUkkbUxr4jNhIQ4N3vLDIqkcnZtJWvEUBwIuJ8RAf1F98wn_Vg/s1600/20110320131506.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheL-rO_LyOAckyPUUmp9AoCTSBOgd0ncMKj18wYBTJXMqAu14OMnhIGqJw8kqXTSZ3PK7xu5nOwpzPZzB86ZVtFjVREUkkbUxr4jNhIQ4N3vLDIqkcnZtJWvEUBwIuJ8RAf1F98wn_Vg/s320/20110320131506.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">FURminated out Roger's winter coat on the sunny porch, </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgso4d8XXVyg2SzSffu3APJoYwSU6mn4h6LnzLLqD6rfl3mJGJEDF2qF7kKVyuQybWS0UWN4qyyYedXcvXhyW5gwdtQqGCI4LbC9blaNZsOTlJgudY1CGyqRZqBXJ1zTxdqdAQsScvZ6A/s1600/20110320133932.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgso4d8XXVyg2SzSffu3APJoYwSU6mn4h6LnzLLqD6rfl3mJGJEDF2qF7kKVyuQybWS0UWN4qyyYedXcvXhyW5gwdtQqGCI4LbC9blaNZsOTlJgudY1CGyqRZqBXJ1zTxdqdAQsScvZ6A/s320/20110320133932.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Baked banana bread for my airbnb guest, </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCHbwwMciH5KEtnND8Mua0ovEBFp3FPPVBh3uHh3FI5WMUdJ8LLO5fNOC3mDbSygodG3dBBojuMDDnxIySbS1SdID14bqfrPgP63evpBbhgnM0HbEupgjtYltAv0CEz2Aciu-3BTpUiw/s1600/20110320142427.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCHbwwMciH5KEtnND8Mua0ovEBFp3FPPVBh3uHh3FI5WMUdJ8LLO5fNOC3mDbSygodG3dBBojuMDDnxIySbS1SdID14bqfrPgP63evpBbhgnM0HbEupgjtYltAv0CEz2Aciu-3BTpUiw/s320/20110320142427.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Finishing up with packing my bags for St Louis!</div>Louhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12836218521507882427noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7521123176443680381.post-27731834118376717552011-03-17T18:07:00.000-04:002011-03-17T18:07:58.264-04:00Closing the LoopAfter several years of renting out my second bedroom, I made it my full-time home office in January. I had some really great roommates over the years. It was a big chunk of relatively passive income to say goodbye to. But my freelance business is buzzing and needed the space, and I love having my sunny little home all to myself again! I've been finding ways to make up the difference, and still put some money aside for exciting things like fun trips! And home improvement projects! And some day soon, a new car!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjedTKzNB1QOEUTCdzS1DS44BSh1c3Ff-Rkgi9a2x4AxwR3yvwZJ2L7nZsBSmfvntRsigqSZ6w1R2URAN5p5FMTQiLEuDYbYXJFfn47AWXusyqoK5xwPIgGgjvFt52mQsQNNw4HmBH3kg/s1600/Airbnb+%25E2%2580%2593+Travel+like+a+human.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjedTKzNB1QOEUTCdzS1DS44BSh1c3Ff-Rkgi9a2x4AxwR3yvwZJ2L7nZsBSmfvntRsigqSZ6w1R2URAN5p5FMTQiLEuDYbYXJFfn47AWXusyqoK5xwPIgGgjvFt52mQsQNNw4HmBH3kg/s1600/Airbnb+%25E2%2580%2593+Travel+like+a+human.png" /></a>Again this year, I will be renting out my entire condo to a graduate's family for the UVM graduation weekend. It's fantastic--a financial incentive to spring clean and then go away for a weekend? Yes, please! I found my renter on craigslist, but this year I decided to give <a href="http://www.airbnb.com/">airbnb</a> a spin, too. After listing the whole condo, I figured why not list my newly reclaimed guest room too? With the airbnb system, an interested guest sends a request with the desired nights, and you can see their profile and approve or decline their reservation. What an improvement from craigslist! The 3% cut they take is totally worth it!<br />
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Just last night I booked my first guest--a gal from Atlanta will be arriving Sunday for a two-night stay, bringing in a total of $116. And the timing couldn't be better--yesterday afternoon, my water heater stopped heating water. And so my adventure began!<br />
-On Wednesday, my plumber etcetera, <a href="http://www.brickkicker.com/champlainvalley/">Guy Henning</a>, gave it a look and recommended I call a water heater repair company. (He didn't charge me, he's a good guy like that).<br />
-This afternoon, the water heater repair man checked it out, and identified a burned out breaker as the problem. A regular service call is $80, but since he didn't actually do anything, he charged me $50.<br />
-Don from <a href="http://melodyelectric.com/">Melody Electric</a> just came and in only a few minutes, replaced the breaker. Original cost: $149. Subtract the $25 coupon from their website, I paid $124.<br />
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Total cost $174 minus $116 = $58. One more overnight guest through airbnb, and it's covered! I could not have scripted a better example of making my condo pay for itself, and closing the loop of cost vs benefit of home ownership!Louhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12836218521507882427noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7521123176443680381.post-70379592712526725092011-03-09T12:03:00.001-05:002011-03-10T12:04:58.184-05:00Wordless Wednesday: Too Much Snow<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxULLEltWVEfqpxEcHhr4NQwvQa-W__C-uY-bgeSQtsH7e-rw_dWmagxSqy64swfynF7Zqqext85q3-c5UqkvLOv7m0PB2jk_q-m9YhGvj5gITUKd4zwCeuzDk7fB5KT619KfQlPZrNA/s1600/roger_snow+pile.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxULLEltWVEfqpxEcHhr4NQwvQa-W__C-uY-bgeSQtsH7e-rw_dWmagxSqy64swfynF7Zqqext85q3-c5UqkvLOv7m0PB2jk_q-m9YhGvj5gITUKd4zwCeuzDk7fB5KT619KfQlPZrNA/s400/roger_snow+pile.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>Louhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12836218521507882427noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7521123176443680381.post-17181358605467980162011-03-06T21:51:00.001-05:002011-03-06T21:52:00.010-05:00beCAUSE we care!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">This Saturday, March 12th, is the 6th annual beCAUSE Craft Show at St Michael's College! Each vendor pledges to donate 50-100% of their profits to a non-profit of their choice. I'll be donating my sales to <a href="http://www.burlingtonfreestyle.org/">Burlington Freestyle</a>! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Visit the <a href="http://www.becausecraftshow.com/">website</a> and fan us on <a href="http://www.facebook.com/beCAUSECraftShow">Facebook</a> to check out the full list of vendors, and see you there on Saturday!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiAfbbyeJcMGYXw5xqvgxz8FklssR-pYejdP7k6TMmV6DZ8id3W_WqK_zCcyyqNqMfyz1SuwmN5PgMlI6GiZvA1fC8lbDsVfotnWxzSrsqG2Plmz4odvmj_2uCLp27HVptLHx0Zd_T5g/s1600/beCAUSECraft+Show+flyer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiAfbbyeJcMGYXw5xqvgxz8FklssR-pYejdP7k6TMmV6DZ8id3W_WqK_zCcyyqNqMfyz1SuwmN5PgMlI6GiZvA1fC8lbDsVfotnWxzSrsqG2Plmz4odvmj_2uCLp27HVptLHx0Zd_T5g/s320/beCAUSECraft+Show+flyer.jpg" width="247" /></a></div>Louhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12836218521507882427noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7521123176443680381.post-32560865577430148172011-02-25T14:26:00.003-05:002011-03-03T13:44:50.329-05:00Philanthropy is Delicious!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy5EpxgXsgeEfyU_FJOKciPtSjb3OAvJBdRJIyOTI42RFdQHEwtYUZXR4Oq2C1t87AVtFEOseubh9xJhADzreCP9GbIjvV-jS7TLIw8eXa8q1pOWDZGXU8LlcnlihZ1qzRFOVuN2YwAQ/s1600/bidlogo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy5EpxgXsgeEfyU_FJOKciPtSjb3OAvJBdRJIyOTI42RFdQHEwtYUZXR4Oq2C1t87AVtFEOseubh9xJhADzreCP9GbIjvV-jS7TLIw8eXa8q1pOWDZGXU8LlcnlihZ1qzRFOVuN2YwAQ/s1600/bidlogo.jpg" /></a></div>In January, the winter storage barn at <a href="http://www.petesgreens.com/">Pete's Greens</a> burned down. Soon after, <a href="http://www.bidforthebarn.org/">Bid for the Barn</a>, an online auction was put together to raise funds for the rebuilding effort. On the first day of the week-long auction, I boldly placed the opening bid on an amazing item: a <b>crepe a week for a year</b> from one of my favorite restaurants, <a href="http://www.skinnypancake.com/home/">The Skinny Pancake</a>. I did the math, and knew it was a great deal, even if I missed a few weeks here and there. Besides, I was sure to be out-bid by the end of the week, right?<br />
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To my amazement, I won! I giddily mailed in my check, and this week received a batch of Skinny Pancake gift certificates in the mail. Rumor has it they're adding a button to their computer system for this, so these are just to get me started. (And unfortunately NO, they don't roll over from one week to the next, so I can't save them up and have a big party.)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ1t-iPWw3CnaOJY4ahSvIGsMeMpLww_p1tuuSFGrBsBYDRXdYEk8459wi-iswp4KAGuTR4aXGZGEvt39gdRALCoeLOGEYgtSs0XnRjcm_PX6CXWr3-ncxYksGkOVf5C8Xroq_N2by7A/s1600/skinny+pancake+logo+2.gif" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="181" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ1t-iPWw3CnaOJY4ahSvIGsMeMpLww_p1tuuSFGrBsBYDRXdYEk8459wi-iswp4KAGuTR4aXGZGEvt39gdRALCoeLOGEYgtSs0XnRjcm_PX6CXWr3-ncxYksGkOVf5C8Xroq_N2by7A/s200/skinny+pancake+logo+2.gif" width="200" /></a>I'm going to use this as an opportunity to stray from my tried and true favorites, and test some new ones I wouldn't normally select. My goal is to try all of the amazing offerings over the next year! In addition to seasonal specials, there are 35 different crepes--maybe more, if the salad in a crepe-bowl or the kidz menu items count!<br />
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Last night, T and I went out for the first of my 52 "free" crepes. The restaurant was packed, and I think our 30-min wait time stretched a bit beyond that. But once we were seated at the table tucked between the stairs and the window, we had our own cozy nook in the crowded room. I selected the "Chicken Cordon Blue Crepe," and it was amazing! It's one of the five Dinner Crepes, which are only available Thurs-Sat nights. T's first choice, The Cattle Rancher, was sold out for the night, but he was quite pleased with the runner-up, Lamb Fetatastic (both from the Savory Classics section).<br />
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Price: $12.95<br />
Balance: $237.05<br />
Average price per crepe so far: $250Louhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12836218521507882427noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7521123176443680381.post-54811060787285926032011-02-09T21:42:00.000-05:002011-02-09T21:42:22.591-05:00In The Kitchen: Coffee Hazelnut CookiesAt Christmas time, I brought a box of <a href="http://www.sugarsnapvt.com/">Sugarsnap</a>'s <a href="http://cookiesforgood.org/">Cookies for Good</a> home to NH. The assortment I chose included Java Hazelnut cookies, and they were wonderful! I tracked down <a href="http://cafefernando.com/coffee-hazelnut-cookies/">this recipe</a> online, hoping to reproduce the yummy treat for my <a href="http://www.graydogvt.com/">Gray Dog Media</a> office-warming party. They were much crunchier than the original, and I usually prefer chewier cookies, but they were still delicious!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVvKwbEcRkHyVGjxOt3u-SAIAVyOXwAMIsGNd0WcZBG1L3RjLrUgAEyAJq2T6PDj9fjrwbrGYkaMy68d1McPPEnFKbmhA230qcspcsZZV7FoZH7PTiqPTgl_8IYcJiztTSIttA8dfxvQ/s1600/100_0450.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVvKwbEcRkHyVGjxOt3u-SAIAVyOXwAMIsGNd0WcZBG1L3RjLrUgAEyAJq2T6PDj9fjrwbrGYkaMy68d1McPPEnFKbmhA230qcspcsZZV7FoZH7PTiqPTgl_8IYcJiztTSIttA8dfxvQ/s320/100_0450.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
Unfortunately the office party was postponed due to a crazy snowstorm. Hopefully it can be rescheduled when the snowbanks recede a bit. The only problem? Cookies full of coffee really shouldn't be eaten too late in the day. Hmm...cookies for breakfast? Okay!Louhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12836218521507882427noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7521123176443680381.post-40335849916845613112011-02-02T22:19:00.000-05:002011-02-02T22:19:56.081-05:00Wordless Wednesday: Snow Day<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3q0z08ubffe0CkkYN_cp5WfKFJYkinWxQYTyCd_2o-4TBGgP76SXgt417IAkK9UVZ-BcDAr8qKrFv5gFEJ0jUodFKLezR_tXhvmecc20ZWtCNgwE-NPtvaTegCodTvz375rfs4ce4FQ/s1600/100_0450.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3q0z08ubffe0CkkYN_cp5WfKFJYkinWxQYTyCd_2o-4TBGgP76SXgt417IAkK9UVZ-BcDAr8qKrFv5gFEJ0jUodFKLezR_tXhvmecc20ZWtCNgwE-NPtvaTegCodTvz375rfs4ce4FQ/s320/100_0450.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">(Coffee Hazelnut Cookies--recipe coming soon)</span></i></div>Louhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12836218521507882427noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7521123176443680381.post-31186598234302462852011-01-26T17:34:00.000-05:002011-01-26T17:34:59.340-05:00Wordless Wednesday: Best Little Office Assistant Ever!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhL1N3XVcl-PaCDz26We47GY-pgZzvy1I3jong6NXTr8Br2XZsQoyVsFOLFNYg3xwpJpqALsIHmKcD7oUXTIomVwCbfQ_myRfEy9Z_Wwfpb3RQvv6wuhdhuEBlINMFsZZgFNVnfaGDZSQ/s1600/100_0442.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhL1N3XVcl-PaCDz26We47GY-pgZzvy1I3jong6NXTr8Br2XZsQoyVsFOLFNYg3xwpJpqALsIHmKcD7oUXTIomVwCbfQ_myRfEy9Z_Wwfpb3RQvv6wuhdhuEBlINMFsZZgFNVnfaGDZSQ/s320/100_0442.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Louhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12836218521507882427noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7521123176443680381.post-20897681959932312972011-01-04T23:15:00.001-05:002011-01-04T23:25:37.057-05:00ResolveI'm happy to report that 2010 was pretty damn great, so I don't have a huge overhaul plan--just more movement in the same direction. <br />
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<b>Resolution #1: Finish all the books I've started reading.</b> I love reading, but evidently I'm not overly concerned with actually finishing books. There are bookmarks tucked somewhere in the middle of about a third of the books on my shelf. Time to get on that! The added benefit of this? Quiet time after working hours, not spent watching TV. Particularly in the winter when it's dark by the time I leave my desk, it's all too easy to flip on reruns of NCIS while fixing dinner, and stay parked with Roger and my laptop until Conan comes on and I realize how late it is. I don't like doing it, so I'm hoping to replace the habit with reading. So far, so good--I've already finished Kevin Runolfson's <u>The Things You Find on the Appalachian Trail</u> and Raymond Chandler's <u>The High Window</u>.<br />
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<b>Resolution #2: Continue to build Gray Dog Media. </b> I read an <a href="http://bitchesonabudget.com/year-thought-blissful-budgeting-power-503020/">article</a> on budgeting that recommends a 50/30/20 designation of your income: 50% needs, 30% wants, 20% savings. Saying I'm not at that point is a gross understatement. It's more like 90/7/3. I'm hoping to save enough to buy a new car this year, so that savings portion needs a serious boost! <br />
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In a move that will hopefully support the 50/30/20 madness, I'm officially making my second bedroom into my home office! After several years of playing landlord, I've decided to take the leap. My current tenant moves out this week, and I'll be excitedly setting up my office this weekend! <br />
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<b>Resolution #3: Achieve a higher level of physical fitness.</b> In 2009, I underwent and recovered from ACL surgery. Partly due to the fact that I was unable to ski for the '09-'10 season, last winter I gained weight. In 2010, I lost the weight and then some. This winter I'm returning to Bolton to coach the Mini Racers program on Saturday mornings. I'm back at Long Trail Physical Therapy twice a week to work on some scar tissue issues, and get my left leg strength back to 100%. Going for a well-rounded winter, we're planning a hut trip to Bolton's Bryant Cabin in February, and I'm thinking of getting myself a pair of snowshoes so Roger and I can get out and enjoy the snow on my non-skiing days. <br />
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Overall, I resolve that 2011 will be my best year ever.Louhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12836218521507882427noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7521123176443680381.post-59185641701819807022010-11-06T09:00:00.003-04:002010-11-06T10:36:58.767-04:00Sunday Funday: Harvesting the Garden!Finally last Sunday I didn't have any guests or plans, and the rain came and went in fits. I seized the chance to harvest my root vegetables and put away the trellis and tomato cages. <br />
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The carrots turned out awesome!! Even the smallest one is bigger than last year's biggest. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDVrqrA7G0sbzhl_ueCy5hB6Ar66BWT-TZOgv7EpbOy3Z5IlGwJwssa619Z_Dq9f2HK0JKV5DI4qVRiICDBeWOkn-999aGxdc-VB8Xng5hWXjZJpo5npq1J73dou2Khukz-XbnecD72g/s1600/100_0336.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDVrqrA7G0sbzhl_ueCy5hB6Ar66BWT-TZOgv7EpbOy3Z5IlGwJwssa619Z_Dq9f2HK0JKV5DI4qVRiICDBeWOkn-999aGxdc-VB8Xng5hWXjZJpo5npq1J73dou2Khukz-XbnecD72g/s320/100_0336.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
Unfortunately, my first attempt at potatoes was not nearly so successful.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXpfqoQR3CDOCVLQ-jCmBgRYUkxyoYd0EtFDIymcq5xOQSNrB0m9ESKLELpUZN0G_YQhNjIi4gGfyA8wN2hMulMUaoyD-X6iFrosjBDoyuk9j9N_ma9SqzkrNEm2kjMYNwvC_uXtfszQ/s1600/100_0338.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXpfqoQR3CDOCVLQ-jCmBgRYUkxyoYd0EtFDIymcq5xOQSNrB0m9ESKLELpUZN0G_YQhNjIi4gGfyA8wN2hMulMUaoyD-X6iFrosjBDoyuk9j9N_ma9SqzkrNEm2kjMYNwvC_uXtfszQ/s320/100_0338.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
That's the whole harvest. In one hand. I <i>planted</i> more potato than that!!<br />
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I think they didn't get enough water. Maybe I didn't sing to them enough. Oh well...next year will be better.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 85%;"><span style="font-style: italic;">Sunday Funday inspired by the blog </span><a href="http://simplyeverythingbeautiful.wordpress.com/" style="font-style: italic;">Simply Everything Beautiful</a></span></div>Louhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12836218521507882427noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7521123176443680381.post-41199822520716417132010-10-30T18:40:00.002-04:002010-11-02T10:31:41.407-04:00Sunday Funday: Lake Champlain Cruise!It's fun to be a tourist in my own city! A couple weeks ago, my parents and sister came to visit Burlington. My sister lives in Colorado, so she usually only comes east once a year. We packed all kinds of things into her time here, including a family cruise on Lake Champlain!<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWHjkhE6nXqzMLcJFvmCiOqQcFe5IofZvizCVc8y0DApCaJtwZGfscuNGB6X9DdFVOepjYyzWSgk7Rr0toXZ0Hwt3ZAI979VBrLZ3VwyIKUUxARAdtCOmnTYDnjtU__dr-sdPDcxSwhA/s1600/100_0289.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWHjkhE6nXqzMLcJFvmCiOqQcFe5IofZvizCVc8y0DApCaJtwZGfscuNGB6X9DdFVOepjYyzWSgk7Rr0toXZ0Hwt3ZAI979VBrLZ3VwyIKUUxARAdtCOmnTYDnjtU__dr-sdPDcxSwhA/s400/100_0289.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5532117763375128738" border="0" /></a><br />The cruise included a lunch buffet, and was just the right length at an hour and a half. We cruised south from the downtown ferry dock, went around Shelburne Bay and looped back up north around the breakwater before returning.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHqCiAbhBYAiKUPqeaFkbOApeGGBawzW91ofqWzxxFQH39QYDNE0dgSjdA5iypdF0OESQsMv9m1s1Adui69KyuqwixcS6OGOXsqBgt8uXOIWSXxBd60Qov9gSuNKy4AOvOSeuevCxEBw/s1600/100_0294.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHqCiAbhBYAiKUPqeaFkbOApeGGBawzW91ofqWzxxFQH39QYDNE0dgSjdA5iypdF0OESQsMv9m1s1Adui69KyuqwixcS6OGOXsqBgt8uXOIWSXxBd60Qov9gSuNKy4AOvOSeuevCxEBw/s400/100_0294.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5532117770611609442" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-style: italic;">Look at our beautiful city! </span></span><br /></div><br />It was so much fun trying to identify buildings and streets from this new angle. Turns out I'm not very good at it! The foliage was at its peak, and the views were wonderful. We were afraid it might be cold, but the sun was bright and warm on the upper deck of the cruise ship. Plus there was plenty of Green Mountain coffee to keep us warm!<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 85%;"><span style="font-style: italic;">Sunday Funday inspired by the blog </span><a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://simplyeverythingbeautiful.wordpress.com/">Simply Everything Beautiful</a></span><br /></div>Louhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12836218521507882427noreply@blogger.com0