tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-39556893045530709512024-02-18T21:22:18.521-06:00Germerican Adventures...cause "Deutschlamerikanische Abenteuer" didn't quite flowSarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08202109269082836466noreply@blogger.comBlogger134125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3955689304553070951.post-5503335962542714612015-04-26T22:52:00.000-05:002015-04-26T22:52:00.054-05:00Dining Room<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjl4wxeOTGaSseOTexoM5MMlzA8NH2WV2O6-0wQYOZuIToX1oFRATdFx1N46KseJXGVnC-MpDJC5Qdi0opLKISDPsPLBbK-DR0qnskrjed7PXBJkXDcQn_gGX7iUdcCpI16BVJOGBo9kI-k/s640/blogger-image-1614211450.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjl4wxeOTGaSseOTexoM5MMlzA8NH2WV2O6-0wQYOZuIToX1oFRATdFx1N46KseJXGVnC-MpDJC5Qdi0opLKISDPsPLBbK-DR0qnskrjed7PXBJkXDcQn_gGX7iUdcCpI16BVJOGBo9kI-k/s640/blogger-image-1614211450.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a>One room at a time we are working our way through the craziness, and it is slowly becoming a home. The dining room is the only room we have all of the furniture for, (basically a table and chairs) so we began with that room. Paint, paint, curtains, and more paint; that is basically the work that had to be done. Oh, and hanging a light fixture. So, here it comes, finished room #1. Woohoo! :)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicEJDYqTPhfo2sm_kVWFP0w_0Ew1Q1S2jRNi12ePSS9wBb85BA0BiOBM8RTV6Qvpbt8v0uCKu2njDTyAu06yP7rMeGYwcGV3UjihwWAi1l-j8sMvA_ZsNb1MGqsbr9kAzj9m_40RKbWU5-/s640/blogger-image-1274774692.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicEJDYqTPhfo2sm_kVWFP0w_0Ew1Q1S2jRNi12ePSS9wBb85BA0BiOBM8RTV6Qvpbt8v0uCKu2njDTyAu06yP7rMeGYwcGV3UjihwWAi1l-j8sMvA_ZsNb1MGqsbr9kAzj9m_40RKbWU5-/s640/blogger-image-1274774692.jpg" /></a></div>
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We will take out the single door on the left of the mirror when we complete the kitchen renovations I think. But for now, I think it will act as a good barrier between the mess and the meals. :) </div>
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<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjl4wxeOTGaSseOTexoM5MMlzA8NH2WV2O6-0wQYOZuIToX1oFRATdFx1N46KseJXGVnC-MpDJC5Qdi0opLKISDPsPLBbK-DR0qnskrjed7PXBJkXDcQn_gGX7iUdcCpI16BVJOGBo9kI-k/s640/blogger-image-1614211450.jpg" /></div>
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Our table and chairs fit perfectly into this room and we finally have a wonderful place to hang our copper (now a wonderfully oxidized turquoise) pendant light that we bought at the Restore almost 2 years ago. </div>
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We have several very wide windows and we have discovered that curtain rods are ridiculously expensive. It is a pole for goodness sakes... a bronze pole. Why do I have to pay almost 40 dollars for it!? I have some go-to places for cheap or second hand rods, but because we needed such a long one (120 inches min) I wasn't having any luck. Thankfully, Simon is better at thinking outside the box about these things. So, he made a curtain rod for me. He will be writing a blog post on the particulars soon, because it was really an awesome project and a fraction of the cost of buying one from the store. Here are a couple of close ups though. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWvpUj71zg0zlIjQWg-w0BKRMQk81cFBlB_eTPRM8D2A2X1j2xVRAQwyMlqtggTxEtgSPXOpeyn8YN_Pl5GHEhODgGkc_NKAmk3Z0htIbTxsj5yGf3p2nfrb01gg1nVVqTV-vMIzuJYijU/s640/blogger-image-1957602033.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWvpUj71zg0zlIjQWg-w0BKRMQk81cFBlB_eTPRM8D2A2X1j2xVRAQwyMlqtggTxEtgSPXOpeyn8YN_Pl5GHEhODgGkc_NKAmk3Z0htIbTxsj5yGf3p2nfrb01gg1nVVqTV-vMIzuJYijU/s640/blogger-image-1957602033.jpg" /></a></div>
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I took this photo to show that it is a solid piece, not the usual overlapping poles. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeE9F2gcj0CFSVYjm7R7WHe1rpbXFczzDdE3AXxuzArzOXmEs5LrcItq6XMH7jIAp3HgrKwoz08NBkxKS2LS4y4DjAeWVFkghUi-L9aKdQaSoePR936QFZd-68a1Je-Nv2aqv0ZFCzHOpq/s640/blogger-image-1088817678.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeE9F2gcj0CFSVYjm7R7WHe1rpbXFczzDdE3AXxuzArzOXmEs5LrcItq6XMH7jIAp3HgrKwoz08NBkxKS2LS4y4DjAeWVFkghUi-L9aKdQaSoePR936QFZd-68a1Je-Nv2aqv0ZFCzHOpq/s640/blogger-image-1088817678.jpg" /></a></div>
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I love how the dining room turned out. It feels really nice to know that one room is complete. Now, on to the next one. </div>
Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08202109269082836466noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3955689304553070951.post-14426678390547433542015-04-26T22:29:00.001-05:002015-04-27T07:21:37.167-05:00Kitchen Update<div style="text-align: center;">
Lots of people have asked us lately how the kitchen is going. We laugh because well... it isn't going anywhere for another couple of months <i>at least</i>. We are currently saving money to pay for the renovations, and planning out exactly what we are wanting to do. </div>
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I thought, though, that it wouldn't hurt to give a progress report. </div>
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The plan for the space, as I have mentioned in previous posts, is to convert the kitchen and one bedroom into a large, open kitchen and den space. That will provide us with the open feel we enjoy, and a better entertaining space. Before we moved in we tore down the wall that divided those two spaces and took out the chimney that was covered up inside that wall. We have not yet taken out the fireplace completely, because it proved to be a job too big for mere human hands, and, pressed for time, we needed to wait to arrange borrowing/renting a power tool to complete the job. <br>
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Another pre-move in renovation that took place in this part of the house was the installation of a support beam on the ceiling and two corresponding wall beams. The wall we tore down was a supporting wall. So the second floor had to be reinforced one way or another. We decided to make it a design feature, as well as a necessary aspect. We found this awesome place called <a href="http://www.oldamericanlumber.net/" target="_blank">Old American Lumber</a>. They find old barns and churches from which to salvage floor boards and just any old wood in good condition they can get their hands on, re-milling it, and selling it. Everyone we worked with was very friendly and definitely shared our passion for old wood. We wanted some old wooden beams to use for the ceiling support, and two matching ones to frame the room and bring the two spaces together. We ended up buying one 14 foot beam that measured 6'x8' and two 10 foot beams measuring 8'x8'. Simon and a contractor we had met during our home buying process cut and installed the 6'x8' beam to support the second floor. Our plan had been to use the other two as posts to support the beam, but after looking at them in person, we decided they would protrude from the wall too far. Instead, we cut one of them down the middle and used the two halves for the side posts. We, of course, were left with one full beam. We do not have an exact plan for that yet, but I am pretty confident it will work its way into the renovations somewhere along the way.<br>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv3XdgAS9QQ-0bncSK1BXbNUHRK9gZLIQCSezJxa7tSx3HlaZyHM6EXO48R8W3hDVIRPrKjb0axLJSd0m0_ZFeMtAAfBVxch7PSs20oaE-ASqkWGQQ1D5nzUw6ZJ2RkpCtPGfvbKouwIJU/s1600/IMG_5805.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv3XdgAS9QQ-0bncSK1BXbNUHRK9gZLIQCSezJxa7tSx3HlaZyHM6EXO48R8W3hDVIRPrKjb0axLJSd0m0_ZFeMtAAfBVxch7PSs20oaE-ASqkWGQQ1D5nzUw6ZJ2RkpCtPGfvbKouwIJU/s1600/IMG_5805.JPG" height="320" width="240"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: none; color: black;"></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="text-align: start; clear: both;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Here is a close up of the beam. It is a little darker in real life than it looks in this picture. </span></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/AVvXsEhjtqQ8qhIGfLGuMjw4L4kpoWdMSbtqMB59kRCwMdfWF0C_Fwg9KGKlA8cXQSlh_x5gZOze2jRSd8NSYyNTDlbBqXIoWQOay1Dz7rYMMRPEU1vaek3ScktUFuwYsD6vi5JN9Z5rscAyqZcQ/s1600/IMG_5804_2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjtqQ8qhIGfLGuMjw4L4kpoWdMSbtqMB59kRCwMdfWF0C_Fwg9KGKlA8cXQSlh_x5gZOze2jRSd8NSYyNTDlbBqXIoWQOay1Dz7rYMMRPEU1vaek3ScktUFuwYsD6vi5JN9Z5rscAyqZcQ/s1600/IMG_5804_2.JPG" height="320" width="240"></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> This is Buddy and Simon measuring and cutting the beams to size in our back yard. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqjpgA3cXiUbhy7hzlKFyWdWAfaDMbq-G2TyyqOcqMP0I3Wuh2QgxR2uZLtN6Vx6f3y5qj2E0tS03u8sANo1Nggc34J-c4X-CPJNaNyp1VB60TY_2q49dARUv05oqPMkc_doK2ORNCFOyq/s1600/IMG_5792.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqjpgA3cXiUbhy7hzlKFyWdWAfaDMbq-G2TyyqOcqMP0I3Wuh2QgxR2uZLtN6Vx6f3y5qj2E0tS03u8sANo1Nggc34J-c4X-CPJNaNyp1VB60TY_2q49dARUv05oqPMkc_doK2ORNCFOyq/s1600/IMG_5792.JPG" height="300" width="400"></a></div>
We had not planned to cut a beam in half, so we didn't have the perfect tool for the job on hand and we didn't want to spend another day on this project. So they worked with what they had and it really turned out well. I am glad we decided to handle cutting it ourselves rather than taking it back to the lumber place and having them do it. <br>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpKLWekK5exVvOEbxhyrSlUnAMomLziIcn_5l4DEParyhIj9UGBFCScowCDvRSKZ2KHOzxSJ5eZ_lPYp9_eBDLvD2zF_WNpXnzodOmHSvEOhIbKWJKhlXhjxemtpXt3zuThlCX7vq4scMm/s1600/IMG_5798.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpKLWekK5exVvOEbxhyrSlUnAMomLziIcn_5l4DEParyhIj9UGBFCScowCDvRSKZ2KHOzxSJ5eZ_lPYp9_eBDLvD2zF_WNpXnzodOmHSvEOhIbKWJKhlXhjxemtpXt3zuThlCX7vq4scMm/s1600/IMG_5798.JPG" height="240" width="320"></a></div>
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Here is a halvsies shot. The temporary supporting wall had to remain up until the ceiling was supported with the beam. So this was the overlapping period. You can see the top beam and the far right post are already installed. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV0C-LEMm9jE0i-qcnJcemuA-rvDYLWGmLigbmFGN6oXKxXa7xKYc9tM_k4CI7zteCb6yy5AoQv6MPdoikDlSogK4yyZDo5koXWNyIT-Zt9G-tJgxlv0e30W5zr9OBhfh3pCLTfzWojeGo/s1600/IMG_5811_2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV0C-LEMm9jE0i-qcnJcemuA-rvDYLWGmLigbmFGN6oXKxXa7xKYc9tM_k4CI7zteCb6yy5AoQv6MPdoikDlSogK4yyZDo5koXWNyIT-Zt9G-tJgxlv0e30W5zr9OBhfh3pCLTfzWojeGo/s1600/IMG_5811_2.JPG" height="400" width="300"></a></div>
Here is a close up of the left side (the kitchen is behind me) once the beams were all up and the supporting temporary wall was removed. <br>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipa2H7kxcFfVMIWJliPTwsXfR956It-xNNkXXjyfCBLxgVhbs3gVk1gaK4U916j92n4Igx3VMqFooWOIMceADZP76vNU1HS4jWaLxasG79k-Utl6GGR2Ad-ilSdStyMir_3oZHpAVt3IcS/s1600/IMG_5810_2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipa2H7kxcFfVMIWJliPTwsXfR956It-xNNkXXjyfCBLxgVhbs3gVk1gaK4U916j92n4Igx3VMqFooWOIMceADZP76vNU1HS4jWaLxasG79k-Utl6GGR2Ad-ilSdStyMir_3oZHpAVt3IcS/s1600/IMG_5810_2.JPG" height="300" width="400"></a></div>
Here is the full, finished set. Obviously, it will be a little easier to visualize once we have the wall by the door rebuilt (there was a pantry there that had to go when the wall came down) and the rest of the room and flooring finished. All in all, we were really pleased with how the beams turned out and we were incredibly happy to have found Old American Lumber. We have a lot of wood work we hope to do upstairs, so we will be going back to them for sure! </div>
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The kitchen itself is very livable, albeit far from perfect. (it does look better now than it does in the above photo...) It is, quite frankly, straight out of the 1940's, bringing with it all the glory that time period had to offer. So, once the time is right, we will gut the kitchen, cabinets, floor, appliances (praise the lord) and all. We have a pretty solid idea of what we would like to see happen in the kitchen, and we are in the process of figuring out what aspects are feasible in our budget, and what makes the most sense in terms of investing in the property. Every penny we put into this house, we want to be able to get back when we sell it, and more. <br>
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Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08202109269082836466noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3955689304553070951.post-92087502988008661832015-04-25T23:51:00.002-05:002015-04-25T23:51:29.993-05:00Carrot Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcuMf9M5ZgCyD4kzDd1mWRxUWA7fqQx0Slz-Ar2DkinHhUpHDDrCR38M1GXI2IwgIqc7m8W00f1oDK7XBE5FiezwL51PMg9DT1dCoZlRJHQzl2ZnyqxL1mVvrALeabRWxTg5risgpubHeO/s640/blogger-image--258454172.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcuMf9M5ZgCyD4kzDd1mWRxUWA7fqQx0Slz-Ar2DkinHhUpHDDrCR38M1GXI2IwgIqc7m8W00f1oDK7XBE5FiezwL51PMg9DT1dCoZlRJHQzl2ZnyqxL1mVvrALeabRWxTg5risgpubHeO/s640/blogger-image--258454172.jpg" /></a></div>
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Another perfect time to bake a cake: Easter! Well, in my opinion, any holiday that revolves around a meal is fair game for cake baking. The fact that we planned to spend easter alone, just the two of us, should not have to factor in at all! </div>
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Carrot cake is probably my favorite type of cake, but I have always been a little wary to try baking one myself. Something about the main ingredient being a vegetable made me feel like it could go terribly wrong. But, this recipe sounded really simple and I have been on a roll with cakes lately so, I thought I would give it a try. One benefit of baking for just you and your husband: no one will know if you flop :)</div>
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I first saw this cake recipe on a <a href="http://www.bakedbyrachel.com/carrot-layer-cake-with-cinnamon-cream-cheese-frosting/" target="_blank">blog</a> via Pinterest. I changed a few things around, but not many, and only for convenience sake. </div>
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<i>Ingredients:</i><br />
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3 cups carrots, finely shredded<br />
1 cup applesauce (I used cinnamon applesauce)<br />
3 Tbsp vegetable oil<br />
4 eggs<br />
4 tsp vanilla extract<br />
1 cup sugar<br />
1/2 cup brown sugar<br />
3 cups all purpose flour<br />
2 tsp baking powder<br />
2 tsp baking soda<br />
1 tsp salt<br />
4 tsp cinnamon<br />
1 tsp nutmeg<br />
1/2 tsp ground cloves<br />
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<i>Frosting:</i><br />
16 oz cream cheese, softened<br />
6 Tbsp unsalted butter, softened<br />
1 1/2 tsp cinnamon<br />
6 cups powdered sugar<br />
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<i>Directions:</i><br />
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Grease and 2 four 8-inch round cake pans. Set aside.<br />
Finely shred and chop carrots. ( I used baby carrots because I didn't have to peel them, and I had them on hand. I also ran my carrots through the grating blade on my food processor and then re chopped them all briefly with the regular blade. It gave them a good consistency I think)</div>
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In a large bowl, combine liquid ingredients.</div>
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Add in the sugars, whisking until combined. </div>
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Stir in carrots. </div>
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Add dry ingredients in several batches until well combined and no streaks remain. Divide batter between prepared cake pans.<br />
Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Cool in pan for 5-10 minutes or until easy to handle. Transfer cakes to a wire rack and allow them cool completely.<br />
Wrap cakes well in plastic and chill for several hours or overnight. </div>
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<i>Frosting: </i></div>
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In a large bowl beat cream cheese and butter until light and fluffy. Mix in vanilla and cinnamon until well incorporated. </div>
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Add 1 cup of powdered sugar at a time until fully incorporated. </div>
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Ice the top surface of the bottom cake and then carefully place second layer on top. I run a layer of icing around any gab that is between the two layers so it is more even and easier to ice the sides later. </div>
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Then, Ice the entire cake, beginning with a large portion on the top and working your way out from the middle and down the sides. I did a messy, whipped texture, because the frosting was so thick and sturdy. Some frosting wont hold its shape well enough, but this frosting was wonderful to work with! </div>
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Chill cake until ready to serve.<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #4e4c4c;"> </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm1BG9ui4KJiFJzTWs9tvKpSldnaKWhBoAmouzP_rUxOnYVdnKve2d6OGQC2fj5QYdbWeJigodX18BaTz1bspWiBCt4cu6jkLw63yEKkfIivHiReSpmiqr1YLENzXy0e7iyurzz1ZAq1-6/s640/blogger-image-1040449744.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm1BG9ui4KJiFJzTWs9tvKpSldnaKWhBoAmouzP_rUxOnYVdnKve2d6OGQC2fj5QYdbWeJigodX18BaTz1bspWiBCt4cu6jkLw63yEKkfIivHiReSpmiqr1YLENzXy0e7iyurzz1ZAq1-6/s640/blogger-image-1040449744.jpg" /></a></div>
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If you follow the link to the blog, you will notice that the original recipe made a 4 layer, square cake, and called for 4 cake pans, containing much thinner cakes of course. I strayed from this for 2 reasons. The main one, I do not own 4 cake pans, round or square, and I did not want to have to bake 2 batches, cooling and cleaning the pans in between. Second, 4 layer cakes contain a lot of layers of frosting. And usually I just find them too rich; regardless of how delicious the frosting may be. I still could have cut these two thicker layers in half and it would have yielded a 4 layer cake, although this was definitely less of a hassle, and probably cut down on the richness. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjoYkgZh9HG9Ixmztg-vHNn9O9Y5yEsqobhLseBfprBeEjNTjlUrV_jvRrT9vZbNRvVB4c4WHQSbSSA9PXCoMJLe0znt5uM41Jc2r-IqhAVUzhUV3B8_s05Qf1V5LTEMo3ms-pj1q5pTxC/s640/blogger-image-1822997925.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjoYkgZh9HG9Ixmztg-vHNn9O9Y5yEsqobhLseBfprBeEjNTjlUrV_jvRrT9vZbNRvVB4c4WHQSbSSA9PXCoMJLe0znt5uM41Jc2r-IqhAVUzhUV3B8_s05Qf1V5LTEMo3ms-pj1q5pTxC/s640/blogger-image-1822997925.jpg" /></a></div>
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As I said earlier, this frosting was really wonderful to work with. Im going to definitely use it for other recipes in the future! However, the inside layers on the slices would have probably been more defined and prettier if I had done what you are supposed to do: Spread the frosting between the cakes, as well as a thin later on the whole cake, and chill it again before frosting the final coat. But I had waited long enough for the cakes to chill so they would be easy to frost, I didn't have the time or patience to chill them even longer. Regardless, it turnout out well enough for a first carrot cake go-around. </div>
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We ended up having another couple over for Easter lunch; Our friends Patrick and Diana, who, like us, don't have family in town or close by. I also took the cake to our bible study group on Tuesday, so it was all eaten, and not just by me and Simon. </div>
Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08202109269082836466noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3955689304553070951.post-76068814838977789002015-04-25T22:50:00.000-05:002015-04-26T00:00:53.101-05:00Tripple Chocolate Buttermilk Pound Cake<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
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I wish there were more occasions for bakeing cakes. I really enjoy doing it. Simon and I just would not be able to eat an entire cake alone, despite, what would be, our best efforts, and most of it would to end up going to waste. So anytime there is a party or get together where cake is appropriate, I volunteer. And then the hunt for the perfect recipe begins.</div>
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Ever since Pinterest came along, I have a healthy stockpile of recipes waiting to be tried. One such recipe I have been excited to bake (and taste) I saw on the cover of <a href="http://www.myrecipes.com/m/recipe/triple-chocolate-buttermilk-pound-cake" target="_blank">Southern Living Magazine</a> a few months back: "Tripple Chocolate Buttermilk Pound Cake". It looked like chocolate paradise so, I had to try it at my next opportunity. </div>
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I took it to an "our job is done" dinner for our minister search committee, and several people asked me for the recipe. So, here it is:</div>
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<i>Ingredients:</i></div>
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2 cups all-purpose cake flour</div>
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3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa </div>
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1/2 tsp baking powder </div>
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1 tsp table salt</div>
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<div itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient" style="box-sizing: border-box;">
<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><span itemprop="amount" style="box-sizing: border-box;">1 1/2 cups</span> <span itemprop="name" style="box-sizing: border-box;">butter, softened to room temperature</span></span></div>
<div itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient" style="box-sizing: border-box;">
<span itemprop="amount" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); box-sizing: border-box; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">3 cups</span><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"> </span><span itemprop="name" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); box-sizing: border-box; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">granulated sugar </span></div>
<div itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient" style="box-sizing: border-box;">
<span itemprop="amount" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); box-sizing: border-box; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">5 </span><span itemprop="name" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); box-sizing: border-box; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">large eggs, at room temperature </span></div>
<div itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient" style="box-sizing: border-box;">
<span itemprop="amount" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); box-sizing: border-box; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">1 1/4 cups</span><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"> </span><span itemprop="name" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); box-sizing: border-box; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">buttermilk </span></div>
<div itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient" style="box-sizing: border-box;">
<span itemprop="amount" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); box-sizing: border-box; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">2 teaspoons</span><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"> </span><span itemprop="name" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); box-sizing: border-box; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">instant espresso </span></div>
<div itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient" style="box-sizing: border-box;">
<span itemprop="amount" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); box-sizing: border-box; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">2 teaspoons</span><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"> </span><span itemprop="name" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); box-sizing: border-box; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">vanilla extract </span></div>
<div itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient" style="box-sizing: border-box;">
<span itemprop="amount" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); box-sizing: border-box; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">1 cup</span><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"> </span><span itemprop="name" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); box-sizing: border-box; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">60% cacao bittersweet chocolate morsels </span></div>
<div itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient" style="box-sizing: border-box;">
<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Shortening </span><br />
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CHOCOLATE GLAZE </div>
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<div itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient" style="box-sizing: border-box;">
<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); font-family: inherit;"><span itemprop="amount" style="box-sizing: border-box;">3/4 cup</span> <span itemprop="name" style="box-sizing: border-box;">semisweet chocolate morsels </span></span></div>
<div itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient" style="box-sizing: border-box;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><span itemprop="amount" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); box-sizing: border-box; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">3 tablespoons</span><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"> </span><span itemprop="name" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); box-sizing: border-box; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">butter </span></span></div>
<div itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient" style="box-sizing: border-box;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><span itemprop="amount" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); box-sizing: border-box; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">1 tablespoon</span><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"> </span><span itemprop="name" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); box-sizing: border-box; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">light corn syrup</span></span></div>
<div itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient" style="box-sizing: border-box;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><span itemprop="name" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); box-sizing: border-box; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">1</span><span itemprop="amount" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); box-sizing: border-box; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">/2 teaspoon</span><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"> </span><span itemprop="name" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); box-sizing: border-box; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">vanilla extract </span></span></div>
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<div class="ingredients-field-name-only" itemprop="ingredient" itemscope="" itemtype="http://data-vocabulary.org/RecipeIngredient" style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 1.8em;">
<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); font-family: inherit;"><span itemprop="amount" style="box-sizing: border-box;"></span><span itemprop="name" style="box-sizing: border-box;">BUTTERMILK GLAZE </span><span itemprop="preparation" style="box-sizing: border-box;"></span></span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); font-family: inherit;"><span itemprop="amount" style="box-sizing: border-box;">1 cup</span> <span itemprop="name" style="box-sizing: border-box;">powdered sugar </span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><span itemprop="amount" style="box-sizing: border-box;">1 </span><span itemprop="name" style="box-sizing: border-box;">to 2 Tbsp. buttermilk </span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><span itemprop="name" style="box-sizing: border-box;">1/4 tsp vanilla extract</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><span itemprop="name" style="box-sizing: border-box;"><br /></span></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><span itemprop="name" style="box-sizing: border-box;"><i>Directions:</i></span></span><br />
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); font-family: inherit;">Preheat oven to 325°. Using shortening, grease and flour a 12-cup bundt pan. </span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); font-family: inherit;">Whisk together flour, cocoa, baking powder and salt. </span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); font-family: inherit;">Beat 1 1/2 cups butter in a medium bowl at medium-high speed with an electric mixer until smooth. Gradually add granulated sugar, beating until light and fluffy. </span></div>
<div style="box-sizing: border-box;">
<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); font-family: inherit;">Add eggs, 1 at a time, beating just until yolk disappears. </span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); font-family: inherit;">Combine 1 1/4 cups buttermilk, espresso and vanilla. Add flour mixture and buttermilk mixture alternately to egg mixture, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Beat at a low speed after each addition. Fold in bittersweet chocolate morsels. Pour batter into a well-greased pan. Sharply tap pan on the counter to remove air bubbles</span></div>
<div style="box-sizing: border-box;">
<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); font-family: inherit;">Bake at 325° for 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 25 minutes or until a wooden pick inserted into the center comes out clean. Cool in the pan on a wire rack 20 minutes. Remove from pan; cool completely on rack.</span><br />
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); font-family: inherit;"><i> Prepare glazes:</i></span><br />
<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); font-family: inherit;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); font-family: inherit;"><u>Chocolate Glaze:</u> </span></div>
<div style="box-sizing: border-box;">
<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); font-family: inherit;">Combine semisweet chocolate morsels, 3 Tbsp butter, and 1 Tbsp corn syrup in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave on MEDIUM power (50% power) for 1 to 1 1/2 minutes or until morsels begin to melt, stirring after 1 minute. Stir until smooth. Stir in 1/2 tsp. vanilla.</span><br />
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); font-family: inherit;"><u> Buttermilk Glaze:</u> </span><br />
<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); font-family: inherit;">Whisk together powdered sugar, 1 Tbsp. buttermilk, and 1/4 tsp vanilla in a small bowl until smooth. Add up to 1 Tbsp buttermilk, if desired. </span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">Drizzle warm glazes over cooled cake</span><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">.</span> </span></span></div>
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Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08202109269082836466noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3955689304553070951.post-34857851732965088772015-03-30T21:10:00.000-05:002015-03-30T21:31:45.355-05:00Charleston Weekend<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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After our move, Simon's traveling, and house projects, we decided a weekend away would do us some good. I think we were right. We are blessed to live near a lot of refreshing destinations: the mountains, the beach, neat cities like Atlanta and Savannah, and our destination of choice, Charleston.</div>
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We took off after work on Friday evening ad arrived a little after 9:00. We got settled into the Marriot and decided to stroll into down town. We had been recommended a place called Closed for Business, on King street, the street that runs through the center of basically everything in Charleston. </div>
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It was a really neat place, I wish I had been able to take pictures that did it justice. </div>
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Breakfast is my favorite type of meal to eat at a restaurant, especially on vacations, so when we discovered our hotel did not include a breakfast, as we had thought, I was not incredibly disappointed. </div>
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Saturday morning stop number one: TOAST :)</div>
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It was quite a long wait, as were all of the restaurants around us, it appeared. But worth it!</div>
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We spent most of Saturday afternoon walking up and down King Street, driving around to look at the beautiful, old houses, and just enjoying having no plans. We scouted out where we would eat dinner and then went back to the hotel to freshen up. </div>
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There are lots of horse drawn carriages trotting through the streets. The next time we go I would like to take a tour on one. There is so much history in the city, I think it could be really interesting. </div>
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Amen Street had been recommended to us, so that was our dinner destination. </div>
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The food was so delicious, and equally priced. :)</div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: none; color: black;">My handsome dinner date.</span></div>
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After dinner, we still had lots of daylight, so we went to the pier and actually spotted some dolphins right up next to us. If we had been at sea level, we could have touched them they were so close. Couldn't get a picture, but it was a fun moment. </div>
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We walked around some more and went into some cute local shops. </div>
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Breakfast number two: Three Little Birds</div>
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Another very cute little place, a little off the main area, so the wait wasn't near as long. <br>
Sunday was to be our last day in Charleston, so we got a little bit of an earlier start. After breakfast we drove over to Battery Park. It is right on the water, and has a lot of beautiful trees and is surrounded by gorgeous houses. </div>
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On our walk through the pretty, old neighborhoods.</div>
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As we were heading out, we spotted a long market that stretched through the streets. We took a walk through there, grabbed a snack at a fuggery, and then drove back to Greenville in time for dinner. </div>
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We were blessed with some beautiful weather, despite a dreary forecast, and we both felt rejuvenated after a couple of days with no responsibilities or plans. Those are some of the best vacations, the ones where you are just together and you don't do much of anything. </div>
<br>Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08202109269082836466noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3955689304553070951.post-33507179191761255902015-03-30T20:41:00.000-05:002015-03-30T21:41:51.851-05:00Move-in Day<div style="text-align: center;">
Well, needless to say, I am incredibly behind on blogging about all of our house happenings. We have had quite a bit going on: fun and exciting things, some stressful things, and some life things that nobody enjoys dealing with but are inevitable. </div>
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A few weeks before moving day we found out that Simon would be going on a fairly lengthy business trip spanning over the week before we would move and our move itself. That, naturally, interfered with our pre-move-in work schedule for the house. Suddenly, the little finishing touches we had hoped to be working on in the final days before we moved were pushed to the back burner as we had to reprioritize what we wanted to have finished before we moved in. Painting for instance, as it is tedious and time-consuming, unfortunately was not something we were going to be able to finish. <br>
One priority was the electricity. We had discovered a problem requiring us to shut off the power in all but one room. It was quite the ordeal, there was extreme extension cord usage: Power cords snaking off into all areas of our workspace and us becoming incredibly reliant upon our work light after 6 PM. Unfortunately, this project was going to take more man hours that we had at our disposal. But that was really the only "big" task that we weren't able to complete. So we aimed out energy at the other big things: the water heater, the heat, finishing as much painting as we could in what would be our bedroom so that there would be at least one area in which to retreat from all the craziness. <br>
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Simon was scheduled to leave on February 15th and would return March 3rd. </div>
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His business trip took him to Oman, a country next to Yemen. I had to look at a map. There was a nine hour time difference and a lot of work to be done on both ends of our worlds, so we didn't get to talk very much while he was gone, but it was probably for the best. I was able to focus on packing and prepare our new house as well as the apartment we moved out of.<br>
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The big day finally arrived! Moving day! Everything was set up.<br>
I had an awesome crew of friends planning to arrive at 10 AM<br>
They would come with several pick up trucks and trailers<br>
We had scheduled movers to take care of the really big stuff: the washer and dryer, an armoire, our kitchen table.<br>
(Those are just things that are no fun to move, incredibly heavy, and very time-consuming. We decided to leave that to the professionals this time around). <br>
The morning went really smoothly! Everyone was able to empty the apartment in less than two hours and head over to the house.<br>
Everything was coming up Reinhardt.<br>
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And then, the movers didn't show up. <br>
I had stayed behind at the apartment to wait on the movers and had planned to meet the others later to help unload and instruct the movers on where to unload the furniture. But, the window for their arrival came and went, as did an extra hour, and the pickup trucks full of boxes have been unloaded at our new house, and there was no phone call or contact made from the movers. <br>
Their office is closed on Saturday, so I had no way of contacting them and they were choosing not to contact me so I was stuck. <span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"> </span><br>
<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">I finally had to come to terms with the fact that they just weren't coming. So, after a moment of mild panic and a couple of "why me" moments, we came up with a new plan. My <i>amazing</i> friends offered more than I could hope to ask for. They stayed and regrouped back at the apartment and loaded all of the furniture onto the trucks and trailers. This was definitely another moment where I stood back and thought of how blessed I am, how blessed we are. This was a moment where I was rendered completely useless. I could barely budge any of these pieces of furniture off the floor, let alone carry them down two flights of stairs and onto a trailer, by myself or with someone else. I couldn't even help in the process. I was completely useless, and still it was all taken care of, no one muttered a complaint or a groan, and I didn't really even have to ask. God has definitely led us into a beautiful stage of life and I hope we never take it for granted. </span><br>
<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br></span>
<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">So, back to the house: remember how I said we didn't have electricity? Yeah, that came into play as the evening wore on. Since the day had not gone <i>quite</i> as expected, we were wrapping up the whole moving process a lot later than anticipated. It was pitch black outside, we had no lights in the house, and we were still carrying in boxes of furniture, hangers full of clothes, (because I had ordered wardrobe boxes through the movers that never came), we were wearing flashlights around our necks and stumbling over each other as we tried to get the stuff into the house in some sort of orderly fashion. My initial plan had been, once things were settled, to arrange a few side lamps and floor lamps throughout the bedroom and bathroom to have some light for evening functionality, but because of the late hour I hadn't been able to do that. Several people offered for me to stay with them that evening and I took them up on it. Part of me, the prideful part, wanted to be able to make it through the first night at our house, not letting the frustrations and challenges of the day hold me back, but it just wasn't possible. So I had to put aside my pride and ask for even more help. </span><br>
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">The next day, Sunday, I went back to the house to evaluate the situation. I set up some bedside table lamps, a lamp in the hallway, a floor lamp in the bedroom, and I precariously placed a table lamp on a bathroom shelf. Things seemed less complicated, less menacing, less overwhelming, with a little light.</span><br>
<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">As, I suppose, most things do. </span><br>
<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br></span>
<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">So, in summary, moving day was both a disaster and a success - neither of which was due to any effort of my own. </span> I took away several thoughts from what was, hopefully, our last move for some time. The first of which, and least important, was how much I hate moving out of the top floor of a building. It is just no fun any way you swing it. The second, sometimes, despite our greatest efforts, we just can't control what happens. We can plan, prepare, schedule, but it is futile and the quicker we can come to terms with that, the quicker you can move on. And finally, I can recall few notable occasions in my life, good or bad, that weren't affected, even defined, by spectacular, loving, genuine people. The older I get, the more I am convinced that this is the way God intended for us to do life: Together, a cord of three strands, for better or for worse, and for that, I am incredibly grateful. </div>
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Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08202109269082836466noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3955689304553070951.post-55269991990135376992015-03-19T19:12:00.003-05:002015-03-19T19:12:41.267-05:00Wicked<div style="text-align: center;">
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For Christmas we got ourselves tickets to see Wicked at our local theater. Such a fun musical, and an exciting present. The only bad thing being that we had to wait 2 months!</div>
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Well, the weekend came and we finally got to use them. </div>
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Two friends of ours from church, Hayley and Charlie, bought tickets with us, so we made dinner reservations and made a night of it. </div>
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<img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpvNVYfnrSkqjX5JtPmXGpwCObe1L6H7lWiehSDjmLiqaloCs6rSzRdBMGsL0QzjAPAnEsFRl9devNWdbCo3qfZls1SaZ6tkP3dwYMTVX9-OmG0pEiDPXRFo4f8z7Sb_4nhVo_0m5IdYpH/s400/blogger-image--1367528416.jpg" width="400" /><br />
cheers before the show<br />
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<img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWGNPZJnAkNNpJpuz3SV5N4ZmnlKHDD3CL39disrEWjgOHvqfeOgYmqskzE_i5mr0c43m48WhGT7AwLjYHzwd9Baktau9TmD1RIP0cT6ZQBqSdShEVfiPj78ai2GPtrQVVkEM7fBW9O6gx/s400/blogger-image--1791283875.jpg" width="400" /><br />
We tried out Tupelo Honey Cafe for the first time, a nice, southern comfort, North Carolina originated, restaurant. We had heard goof things and were certainly not disappointed! From the pre-meal biscuit to the fried okra and mashed sweet potatoes, it was some of the best food I've had in awhile! <br />
The theater, like the restaurant, is downtown, so we were able to park before dinner, walk to the restaurant and then, from there, the theater. <br />
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This is the closed curtain. </div>
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Me and Hayley before the show. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTuWbSrXL29vb-o6DTC1qS4KZwXV_7YN-tmwRLT15YWT3COkzo1h8BMxiFyu8Dz06MLRSNbrRCik3np5TW6a7Cub4YENG5Fm29EnkTHk-7BIh3gj7UIqSBRRcws-SdH9EgI9N72P21Y6lO/s640/blogger-image-977993379.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTuWbSrXL29vb-o6DTC1qS4KZwXV_7YN-tmwRLT15YWT3COkzo1h8BMxiFyu8Dz06MLRSNbrRCik3np5TW6a7Cub4YENG5Fm29EnkTHk-7BIh3gj7UIqSBRRcws-SdH9EgI9N72P21Y6lO/s400/blogger-image-977993379.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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We had both seen the show before, all of us except Charlie actually, but it doesn't make it any less exciting or entertaining. It was a fun night with good friends and good food. :)<br />
I hadn't realized how nice our local theater was, I'm looking forward to taking more advantage of it in the future. </div>
Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08202109269082836466noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3955689304553070951.post-5527848988592073292015-03-18T08:43:00.001-05:002015-03-18T09:04:46.088-05:00Lemon Blueberry Pound Cake<ul style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><li class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients" style="box-sizing: border-box; padding: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 0px 10px; list-style: none; background-position: 0px 0px;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;">I always excited to find a recipe that I really enjoy. Especially when it is easy to throw together. I came across this recipe on chef-in-training.com and had to try it.</span></li><li class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients" style="box-sizing: border-box; padding: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 0px 10px; list-style: none; background-position: 0px 0px;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;">I love everything lemon, and I usually prefer desserts that aren't <i>too sweet. </i></span></li></ul><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><i> </i>This had great flavor and texture and, in my opinion, was just sweet enough :). </span></div><ul style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><li class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients" style="box-sizing: border-box; padding: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 0px 10px; list-style: none; background-position: 0px 0px;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdt6QfE4UZxOxVRyjH-RBit9RKuAU3s2jQkJhdq-aGRBSqxKHUnB1Y1EiGXYNfwhNom68XNUcmyGRNCeYqgv3-K6LZUFgSLbHzq86NEpApvDL3DWkF-J7UJwsPqfFKHk0_b1wEhBrn83gs/s640/blogger-image--228653606.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdt6QfE4UZxOxVRyjH-RBit9RKuAU3s2jQkJhdq-aGRBSqxKHUnB1Y1EiGXYNfwhNom68XNUcmyGRNCeYqgv3-K6LZUFgSLbHzq86NEpApvDL3DWkF-J7UJwsPqfFKHk0_b1wEhBrn83gs/s640/blogger-image--228653606.jpg"></a></div></div></span></li><li class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients" style="box-sizing: border-box; padding: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 0px 10px; list-style: none; background-position: 0px 0px;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><br></span></li><li class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients" style="box-sizing: border-box; padding: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 0px 10px; list-style: none; background-position: 0px 0px;"><span style="font-weight: bold; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Ingredients:</span></li><li class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients" style="box-sizing: border-box; padding: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 0px 10px; list-style: none; background-position: 0px 0px;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">1 cup butter at room temperature </span></li><li class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients" style="box-sizing: border-box; padding: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 0px 10px; list-style: none; background-position: 0px 0px;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">1¾ cups sugar</span></li><li class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients" style="box-sizing: border-box; padding: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 0px 10px; list-style: none; background-position: 0px 0px;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">zest of one lemon</span></li><li class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients" style="box-sizing: border-box; padding: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 0px 10px; list-style: none; background-position: 0px 0px;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">3 eggs</span></li><li class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients" style="box-sizing: border-box; padding: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 0px 10px; list-style: none; background-position: 0px 0px;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">½ teaspoon vanilla. </span></li><li class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients" style="box-sizing: border-box; padding: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 0px 10px; list-style: none; background-position: 0px 0px;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">¾ cup buttermilk</span></li><li class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients" style="box-sizing: border-box; padding: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 0px 10px; list-style: none; background-position: 0px 0px;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">2 cups fresh blueberries</span></li><li class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients" style="box-sizing: border-box; padding: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 0px 10px; list-style: none; background-position: 0px 0px;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">2½ cups flour</span></li><li class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients" style="box-sizing: border-box; padding: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 0px 10px; list-style: none; background-position: 0px 0px;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">2 teaspoon baking powder</span></li><li class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients" style="box-sizing: border-box; padding: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 0px 10px; list-style: none; background-position: 0px 0px;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">1 teaspoon salt</span></li></ul><div class="ERSSectionHead" style="box-sizing: border-box; padding: 0px; margin: 3px 0px; font-weight: 700;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Lemon Glaze </span></div><ul style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><li class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients" style="box-sizing: border-box; padding: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 0px 10px; list-style: none; background-position: 0px 0px;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">1½ cup powdered sugar</span></li><li class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients" style="box-sizing: border-box; padding: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 0px 10px; list-style: none; background-position: 0px 0px;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">1 Tablespoon lemon juice</span></li><li class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients" style="box-sizing: border-box; padding: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 0px 10px; list-style: none; background-position: 0px 0px;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">1 Tablespoon lemon zest</span></li><li class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients" style="box-sizing: border-box; padding: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 0px 10px; list-style: none; background-position: 0px 0px;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">1 Tablespoon milk</span></li><li class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients" style="box-sizing: border-box; padding: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 0px 10px; list-style: none; background-position: 0px 0px;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">¼ teaspoon vanilla</span></li></ul><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><br></span></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;">Directions: </span></div><div><ol style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><li class="instruction" itemprop="recipeInstructions" style="box-sizing: border-box; padding: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 0px 30px; list-style: decimal; background-position: 0px 0px;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.</span></li><li class="instruction" itemprop="recipeInstructions" style="box-sizing: border-box; padding: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 0px 30px; list-style: decimal; background-position: 0px 0px;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">In the bowl of a standing mixer, mix butter, sugar, and lemon zest together for 3 to 5 minutes until creamy. </span></li><li class="instruction" itemprop="recipeInstructions" style="box-sizing: border-box; padding: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 0px 30px; list-style: decimal; background-position: 0px 0px;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Add eggs one at a time and beat an addition minute after each egg. Add vanilla. </span></li><li class="instruction" itemprop="recipeInstructions" style="box-sizing: border-box; padding: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 0px 30px; list-style: decimal; background-position: 0px 0px;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">In a separate large bowl, wisk together dry ingredients. </span></li><li class="instruction" itemprop="recipeInstructions" style="box-sizing: border-box; padding: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 0px 30px; list-style: decimal; background-position: 0px 0px;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Add flour mixture alternatively with the buttermilk to the wet ingredients.</span></li><li class="instruction" itemprop="recipeInstructions" style="box-sizing: border-box; padding: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 0px 30px; list-style: decimal; background-position: 0px 0px;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Lightly flour blueberries to keep them from sinking in your bread pan. Fold them into the batter. </span></li><li class="instruction" itemprop="recipeInstructions" style="box-sizing: border-box; padding: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 0px 30px; list-style: decimal; background-position: 0px 0px;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Grease and flour large bread pan</span></li><li class="instruction" itemprop="recipeInstructions" style="box-sizing: border-box; padding: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 0px 30px; list-style: decimal; background-position: 0px 0px;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Pour in batter. (I filled one bread pan 3/4 of the way, and had some batter left over, so I made 4 muffins. </span></li><li class="instruction" itemprop="recipeInstructions" style="box-sizing: border-box; padding: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 0px 30px; list-style: decimal; background-position: 0px 0px;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Bake at 350 degrees F for 55 to 60 min. I baked the muffins for 15 min. </span></li><li class="instruction" itemprop="recipeInstructions" style="box-sizing: border-box; padding: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 0px 30px; list-style: decimal; background-position: 0px 0px;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Let loaf cool and drizzle with glaze. </span><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">I actually decided not to glaze the muffins, so I could eat them for breakfast without feeling like I was having dessert. Ha. </span></li></ol><div class="ERSSectionHead" style="box-sizing: border-box; padding: 0px; margin: 3px 0px; font-weight: 700;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Lemon Glaze</span></div><ol style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><li class="instruction" itemprop="recipeInstructions" style="box-sizing: border-box; padding: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 0px 30px; list-style: decimal; background-position: 0px 0px;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Whisk glaze ingredients together until smooth.</span></li></ol><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><br></span></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;">I will definitely be making this again soon. It is a perfect spring/summer treat. :)</span></div><div><br></div><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;">Here is the link to the original recipe </span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">http://www.chef-in-training.com/2014/05/lemon-blueberry-pound-cake/</span><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"> </span></div></div>Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08202109269082836466noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3955689304553070951.post-11473377875207740372015-02-16T19:10:00.002-06:002015-03-18T08:58:16.761-05:00Painting the House<div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Due to some unforeseeable timing issues, all of our painting plans had to be expedited a bit, in order to get everything done in time to move into our house at the end of this month. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This was the week for the brick masons to start taking down and rebuilding the fireplace, the week that Simon and our contractor would be putting up a beam in the kitchen, and now, the week for painting the house. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Needless to say, we have a lot going on.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Thankfully, we also have a lot of really spectacular friends.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Because of the age of the house, and the style differences between us and the previous residents, we made the decision to paint the entire house from ceiling to baseboard. I think it will have the most powerful effect on making the house look fresh, and feel like our own. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Up until now, we have done a lot of demolition, cleaning, scraping, and undoing yucky things from the past owners. But now is the chance to finally pull something back in order. Only working in the house on the weekends has really made it easy to not get burnt out on the renovations.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">It also means, however, that the pace seems slow. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Every week we go back and it seems as though the messy house we have taken apart is still the same messy house we started with. Despite all of the work that we put in, despite all of the money we have spent on materials and tools, it just seems like it's in a constant state of disarray. Painting seems to be the first step to completing a project. Of course, all of the demolition and undoing is for a good cause, and in the end will come together for a great effect. But we are in the phase right now of plastic draped <span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">floors, no light fixtures, and messy everything. </span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">While I have been incredibly excited about finally getting some paint up on the walls, picking out paint for every room in the house, when you've never had a house of your own to paint, can be a little overwhelming. I made a lot of friends at Home Depot while talking myself through most of the color choices. But, after lots of Pinterest browsing for paint colors that I liked and an embarrassingly long time in various hardware stores, the paint was decided upon, the supplies was <span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">purchased, and painting weekend was begun.</span></span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">What I thought would be a day of hard work with various helpers in and out over the course of the day, turned out to be a lot of hard work and a rockstar group of friends who stayed an entire Saturday getting dusty and painty to get our house in order. Seriously, between prepping the ceilings and walls, taping off where we needed to, painting the ceilings, and painting the walls (not to mention trim work) I cannot even imagine where we would be if we had done it just the two of us. Instead though, we got an incredible amount of work done and the house is really starting to take shape! I am so</span><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> thankful for wonderful friends willing to sacrifice their weekend to put in some hard work with us. They have been a huge blessing through this whole process and I don't know where we would be without them.</span> </span></div>
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Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08202109269082836466noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3955689304553070951.post-33772736506329372472015-01-31T22:21:00.002-06:002015-01-31T22:27:01.951-06:00Sanding Ceilings<div style="text-align: center;">
As if taking down the popcorn treatment wasn't enough <span id="goog_588295206"></span><a href="http://germericanadventures.blogspot.com/2015/01/goodbye-popcorn-ceiling.html" target="_blank">ceiling<span id="goog_588295207"></span> fun</a>, we have now moved on to sanding. Although taking down the textured popcorn finish was an aesthetic choice, the sanding step is not; In order to paint the ceiling after taking down all of the popcorn, sanding is necessary. </div>
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For one, there is popcorn residue (ew).</div>
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But also, removing the ceiling texture treatment reveals all of the imperfections on the ceiling. You are, probably, able to see where the main support beams are, where old light fixtures may have been, etc. Because the texturing of the ceiling hid all of that, there was no real reason for the ceiling to be perfectly smooth or uniform before. </div>
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Our home had a lot of random things, like hooks screwed into ceilings, or areas where the joint tape was showing through. Of course we wanted to fill in those holes with spackle, along with the little gouges that were made during the removal process, so we had to sand those areas afterwards anyways. Overall, the sanding allows the painting process to go a lot smoother and allow the final result to look cleaner. </div>
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It is much easier than taking down the popcorn.</div>
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It is much messier than taking down the popcorn.</div>
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Supplies:</div>
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- a roll of fine grain sand paper</div>
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-sanding sponges</div>
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- 2 extension poles</div>
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-2 ceiling sander attachments</div>
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-goggles that seal around your eyes</div>
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-face mask or respirator</div>
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-Spackling ( we like the kind that starts pink and dries white)</div>
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-putty knife</div>
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Before we did anything to the ceilings we had laid plastic film over all of the floors. The popcorn was so messy that we had to take up all of the film to dispose of the popcorn. So before we could begin the sanding we had to lay plastic down again. This will be the same plastic we keep on the floors during all of the painting, so the plan is not to have to do this step again. It is so time consuming!<br />
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Our friends Patrick, Diana, and Michael came over last Saturday and helped us lay the plastic, spackle the ceiling, and begin the sanding. It was a huge help and most definitely a time saver. <br />
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The guys were tackling a project in the other room, so Diana and I were left to sand, after all the spackling had dried.<br />
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We donned all our safety gear which, in this case, is more for self preservation and stamina than protection from any actual hazards.<br />
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There is so much dust that you would only be able to stand it a few minutes without any face protection on. Diana and I both felt like we had plaster in our mouths after only a bit of sanding, even with the masks. Messy stuff y'all. </div>
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I found the whole process easiest if I stood on a step stool and used the extension pole - it gave me a good angle. No matter the method, ceiling work is a killer on your shoulders, so being able to smoothly sand back and forth without getting stuck is really a must. Being 5'2", trying to use the pole while standing on the floor was just not working out. Once I found what worked for me, the whole thing went really quickly. </div>
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The sanding was spread over the course of 2 work days. It took about 4 or 5 hours (mostly working alone) to sand the dining room, hallway, living room and bedroom. <i>Nothing</i> compared to taking down the popcorn!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtGu7O5Skq8TMhmMu7GCezr8SIzW3Sg0qwEV-bDYCQ0bR23pvMrzdUgFColuAYO1_gZU_w56eNbCZPBqfuv5ozv-PRNKF1yRCbG7xoR4zdctZwoYSLvtFva_PR1Dz_TUrET0GRCJfWwbzo/s640/blogger-image--850670890.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtGu7O5Skq8TMhmMu7GCezr8SIzW3Sg0qwEV-bDYCQ0bR23pvMrzdUgFColuAYO1_gZU_w56eNbCZPBqfuv5ozv-PRNKF1yRCbG7xoR4zdctZwoYSLvtFva_PR1Dz_TUrET0GRCJfWwbzo/s400/blogger-image--850670890.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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So this is a, rather dark, picture from the hallway that shows the ceiling with dried spackle over cracks and grooves. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNNYgPAS-KQ6xs6CdJFJZGnbHo-rHrtQ-8VIEBs-BGTNX-wWo93GqZ_0fQkifscRWyYFB_93SlfVYID3MkSj0W2Pz9giGicfVNrXAVzimRsnjnWzU9Kk9hbBkSEEXVeWCBdKAVcWZ5IUKJ/s640/blogger-image--489694435.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNNYgPAS-KQ6xs6CdJFJZGnbHo-rHrtQ-8VIEBs-BGTNX-wWo93GqZ_0fQkifscRWyYFB_93SlfVYID3MkSj0W2Pz9giGicfVNrXAVzimRsnjnWzU9Kk9hbBkSEEXVeWCBdKAVcWZ5IUKJ/s400/blogger-image--489694435.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
Here is a shot, post sanding. <br />
This is not the same area as the first picture, but this spot looked the same. The ceiling imperfections are still there, of course, along with the white areas that are now smooth with spackle, but you can really see the difference. It looks so much smoother and will take to the paint so much better. <br />
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The next step is to wipe down the ceilings so there is not dust. <br />
Then, PAINTING! woohoo!</div>
Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08202109269082836466noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3955689304553070951.post-82594096610819977542015-01-13T21:47:00.003-06:002015-01-13T21:47:44.831-06:00From Bedroom to Den: Part 2<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDJ52m4fykz1a5gbhj9CHjMxMXvRGcfmE4RKpBwPZE1eyjVr4QLcOEjXnk1ecxG8rrzANvn4yHSxgXcy0z6EMJdW_Ye7T6T72UW8TyA3UWZJADMWY-X2KzClqFpoIvB84PSXBhdUZgbJ9o/s640/blogger-image--1441722394.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDJ52m4fykz1a5gbhj9CHjMxMXvRGcfmE4RKpBwPZE1eyjVr4QLcOEjXnk1ecxG8rrzANvn4yHSxgXcy0z6EMJdW_Ye7T6T72UW8TyA3UWZJADMWY-X2KzClqFpoIvB84PSXBhdUZgbJ9o/s400/blogger-image--1441722394.jpg" width="300" /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: none; color: black;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: none; color: black;"></span></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLfwbedfVyMn3GD5glC1Xe9qVXaKOIdP5Tmq8xpvtcwqMRZa7OBib6sCfp78QmoyTsFICfOSZZq1C62Sz9QJe-C53jE7xXIAsj6fYXOotMlTrhkSCMo2Qmzjqw_4uun5aLzPdxNJ_Lz2HZ/s640/blogger-image-370257954.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLfwbedfVyMn3GD5glC1Xe9qVXaKOIdP5Tmq8xpvtcwqMRZa7OBib6sCfp78QmoyTsFICfOSZZq1C62Sz9QJe-C53jE7xXIAsj6fYXOotMlTrhkSCMo2Qmzjqw_4uun5aLzPdxNJ_Lz2HZ/s400/blogger-image-370257954.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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Before & After</div>
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After the <a href="http://germericanadventures.blogspot.com/2015/01/goodbye-popcorn-ceiling.html" target="_blank">Popcorn Ceiling</a> project was completed, we went back to finish up the kitchen, and soon-to-be den, project. A couple of weeks ago we took down all of the panel board and plaster board from the "bedroom" side, thus starting the <a href="http://germericanadventures.blogspot.com/2015/01/taking-down-chimney_3.html" target="_blank">From Bedroom to Den</a> project.</div>
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So, to start on the kitchen side, we first had to tear down the plaster board. We knew from speaking to the contractor, that the chimney had once been a fireplace for the bedroom side and a stove for the kitchen side. </div>
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Once we started tearing down the plaster we found where the stove had been connected. It was full of ashes, so we had to start by getting a lot of them out. </div>
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Simon scraping the ashes into the a bucket. </div>
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The next step was to take out all of the insulation. Ew. </div>
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Ashes and insulation: both messy, unpleasant business</div>
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After we were insulation-free, we had to cut out the studs. The studs on the old bedroom side of the wall are holding up the second floor, so we can't take those down until we put up a supporting beam. But the other side, the one in the kitchen is just studs, so out they came. </div>
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Before & After</div>
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It is starting to look less and less like a wall every day. Next step, first floor chimney. </div>
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Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08202109269082836466noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3955689304553070951.post-15317294330576394822015-01-13T20:42:00.001-06:002015-04-26T22:05:29.681-05:00Taking Down A Chimney: Part 2<div style="text-align: center;">
Although Simon and Michael successfully took off the top of the chimney and patched up the roof, we eventually still need to take the entire chimney down. Simon tackled the second floor part of the chimney, about 6 feet, on Sunday. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSb9bGyvqF1hBFkDEm7ILU_pbqN15ckg0FONWZw4IfP0CiNoPxK-HRIFoLHzMW-yceCwc6IREekL-R0MQY4gxZV8eRq4WmHzkMLTZZMammCkIyQmnD6G1L2QWgZnTYN8BKOafQXDipLES_/s640/blogger-image-318672965.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSb9bGyvqF1hBFkDEm7ILU_pbqN15ckg0FONWZw4IfP0CiNoPxK-HRIFoLHzMW-yceCwc6IREekL-R0MQY4gxZV8eRq4WmHzkMLTZZMammCkIyQmnD6G1L2QWgZnTYN8BKOafQXDipLES_/s640/blogger-image-318672965.jpg" /></a></div>
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The majority of the work is carrying all of the bricks down the stairs into the Bagster. </div>
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I was not incredibly upset that Simon did this on his own that day. :)</div>
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No more chimney upstairs. :)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjM1kxjl2W2pVADoOBf0UKn1x8MjUpf4W1U-GZL8eO0J0h7x0_hPrSGYXD3J0QC70mpzTphkwhuEmGHvA5mpf7zRSpJ77Gx3d3SMr3kdTtO84D7AuXf7SrxM8WU_MozdSkWChi_U9T7Oe48/s640/blogger-image--1097445288.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjM1kxjl2W2pVADoOBf0UKn1x8MjUpf4W1U-GZL8eO0J0h7x0_hPrSGYXD3J0QC70mpzTphkwhuEmGHvA5mpf7zRSpJ77Gx3d3SMr3kdTtO84D7AuXf7SrxM8WU_MozdSkWChi_U9T7Oe48/s640/blogger-image--1097445288.jpg" /></a></div>
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We are trying to save and clean up as many bricks as we can so we can reface the fireplace with original bricks from the house. So far we have over 80 and we still have the rest of the chimney on the first floor. I think we willl have plenty; maybe even some extra for landscaping. </div>
Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08202109269082836466noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3955689304553070951.post-74066786643135855592015-01-12T20:28:00.000-06:002015-02-12T22:54:33.812-06:00How to Make a Gift Card Wreath<div style="text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdumrdMJAnN6c56p72qXfvLlxVRshJrnaDwo2nBF6fkIM8pFRccPuRk_z86DS8eSinILgQrXKHxXl69GK9pKeCuy7Hrt1GQp2gSOt229GQvMc-N-ZkRBZO-Hlfy9WtL19xHeUUkp1Y7iqm/s1600/IMG_5242.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdumrdMJAnN6c56p72qXfvLlxVRshJrnaDwo2nBF6fkIM8pFRccPuRk_z86DS8eSinILgQrXKHxXl69GK9pKeCuy7Hrt1GQp2gSOt229GQvMc-N-ZkRBZO-Hlfy9WtL19xHeUUkp1Y7iqm/s1600/IMG_5242.JPG" height="320" width="303"></a></div>
Our church just hired a new preacher. He and his wife moved here from out of state for the position, with three young children. One of the things the life groups did for them was provide them with giftcards or memberships to places in town to get them plugged in, and to make it feel like home. </div>
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I was part of the group recruited to help them get settled, and rather than just giving them a pile of giftcards I wanted to find a nicer way to present it to them. I had never made a gifrcard wreath, but I thought it could be a cute, welcoming way to put the cards all together. </div>
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So I went to Dollar Tree (seriously, a great place to begin crafts) and bought a couple of packs of close pins.</div>
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Then I went to Hobby Lobby (another great place for craft shopping) and bought a wire wreath, a wooden letter "A", and burlap bow. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfTgFxHqRz_D_ItVJqn_5A9RX5VI0m9HKlSmfeIfab5ue2s4IdfwXsRd2dapdgtZC688Tupgr0cn-gVXBFMzt_CbmSjjdbucDzHsqXAGlhFHi2y5Hk_ZAZ0N0qLKsoq1VqnigQKtpN3qLz/s1600/IMG_5221.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfTgFxHqRz_D_ItVJqn_5A9RX5VI0m9HKlSmfeIfab5ue2s4IdfwXsRd2dapdgtZC688Tupgr0cn-gVXBFMzt_CbmSjjdbucDzHsqXAGlhFHi2y5Hk_ZAZ0N0qLKsoq1VqnigQKtpN3qLz/s1600/IMG_5221.JPG" height="400" width="400"></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTa8xmoO4Rwp7LIadOiFHARl3eP6JHEMO61khODfEcH9raxxNzbAeoFJDlOYDQZnMFxxuDVtZKN1yLu8410arP8SiI8JYDeUQWmfuFUd9M_t4x8fMuh0FamqCZ1uWYez9Ohscb9UIQwbbH/s1600/IMG_5663.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTa8xmoO4Rwp7LIadOiFHARl3eP6JHEMO61khODfEcH9raxxNzbAeoFJDlOYDQZnMFxxuDVtZKN1yLu8410arP8SiI8JYDeUQWmfuFUd9M_t4x8fMuh0FamqCZ1uWYez9Ohscb9UIQwbbH/s1600/IMG_5663.JPG" height="320" width="211"></a></div>
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I used Mod Podge and one of those mini books of themed scrapbooking paper to cover the clothes pins. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjwswwiidWdP0C-L8MhmtMgLs7OAd6uHg_yyN2CcsUs3IX5-zB8y60r64JPgaiqdq9UQ1cEFKBWtGhkYulv_1VPMOn5Y_UqnHHkpiCvS-2XL6uGeQdf5t81cs8r15TMPTJ97VJN2cBsSHj/s640/blogger-image-1841261910.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjwswwiidWdP0C-L8MhmtMgLs7OAd6uHg_yyN2CcsUs3IX5-zB8y60r64JPgaiqdq9UQ1cEFKBWtGhkYulv_1VPMOn5Y_UqnHHkpiCvS-2XL6uGeQdf5t81cs8r15TMPTJ97VJN2cBsSHj/s640/blogger-image-1841261910.jpg"></a></div>I traced the size and cut our a bunch of little strips. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSDMLKE3sjiJXZ9OQHwqXIeb8y1bxostEUQVxWWTNi0E9OYQVEUXcqc0OKIwi6I_xIhddWO6xSQzF0j2dxg2SA_0Wy6aAwMKmbPoDEnuE-oafHAGhfnznAUWAXqjIQgy2Hl96YmxkAuVgK/s640/blogger-image-68181535.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSDMLKE3sjiJXZ9OQHwqXIeb8y1bxostEUQVxWWTNi0E9OYQVEUXcqc0OKIwi6I_xIhddWO6xSQzF0j2dxg2SA_0Wy6aAwMKmbPoDEnuE-oafHAGhfnznAUWAXqjIQgy2Hl96YmxkAuVgK/s640/blogger-image-68181535.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div style="text-align: start;"> I used a little foam brush and painted on 2 or 3 coats of <span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Mod Podge,</span><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"> letting it dry completely after each coat. </span></div><div style="text-align: center;">
I went through both packs of clothes pins, leaving some uncovered, because it went nicely with the other colors, and only used 3 double-sided pages from the paper pack. So, it really didn't take much. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIlnFBrPofQZeoYZrVNDojUeLGtxTFSS5E-6knXFMoz1oo2-CIeIzpN0N6mFTlp_2N_eaxCQ0HKzI9nzPoOO2bmS_pidxvEJBjFdAZJmoeUIUi0EwOH8FJnXOC0LeqiHrZFssI5ZL3bld2/s1600/IMG_5244.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIlnFBrPofQZeoYZrVNDojUeLGtxTFSS5E-6knXFMoz1oo2-CIeIzpN0N6mFTlp_2N_eaxCQ0HKzI9nzPoOO2bmS_pidxvEJBjFdAZJmoeUIUi0EwOH8FJnXOC0LeqiHrZFssI5ZL3bld2/s1600/IMG_5244.JPG" height="400" width="300"></a></div>
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I alternated the clothes pins, short and tall, around the wire wreath. I just clipped them on, I didn't glue them at all. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgii0oV-6Dc5TNHABOcyd4b82U3IMzP_pTEfp9X7oO4m0ik8ViwE-7q3PA8xvGoHadDyQUrFuVo0aog721C2CK_xZJWaQ-tmbLo1P8IDH1we-NTntesabgfLFeSNGN1iQmex5wzS8vNtGr6/s1600/IMG_5245.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgii0oV-6Dc5TNHABOcyd4b82U3IMzP_pTEfp9X7oO4m0ik8ViwE-7q3PA8xvGoHadDyQUrFuVo0aog721C2CK_xZJWaQ-tmbLo1P8IDH1we-NTntesabgfLFeSNGN1iQmex5wzS8vNtGr6/s1600/IMG_5245.JPG" height="240" width="320"></a></div>
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I painted the "A" to match the scrap booking paper and tied the bow onto the top. I didn't put any clothes pins on the area where the bow was, because I didn't think it was necessary. If you wanted to be able to take the bow off, you would want to put them all the way around. </div>
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I cut a 2-inch thick strip of burlap from some extra that I had at home. I folded it in two and connected it with a knot to the wreath, behind the bow. </div>
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I hot glued the "A" on top of the clothes pins. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt-jX2pDe8DTInmSKycA4KvFz_gG0LJzBRyB27sa2A_QVSPbOBsJ0xN3__EHEudmZ3iz28gDeWE8Na7J0E-xu9ClzhPocdsq-79P6zJEAFB5D9ZCKEwR4PfW8WYg9Gkm8LAa2udPtKu4EC/s1600/IMG_5246.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt-jX2pDe8DTInmSKycA4KvFz_gG0LJzBRyB27sa2A_QVSPbOBsJ0xN3__EHEudmZ3iz28gDeWE8Na7J0E-xu9ClzhPocdsq-79P6zJEAFB5D9ZCKEwR4PfW8WYg9Gkm8LAa2udPtKu4EC/s1600/IMG_5246.JPG" height="480" width="640"></a></div>
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Once the paint and the glue dried, I clipped all of the gift cards into the middle and it was finished. </div>
Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08202109269082836466noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3955689304553070951.post-64955970919293150262015-01-03T21:19:00.003-06:002015-01-04T16:03:30.722-06:00Taking Down a Chimney<div style="text-align: center;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div>There is a big, brick chimney on the front of our house. A fire places was one of the must-haves on my house hunting list, and the pretty one in out living room is exactly what I had hoped for!</div><div style="text-align: start;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgO0Q2TD3T6Lte-zoU-S-bLR8OzNAjeebdhsCJvPRtxNFiN3E6LwBD0yVX6ctQPZZy3owIVpzrdXbwvBSAGK79yaRsGaEOaYJ2bKcfaFbBSJmxAVTPnmlvdqGndbKW1zTJGUmeIuLcXb8fG/s640/blogger-image--1480115317.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><font color="#000000"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgO0Q2TD3T6Lte-zoU-S-bLR8OzNAjeebdhsCJvPRtxNFiN3E6LwBD0yVX6ctQPZZy3owIVpzrdXbwvBSAGK79yaRsGaEOaYJ2bKcfaFbBSJmxAVTPnmlvdqGndbKW1zTJGUmeIuLcXb8fG/s640/blogger-image--1480115317.jpg"></font></a></div>
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There is one other fire place that was closed up in the middle of the kitchen and den by some previous owners. You can see the little chimney in the picture above. </div>
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We will have to put some money into the fireplace in the den to get it back in working order, and we just cant do that for two, so it had to go. Plus, from a floor plan perspective, it would be really difficult to work around. </div>
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So Simon and our friend Michael went to work Thursday taking it down. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;">It needs to be taken down from top to bottom, so the work has to begin on the roof. </div><div style="text-align: center;">I don't think anyone involved really loved that part of the whole thing, but they were both troopers. </div><div style="text-align: center;">Brick chunk by brick chunk they sledge hammered away the chimney. </div><div style="text-align: center;">After that they had to patch up the roof. </div><div style="text-align: center;">They needed:</div><div style="text-align: center;">OSB to cover the whole</div><div style="text-align: center;">2x4s for bracing </div><div style="text-align: center;">Tar paper to seal it</div><div style="text-align: center;">And shingles to protect it (and make it pretty) </div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji8RDzlqsZHjz8UKHqn7Dj_BVRFrVPCOgxSRb_3cJUBywGrBiyhbAXB863bPi3nCL7Sq5E-ygNzGSBJFW1bNREnghZykWAk_Qq50sRTPWs6c2Dn11HPsjXTxB7Gxltb-S1b1Bsu-krD-1w/s640/blogger-image--834196548.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji8RDzlqsZHjz8UKHqn7Dj_BVRFrVPCOgxSRb_3cJUBywGrBiyhbAXB863bPi3nCL7Sq5E-ygNzGSBJFW1bNREnghZykWAk_Qq50sRTPWs6c2Dn11HPsjXTxB7Gxltb-S1b1Bsu-krD-1w/s640/blogger-image--834196548.jpg"></a></div>Here is an action shot. Haha. This is where the chimney used to be, but no more! </div><div style="text-align: center;">Woohoo! </div><div style="text-align: center;">I don't have a picture yet of the new roof because just moments after the finishing touches, the rain came! </div><div style="text-align: center;">Thankfully it had not come before, and we quickly were able to find out if they had done a good job. Haha. They had! No leaks. :) </div><div style="text-align: center;">Or friend Patrick (not pictured) came that day and helped out too. He helped bring order to the chaos of bricks, shingles, and junk thrown off the roof that were decorating the front yard and driveway. </div><div style="text-align: center;">A big thanks to everyone who has already helped us out with our work! We really appreciate the help and enjoy the memories. </div><div style="text-align: center;">The next step will be to continue taking down the chimney on the second floor and then down through the kitchen: a less time-sensitive chore since it is all inside. That will be finished around the same time as the brace for the ceiling downstairs (see "from bedroom to den"post). </div><div style="text-align: center;">It seems crazy that our Christmas vacation time as flown by so fast, but we did get a lot done, and have laid the ground work for quite a bit more. </div>
Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08202109269082836466noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3955689304553070951.post-84947116169706257252015-01-03T21:03:00.000-06:002015-01-03T21:03:59.612-06:00Deborah's Wedding<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I have lots of friends who end up getting married in Nashville. Why not, I suppose. It is a beautiful place. But between seeing family and going to weddings, it feels like we are always weekend road tripping that direction: A fun bonus to living near by. The latest wedding fun was for my sweet friend Deborah and her, now husband, Bryan. </div>
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They had the ceremony at the Cool Springs House. It was so gorgeous. </div>
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The ceremony was a touching mix of tradition and character. The music brought everyone to tears. </div>
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The atmosphere was lively and classy. It all reflected Deb's personality so much. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-cTmtM3nGabSvEXP0SG9GB8FFxEuBg5ZABz4wavOML5Q473ERVlgnwqSiJGv2gI6J07EDHR6w4vmJI3ksx9CZlj_evbWg_F5fZAdGkOeALcp1aDxzBn8ag1ju868iqMp5Rw0PA-ToyQyR/s1600/IMG_4277.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-cTmtM3nGabSvEXP0SG9GB8FFxEuBg5ZABz4wavOML5Q473ERVlgnwqSiJGv2gI6J07EDHR6w4vmJI3ksx9CZlj_evbWg_F5fZAdGkOeALcp1aDxzBn8ag1ju868iqMp5Rw0PA-ToyQyR/s1600/IMG_4277.JPG" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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It was a chilly day, but also a beautiful one. Both the wedding and reception were outside.</div>
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There was a hot drink table that kept us all warm, despite the weather. Hot chocolate, cider, teas, coffee: they were perfectly prepared for a cold November day. <span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"> </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcHPyeI1c9UIUh8X5VAT8ILjvS3gadNbzPbOEUNb5EIaA3WUudSnSLz0HJGdkKc2jbhbBxlWjXN51Bpw_dpsUTurXPRj1klyydYo2CaeofQ6dJ_vllCo0urXwbB32soeJdIZqSte3CKeF6/s1600/IMG_4258.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcHPyeI1c9UIUh8X5VAT8ILjvS3gadNbzPbOEUNb5EIaA3WUudSnSLz0HJGdkKc2jbhbBxlWjXN51Bpw_dpsUTurXPRj1klyydYo2CaeofQ6dJ_vllCo0urXwbB32soeJdIZqSte3CKeF6/s1600/IMG_4258.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBcITHCfUoiG3Vm9qmz3IjWDfmnFg9s7NevIYhQ0q6bkZuOP6FG696GPDU2slo9ZhFAgSU7_SQ541cdDPVt3MoThtIXcz1ANNc89h_kW-0C7Q3nmu3DR1uu7Oskslic7Yip5nlXP4Z1pzo/s1600/IMG_4259.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBcITHCfUoiG3Vm9qmz3IjWDfmnFg9s7NevIYhQ0q6bkZuOP6FG696GPDU2slo9ZhFAgSU7_SQ541cdDPVt3MoThtIXcz1ANNc89h_kW-0C7Q3nmu3DR1uu7Oskslic7Yip5nlXP4Z1pzo/s1600/IMG_4259.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">There were so many delicious and gorgeous fall sweets to indulge in. Homemade pies, cookies, Carmel apples, and this magnificent cake. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSlLNZA8RgxiMqFhyphenhyphen6E8OJSSCRTD9uxBcPlEHLriG3cWgVntfDUkx18ylNsZJs7n-X_XtVy4b1MguqSMoxWcjtcNAKJ5FIPBeOBwDxIzaDrfBtkCjeeE9NHUw1MUUEj64b1ejWkRxzrsM2/s1600/IMG_4264.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSlLNZA8RgxiMqFhyphenhyphen6E8OJSSCRTD9uxBcPlEHLriG3cWgVntfDUkx18ylNsZJs7n-X_XtVy4b1MguqSMoxWcjtcNAKJ5FIPBeOBwDxIzaDrfBtkCjeeE9NHUw1MUUEj64b1ejWkRxzrsM2/s1600/IMG_4264.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimaAMiyYwzSr9U8qxaBPJ3bTsXk1Tqd-3V77l-oJld9jWC67uwIozLYrVr6BtpF4mZWUHhJFFd_CFjgw-sAqwssrPn0ecicshyphenhyphen2tgyJJNgMIDYG06JhCUF55JObUsRzAg_A6APYHH-ZPAc/s1600/IMG_4271.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimaAMiyYwzSr9U8qxaBPJ3bTsXk1Tqd-3V77l-oJld9jWC67uwIozLYrVr6BtpF4mZWUHhJFFd_CFjgw-sAqwssrPn0ecicshyphenhyphen2tgyJJNgMIDYG06JhCUF55JObUsRzAg_A6APYHH-ZPAc/s1600/IMG_4271.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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Everyone's favorite cake in the face moment :)</div>
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We are so happy for Deborah and Bryan and wish them the best future, through good times and bad, and that their love continues to grow more and more, for each other and for the Lord, every day. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdHDl1x1xz671mRL6FX1xCymGuJM1hGmzykriAB5VUM7Dd89KmJbIq5ABDg5UM6N49G5_qOcBQHWvgxt0tTDzGyIWdTLGi8CBt38oG881yn8TRCKGJh300dNxrvhOi9r76IKatKZqzn8pm/s1600/IMG_4276.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdHDl1x1xz671mRL6FX1xCymGuJM1hGmzykriAB5VUM7Dd89KmJbIq5ABDg5UM6N49G5_qOcBQHWvgxt0tTDzGyIWdTLGi8CBt38oG881yn8TRCKGJh300dNxrvhOi9r76IKatKZqzn8pm/s1600/IMG_4276.JPG" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08202109269082836466noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3955689304553070951.post-39226292253641902712015-01-03T20:20:00.002-06:002015-01-04T09:10:56.326-06:00Goodbye Popcorn Ceiling!<div style="text-align: center;">
Maybe it seems like a minor, cosmetic issue, but popcorn ceilings do not appeal to me. Ew! </div>
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They were one of the first things I noticed when we looked at the house. </div>
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Thankfully, popcorn ceilings are not incredibly difficult to get rid of. </div>
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Simon's cousin Jessica, over Thanksgiving, mentioned that sometimes popcorn ceiling can contain asbestos. Since that is certainly nothing to take lightly, we did some research and found that it isn't just a possibility, but it is extremely common. So, we found a lab to send some samples to that would return really quick results. </div>
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Thankfully the results were negative and allow us to remove it ourselves. </div>
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So, Friday and Saturday were popcorn days. Messy popcorn days. </div>
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We donned our respirators and safety goggles and got to work. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtrbUNPmEmSVipuhmVGxO0LUquZhUmxRvYXphyphenhyphen7ru2O0BpkzWzp6ZHMtTqc1FVOOmOoDBM8xVyukHet6kfJVzb4L_OmoAntMIqbiR4NzXwYtg-Xq7rsomXl8A7Qo3EdzuGGc33rFG4D-_P/s1600/IMG_5130_2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtrbUNPmEmSVipuhmVGxO0LUquZhUmxRvYXphyphenhyphen7ru2O0BpkzWzp6ZHMtTqc1FVOOmOoDBM8xVyukHet6kfJVzb4L_OmoAntMIqbiR4NzXwYtg-Xq7rsomXl8A7Qo3EdzuGGc33rFG4D-_P/s1600/IMG_5130_2.JPG" height="320" width="319"></a></div>
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Step one: Laying plastic film down to minimize the spread of the popcorn and hopefully quicken the cleanup. My friend Diana came by the house on Thursday and helped with that. It definitely made it quicker and I am thankful for that! </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWldyhjr5CwxsiFe0oXmc9cD3Pw4y5_K2ym4fqvG7jOYJUqm0l_S8pl4LNd_xPcs0EFdCkhdeE17AXqfJc1C1R2h9fREnLA18CqxUP2PwmvZ_Xw_u_bl5t3Og6c5LeKR_QKUZIl3B1DIWq/s1600/IMG_5133.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: none; color: black;"></span></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWldyhjr5CwxsiFe0oXmc9cD3Pw4y5_K2ym4fqvG7jOYJUqm0l_S8pl4LNd_xPcs0EFdCkhdeE17AXqfJc1C1R2h9fREnLA18CqxUP2PwmvZ_Xw_u_bl5t3Og6c5LeKR_QKUZIl3B1DIWq/s1600/IMG_5133.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWldyhjr5CwxsiFe0oXmc9cD3Pw4y5_K2ym4fqvG7jOYJUqm0l_S8pl4LNd_xPcs0EFdCkhdeE17AXqfJc1C1R2h9fREnLA18CqxUP2PwmvZ_Xw_u_bl5t3Og6c5LeKR_QKUZIl3B1DIWq/s1600/IMG_5133.JPG" height="320" style="cursor: move;" width="319"></a></div>
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Step 2: Using a chemical sprayer to water on the ceiling. Spraying water makes the popcorn </div>
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Step 3: Run a drywall knife across the soggy ceiling and the popcorn just scrapes off easily. Sometimes it comes off in big sheets and others in crumbles. Either way it makes a big mess. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0eIxFGVwRIoZ59QCjE4CN2AfbUwXH9stxcBfixGvBtggd5fA_pS77-2DJpDjdJEEjUfVEpdySvDJURdIuumvaec_7D5lIaUhISKODInChypSS2w__LhVTzH1eTpxKicXchncGVJbAOuLg/s1600/IMG_5164_2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0eIxFGVwRIoZ59QCjE4CN2AfbUwXH9stxcBfixGvBtggd5fA_pS77-2DJpDjdJEEjUfVEpdySvDJURdIuumvaec_7D5lIaUhISKODInChypSS2w__LhVTzH1eTpxKicXchncGVJbAOuLg/s1600/IMG_5164_2.JPG" height="320" width="319"></a></div>
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It's a messy messy process! </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjsGazR85k4DuRNoaNKZHuwHNkHypvprbQBd3N7BdMx2fGHieBqt8kA51leiOUcoSB13JfrZ2XyCK1jYQlq65edW4rnt2MfTHq2IElfTz6dm9EJYauYa4sHtRPgFtTqkyH6DWd7ZTeoeL8/s1600/IMG_5166_2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjsGazR85k4DuRNoaNKZHuwHNkHypvprbQBd3N7BdMx2fGHieBqt8kA51leiOUcoSB13JfrZ2XyCK1jYQlq65edW4rnt2MfTHq2IElfTz6dm9EJYauYa4sHtRPgFtTqkyH6DWd7ZTeoeL8/s1600/IMG_5166_2.JPG" height="320" width="319"></a></div>
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But so worth it! Look at those smooth ceilings! </div>
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After the den, it was on to the dinning room. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfYO7AzppTj3pMPtem2KXjriApIwCpze93_uzGLZ-JIP8qBDuAn3Ag2xwEXkbiXja5_PaXDjEc12w_OjdyVLiTGHVtVexIteOFEZq6hv55Kvv-NVDtOglLLCsWnkx8amkpABJI11k4G0r1/s1600/IMG_5168_2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfYO7AzppTj3pMPtem2KXjriApIwCpze93_uzGLZ-JIP8qBDuAn3Ag2xwEXkbiXja5_PaXDjEc12w_OjdyVLiTGHVtVexIteOFEZq6hv55Kvv-NVDtOglLLCsWnkx8amkpABJI11k4G0r1/s1600/IMG_5168_2.JPG" height="320" width="319"></a></div>
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Here is Simon working the sprayer. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJAB3mXDyz3xuyrEMN4XEDuNk4r6A1U5GbRz4STacw2zQtXe7lBXNVL0O5YaexX68oaJq4iLPeqyGpjfbSs69b5yjIvxWuzcX2n6TyhTwzJGtS2_maZ-nvk7KvUaVUJmrA4yAzYDwbYOsg/s1600/IMG_5172_2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJAB3mXDyz3xuyrEMN4XEDuNk4r6A1U5GbRz4STacw2zQtXe7lBXNVL0O5YaexX68oaJq4iLPeqyGpjfbSs69b5yjIvxWuzcX2n6TyhTwzJGtS2_maZ-nvk7KvUaVUJmrA4yAzYDwbYOsg/s1600/IMG_5172_2.JPG" height="320" width="319"></a></div>
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And another smooth ceiling!!</div>
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We repeated this process in all of the rooms and hallways until we had a popcorn-free home. WooHoo!<br>
It is definitely a little more time consuming than we had originally expected, but it is still not difficult. Definitely worth the time! <br>
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Next we will paint all of the ceilings and the moulding the same color. <br>
Movin' right along!<br>
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Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08202109269082836466noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3955689304553070951.post-57302918761783659692015-01-03T19:01:00.001-06:002015-01-03T19:01:11.573-06:00From Bedroom to Den<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The new house is definitely live able as-is. But the present layout leaves some things to be desired for our personal preferences. For instance, there is a bedroom connected to the kitchen, and in that bedroom are double doors leading to the backyard. Not ideal... </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXfaF9j76Kr9wftPRQA3RfIexSm-Seb-q04unh0SKZmwxbEK_vaIGEpw04WCYi9S965Qvl3uNszZ-ayWPk2cIC3QxTtpAwlExLCFpn0o5SOaRrCvyM683VMbC9obG1uSDTAvLZfvVwJszh/s1600/IMG_4996.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXfaF9j76Kr9wftPRQA3RfIexSm-Seb-q04unh0SKZmwxbEK_vaIGEpw04WCYi9S965Qvl3uNszZ-ayWPk2cIC3QxTtpAwlExLCFpn0o5SOaRrCvyM683VMbC9obG1uSDTAvLZfvVwJszh/s1600/IMG_4996.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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Because we enjoy a more open floor plan, we invision something better from this space. This wall with the closed, white door in the above picture is the other side of the kitchen. To give us the open feeling that we desire, and get rid of this awkwardly placed bedroom, we decided to knock this wall out an open up the space. We wont be redoing the kitchen for probably another 6 months or so after we move in, so this room whole area will look rather unfinished until then. But between the planning and the other renovations we have in the meantime, I'm sure the time will fly. </div>
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We needed a way to discard the construction waste, and renting a dumpster was expensive and time constrained. We found this neat option. It is called "The Bagster". You buy the bag at a hardware store, fill it up, and whenever you are finished filling it, you call and schedule a time for the waste truck to come and retreive it. There is a pick up charge of course, but it was a lot cheaper then renting a dumpster. </div>
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If you are interested, you can click <a href="http://www.thebagster.com/products/find_price.aspx" target="_blank">HERE</a> to read more about The Bagster or see if there is a pickup rout in your area. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5hUh-Mh5AIoxCYXIln41dKw-TWHYXqcYobqNUJV2iHG4iUad98KwUTGM2rSpabeQ7ig1LN5kbOLgpT_PlbNSwO6MAXTrjxbH2wANcqNE4LiTFqtNUkfo399087M-cFBqwwwaP5sqYrADR/s640/blogger-image--1615365404.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5hUh-Mh5AIoxCYXIln41dKw-TWHYXqcYobqNUJV2iHG4iUad98KwUTGM2rSpabeQ7ig1LN5kbOLgpT_PlbNSwO6MAXTrjxbH2wANcqNE4LiTFqtNUkfo399087M-cFBqwwwaP5sqYrADR/s640/blogger-image--1615365404.jpg" /></a></div>
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The walls are plaster, and therefore, not the best for demolishing. It is hard to tell, but the room is covered in white panel board. The first step was to remove all of the trim around the doors, as well as the baseboards before removing the panel board and uncovering the plaster. </div>
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Here is the fireplace that was covered up. We knew it would be there because of the black tile mantle area on the floor. We thought about trying to keep the chimney and fireplace in the room, but keeping it would really complicate both the downstairs and upstairs floor plan, and we already have one old fireplace in the living room to bring back to life.</div>
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Here you can see half tan plaster and half white panel board </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtip9NEHorgRPjPWfEmNeSBFU3tWXK_HOnlfZAr6WDGDMYN0O0LuDmMalP7wmUl0u9ATTiSDJuUB6AKSyDQym7sBNzyJBg1kpM4q61V9H_pW9ecT9g1u4m4a__3azdIjqkayJSkys31jBv/s640/blogger-image--1571819245.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtip9NEHorgRPjPWfEmNeSBFU3tWXK_HOnlfZAr6WDGDMYN0O0LuDmMalP7wmUl0u9ATTiSDJuUB6AKSyDQym7sBNzyJBg1kpM4q61V9H_pW9ecT9g1u4m4a__3azdIjqkayJSkys31jBv/s640/blogger-image--1571819245.jpg" /></a></div>
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Here is simon removing some of the panel board. </div>
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Finally we got it all off! Woohoo. You can see the missing moulding along all of the doors, windows, and baseboards. </div>
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These are the double doors and closet on the other side of the room. </div>
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Next came the plaster boards. </div>
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There is a lot of electrical wiring in this wall, so the power had to be out for us to safely demo. </div>
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The Bagster is filling up fast. Simon kept making trips to pour out our plaster waste. </div>
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Finally, we managed to tear all of the plaster board off of the wall. The next step was taking the plaster off the kitchen side of the wall. </div>
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Here is the after picture. The only thing left is the fireplace and the studs. This is a load bearing wall, so we will have to brace the ceiling before we can take the studs down. </div>
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It looks a bit like a construction zone right now ( although we did sweep after this picture was taken) but it is definitely looking different, and that in and of itself is exciting. I am anxious to see how it will look once we take the wall down. That will hopefully happen in the next few weeks. </div>
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<br />Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08202109269082836466noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3955689304553070951.post-85380515847073701982015-01-02T22:17:00.002-06:002015-01-02T22:17:31.064-06:00Christmas 2014<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This was the first year we haven't traveled for the Christmas holiday. While excursions to see family are a lot of fun, there is something relaxing about getting to have family come to your home and celebrate together there. Not to mention, it is a great excuse to do that deep cleaning you've been meaning to do... all year. </div>
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My Mom and Dad arrived on Christmas eve right in time for some lasagna soup and A Christmas Carol.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMpXPDDFctad19dlqGxzxw0a1idEEKJb00CtPdf4RAGpAYO9UuvrG0FIHR8pahcFD-p-nlqbvoI_HaXmU1WXOA36xIbirWZbLPoNZV3FC70pOh_Yyqo3tNidh-LlUpgaeoeNFM2_uUwYx3/s1600/IMG_4933.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMpXPDDFctad19dlqGxzxw0a1idEEKJb00CtPdf4RAGpAYO9UuvrG0FIHR8pahcFD-p-nlqbvoI_HaXmU1WXOA36xIbirWZbLPoNZV3FC70pOh_Yyqo3tNidh-LlUpgaeoeNFM2_uUwYx3/s1600/IMG_4933.JPG" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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It isn't Christmas without Christmas Morning coffee, right? Not in our family at least. :)</div>
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In the spirit of Christmas, Mom and I tried our hand at gingerbread cookies ( a first for me) and I thought they turned out pretty great. The decorators may not have been beautiful, but they tasted fine just the same. </div>
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With parents, come presents!</div>
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Christmas Smiles</div>
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You are never too old to get toys. Thank goodness!</div>
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Simon's opening his reciprocating saw from his parents.</div>
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MyaAnnual Christmas ornament from Mom. </div>
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The Pioneer Woman cook book. I may have to steal a couple of those recipes for myself. </div>
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Game of Thrones book set. Another gift I may borrow at some point :)</div>
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Our Christmas morning fire. haha. </div>
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Christmas was an all day eating affair, but the main Christmas meal was a linner... or a dunch... a late lunch, early dinner?</div>
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Dad being a goof with his napkin. </div>
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We all ate, and ate, and ate until we were about to pop! And then we ate gingerbread cookies of course. </div>
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While we are on the subject of eating until you pop, I'll admit that a guilty pleasure of mine is Cracker Barrel's Breakfast. YUM! Somehow we always manage to find some time for it when we are with Mom and Dad :) And going after Christmas is the best way to get the 70% off Christmas ornaments: win-win! </div>
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After a few day of Christmas fun and a long day of hard work at our new house, my parents headed back home Sunday morning. It was great to have them with us to share laughs and make memories. We are thankful they were willing to make the trip. Love you Mom and Dad!</div>
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And Merry Christmas from the Reinhardt Faimly!</div>
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<br />Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08202109269082836466noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3955689304553070951.post-88895066742414655142014-12-29T21:06:00.000-06:002015-01-01T21:55:14.490-06:00Thanksgiving in Nashville<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXB6K9ikytGF062jPoJocVXWq2zWg_-BisIZCEQetM7xh_LZMOvb1UNtVjOEFOfuLlsZ6UULQlmJuhA6jx5UknwOchxWYOB3WbCRhkz_eoGrq-KOBV5Sfr2mr3UxNWMhyWQtGWgxsy8xnt/s1600/IMG_4553.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXB6K9ikytGF062jPoJocVXWq2zWg_-BisIZCEQetM7xh_LZMOvb1UNtVjOEFOfuLlsZ6UULQlmJuhA6jx5UknwOchxWYOB3WbCRhkz_eoGrq-KOBV5Sfr2mr3UxNWMhyWQtGWgxsy8xnt/s1600/IMG_4553.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoVov8YcEH1ooOApu4kVm0OO-d5E8hCWvTxDlpSpUsvsu0LSW3S5H0v6QxgJ8w52gIW_jctE3znJUwYMUH0qFkBcVh0ZUTFV9Zt4W9_ujDkXgzpHgdKxRPz8mOPXzLwvc0RTS_6eYA4HgS/s640/blogger-image--1446082242.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoVov8YcEH1ooOApu4kVm0OO-d5E8hCWvTxDlpSpUsvsu0LSW3S5H0v6QxgJ8w52gIW_jctE3znJUwYMUH0qFkBcVh0ZUTFV9Zt4W9_ujDkXgzpHgdKxRPz8mOPXzLwvc0RTS_6eYA4HgS/s640/blogger-image--1446082242.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR49NzlrdBuFG5-hPoj8bvN-4oOaAWhf-UttxYgH50TUEbSKxKkeZrGLeCH7gJxoALwWxr7WbSzESyJIT3nErSQRJ6WQXSBV_4YKTz-GP8WnhvF1n1hMknXjEawR0QasOq48LRhfrhVbci/s640/blogger-image--437061146.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Thanksgiving, another great reason to go to Nashville. Having no immediate family anywhere close usually means we don't travel to parents for Thanksgiving. It is just too far for such a short time. We do however, love having some of Simon's family nearby whom we can spend Thanksgiving with. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">We traveled to Nashville Wednesday morning to stay with Kira, Andrew and Alana, and Jessica and Grant met us there from Alabama. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="text-align: start; clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiP0DNWE0M0cclXsFaFd_RmizlNWZLRWC6OhwnCGuEKxit7_mW7nQzmXl-EooCv_u6s0jeWXir-O4rCCBnOwsMBn0bk6ykSaNhOJqOr2b5cvYJqgcVZIColHOYKkmoOcJzn8Pa78v9lckjv/s1600/IMG_4575.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><font color="#000000"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiP0DNWE0M0cclXsFaFd_RmizlNWZLRWC6OhwnCGuEKxit7_mW7nQzmXl-EooCv_u6s0jeWXir-O4rCCBnOwsMBn0bk6ykSaNhOJqOr2b5cvYJqgcVZIColHOYKkmoOcJzn8Pa78v9lckjv/s1600/IMG_4575.JPG" height="240" width="320"></font></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">A picture of some quality gaming time :)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">As always, one of the best parts of visiting Nashville is seeing this cutie. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="text-align: start; clear: both;"><font color="#000000" style="text-align: center; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXKx09I8vcszedeS9JBpyQAsLwjMyfMtrwelAlhHruVjPSUavsdoAaZAQg4-R6nB4ak2pdUdUE2UuolBeK3vdtyVLiqgcNonGk8DCJy5dqbSwzeJlh8zIjpYucKjPpnhjqFcuJ3ZXJTOW_/s640/blogger-image--2030408386.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="text-align: center; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXKx09I8vcszedeS9JBpyQAsLwjMyfMtrwelAlhHruVjPSUavsdoAaZAQg4-R6nB4ak2pdUdUE2UuolBeK3vdtyVLiqgcNonGk8DCJy5dqbSwzeJlh8zIjpYucKjPpnhjqFcuJ3ZXJTOW_/s640/blogger-image--2030408386.jpg"></a></font></div><div class="separator" style="text-align: start; clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="text-align: start; clear: both;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;">And </span><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">one of the best parts of the holidays is the food! This Thanksgiving feast didn't disappoint. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR49NzlrdBuFG5-hPoj8bvN-4oOaAWhf-UttxYgH50TUEbSKxKkeZrGLeCH7gJxoALwWxr7WbSzESyJIT3nErSQRJ6WQXSBV_4YKTz-GP8WnhvF1n1hMknXjEawR0QasOq48LRhfrhVbci/s640/blogger-image--437061146.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiygZgPJ7KADsE0hRpnVy9sTqHWQAL_p8eDSksq7W1ZAgL3-uOhESUo665U8ypyc6eiNIH49gf6KPd2lntIz7OmIcUyyKACTU4EpFPmZNsdaJ4ljF4rgcUIeVp_5xj-hgKClpOwqei4K36K/s640/blogger-image-597582713.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiygZgPJ7KADsE0hRpnVy9sTqHWQAL_p8eDSksq7W1ZAgL3-uOhESUo665U8ypyc6eiNIH49gf6KPd2lntIz7OmIcUyyKACTU4EpFPmZNsdaJ4ljF4rgcUIeVp_5xj-hgKClpOwqei4K36K/s640/blogger-image-597582713.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR49NzlrdBuFG5-hPoj8bvN-4oOaAWhf-UttxYgH50TUEbSKxKkeZrGLeCH7gJxoALwWxr7WbSzESyJIT3nErSQRJ6WQXSBV_4YKTz-GP8WnhvF1n1hMknXjEawR0QasOq48LRhfrhVbci/s640/blogger-image--437061146.jpg"></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Look at all this delicious food! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Can't beat it!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Family, of couse, is the truly best part about the holidays. Memories in the kitchen or on the couch, the holidays brings people together. This year, there was certainly plenty for us to be thankful for. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"> <div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6pTpBGZckNQQziRwBowiOxR3D7c5_h6aVc6w4DhM2DQ2Mx_I8Z2Bsy-vHQwsPBCVUnkRWex2pKyCabQLs6NmF3vh2VMELdFPWGquUdwMxMT1pB3Px_UMkBy0xgWquF6ArmN74IVk9_Lej/s640/blogger-image-858916507.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6pTpBGZckNQQziRwBowiOxR3D7c5_h6aVc6w4DhM2DQ2Mx_I8Z2Bsy-vHQwsPBCVUnkRWex2pKyCabQLs6NmF3vh2VMELdFPWGquUdwMxMT1pB3Px_UMkBy0xgWquF6ArmN74IVk9_Lej/s640/blogger-image-858916507.jpg"></a></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">On top of a wonderful meal, we also had fun playing games, baking cookies (and then eating too many of them), sitting around the fire, and going to the shooting range. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">We have tried a couple of times to make it to the shooting range while in town, but it never quite worked out. This time around, though, it did, and Andrew was an awesome host. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">It was a fun outdoor range. I had never been to one before, and it was a good first experience. </div><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXB6K9ikytGF062jPoJocVXWq2zWg_-BisIZCEQetM7xh_LZMOvb1UNtVjOEFOfuLlsZ6UULQlmJuhA6jx5UknwOchxWYOB3WbCRhkz_eoGrq-KOBV5Sfr2mr3UxNWMhyWQtGWgxsy8xnt/s1600/IMG_4553.JPG" height="240" width="320"></div>
You're bound to hit something with a mess of targets like that right? :)<br>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYjJav52dXQr-bYKIS4edLxIesr5XDb0rZ-yCSfTQbk8rkPzY7408O2M3K-7omwy1veQWKoA23l2dFXlVNpg85RtzaQLhGV8_eu4hrRoJKnveOxMKpBw-4nLGUcAc0vniT_rYXtTzNR6l3/s1600/IMG_4571.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYjJav52dXQr-bYKIS4edLxIesr5XDb0rZ-yCSfTQbk8rkPzY7408O2M3K-7omwy1veQWKoA23l2dFXlVNpg85RtzaQLhGV8_eu4hrRoJKnveOxMKpBw-4nLGUcAc0vniT_rYXtTzNR6l3/s1600/IMG_4571.JPG" height="240" width="320"></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjISaJXJbmEERP0UaobDzYInlysjAcbFZ84Is3BtAVxT-RNq0E8afa_qG9fcHyCz74UB5P-Psd1joQmImV-KRG7MqVfQUrb0t7YGEOViDk-Qb06sPY5WJdxw5iO2BwWwM44hJgU5YmltyKN/s1600/IMG_4573.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjISaJXJbmEERP0UaobDzYInlysjAcbFZ84Is3BtAVxT-RNq0E8afa_qG9fcHyCz74UB5P-Psd1joQmImV-KRG7MqVfQUrb0t7YGEOViDk-Qb06sPY5WJdxw5iO2BwWwM44hJgU5YmltyKN/s1600/IMG_4573.JPG" height="320" width="240"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="text-align: start; clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3VwaIIDVEuV4_8sm4KJChlUF2Xy3qA5fJH4O0ZYJfwFue6lcn7tyN-qOH3jYH4zVnr0q40cHsIBJOwaT8PDxYWqz5oUfZO6cUsAOKQbQynTyPpySpOrlQnax6-BltYYBjf5_0aQhdyWYS/s640/blogger-image-1128089198.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3VwaIIDVEuV4_8sm4KJChlUF2Xy3qA5fJH4O0ZYJfwFue6lcn7tyN-qOH3jYH4zVnr0q40cHsIBJOwaT8PDxYWqz5oUfZO6cUsAOKQbQynTyPpySpOrlQnax6-BltYYBjf5_0aQhdyWYS/s640/blogger-image-1128089198.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Andrew is setting up the clay pigeons on the hill in the background. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">We had a lot of fun shooting and even hitting a thing or two. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">As is typical with a cute toddler bobbling around, we all spent a lot of time enjoying watching Alana. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div></div>
<div class="separator" style="text-align: start; clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN-qv5i5CdvrRKLdcBxJVVi7dGOjlbmEDm7uYrq9tsRTd5w0TGaIvTHPVaCvd2ZY9SpLeJ9HkI_t-Ro7y9NLj03sgRYyv3yfA6Txo83Rnn3MMi_cfC9-53OZh8qXxNrB3ajz1P-8ZAdVdR/s1600/IMG_4591.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><font color="#000000"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN-qv5i5CdvrRKLdcBxJVVi7dGOjlbmEDm7uYrq9tsRTd5w0TGaIvTHPVaCvd2ZY9SpLeJ9HkI_t-Ro7y9NLj03sgRYyv3yfA6Txo83Rnn3MMi_cfC9-53OZh8qXxNrB3ajz1P-8ZAdVdR/s1600/IMG_4591.JPG" height="240" width="320"></font></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Alana, Simon bonding time. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVkM6755kH2lM7oDEwOy7KHgHSk4OBo4bvLdFWjt83qETsOtcdHM_6PUMw2tKFsjAwON29T4xpbffhrFwacZBVgclUG94IpIczKjkzJmnIq0Zr3YnQtBZW_UWuxvPXi86Apo74jiEla7Px/s1600/IMG_4590.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVkM6755kH2lM7oDEwOy7KHgHSk4OBo4bvLdFWjt83qETsOtcdHM_6PUMw2tKFsjAwON29T4xpbffhrFwacZBVgclUG94IpIczKjkzJmnIq0Zr3YnQtBZW_UWuxvPXi86Apo74jiEla7Px/s1600/IMG_4590.JPG" height="240" width="320"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Copy cat </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">It is nice to have family close enough for a holiday weekend trip. We are thankful for those relationships and for the time we get to spend together. Lots of love and thanks to the Fleshmans for, as always, being excellent hosts. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I'm also thankful that I got to sneak in an early morning coffee date with my best friend, Katie, who was home for the holidays in TN. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGM9NPCfgVUCPKYVB0MKeOyv4b7YB7GvC-A2mXIK4UFHNbUAse4e3wx7GpDF9NrRba2zwmQ2jyvZJ6YoDqGc0_Eejj2d4DBDIxVwG_V18rY7eY-MqjOzGD7CXjYwuQhEsqnNyDs2jlAVqc/s640/blogger-image--39942891.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGM9NPCfgVUCPKYVB0MKeOyv4b7YB7GvC-A2mXIK4UFHNbUAse4e3wx7GpDF9NrRba2zwmQ2jyvZJ6YoDqGc0_Eejj2d4DBDIxVwG_V18rY7eY-MqjOzGD7CXjYwuQhEsqnNyDs2jlAVqc/s640/blogger-image--39942891.jpg"></a></div>This is a picture from Thanksgiving, 2009 while we were studying abroad together. Love and miss this girl. I'm glad we can reunite in Nashville now and again. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: start; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">We headed back home Saturday morning to beat the rush, and to enjoy some time at home before it was back to the grind. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3SulsB1-q0pOAhjkVnW9i5PAewnu4i6IqgV2a5ur12n2wUrVRH6-kN4yR4DUVkpz887iOTAsuPMLugXU8btOLA8-P49RnjGFYMEMqYxlrX1QB5TQYFszdRnFsKJDggcjQrgMyytsQJpXQ/s1600/IMG_4597.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3SulsB1-q0pOAhjkVnW9i5PAewnu4i6IqgV2a5ur12n2wUrVRH6-kN4yR4DUVkpz887iOTAsuPMLugXU8btOLA8-P49RnjGFYMEMqYxlrX1QB5TQYFszdRnFsKJDggcjQrgMyytsQJpXQ/s1600/IMG_4597.JPG" height="240" width="320"></a></div>
Cheese! and <div><div> Happy (belated) Thanksgiving<div><br></div></div></div>Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08202109269082836466noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3955689304553070951.post-27568781739365954502014-12-29T20:48:00.002-06:002015-01-01T22:01:51.531-06:00Christmas Festivities<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The Holidays seem to have flown by even faster than usual this year. Here is a quick recap of some of our Christmas festivities.</div>
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If you ask me, The Christmas Season begins the day after Thanksgiving. So, the day we returned home from our fun Thanksgiving holiday, we went and visited the Christmas tree farm to pick out our tree. </div>
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<br><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHrCLVqS6mUxes1of8f2OUR_6OZjpFAQbPS3yA_YIxdZ0IdgpNZ9iQmTh2ut2-xJZAWa4QCsdIx7J8vbRpQf6RW_Wiz5_jgscTFsknh517LFIC1miFaPTTzxs9xmtcDguB1kFTzLkseX-r/s1600/IMG_4627.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHrCLVqS6mUxes1of8f2OUR_6OZjpFAQbPS3yA_YIxdZ0IdgpNZ9iQmTh2ut2-xJZAWa4QCsdIx7J8vbRpQf6RW_Wiz5_jgscTFsknh517LFIC1miFaPTTzxs9xmtcDguB1kFTzLkseX-r/s1600/IMG_4627.JPG" height="240" width="320"></a></div>
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We drove through row after row of trees until we picked out the prettiest one on the lot. </div>
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The woman at the front was so positive that cutting down the tree with the dinkey little saw she gave us would be super easy. Yeah... we have different definitions of super easy. But between a determined Christmas tree lover and a strong husband, we managed it. <br><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIfzLAcCMnLKX4QJ4N4AwofojX7j2MM2UhfAeDk_lOMqWIP1OYoJPLMWiIuRCgLwJhJJHkhGpY5FnvVAWfIicxNRxIVdZZXOPyeSCvFIejZg-JTH4zrZhRGMmlcgsLba0-m63t1xRy5SNs/s1600/IMG_4615.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIfzLAcCMnLKX4QJ4N4AwofojX7j2MM2UhfAeDk_lOMqWIP1OYoJPLMWiIuRCgLwJhJJHkhGpY5FnvVAWfIicxNRxIVdZZXOPyeSCvFIejZg-JTH4zrZhRGMmlcgsLba0-m63t1xRy5SNs/s1600/IMG_4615.JPG" height="320" width="240"></a></div>
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Simon took over for the tough part at the end. :)</div>
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TA-DA!</div>
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Here it is, still tied up, in our fancy new stand, which we brought back with us from Germany last Christmas. We were really excited to try it out and it worked great. So much simpler than the one we used to have. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoZvoJisBf79bQskXW4_uNjDI1cSLrGT3qGFpdMi4PBMrEhAm6k8NhIMlfqeXGxdKhljEoa9sIN4Ysu25CP9xuHYA7akRBWtZMZwD3cMS8Q85946EnwMDH6tbH02oL6rlboKqslvqOgXH8/s1600/IMG_4869.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoZvoJisBf79bQskXW4_uNjDI1cSLrGT3qGFpdMi4PBMrEhAm6k8NhIMlfqeXGxdKhljEoa9sIN4Ysu25CP9xuHYA7akRBWtZMZwD3cMS8Q85946EnwMDH6tbH02oL6rlboKqslvqOgXH8/s1600/IMG_4869.JPG" height="240" width="320"></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Dressed and ready for Christmas </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div>
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Another fun Christmas tradition - 3 years strong- is my car transforming into a very convincing reindeer. </div>
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Simon really loves it. </div>
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He is not at all embarrassed by my shameless love for Christmas, my Rudolph car, or my christmas socks. </div>
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We hosted our Life Group Christmas party. We had a German Christmas themed party to introduce our friends to some of the delicious sweets and hot drinks associated with Christmas time in Germany. We played dirty santa, listened to christmas music and just celebrated the season together. We attempted to take a group picture in front of the Christmas tree, but it didn't work out all that well. We kind of squeezed in and, of course, completely blocked the tree.</div>
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**Stashing through the snow**</div>
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The girls.</div>
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Again. Okay that is the last one, I promise. </div>
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Well, that petty much covers it as far as pre-christmas festivities go. Can't believe the year is flying by so fast! Hope everyone is enjoyed their holidays and the last few weeks of 2014!</div>
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<br></div>Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08202109269082836466noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3955689304553070951.post-36699809175074686152014-12-29T20:10:00.003-06:002014-12-29T20:10:56.757-06:00Cleaning and Yard Work<div style="text-align: center;">
Between you and me, having my parents come and visit for Christmas was secretly a plot to score some free labor. </div>
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Well, not really, but we are very thankful that we were able to close on our house the day before they arrived. It was fun to get to show them the pre-renovated house, and when they offered to help us clean it up a bit... well, we enjoyed that too. :)</div>
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After a trip to the hardware store, and gathering up some cleaning supplies, we set off on Saturday for a day of hard work. We got incredibly lucky with the weather; there is nothing like a rainy day to put a damper on yard work. But, we were all thankful for the sunshine that day. </div>
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Simon and my Dad tackled the yard. And it was a lot to tackle! </div>
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Dad, in the middle there, working his yard magic on all of the unruly vines. </div>
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Simon blowing all of the leaves off of the roof and out of the gutters. </div>
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Mom and I stayed in the house and tried to work some magic of our own on the bathroom and kitchen.</div>
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Mom, scrubbing away the 1940s</div>
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The boys hade proof of their hard work. Bags and Bags of proof.</div>
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While mom and I scrubbed for hours trying to shine up the place, at the end of the day, it didn't really look a whole lot cleaner. Old houses are old houses I suppose, even when they are clean. </div>
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We can't say thank you enough to my parents for their help! It was a fun work day. The first of many many more! </div>
Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08202109269082836466noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3955689304553070951.post-71611726595605124442014-12-28T22:52:00.000-06:002015-01-03T20:56:11.175-06:00Our First House<div style="text-align: center;">
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To say that we are over apartment living would be an understatement. Not only am I ready to not hear my neighbors sneeze, chop vegetables, and flush the toilet, I am also ready to not have to make two trips up and down the stairs and across the parking lot to unload groceries, and to not have to limit my picture hanging because we don't want to put too many holes in the walls and risk not getting our deposit back. </div>
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I realize all of those are unimportant, even silly things, but they all reflect the same truth, we aren't truly settled; this place isn't really ours. The last three and a half years of life have been a mish-mash of here-and-theres. It has been a lot of fun in a way: New states, new cities, new apartments, new friends. But if I'm being honest, I'm looking forward to planting some roots and knowing that we are where we are for the foreseeable future. For me, there is something peaceful and comforting about that knowledge. </div>
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Of course, with that peace and comfort comes things like broken water heaters, and leaky faucets, and lawns to mow. But I think we are ready to take the good with the bad. </div>
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Back in November we began house hunting. Our lease will be up in February and we weren't sure how long the whole thing would take - we are rather picky. :)</div>
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As it turns out, not so picky that we couldn't be won over by the third house we toured. I had already fallen in love with it online and hoped it was as perfect in person as I imagined it to be. It was. </div>
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It checked nearly all of our boxes. The location was great: right in between the cities we each work in, the price was right, it was an older home with some character, and it was, without a doubt, a fixer upper. </div>
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We had an awesome realtor and just an awesome home buying team in general. I feel as though we bough a house with our smart phones. We barely had to sign anything in person until the day we actually closed. Maybe that is just how things are done these days but we both felt like it was smooth sailing and completely painless. </div>
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Our offer for the home was accepted at the end of November, on Simon's birthday as a matter of fact, and we closed on December 23rd. Quite the Christmas gift!!<br />
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This, along with a beautiful Poinsettia, were waiting for us at our house after we closed. :) Told ya we had a great team. </div>
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We will not officially move in until the end of February, when our current lease is up. We want to get a lot of the messier renovations completed before we move in any furniture, just to keep it as simple as possible. </div>
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We have a lot of projects planned over the next week or so, taking advantage of our holiday vacation time. The timing is such a blessing! We each have the next week off and can really dedicate a lot of time to getting things done. I will post lots of updates so you can see all of the craziness we are undertaking. Hopefully nothing too shocking will come up, but in an old home I guess you just have to expect the unexpected; It is all part of the adventure, right? </div>
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Wish us luck!</div>
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Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08202109269082836466noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3955689304553070951.post-5909728957182764262014-12-28T22:13:00.001-06:002014-12-28T22:13:08.329-06:003rd Annual Apple Picking Trip<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Fall is becoming my favorite season; More and more every year, it seems. Warm, spiced drinks, beautiful foliage and warm cozy scarves- What's not to love!</div>
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Every year since moving to South Carolina, we have made it a tradition to take a trip to the apple orchard just across the boarder of North Carolina. Last year we went with my parents when they were here for Thanksgiving. It was a little too late to actually pick any apples, but this year we went much earlier and it was perfect for picking. Our friends Patrick and Diana joined us and we made a day of it. </div>
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My favorite, and Simon's least favorite, en rout picture.</div>
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Let's be honest... The real reason anyone goes to this apple orchard is to get a taste of THE best apple donuts in the world! Ok, well I can't say that for sure, but I would imagine they have to be pretty close! I love them and, truly, I look forward to them for days before we go. A guilty fall pleasure, I'll admit. </div>
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Our friends brought their new pup along. He was loving the outdoors. </div>
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Some tree climbing is sometimes necessary. </div>
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Rules, Schmools</div>
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It really was a beautiful day to be outside. The orchard has rows and rows of all different apple types, half of which I have never heard of. </div>
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Group Pic :)</div>
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Orchard wildlife. </div>
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Before moving here I had never seen such vibrant, blue butterflies. I always love it when I get a glimpse of one. It isn't even possible to truly capture their beauty on camera, but here was an attempt.</div>
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Please note all of the Clemson fans in the background. Can't get away from those crazies. :)</div>
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It is always such a fun time. The weather was perfect brisk, very fall-ie, and there were still plenty of apples, if you were willing to climb a little. No doubt we will venture back next year. </div>
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What do we do with all of those apples you might ask (well you probably didn't but I'm telling you anyways). Again this year I made an apple pie from the delicious apples. You just can't beat fresh apples when it comes to apple pie! </div>
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<br />Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08202109269082836466noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3955689304553070951.post-32574432369581644542014-12-04T12:13:00.001-06:002014-12-04T15:19:25.977-06:00Canoe Trip<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Now, let me just begin by saying this: Simon and I are not campers. Or hikers. Or hard core out-doorsie people. So going on a canoe trip of any length is broadening our horizons a bit. But plop us down for a 23 mile one, and oh yeah, we are sleeping in a tree house for a night; You just never know what might happen.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Along with the fun day at Biltmore House, Simon's parents planned out an awesome 2 day canoe trip. (Actually, up until a few days before, we all thought it was kayaking, but I digress). 13 miles on day one, 9 miles on day two, and an overnight tree house adventure in between. :) </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Group pic before. Look how clean we look...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">I like a good picnic as much as the next girl, and I like to get out there and experience nature. But I was definity a little nervous about what might unfold on such a long commitment. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Despite any wariness I had about the unknown, I'd say we all had an exhaustingly fun time. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Preparing took nearly a whole day. Although there would be lodging, we had to provide almost everything we would need for the trip. Food, water, toilet paper, linens, etc. And it all had to be canoe friendly. (AKA it could survive a capsize). </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">We packed coolers, trash bags, and ziplock bags full of our necessities. And some unnecessities that were much appreciated by all... Like <i>soap</i> and wet wipes. Plus we each packed a backpack. Honestly, the water for 2 days was the most challenging part. Packing enough as well as keeping it cold. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Simon had the great idea of freezing the day 2 water and having it act as ice packs for the perishables. Then it was still nice and chilled for the second leg of our trip. Genius! </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Our trip was from a Sunday morning until a Monday afternoon (holiday/long weekend). </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Early Sunday morning we loaded the car and drove to the welcome center/starting point. We didn't have a guide, but we did have an instructor who gave us the skinny on what to do and not to do, as well as pointers on finding our tree house, etc before we set off. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Once we has been instructed on procedure, and warned of snakes and gators (not kidding) we were on our own. <span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">There was one other little family in the info session; they were also spending the night in a tree house that evening. We passed each other back and forth over the trip, but it was mainly just us canoeing by ourselves.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">We had two canoes between the four of us. One for me and Simon, and one for Martin and Irene. :) aren't we cute. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Martin and Irene pushing off from our starting point</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">13 miles is a lot y'all. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">There were "mile markers" along the way. Or so we were told. We probably saw 6 the first day, maybe. And I think 2 or 3 the next day. In the beginning we thought we had gone so far and when we finally saw a mile marker, we hadn't even gone 4 miles yet. Pfew. We were working hard. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Us on the river</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">We stopped for lunch along the bank. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">We were sweaty, tired, and so over the hot sun when our tree house came into view. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Canoes safely docked</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">There was definitely a feeling of accomplishment in knowing we had come so far. After parking the canoes, and an ungrateful dismount we surveyed our home base. It was a bit larger and cleaner than I had imagined. There was a ground level picnic area with a gas grill, and upstairs was the cabin. It consisted of a large living space and small kitchen. Then, a ladder led up to a loft with a giant pallet floor. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"> There was another couch mirroring this one on the other side of the cabin. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"> The little cook top was great for breakfast and for washing dishes the next morning</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">The walls were full of screened windows so the small cabin was flooded with the sunshine. Between our battery operated fans (feel free to tease) and our lanterns, we were prepared for the evening. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">A creek pool at the front of our camp site allowed us to wash up. Clean hands and face, and a fresh set of clothes really does wonders for four weary travelers. Our spirits were instantly lifted when we all congregated in the picnic area to get dinner started.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Thank The Lord for propane. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Chicken breasts, baked potatoes, corn on the cob. Ahhhhh</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">You could feel the collective deep sigh as we all took the first bites. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">And, you can't camp without s'mores! So naturally, that was our dessert. Martin and Irene had never tried a s'more so we felt it was our responsibility to amend the unjustice! :)</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">They were a hit! </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">First bites haha. Messy as promised!</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">The lanterns allowed us a few extra hours after the sun set to play some games and plan our tomorrow. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">We all agreed that a good night's rest was needed, but an early start would make the whole day smoother. So early to bed, early to rise. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">We had the cabin packed up and cleaned out at dawn and we were pushing off from the bay with the mist of the morning still filling the air. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"> Packing up in the morning</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Off they go again!</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">We all had a few hiccups along the way, but Martin and Irene had some unfortunate luck, on a couple of occasions, and got a little tangled up in some branches here and there. In the background of this picture you can see them having a battle with some tree branches. I had to add this in there :) heehee And also, my handsome husband as we began day two. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">The first few miles, serene and fresh, allowed us to take in the beauty of the perfect morning. A completely different world than the humid, stickiness of the previous day. The morning brought with it a wild calm that<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"> saturated the waters and the foliage as we glided by. You almost felt as though the slicing of our oars through the waters would somehow lift the magic, but it went on like this for several miles</span>.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"> My camera lens was fogging around the edges because of the morning moisture in the air. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">With the rising of the sun,- came the sticky air and the need for sunscreen. Day two was only 9 miles (our treehouse was nearly a mile further than the other tree houses so our first day had been closer to 14 miles) we decided not to even stop for a snack or lunch, but rather to just take turns having a quick granola bar. The idea of reaching the end faster, and being back into town at a reasonable hour was very motivating. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">I think the relief was almost tangible as we saw the docking area come into view. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">I meant to take an "after" picture of us all, but I think we were all so gross and tired, that no one even thought about taking a picture in our state. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">But, picture or no picture, we made it! </span></div>
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Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08202109269082836466noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3955689304553070951.post-22695270013602177692014-10-03T11:11:00.000-05:002014-10-03T11:11:14.761-05:00Visiting The Biltmore<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">While the Carolina's may not be high on your list of must-see states, they do have some well known attractions; One of which is the Biltmore Mansion. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The house that used to be home to the Vanderbilts is now open for tours year round. The large gardens are popular in the spring and the elaborate Christmas light display and candlelight service are frequented around the holidays. But the property and all it has to offer are beautiful in and of themselves. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">When Simon's parents planned a mid-summer visit, they invited us to join them for a day at the Bitmore.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Downton abbey anyone?? </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The main house is the main attraction, so that is where we began. You can take guided tours, audio tours or, as we opted, self guided tours with a handy-dandy reference pamphlet. (All that you need if you ask me)</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">No pictures could be taken inside the mansion (bummer) but the rest of the property was free game. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We saw the music room, the kitchens, the veritable pantry, the servants quarters, the winter conservatory, bedrooms of Mr. and Mrs. Vanderbilt, the indoor swimming pool, the gymnasium, and several other rooms. We were not allowed to see the entire house ( it would have probably taken all day) but we were able to see a fair amount. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">After the tour we needed a break from the walking and from the crowd. So we left the property and drove into the town in search of a lunch destination. Not as easy as you would think. They clearly prefer you to eat at their well-advertised food courts, because it was slim pickens. But once we parked and walked into the town center, a generous title, we found a cute, local spot that was worth the hunt. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Isn't it cute? </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Back to The Biltmore. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The gardens were next. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">There were quite a few gardens. The winter garden, the shrub garden, the Italian garden, the walled garden, to name a few. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">In the gardens</span><div style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Family picture. :)</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">In the conservatory. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">View of the house from the gardens. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Italian garden I think, I can't remember for sure. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We were trying to take advantage of a shady spot. The heat was a little rough! </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I think we had missed the prime blooming season, because many of the flower gardens were not particularly awe-inspiring. But the shrub gardens and other gardens were very rich and green. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The gardens as a whole were a neat experience. I think we all would have enjoyed them even more had it not been so terribly hot! </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Along with the gardens and the house, the property has a winery and a farm. After the hot walk through the garden, everyone welcomed the winery. :)</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We reserved spots for the wine tour and tasting. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This is the car the Vanderbilts drove. After Mr. Vanderbilt died, his wife had the car pained white because it looked less masculine. I though that was an interesting fact. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">After the tour we had a private wine tasting. I was surprised at how many wines we were able to taste since the whole thing was free. The list was fairly extensive. There were red, whites and rose. We could pick which of the wines we wanted to try based on the description. It was fun to get to taste some new things. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">They also had these sweet crackers that you could eat between wines. They were kind of delicious! </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The farm area was bigger than I had expected. The pastures were pretty extensive although they were not really for visitors. That was fine, because the "action" was in the petting zoo. :)</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">There was also a village area with specialty shops. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">They had workshops like masonry and a carpenter. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">There were some old tractors and carriages over in a little village-like area. We were encouraged to climb on them. :)</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Simon and I both enjoyed getting to visit the Estate. A big thanks goes out to Martin and Irene for inviting us to the Biltmore and spending the day with us. We are always so thankful for their visits and the time they take out of their vacation to spend with us. </span></div>
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Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08202109269082836466noreply@blogger.com0