tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27871989287167012082024-03-13T21:09:51.704-07:00rachel marieRachel Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03529595454869519018noreply@blogger.comBlogger127125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2787198928716701208.post-17868600189854599782011-08-24T10:02:00.000-07:002011-08-24T10:13:47.882-07:00Just DriveSometimes Chris and I just drive. We did a TON of driving this summer to visit friends and family. One of my favorite things about driving aimlessly around our own community is that you always discover something new. This mural was CRAZY. It was beautiful and we never would have seen it had we not wandered off the highway.<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yW0pN3Sktig/TlUvpZpkldI/AAAAAAAAA2U/0k2evki4Z-w/s1600/IMG_2141.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yW0pN3Sktig/TlUvpZpkldI/AAAAAAAAA2U/0k2evki4Z-w/s400/IMG_2141.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5644470096285177298" /></a>Doesn't it look like you could step right into it!? I had to do a double take and we may have sat through a green light so I could snap a photo. The only sad thing is that I don't remember where on earth we were ... I only remember we had just been to IKEA ... hopefully we'll drive by again someday and take a moment to walk around the town.Rachel Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03529595454869519018noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2787198928716701208.post-58309723984502601932011-08-21T15:19:00.000-07:002011-08-21T15:29:18.083-07:00In This House #6This spring we decided that weeds are plants too ... <a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-clecvUv_XyY/TlGFsmOG_9I/AAAAAAAAA2M/IBLLG7AmS-Q/s1600/IMG_2372.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-clecvUv_XyY/TlGFsmOG_9I/AAAAAAAAA2M/IBLLG7AmS-Q/s400/IMG_2372.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5643438809292406738" /></a>
<br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bDf_SIiQjMY/TlGFsI2qLAI/AAAAAAAAA2E/FBgpF4V8fV0/s1600/IMG_2373.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bDf_SIiQjMY/TlGFsI2qLAI/AAAAAAAAA2E/FBgpF4V8fV0/s400/IMG_2373.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5643438801409420290" /></a>now we are a little frightened each time we walk by the "flower" bed.Rachel Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03529595454869519018noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2787198928716701208.post-57407320395761126862011-06-20T07:12:00.000-07:002011-06-20T07:52:24.003-07:00re-arrange<div style="text-align: left;">I just can't help myself. We have lived in our current "home" for a year and I am sitting here on my hands to keep from rearranging the furniture ... AGAIN! I'm beginning to wonder if I could ever be settled in one decor. I need to do something to ease the decorating itch that drives me crazy every time I walk through the living room, it's an unavoidable space with our floor plan. I'm hoping pillow covers, a lampshade, and just a few moved pieces will pacify me for more than a month.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Before</div><div><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YsECj9L224U/Tf9am9GUtyI/AAAAAAAAA10/1Lv6wMcq4vI/s400/IMG_2031.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5620310485264283426" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wGZkk4-sgNI/Tf9dnszLbpI/AAAAAAAAA18/y5UIZQ4BJpA/s1600/IMG_2290.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wGZkk4-sgNI/Tf9dnszLbpI/AAAAAAAAA18/y5UIZQ4BJpA/s400/IMG_2290.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5620313796603768466" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">After</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">who knows what's next</div>Rachel Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03529595454869519018noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2787198928716701208.post-7582744037695180732011-06-17T11:42:00.000-07:002011-06-17T11:55:39.392-07:00Fill in the blank Friday<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: futura-pt-1, futura-pt-2; font-size: 13px; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); line-height: 18px; "><div style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20px; text-align: left; "><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(68, 68, 68); ">I'm so happy that today is FRIDAY and <a href="http://thelittlethingswedo.blogspot.com/">Lauren</a> has provided me with posting inspiration via her blanks.</span></span></div><div style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20px; text-align: left; "><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(68, 68, 68); "><br /></span></span></div><div style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20px; text-align: left; "><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(68, 68, 68); ">1. <b> The last movie I saw was </b> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-decoration: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(68, 68, 68); "> <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; "> ... we watch LOTS of movies, but Chris and I have mainly been enjoying Legend of the Seeker and House on DVD/Netflix each night this week</span></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-decoration: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(68, 68, 68); "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; "> .</span></span></span></span><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(68, 68, 68); font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; "><b><br /></b></span></div><div style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20px; text-align: left; "><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(68, 68, 68); ">2. </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(68, 68, 68); font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; "><b>I want to</b></span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(68, 68, 68); "> </span></span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-decoration: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(68, 68, 68); "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; "> </span></span></span></span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-decoration: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(68, 68, 68); "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; ">do everything in the sunshine now that its summertime </span></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-decoration: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(68, 68, 68); "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; "> .</span></span></span></span></div><div style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20px; text-align: left; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(68, 68, 68); font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; "><br /></span></div><div style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20px; text-align: left; "><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(68, 68, 68); ">3. </span></span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(68, 68, 68); "><b>Surprises are </b></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(68, 68, 68); font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; "><b> </b></span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-decoration: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(68, 68, 68); "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; "> not nearly as fun as anticipation</span></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-decoration: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(68, 68, 68); "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; "> </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; text-decoration: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(68, 68, 68); "> .</span></span></span></div><div style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20px; text-align: left; "><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(68, 68, 68); "><br /></span></span></div><div style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20px; text-align: left; "><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(68, 68, 68); ">4. </span></span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(68, 68, 68); "><b>The best accessory is</b> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-decoration: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(68, 68, 68); "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; "> something with a story - great conversation starter!</span></span></span></span><br /><div style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20px; text-align: left; "></div></div><div style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20px; text-align: left; "><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(68, 68, 68); "><br /></span></span></div><div style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20px; text-align: left; "><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(68, 68, 68); ">5. <b>My favorite warm drink is </b> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-decoration: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(68, 68, 68); "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; "> tea and coffee especially when you have a dear friend to drink it with</span></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-decoration: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(68, 68, 68); "> </span></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-decoration: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(68, 68, 68); ">.</span></span></span></span></div><div style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20px; text-align: left; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(68, 68, 68); font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; "><br /></span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(68, 68, 68); "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(68, 68, 68); ">6. <b>My favorite cold drink is </b> </span><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-decoration: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(68, 68, 68); "> really good <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; ">diet coke if I'm "being bad" or coconut water if I'm behaving myself<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 17px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 20px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-decoration: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(68, 68, 68); "> </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(68, 68, 68); text-decoration: underline; "> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(68, 68, 68); ">.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br /><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(68, 68, 68); "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); "><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-decoration: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(68, 68, 68); "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 17px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 20px; "><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(68, 68, 68); "><br /></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></div><div style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20px; text-align: left; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-size: 13px; line-height: 20px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(68, 68, 68); ">7.<b> Currently loving </b> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-decoration: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(68, 68, 68); "> </span></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-size: 13px; line-height: 20px; "><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(68, 68, 68); "><u><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: none; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-decoration: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(68, 68, 68); "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; ">thrifting for a purpose other than myself. Chris' softball season</span></span></span></span>. The characters in Legend of the Seeker and (can't believe <b>I</b> am saying this)spending time a the gym . </u></span></span></span></span></span></div><div style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20px; text-align: left; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-size: 13px; line-height: 20px; "><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(68, 68, 68); "><u><br /></u></span></span></span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-size: 13px; line-height: 20px; "><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(68, 68, 68); "><u>soak up some sun and get a laugh in this weekend!</u></span></span></span></span></span></div></span>Rachel Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03529595454869519018noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2787198928716701208.post-85535367080027295192011-05-28T06:58:00.000-07:002011-05-28T10:59:44.086-07:00In This House #5<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9Huh44FjJGM/TeE3DEnsu4I/AAAAAAAAA1o/RI2e1ZDucbM/s1600/IMG_2769.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9Huh44FjJGM/TeE3DEnsu4I/AAAAAAAAA1o/RI2e1ZDucbM/s400/IMG_2769.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5611827136599735170" /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-C2YTdKFgY7Q/TX12UyunR4I/AAAAAAAAAzo/lN8D2eSIKVI/s400/100_2125.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5583749212596029314" /><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-E9NtCjXsyrQ/TeE3Cq0KiHI/AAAAAAAAA1g/9H_pdXkXfK4/s400/IMG_2745.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5611827129672697970" />We don't keep animals in our home, but we always have lovely visits at the zoo.Rachel Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03529595454869519018noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2787198928716701208.post-45459526203958588482011-05-18T10:26:00.000-07:002011-05-28T10:51:57.038-07:00Roar! Happy Birthday!<div style="text-align: left;">Today I accidently made a dinosaur cake for an elegant surprise party ... oops =)</div><div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 315px; height: 400px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--FSKV11TxXY/TeE1OrmCcvI/AAAAAAAAA1Y/fVZQoFi9_QU/s400/IMG_2891.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5611825137017058034" /></div><div style="text-align: left;">The icing kept sticking to one side of the cake ripping it apart so I thought it best to remove that section. It was a blessing in disguise because thats how this guy was born.</div>Rachel Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03529595454869519018noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2787198928716701208.post-63997027654668444402011-05-14T08:03:00.000-07:002011-05-16T12:10:24.334-07:00<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bHWb3DPq1_U/Tc6aFMo-l7I/AAAAAAAAA1Q/s65fCkIE9_4/s1600/062709_1129.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 266px; height: 400px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bHWb3DPq1_U/Tc6aFMo-l7I/AAAAAAAAA1Q/s65fCkIE9_4/s400/062709_1129.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5606588000205969330" /></a>Something exciting is about to happen! Actually, lots of exciting things are about to happen. This week in our house we are going to celebrate a birthday, hang out with a best friend, complete not one but TWO intense craft projects, attend a "broadway" show, Interview, and go on the hunt at the Springfield Antique Show & Flea Market EXTRAVAGANZA!<div><br /></div><div>Can't wait til next week so I can let you know how it goes ... actually I can wait because I am going to make this week last as long as possible!</div>Rachel Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03529595454869519018noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2787198928716701208.post-60328408420849392372011-04-16T10:22:00.000-07:002011-04-16T11:05:07.214-07:00Nevermind<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-V-hao8XCtkA/TanSNh0ki5I/AAAAAAAAA1A/8K-pq5xIO-U/s1600/IMG_2601.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-V-hao8XCtkA/TanSNh0ki5I/AAAAAAAAA1A/8K-pq5xIO-U/s400/IMG_2601.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5596235141843553170" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:'times new roman', 'new york', times, serif;"><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">I came across this poem a few days ago. Enjoy!</span></div></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman', 'new york', times, serif;"><em><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></em></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman', 'new york', times, serif;"><em><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Never Mind<br /></span></em><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">by Ella Wheeler Wilcox<br /><br />Whatever your work and whatever its worth, <br />No matter how strong or clever, <br />Some one will sneer if you pause to hear, <br />And scoff at your best endeavour. <br /><br />For the target art has a broad expanse, <br />And wherever you chance to hit it, <br />Though close be your aim to the bull's-eye fame, <br />There are those who will never admit it.<br />Though the house applauds while the artist plays, <br />And a smiling world adores him, <br />Somebody is there with an ennuied air <br />To say that the acting bores him. <br /><br />For the tower of art has a lofty spire, <br />With many a stair and landing, <br />And those who climb seem small oft-time <br />To one at the bottom standing.<br /><br />So work along in your chosen niche <br />With a steady purpose to nerve you; <br />Let nothing men say who pass your way <br />Relax your courage or swerve you. <br />The idle will flock by the Temple of Art <br />For just the pleasure of gazing; <br />But climb to the top and do not stop, <br />Though they may not all be praising.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman', 'new york', times, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman', 'new york', times, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">-------</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman', 'new york', times, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman', 'new york', times, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">I love the message. I particularly appreciate the line, "</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 51); line-height: 20px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">For the tower of art has a lofty spire, <br />With many a stair and landing". We do our best to reach our highest potential, but this line shows that there plateaus along the way. When we reach a pause for any period of time it can be easy to look around and say, "what the hell am I doing way up here!" and start to doubt ourselves. </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Sometimes people or situations can be discouraging, but we must carry on with confidence. How do </span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">you</span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> avoid/fight off those who attempt to disrupt your art and keep climbing higher?</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman', 'new york', times, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman', 'new york', times, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">I tend to immerse myself in the chaos of </span><a href="http://rachelmonks.blogspot.com/2010/02/treasure-find-tuesday_01.html"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">creating a collage</span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> and/or head to the nearest thrift store. Sorting through chaos helps jolt my brain into action and come up with new and exciting ideas.</span></span></div>Rachel Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03529595454869519018noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2787198928716701208.post-39046497011286445162011-03-29T11:35:00.000-07:002011-03-29T11:45:47.911-07:00In this House #4<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NVuRzYN7U3M/TZIn1VmEU0I/AAAAAAAAA0A/eRoalmeqmys/s1600/IMG_2507.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 120px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NVuRzYN7U3M/TZIn1VmEU0I/AAAAAAAAA0A/eRoalmeqmys/s400/IMG_2507.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5589573884803568450" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">We are SO ready to frolic in the spring sunshine. BRING IT spring ... seriously, pretty please?</div>Rachel Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03529595454869519018noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2787198928716701208.post-16929610039898756092011-03-07T13:05:00.000-08:002011-03-07T13:18:51.012-08:00I haven't been ignoring you<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-45JOxeTFjww/TXVLrFV0aEI/AAAAAAAAAzQ/A3G_5cAFT9g/s1600/IMG_2522.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-45JOxeTFjww/TXVLrFV0aEI/AAAAAAAAAzQ/A3G_5cAFT9g/s400/IMG_2522.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5581450516735748162" /></a><br />I have just been CRAZY BUSY. I am happy to report that my schedule has been FULL... and not like I have had <b>so</b> much TV to watch and sleeping to do that I couldn't possibly blog. My schedule has been legitimately full of rehearsals, teaching, styling, and maybe just a touch of <b>must see</b> TV. Its been awhile since I have been challenged and fulfilled artistically. I have just finished directing an 8th grade production of Macbeth at a private catholic school in Ohio ... say what!? Yeah, never imagined I would face a challenge like that. The students I got to work with blew. me. away. Most had never acted before and went above and beyond to make the show the best it could be. During the first performance I paced in the back admiring their courage. My heart almost exploded. <div><br /></div><div>I also thrifted 97% of the costumes so be looking for a treasure find post.</div><div><br /></div><div>Hope all is well in your world. </div>Rachel Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03529595454869519018noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2787198928716701208.post-51148998389774777082011-02-14T06:35:00.000-08:002011-02-14T07:15:26.573-08:00L O V E<div style="text-align: center;">Shower the people you love with love - and have a sense of humor about it.</div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iC_qzxKh9Gg/TVlEnvZFa5I/AAAAAAAAAzI/Ewrr3i-cj94/s1600/MyPicture.jpg"></a><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 326px; height: 400px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kvsKC-CP-FM/TVlEnDIj99I/AAAAAAAAAy4/CpOeu6nM4mo/s400/IMG_1644.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5573561451494504402" /><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: center; ">Tomorrow I will share the construction of my handmade thrifted valentines with you. </div></div>Rachel Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03529595454869519018noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2787198928716701208.post-22576892808842295902011-02-09T00:00:00.000-08:002011-02-09T05:08:58.412-08:00In This House #3This is our dream freezer.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_hbWm1jNNxMQ/TTiBXDasJ_I/AAAAAAAAAw0/nBUK9Z4XVw8/s1600/IMG_1600.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_hbWm1jNNxMQ/TTiBXDasJ_I/AAAAAAAAAw0/nBUK9Z4XVw8/s400/IMG_1600.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5564339572670474226" /></a>Rachel Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03529595454869519018noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2787198928716701208.post-88139079530060308902011-02-08T00:00:00.000-08:002011-02-08T19:05:56.337-08:00Treasure Find TuesdayEverything <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">(other than a paycheck)</span> is cuter in miniature form. <div><br /></div><div>A few weeks ago at the base thrift shop, I took in an order of old tools from a friendly older gentleman. Though I have no idea what half of them were designed to do, each piece was visually interesting. I was tempted to buy all of the pieces and hang them on a wall as art. Tools tell a story. They have purpose. They are made to withstand challenging situations. They make our lives easier. Worn tools send my mind deep into endless wonderings. Who came up with this? Why is this necessary? Has new technology replaced it? How often was this used? by who? WHEN? WHY? HOW? I managed to stop myself and finished taking in the man's order. A few of his items were pricey which helped me rationalize. A splurge on old tools was just not going to happen ... yet. I have daydreams about stumbling across an abandoned barn full of odd interesting old tools and making wall art out of wrenches, but now is not the time.</div><div><br /></div><div>Now is the time to appreciate what I did buy. One of the last tools in his order was this 1 inch red C Clamp. HOW ADORABLE ... and functional =)<br /><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_hbWm1jNNxMQ/TVHib6YJlkI/AAAAAAAAAyg/72gDb5CuMqI/s400/IMG_2413.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5571483183188907586" /><div style="text-align: left;">I got it for under a dollar and immediately clamped it to anything I could find in my house. I had no idea they made C Clamps this small.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_hbWm1jNNxMQ/TVHicO8kg1I/AAAAAAAAAyo/oGJcWZNA1yY/s400/IMG_2415.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5571483188710376274" /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Right now I am using it to keep my note cards in order. Any other ideas on where I can put my new mini clamp to use and admire it at the same time?</div></div>Rachel Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03529595454869519018noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2787198928716701208.post-26833802135705408202011-02-07T08:47:00.000-08:002011-02-07T19:55:26.063-08:00XXV<div>February 7th is Chris' birthday. We celebrated on Sunday with steelers colored cupcakes even though they didn't win. </div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_hbWm1jNNxMQ/TVC366lT1KI/AAAAAAAAAyQ/B8Lp-UQB9DE/s400/IMG_2441.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5571154961843344546" /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_hbWm1jNNxMQ/TVC37M6UuQI/AAAAAAAAAyY/wGoCyGUvNb4/s1600/IMG_2443.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_hbWm1jNNxMQ/TVC37M6UuQI/AAAAAAAAAyY/wGoCyGUvNb4/s400/IMG_2443.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5571154966763321602" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_hbWm1jNNxMQ/TVC36vC6TfI/AAAAAAAAAyI/4eqvDInYW1A/s1600/IMG_2438.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 304px; height: 400px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_hbWm1jNNxMQ/TVC36vC6TfI/AAAAAAAAAyI/4eqvDInYW1A/s400/IMG_2438.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5571154958746275314" /></a>We celebrated again today with Japanese dinner and The Kings Speech. This Kings Speech was amazing. We highly recommend it. Now I am off to spend the rest of the evening with my handsome 25 year old. <div><br /></div><div>...ok I tried my hardest not to get to mushy, but I suppose it wouldn't hurt either of us to let you know how loving, hilarious, and all around outstanding Chris is. I am lucky to be married to my best friend. Looking forward to many happy birthdays to come.<br /><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">fyi I made his cupcakes from a yellow cake mix, but did the icing from a MARTHA recipe. I would have done the cupcakes from scratch, but Chris wanted a fluffy cake and mine from scratch always come out dense. I got the idea for the toppers from my lovely </span><a href="http://foodnfemininity.blogspot.com/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">phraner lady friend</span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> . I adore her cupcakes.</span></div>Rachel Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03529595454869519018noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2787198928716701208.post-5488282341116690702011-02-01T00:00:00.000-08:002011-02-02T07:56:08.726-08:00Treasure Find Tuesday<div style="text-align: left;">I enjoy order, but my eye LOVES chaos. That is why ever since I can remember I have been doing collage work.</div><div><br /></div><div>Back in July, my sister Sarah sent me out thrifting for her birthday present. She gave me free regin "anything creative and thrifted"</div><div><br /></div><div>We both have a passion for art. I set out to Goodwill Outlet with no idea of what I would come up with. I was taken back by all of the little scraps of paper hanging around in the bins. Who is gonna buy random hooked on phonics cards and children's books with busted spines and water damage? ME! Those scraps of paper and broken down books were inspiring.</div><div><br /></div><div>Her birthday is 7/16 so I tore out all pages 7 and 16 from the books and used them as borders on either side of the piece.</div><div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_hbWm1jNNxMQ/TUl1mRQ-XJI/AAAAAAAAAxc/uARRMEkK23o/s1600/IMG_1307.JPG"><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_hbWm1jNNxMQ/TUl1mRQ-XJI/AAAAAAAAAxc/uARRMEkK23o/s400/IMG_1307.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5569111714550406290" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px; " /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_hbWm1jNNxMQ/TUl1l2DejeI/AAAAAAAAAxU/5hy3qSycByw/s1600/IMG_1306.JPG"><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_hbWm1jNNxMQ/TUl1l2DejeI/AAAAAAAAAxU/5hy3qSycByw/s400/IMG_1306.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5569111707246038498" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px; " /></a></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_hbWm1jNNxMQ/TUl4-mTlnQI/AAAAAAAAAx0/u3D5JOExPXU/s400/IMG_1310.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5569115431050255618" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 324px; " /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; ">I liked the end result so much I <b>had</b> to have one for my house, so I made one using our wedding date 6/27/2009.</span></div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_hbWm1jNNxMQ/TUl1m9J76BI/AAAAAAAAAxs/vCdz4jwxk-0/s1600/IMG_1324.JPG"></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_hbWm1jNNxMQ/TUl1miFSowI/AAAAAAAAAxk/8d_mEWASsFY/s1600/IMG_1323.JPG"><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_hbWm1jNNxMQ/TUl1miFSowI/AAAAAAAAAxk/8d_mEWASsFY/s400/IMG_1323.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5569111719064806146" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 351px; " /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; ">The final products together.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_hbWm1jNNxMQ/TUl1m9J76BI/AAAAAAAAAxs/vCdz4jwxk-0/s400/IMG_1324.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5569111726332045330" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 298px; height: 400px; " /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><div style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); "><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_hbWm1jNNxMQ/TUl1lhH9N8I/AAAAAAAAAxM/cz60Ggqimnw/s1600/IMG_2288.JPG"><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_hbWm1jNNxMQ/TUl1lhH9N8I/AAAAAAAAAxM/cz60Ggqimnw/s400/IMG_2288.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5569111701627680706" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></a></div><div style="text-align: center; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:x-small;">So you have an idea of scale, my picture is hug on the wall to the left above the pink chair that needs to be recovered. How do you decide what fabric to recover a chair in?</span></div><div style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "></span></div></span></div>Rachel Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03529595454869519018noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2787198928716701208.post-37566207724264992372011-01-31T07:18:00.000-08:002011-01-31T07:22:12.893-08:00Monday Morning<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_hbWm1jNNxMQ/TUbS623zk_I/AAAAAAAAAxE/lmg9iQjMTzg/s1600/Photo%2B460.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_hbWm1jNNxMQ/TUbS623zk_I/AAAAAAAAAxE/lmg9iQjMTzg/s400/Photo%2B460.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5568369897894024178" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">If this is what Monday morning looks like I can only imagine what this week has in store!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">(at last they both have stripes ... that bodes well)</span></div>Rachel Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03529595454869519018noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2787198928716701208.post-35983998832741000012011-01-27T05:00:00.000-08:002011-01-27T05:00:13.312-08:00In This House #2This is what a lap full of relaxation looks like.<div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_hbWm1jNNxMQ/TTiCElwkAkI/AAAAAAAAAw8/tebiBxyg4A0/s400/IMG_2390.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5564340354983133762" /><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Recorded TV</span></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Laptop with endless possibilities</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">mug of Red Rose tea </span></div>Rachel Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03529595454869519018noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2787198928716701208.post-42668426057113295252011-01-25T10:10:00.000-08:002011-01-25T10:54:22.497-08:00Treasure Find Tuesday<div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div><img src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_hbWm1jNNxMQ/TThe-H137DI/AAAAAAAAAwM/fo-_KW5vLmo/s400/IMG_2392.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5564301760966159410" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 132px; " /><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; ">I have a thing for glassware. I don't know how I get off collecting so many breakables when I know we will be moving about, but when these four heavyweight tumblers caught my eye at Goodwill I couldn't say no. I didn't go crazy for them just because pink glass is gorgeous light, feminine, and refreshing. These glasses remind me of the glasses pictured below that are a staple at my parents house.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_hbWm1jNNxMQ/TThf2Bwr0kI/AAAAAAAAAws/aQmq6ytT6GA/s400/IMG_1825.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5564302721406456386" /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; ">They have light and dark green goblets. I can't believe I stumbled across light pink!</span></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_hbWm1jNNxMQ/TThe_7zBltI/AAAAAAAAAwk/m6XiPeHy_jk/s1600/IMG_2395.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_hbWm1jNNxMQ/TThe_7zBltI/AAAAAAAAAwk/m6XiPeHy_jk/s400/IMG_2395.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5564301792092722898" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_hbWm1jNNxMQ/TThe_YD0KGI/AAAAAAAAAwc/wc-Fvv4D_Do/s1600/IMG_2399.JPG"></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_hbWm1jNNxMQ/TThe-ktvbLI/AAAAAAAAAwU/jc6nzR4-ECo/s1600/IMG_2400.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_hbWm1jNNxMQ/TThe-ktvbLI/AAAAAAAAAwU/jc6nzR4-ECo/s400/IMG_2400.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5564301768716676274" /></a>The thick glass bottoms give a pleasant weightiness. I appreciate how substantial they are, it somehow makes every sip seem more important. </div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_hbWm1jNNxMQ/TThe_YD0KGI/AAAAAAAAAwc/wc-Fvv4D_Do/s400/IMG_2399.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5564301782499469410" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px; " /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; ">This is what the flash looks like inside the glass. Pretty funky huh? Oh and did I mention they were only 79 cents apiece? Yeah. AMAZING!</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; ">If I were going to splurge on drinking glasses I would go with <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/55495185/set-of-six-tumblers-made-from-recycled?ref=sr_gallery_4&ga_search_query=recycled+wine+bottle&ga_search_type=category&category=housewares&ga_page=&order=&includes%5B0%5D=tags&includes%5B1%5D=title&filter%5B0%5D=handmade&filter%5B1%5D=housewares">these recycled beauties </a></span></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_hbWm1jNNxMQ/TThe-H137DI/AAAAAAAAAwM/fo-_KW5vLmo/s1600/IMG_2392.JPG"></a></div>Rachel Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03529595454869519018noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2787198928716701208.post-10659750481177722552011-01-19T12:54:00.000-08:002011-01-20T10:17:06.923-08:00In This House #1There is no such thing as too many bubbles.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_hbWm1jNNxMQ/TTC4SjzsTlI/AAAAAAAAAv8/zc48In10Zi0/s1600/IMG_1609.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 336px; height: 400px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_hbWm1jNNxMQ/TTC4SjzsTlI/AAAAAAAAAv8/zc48In10Zi0/s400/IMG_1609.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5562148168791772754" /></a>Rachel Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03529595454869519018noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2787198928716701208.post-70803691378303091352011-01-14T12:19:00.000-08:002011-01-15T15:14:29.369-08:00Fill in the blank Friday<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_hbWm1jNNxMQ/TTC2FpH1bGI/AAAAAAAAAvs/tFWsYSNBSho/s1600/IMG_1614.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 150px; height: 200px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_hbWm1jNNxMQ/TTC2FpH1bGI/AAAAAAAAAvs/tFWsYSNBSho/s200/IMG_1614.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5562145747856878690" /></a><!--StartFragment--> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:20.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style=" color: rgb(68, 68, 68); font-family:Georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">1. </span></span><span style=" color: rgb(68, 68, 68); font-family:Georgia-Bold;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> I feel happy when </span></b></span><span style=" color: rgb(68, 68, 68); font-family:Georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> </span></span><span style=" color: rgb(68, 68, 68); font-family:CourierNewPSMT;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> my house smells like warm banana bread. I feel happy when I am thinking of my grandparents and remembering all of my special moments with them. I feel happy anytime Chris and I hug – even if it is because I am extremely upset. I feel super happy when I am with my friends - extra bonus if we are in New York or drinking tea. <o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:20.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style=" color: rgb(68, 68, 68); font-family:Georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> </span></span><span style=" color: rgb(68, 68, 68); font-family:Georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">2. </span></span><span style=" color: rgb(68, 68, 68); font-family:Georgia-Bold;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">I get silly when</span></b></span><span style=" color: rgb(68, 68, 68); font-family:Georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> </span></span><span style=" color: rgb(68, 68, 68); font-family:CourierNewPSMT;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> I am working. When I am doing what I love and am encouraging others to not be afraid to be creative and express themselves. </span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:20.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style=" color: rgb(68, 68, 68); font-family:Georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> </span></span><span style=" color: rgb(68, 68, 68); font-family:Georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">3. </span></span><span style=" color: rgb(68, 68, 68); font-family:Georgia-Bold;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Something that makes me sad is </span></b></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: CourierNewPSMT; color: rgb(68, 68, 68); ">When people are too selfish to consider others safety and make foolish decisions.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:20.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" color: rgb(68, 68, 68); font-family:CourierNewPSMT;"></span><span style=" color: rgb(68, 68, 68); font-family:Georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">4. </span></span><span style=" color: rgb(68, 68, 68); font-family:Georgia-Bold;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Something that makes me annoyed is </span></b></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" color: rgb(68, 68, 68); font-family:CourierNewPSMT;">when people are angry about little things and try to get you to be angry about them as well. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:20.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" color: rgb(68, 68, 68); font-family:CourierNewPSMT;"></span><span style=" color: rgb(68, 68, 68); font-family:Georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">5. </span></span><span style=" color: rgb(68, 68, 68); font-family:Georgia-Bold;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">A time that I've been truly surprised was </span></b></span><span style=" color: rgb(68, 68, 68); font-family:Georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"></span></span><span style=" color: rgb(68, 68, 68); font-family:CourierNewPSMT;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">when my nephew first spoke to me. I spent a lot of time with him as a baby and was used to talking to him. One day while driving him in the car I asked him a question and he responded like a real grown up person! It was bizarre.</span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:20.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style=" color: rgb(68, 68, 68); font-family:Georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> </span></span><span style=" color: rgb(68, 68, 68); font-family:Georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">6. </span></span><span style=" color: rgb(68, 68, 68); font-family:Georgia-Bold;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">I am so thankful for </span></b></span><span style=" color: rgb(68, 68, 68); font-family:Georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> </span></span><span style=" color: rgb(68, 68, 68); font-family:CourierNewPSMT;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">my mom and dad’s ability and willingness to text message. I love being able to keep in touch about the little things going on.</span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:20.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style=" color: rgb(68, 68, 68); font-family:Georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: normal; "><span style=" color: rgb(68, 68, 68); font-family:Georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">7.</span></span><span style=" color: rgb(68, 68, 68); font-family:Georgia-Bold;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> I feel loved when </span></b></span><span style=" color: rgb(68, 68, 68); font-family:Georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> </span></span><span style=" color: rgb(68, 68, 68); font-family:CourierNewPSMT;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">I get mail. I LOVE mail. </span></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:20.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: normal; "><span style=" color: rgb(68, 68, 68); font-family:CourierNewPSMT;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">You can find more blanks at Lauren's Blog <a href="http://thelittlethingswedo.blogspot.com/">the little things we do</a></span></span></span></p> <!--EndFragment-->Rachel Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03529595454869519018noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2787198928716701208.post-49673909439586353322011-01-12T10:14:00.000-08:002011-01-12T16:01:55.541-08:00Just Make It UpI<div>M</div><div>P</div><div>R</div><div>O</div><div>V I S A T I O N</div><div><br /></div><div>This afternoon I will be teaching a class that is part of a six week program without an end goal. I'm going to talk with the head of the program so I can have a better idea of what they want their students to get out of the experience. For today I am just going to make it up. This may seem a little irresponsible, but I guarantee it is not <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">(I still have a lesson plan and training to back me up)</span>. We are going to enjoy our hour by learning about and exploring improvisation. We all have to improvise in life. None of our personal daily conversations are scripted ... unless maybe you are on reality TV =). Recently I have observed a few grown people who seem afraid to commit to who they are and make themselves vulnerable. I consider it a shame to be fearful of yourself. I'm hoping that our work with improv will help these kids realize it's healthy to put yourself on the line and see what you come up with. You often are surprised at how strong you actually are. If I could grant people a personality trait, I would def consider granting them self confidence. Imagine what we could do if we were never afraid of ourselves! performing improv in front of a group can be terrifying, but it is terrifying in a good way. I haven't always been confident myself, but I guarantee you I am much happier when I am. I think Julie Andrews via The Sound of Music is a prime example that confidence and a positive attitude can take you far.</div><div><br /></div><div>Are you a super planner or do you make things up as you go?</div><div>How do you boost your confidence in order to accomplish things you are afraid of or timid about?</div><div><br /></div><div>happy new year</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Rachel Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03529595454869519018noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2787198928716701208.post-27037459773014601372011-01-11T06:42:00.000-08:002011-01-12T09:07:37.178-08:00appreciation of little things<div style="text-align: left;">My snow boots came in the mail the night before a heavy snow. Tramping through fluffy crunchy snow is a joy when you don't have to deal with sloppy soggy shoes. Bring it on winter. It is easy to complain about snow. I've heard a lot of moaning and groaning. I can't complain because I prayed my whole childhood to get those white sparkly crystals to come down.</div><div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_hbWm1jNNxMQ/TS3e80GiUKI/AAAAAAAAAvc/1phx21ec3qI/s400/IMG_1573.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5561346251232006306" /></div><div><br /></div>Rachel Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03529595454869519018noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2787198928716701208.post-81697458337211546522010-12-15T06:31:00.000-08:002010-12-15T08:51:27.977-08:00Best Christmas Present<div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_hbWm1jNNxMQ/TP-Z-UVTjzI/AAAAAAAAAvQ/KPHZuDM8zPc/s1600/IMG_1538.JPG"></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_hbWm1jNNxMQ/TP-Z9BTGCQI/AAAAAAAAAvA/tTLj4hVyB84/s1600/IMG_1534.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_hbWm1jNNxMQ/TP-Z9BTGCQI/AAAAAAAAAvA/tTLj4hVyB84/s400/IMG_1534.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5548322539543333122" /></a><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_hbWm1jNNxMQ/TP-Z80Gf4qI/AAAAAAAAAu4/7gKdw0ky8As/s400/IMG_1533.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5548322536000840354" /><div><div style="text-align: center;"><!--StartFragment--> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left:.25in">car, plane, taxi, confidant footsteps, peaceful chaos, pizza, familiar thrifts, catching up with clowns, COFFEE, Potter. Staying up late, getting up early, soothing subway rides, walking, walking, walking, window shopping, satisfied cravings, stunning cozy apartments, glowing lights, friendly strangers, worthy lines, freezing time, cupcakes, missed stops, beautiful friends, meaningful memories, shopping shopping, margaritas, wacky games, fits of laughter, central park, goat cheese, fuzzy pillows, icy encounters, steak and eggs, steamed almond milk, video games, pizza, taxi, plane, home to husband, bliss bliss bliss</p> <!--EndFragment--> </div></div><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_hbWm1jNNxMQ/TP-Z-UVTjzI/AAAAAAAAAvQ/KPHZuDM8zPc/s1600/IMG_1538.JPG"><img src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_hbWm1jNNxMQ/TP-Z-UVTjzI/AAAAAAAAAvQ/KPHZuDM8zPc/s400/IMG_1538.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5548322561832750898" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px; " /></a><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_hbWm1jNNxMQ/TP-Z9ndJm1I/AAAAAAAAAvI/6YmuXxFXUXg/s1600/IMG_1537.JPG"><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_hbWm1jNNxMQ/TP-Z9ndJm1I/AAAAAAAAAvI/6YmuXxFXUXg/s400/IMG_1537.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5548322549786057554" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px; " /></a></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#0000EE;"><u><br /></u></span></div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_hbWm1jNNxMQ/TP-Z9ndJm1I/AAAAAAAAAvI/6YmuXxFXUXg/s1600/IMG_1537.JPG"></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_hbWm1jNNxMQ/TP-YAJHPF-I/AAAAAAAAAuw/yYtXmCL6e_M/s1600/IMG_2320.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_hbWm1jNNxMQ/TP-YAJHPF-I/AAAAAAAAAuw/yYtXmCL6e_M/s400/IMG_2320.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5548320394157430754" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_hbWm1jNNxMQ/TP-X_mnzTxI/AAAAAAAAAuo/24eu6dPRA-s/s1600/IMG_2324.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_hbWm1jNNxMQ/TP-X_mnzTxI/AAAAAAAAAuo/24eu6dPRA-s/s400/IMG_2324.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5548320384898780946" /></a><br /></div>Rachel Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03529595454869519018noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2787198928716701208.post-13187208455915294202010-11-15T10:35:00.000-08:002010-11-17T07:04:51.600-08:00Speaking of Spontaneity<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_hbWm1jNNxMQ/TOPuPXIYZQI/AAAAAAAAAug/e-7EjhI9WxM/s1600/062709_1725.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_hbWm1jNNxMQ/TOPuPXIYZQI/AAAAAAAAAug/e-7EjhI9WxM/s400/062709_1725.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5540533914270459138" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_hbWm1jNNxMQ/TOIFN3LaX9I/AAAAAAAAAuI/9LptZpjD0PM/s1600/062709_1722.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_hbWm1jNNxMQ/TOIFN3LaX9I/AAAAAAAAAuI/9LptZpjD0PM/s400/062709_1722.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5539996227327385554" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:'times new roman';font-size:small;">Sometimes you just need to quit talking about it and actually buy a plane ticket already! Chris and I figured out the PERFECT Christmas gifts for each other. We have everything we really need and want together in Ohio, so we are getting each other trips to see our friends! I've mentio</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:'times new roman';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">ned </span></span><a href="http://rachelmonks.blogspot.com/2010/10/fill-in-bank-fridy.html"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">before</span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"> how bummed we've been to be away from the people who know us best and we figure it is just ridiculous for us not to do anything about it.</span></span> <p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'times new roman';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">We dated long distance for five years. We looked forward to being under the same roof for so long, now that we’ve got our wish we do our best not to take it for granted. There is nothing I love more than spending time with my husband. Though we love our time together, we both appreciate our time apart. It may seem funny, but spending time apart now is exciting because it reminds us of the fun we had while dating. We know that the time we spend apart only brings us closer together. Phone calls, texts, and of course a reunion at the end! Nothing is better than coming home to the person you love. I am super excited about taking advantage of my Christmas gift this week and super excited about coming home too!</span></span></p> <!--EndFragment-->Rachel Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03529595454869519018noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2787198928716701208.post-72935170547277571682010-11-12T15:38:00.000-08:002010-11-12T16:04:04.321-08:00Fill in the b_ank Frid_y<div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Thanks again to </span><a href="http://thelittlethingswedo.blogspot.com/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Lauren</span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> at th</span><a href="http://thelittlethingswedo.blogspot.com/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">e little things we do</span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> for inviting us all to tag along.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 26px; "><span style="font-family: Georgia; color: rgb(68, 68, 68); "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">1. </span></span><span style="font-family: Georgia-Bold; color: rgb(68, 68, 68); "><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> The most spontaneous thing I've ever done was …</span></b></span><span style="font-family: Georgia-Bold; color: rgb(68, 68, 68); "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: CourierNewPSMT; color: rgb(68, 68, 68); "><u><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Last year I created a drama workshop and bought an unlimited plane ticket. I traveled all over the country for a month visiting the people I love while doing the work I love. Chris was at ASBC in Alabama and I wasn’t going to sit around by myself in Ohio. It took a bit of planning to get my dates nailed down, but the idea itself spontaneously came to me as soon as I heard about the airline deal. I love routine, but I also love breaking out of routine to go on fun adventures. Try it, it builds character and keeps you from losing your mind.</span></u></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> </span><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:20.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family: Georgia; color: rgb(68, 68, 68); "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">2. </span></span><span style="font-family: Georgia-Bold; color: rgb(68, 68, 68); "><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">The best gift I've ever received was… </span></b></span><span style="font-family: CourierNewPSMT; color: rgb(68, 68, 68); "><u><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">my grandmothers wedding band. It makes me happy to have something so precious on me at all times that reminds me of my grandparents. It has a history of love. It makes our love feel all the more powerful.</span></u></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:20.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family: Georgia; color: rgb(68, 68, 68); "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">3. </span></span><span style="font-family: Georgia-Bold; color: rgb(68, 68, 68); "><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">A time that I was truly and genuinely surprised was… </span></b></span><span style="font-family: CourierNewPSMT; color: rgb(68, 68, 68); "><u><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">when I was approached by NYU. Never in my wildest dreams did I think I wanted to go to school in the city or that the city would want me. I am beyond grateful for the opportunity. I will cherish every moment good and bad I had there for the rest of my life.</span></u></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:20.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family: Georgia; color: rgb(68, 68, 68); "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">4. </span></span><span style="font-family: Georgia-Bold; color: rgb(68, 68, 68); "><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">I can't leave the house without … </span></b></span><span style="font-family: CourierNewPSMT; color: rgb(68, 68, 68); "><u><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">lipgloss. I ALWAYS have a few tubes of Burt’s Bees going</span></u><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">.</span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:20.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family: Georgia; color: rgb(68, 68, 68); "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">5. </span></span><span style="font-family: Georgia-Bold; color: rgb(68, 68, 68); "><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">My favorite day of the week is </span></b></span><span style="font-family: Georgia; color: rgb(68, 68, 68); "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: CourierNewPSMT; color: rgb(68, 68, 68); "><u><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> any week day </span></u></span><span style="font-family: Georgia-Bold; color: rgb(68, 68, 68); "><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">because </span></b></span><span style="font-family: CourierNewPSMT; color: rgb(68, 68, 68); "><u><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">I am a sucker for morning talk shows and un-crowded places. I love being able to run errands or go to the movies without dealing with a mob.</span></u></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:20.0pt;mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none;text-autospace:none"><span style="font-family: Georgia; color: rgb(68, 68, 68); "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">6. </span></span><span style="font-family: Georgia-Bold; color: rgb(68, 68, 68); "><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Something that can always make me laugh is…</span></b></span><span style="font-family: Georgia; color: rgb(68, 68, 68); "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: CourierNewPSMT; color: rgb(68, 68, 68); "><u><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Chris laughing. He laughs </span><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">all the time </span></b></u></span><span style="font-family: CourierNewPSMT; color: rgb(68, 68, 68); "><u><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">long and loud and clear just like Uncle Albert in Mary Poppins. Even if I don’t think something is funny I end up laughing anyway as soon as I look at him, its contagious.</span></u></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Georgia; color: rgb(68, 68, 68); "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">7.</span></span><span style="font-family: Georgia-Bold; color: rgb(68, 68, 68); "><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> My perfect day would include … </span></b></span><span style="font-family: CourierNewPSMT; color: rgb(68, 68, 68); "><u><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Waking up in NYC. Laughing at brunch with friends. Swinging by Texas to take my nephew and niece to an arcade before swimming and Snowcones. Spending the evening in Oregon with my aunt admiring the mountain and drinking wine. Falling asleep somewhere under the stars with Chris. It’s pretty unrealistic, but so is perfection. It doesn’t mean we can’t strive for it. </span></u></span></p> <!--EndFragment--> </div>Rachel Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03529595454869519018noreply@blogger.com1