tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-85012177217176371452024-03-05T10:10:33.462-08:00MY TANGERINE DREAMSA little look into my life, my family,my dreams, and my style.Christinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01251353725581264453noreply@blogger.comBlogger170125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8501217721717637145.post-64567418333069826342013-04-10T18:00:00.002-07:002013-04-10T18:00:50.231-07:00The Wedding<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></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/AVvXsEg18trFpIB05bT2fFu89atxT9u46K5SmKthlOovUy2Gckc035JeWkVezRGGz-5RcZVoLUwRu7tV3dmcFn_1yG3vLTsQCrM8vs9Pyz3P94hWW63SfQmiWGj8ZPq0eI54hFNPjp3gnQ4uAwg/s1600/Copy+of+251030_2099003752096_1155459932_2530179_5895529_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="368" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg18trFpIB05bT2fFu89atxT9u46K5SmKthlOovUy2Gckc035JeWkVezRGGz-5RcZVoLUwRu7tV3dmcFn_1yG3vLTsQCrM8vs9Pyz3P94hWW63SfQmiWGj8ZPq0eI54hFNPjp3gnQ4uAwg/s400/Copy+of+251030_2099003752096_1155459932_2530179_5895529_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></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: left;"> Here we are.....the blessed couple getting married <b>May 25, 2013</b>. We have been engaged for two years and finally everything is coming together for the big day. We are both really excited about it. Which is really funny because neither of us thought we would ever get married again. After my divorce I would tell my friends it would take someone really special to change my mind about getting married. When I said it I truly believed there was not a man in the world that would treat me the way I felt I deserved to be treated. And then Mr. MM found me again. 28 years after we first dated in in High School and he still held me in his heart. There is not a day that goes by that we are not aware of how blessed we are. We realize that most people do not ever experience this big amazing love that we share. We are so happy and content and we talk about how we wish everyone we love could have this type of love because everyone deserves to have it. Even if they don't think they do. </span></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ6kgfdwlL-1XGLfpjP3GUYSH6mB27pSBsqVOUFTzRBRb9N8_AYNNG0WSKXLTS_Ty4BteW8R-RoxLqG6d-lT0xB02R0jaXmL0VwbLxeaXDVzQlxrBOAx7OaJtKigIyV4DjaPn39Stxcfo/s1600/e2169bfcf1b3ed042c2b3660b8f1f3bc.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ6kgfdwlL-1XGLfpjP3GUYSH6mB27pSBsqVOUFTzRBRb9N8_AYNNG0WSKXLTS_Ty4BteW8R-RoxLqG6d-lT0xB02R0jaXmL0VwbLxeaXDVzQlxrBOAx7OaJtKigIyV4DjaPn39Stxcfo/s640/e2169bfcf1b3ed042c2b3660b8f1f3bc.jpg" width="520" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
As I am planning this special day wonderful things have been happening. People are giving us help both with their hands, hearts, time and talents. One of my very dear friends since grade school said she would photograph it for us. She is an artist with her photography. We are so blessed that we will view our wedding through her eyes. The day I called the florist she had just canceled a huge wedding for the same date as ours because the bride was difficult to work with. The next day I met with her and we hit is off instantly. We just fit. If that makes sense? The above bouquet is the inspiration for my own bouquet. Can not wait to see what one of a kind creation Sara at <a href="http://bluedaffodilflowers.com/" target="_blank">Blue Daffodil</a> creates for me. She is so talented. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHg5m1sqLdwLjVWXWLFFRXST5rxcYhoEVdwIt_icKUPAGV5UwZRX171R8fW3_ddjSWoFR8HJqPsws7_BYCwjFbcuz4pUrm1uOYr0P-Vdl8S8LLVKtQqCzqQF-4Q3tSCjaWPiMsJy-XaWA/s1600/933cc9fe4f8c7a6a6f7eb4d5afa170dc.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHg5m1sqLdwLjVWXWLFFRXST5rxcYhoEVdwIt_icKUPAGV5UwZRX171R8fW3_ddjSWoFR8HJqPsws7_BYCwjFbcuz4pUrm1uOYr0P-Vdl8S8LLVKtQqCzqQF-4Q3tSCjaWPiMsJy-XaWA/s640/933cc9fe4f8c7a6a6f7eb4d5afa170dc.jpg" width="425" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Our wedding day is a holiday weekend so I was worried that the vendors I was hoping for would not be available due to being booked already. But everything is easily falling into place. We are having a small wedding with only 20 or so people- Mr. MM keeps adding people so that is why I say, or so. I have an appointment with <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Cake-Lady-Shoppe/193528900670320" target="_blank">The Cake Lady</a>, Linda on Friday. I can not wait to do the tasting and designing. I only wish Mr. was with me. I love this cake above. We will do it with real flowers though. </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/AVvXsEgnbuGeDKgyrA0l1ZrhjLEXcCr5uEbozaNVnaVpzfLwfz5kGLozzrDIxOnhM4Id9B8hb599ZMQCnYJN3LnQ8d_P8truE8KoYAHo6p1iJK5FkYndhDBFQWwKcYwNeRXMnLii3_civ_jnW5c/s1600/4e6dcab1195a735b205c4bb510a2fac6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="297" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnbuGeDKgyrA0l1ZrhjLEXcCr5uEbozaNVnaVpzfLwfz5kGLozzrDIxOnhM4Id9B8hb599ZMQCnYJN3LnQ8d_P8truE8KoYAHo6p1iJK5FkYndhDBFQWwKcYwNeRXMnLii3_civ_jnW5c/s400/4e6dcab1195a735b205c4bb510a2fac6.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We needed to find a nice outdoor spot for the ceremony and Sara the florist recommended we look at <a href="http://www.looneybean.com/bend-or" target="_blank">Looney Bean</a> coffee shop. It is right on the river and next door to the <a href="http://www.pinetavern.com/" target="_blank">Pine Tavern</a> where we will have dinner after the ceremony. Brent is the owner/operator there and a very kind person. After a few phone calls we worked together with a little compromise on both our parts and a lot of generosity on his part and we now have an amazing ceremony venue right on the river and an indoor back up plan in case it rains. If you are local and have not been there you must go. The coffee is amazing too. The folks at the Pine Tavern have been very accomodating and easy to work with also.The above photos are inspiration for our dinner table. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It feels as if every step of the way we have been blessed while planning our special day. It all makes me think of this quote......</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px;">“If you send out goodness from yourself, or if you share that which is happy or good within you, it will all come back to you multiplied ten thousand times...........The more love you give away, the more love you will have.” </span><div>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I truly believe this in life and in love. My friends and family have always described me as lucky or that I have an angel on my shoulder watching out for me. This may be true, but I also like to think that sometimes, if you make a good and right choice selflessly out of love, that love and kindness come back to you. I also find that the more I let go of outcomes and trying to control how something happens the better the outcome is. Sort of like letting the universe have control or as some people would say God or a Higher Power. The older I get the more I let go and the better my life is. And it is just getting better every day.</div>
Christinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01251353725581264453noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8501217721717637145.post-12224340017161355382013-03-18T08:14:00.001-07:002013-03-18T08:14:56.179-07:00Letting Go Today I have to do the most difficult part of our move. I have to adopt out our kitties. I am heart broken. I have been putting this off for as long as I can because the thought of saying good bye to them makes me so sad I just have not been able to face it. <div>
<br /></div>
<div>
It is funny how cats can drive you crazy sometimes and you think how easy life would be without the responsibility of animals to care for. But when the time comes that you actually have to follow through with letting them go an empty space begins to form in your heart. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimaXcejnRJ9Y5lP5X4qfLwx9cxV02HYyNr9LjynB16NSS-Dg8JtzRYqlYlFxzx3Lxf0sA1ZiG8-eCzCTvc4CFJ5YxC4gJ7oMJKsIl1xONNFR241JDjj4G_IVTpaLnoExMidEMwUjeLza4/s1600/Mobile+upload+366.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimaXcejnRJ9Y5lP5X4qfLwx9cxV02HYyNr9LjynB16NSS-Dg8JtzRYqlYlFxzx3Lxf0sA1ZiG8-eCzCTvc4CFJ5YxC4gJ7oMJKsIl1xONNFR241JDjj4G_IVTpaLnoExMidEMwUjeLza4/s400/Mobile+upload+366.jpg" width="383" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">MER MERS- Almost 15 years old<br /><div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
This sweet little girl has been a part of my life for almost 15 years. She was a gift from my ex-husband the summer before we married. Her mama was a stray Siamese cat that hung out at my ex's shop and she had a litter of 5 kittens. Mer Mers was the runt of the litter. She was a tiny, fuzzy, poof ball when I got her. She was so tiny when I brought her home that I would put her in my shirt pocket while I walked around my apartment because I was afraid I would lose her. She was perfectly happy all snuggled in my pocket, watching what I was doing. She used to snuggle up into my underarm at night to sleep. We named her Mer Mers because she used to make this little happy sound when was sleeping that sounded like merrr merrr. When the babies came along she would snuggle right next to them like she was their Mama. She seemed to want to protect them. As they grew into toddlers and started pulling her tail she was so tolerant and never got angry but would just walk away. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Needless to say, with all the snuggly love that I gave her she has turned into a really cuddly, loving cat. She will stare into your eyes and you can feel the love in her heart. She would sit on your lap all day long if you let her. She loves kids and small dogs too. At this age though she needs to be an only child. She gets annoyed with our 2 year old cat when he tries to play with her. She is old now. Which makes her slow and she can not hear well anymore either. She has to take thyroid medication once a day. I just crush it up into some wet food for her. She is really quiet and easy to have around. Every once in a while she will get crazy and run around playing, but it isn't often anymore. She is still really tiny and now with the thyroid trouble she is skinny and fragile. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I am looking for someone that needs a companion to sit on their lap. Someone that has a lot of love to give her during the last years of her life. I am also really hoping that someone would share custody with me. So when I am home in Bend for my 2 weeks we can have her at our place and then when I am in Alaska for two weeks you would have her with you. That would be the ideal situation for her too as I can not imagine how stressed she would be not having us in her life after so many years with us.<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiowAX12BxH_hbK9ICOoAnabeiJTtYf3fo1HeXfguVvOwbjpASpkScE9I8eUwkVr08WPswRJK7pIZqvMOsm8reQdaBhapPjJmvpnttZrrWGHW985aq0WNqCaZO_ONybqZd5wCnu14TKsEA/s1600/Copy+of+Mobile+upload+264.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiowAX12BxH_hbK9ICOoAnabeiJTtYf3fo1HeXfguVvOwbjpASpkScE9I8eUwkVr08WPswRJK7pIZqvMOsm8reQdaBhapPjJmvpnttZrrWGHW985aq0WNqCaZO_ONybqZd5wCnu14TKsEA/s400/Copy+of+Mobile+upload+264.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption">JACK- Almost 2 years old</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /> And then there is Jack our 2 year old. We adopted him from the Humane Society thinking that it would help Mer Mers to have a friend around while we were at work. We had just moved into our current house and she was feeling out of sorts and sort of acting strange. We went to the Humane Society and picked out different cats to bring into the play room with us. We didn't connect with any of them so we decided to try another day. As we were walking out my oldest daughter Claire begged us to look at just one more cat. His name was Jack and he was really sweet. The funny thing was that both my fiance and I had noticed that he was the only cat in a cage that was facing out and watching everyone walk by his cage. All the other cats had their backs turned or were not interested in the people around them. When we went up to his cage he looked us in the eyes just like Mer Mers does. We brought him into the play room and he immediately connected with us. Playing and loving on the girls. Jumped up to sit next to my fiance. We were done for. We put in a request to adopt him and brought him home the next day. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
We did a slow introduction with Mer Mers and they get along okay. She is just too old to tolerate a kitten anymore. Jack is full of energy yet he loves his naps. He has his own kitty bed that is near the fireplace and when you are wondering where he is you can usually find him there. He loves to go outside and watch the birds. He does hunt too. We have had a couple of birds make it inside and one or two mice. He would love to have a companion to play with I think. He tried so hard with our old lady, but to no avail. He also is quite cuddly and love to snuggle up with us when we are watching TV at night. He would make a family very happy. He is really sweet and cute too. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Well, that is my sadness today. I hope that I can find good homes for both of our lovely kitties. They deserve the best. If you live in the area and are interested or know of someone who is please leave me a comment and I will get back to you. We move into our new place March 31st so I need the new homes sorted out by then. Now off to do some more packing and crying.<br /><br />
<br /></div>
Christinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01251353725581264453noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8501217721717637145.post-8104634062447468442013-03-14T12:26:00.000-07:002013-03-14T12:26:01.018-07:00The Outhouse in Alaska<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I thought it would be fun to share some pictures of our outhouse in Alaska. People have preconceived notions about outhouses. I know I did. So one of the biggest changes that Mr. MM made for me was making a nice outhouse. We house our generator in here so it is always warm. Yes, even the toilet seat. For some reason I did not get a photo of the inside once it was finished. So picture a nice counter top over the barrel with a rounded edge on it. And a toilet seat attached to the counter. It is pretty comfy really. I have a toilet paper holder attached to the wall. We keep a box of Charmin wipes out there and Clorox clean-ups to wipe the counter and seat down. We put cat litter deodorant down in the hole so it doesn't smell bad like most outhouses you use. This summer I am going to paint the inside of the door, and possibly the walls, with chalkboard paint so everyone can sign the door or leave funny little sayings. I am also going to leave a little book with funny sayings or inspirational quotes in there for quick reading. </div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyKniwcj8vCHZNWPEFAfDDP5iRKfZzR1xcyOdtGIevWEP-0xyEHGAm64moMUnVKSCEk7RGQ8Fs0ecmDBVPPE4V9tBqZpDp3ymw_W_QRi2-lD4x1yFqdicJgT_YWejomwd-X99BmXYcPlU/s1600/IMG_0293.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyKniwcj8vCHZNWPEFAfDDP5iRKfZzR1xcyOdtGIevWEP-0xyEHGAm64moMUnVKSCEk7RGQ8Fs0ecmDBVPPE4V9tBqZpDp3ymw_W_QRi2-lD4x1yFqdicJgT_YWejomwd-X99BmXYcPlU/s640/IMG_0293.JPG" width="385" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">During the Building Process.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOjQXt3n8QiT_luJqe8lPCeZxZK5jQ2eyBqI9PVL_3U5_cT5HcBVdJNCsCyjuigroeaCVeXn4R9cC5u7RoPPPNpNpazOQXXRgPmh_VmxZpcJWQCi5Nh2tUHVJWTjJXCRhGlXTAjnP_mHE/s1600/IMG_0387.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="223" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOjQXt3n8QiT_luJqe8lPCeZxZK5jQ2eyBqI9PVL_3U5_cT5HcBVdJNCsCyjuigroeaCVeXn4R9cC5u7RoPPPNpNpazOQXXRgPmh_VmxZpcJWQCi5Nh2tUHVJWTjJXCRhGlXTAjnP_mHE/s400/IMG_0387.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Summer View<br /><br /><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv-qyzN5ILMu1IHkQ0duoEiRtjvOmRP_vBKdDDWPmJLcXqUI10Khlp0U3j6zNvQaCtsEOieiKRKHIm4x4411VJsFdBSVdyjkR-qpK8TKb8VEm56dO8UgBj9093FJyfmGDhoGMoPZKVTmM/s1600/Jan-March+2013+063.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv-qyzN5ILMu1IHkQ0duoEiRtjvOmRP_vBKdDDWPmJLcXqUI10Khlp0U3j6zNvQaCtsEOieiKRKHIm4x4411VJsFdBSVdyjkR-qpK8TKb8VEm56dO8UgBj9093FJyfmGDhoGMoPZKVTmM/s640/Jan-March+2013+063.jpg" width="478" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Winter View<br /><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtTAvyP2G4IVgygnrWZRFCONNbh19oTA2lQQ13AGpMzrZkATQwHgSbhR7cKqaHu_MJ9S-_LUwm1ngAwx7U6YsM3FNMOmiWdO8GQ3TK3MUzvHF2nOFMh7_WMZICSA5WtCGMSBF6nwrNBWA/s1600/Jan-March+2013+054.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtTAvyP2G4IVgygnrWZRFCONNbh19oTA2lQQ13AGpMzrZkATQwHgSbhR7cKqaHu_MJ9S-_LUwm1ngAwx7U6YsM3FNMOmiWdO8GQ3TK3MUzvHF2nOFMh7_WMZICSA5WtCGMSBF6nwrNBWA/s640/Jan-March+2013+054.jpg" width="500" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Morning View from the Outhouse Window<br /><br /><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRrZxDsFWBHbk_0dEsHSnExgUpF3xTKGsh5BOTP8n8mGXkr3ULHtCSLALx0Hr-tto7qWutRdeR_76RUA_6L3JqvAgALD9rMVualqGa4mIVhFn98hNisLfC5GdQSAd7eeCEIAO4sQDOj0k/s1600/Jan-March+2013+062.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRrZxDsFWBHbk_0dEsHSnExgUpF3xTKGsh5BOTP8n8mGXkr3ULHtCSLALx0Hr-tto7qWutRdeR_76RUA_6L3JqvAgALD9rMVualqGa4mIVhFn98hNisLfC5GdQSAd7eeCEIAO4sQDOj0k/s640/Jan-March+2013+062.jpg" width="472" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Afternoon View From the Outhouse</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiBL1d7bRx_k1m4sc-S-Cqk8ULQj_j7CGOCeOYgIm9bSsYokdy66sWNfgAyjcT8FQDYBEQguX_qG8oh44tWJVGGfaPVCgxzBXpg7UfYgHBOcUltfuYCAUgGdFD2xz6l9ycwP0Udj_MHq8/s1600/Jan-March+2013+053.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiBL1d7bRx_k1m4sc-S-Cqk8ULQj_j7CGOCeOYgIm9bSsYokdy66sWNfgAyjcT8FQDYBEQguX_qG8oh44tWJVGGfaPVCgxzBXpg7UfYgHBOcUltfuYCAUgGdFD2xz6l9ycwP0Udj_MHq8/s640/Jan-March+2013+053.jpg" width="478" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Moon In the Door</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2PmCnDdR6KqROKFG4ozk1XuIl9cv_8vLS5wea2ZnVi8_a7ubjo7TkPsEQ9Znc5-qyOihbOGLIH8OvukMNO08p84TvHO1tzN4sbOwSl4IkU6J4mrxR_NgOn-hKR9dv0G1Ydk1sLfR4xGk/s1600/IMG_0393.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="241" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2PmCnDdR6KqROKFG4ozk1XuIl9cv_8vLS5wea2ZnVi8_a7ubjo7TkPsEQ9Znc5-qyOihbOGLIH8OvukMNO08p84TvHO1tzN4sbOwSl4IkU6J4mrxR_NgOn-hKR9dv0G1Ydk1sLfR4xGk/s400/IMG_0393.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Where the Outhouse is Located Near the Cabin<br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Eventually the cabin will be shingled with white trim also. But first we want to have a wrap around deck put in. The stairs are temporary until the deck is in. Eventually the windows will be replaced with larger ones and the door will be painted the same blue at the roof. It is going to be such a nice looking, cozy little place when we are done with it. It is quite the slow project but it sure is fun planning the improvements. <div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
That is our little 4 wheel truck that gets us into the cabin during the summer. We have to park up at a gravel parking lot with our regular truck and switch to this heavy duty 4 wheel truck to get in to the cabin because the trails are pretty rutted and sometimes muddy. It is actually easier to get to the cabin by snow mobile in the winter. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Well, I hope you enjoyed this little peak of where we spend some time when we are in Alaska. I will be flying back up there April 23rd for another 2 week adventure. I wish everyone could see Alaska atleast once in their lifetime. It is even more beautiful and majestic than I ever imagined. I am so blessed that Mr. MM chose me to share it with him.</div>
</div>
Christinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01251353725581264453noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8501217721717637145.post-71924140124098566012013-02-25T05:00:00.000-08:002013-02-25T05:00:03.179-08:00My Two Favorite Teas- Tazo and PG Tips<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
There is nothing like an afternoon cup of tea. The British have a tea time and so do I. My tea time is always around 2:00 in the afternoon. This is the time of day that I start to fade. I am a morning person- early bird gets the worm- sort of girl. I generally can not sleep past 7:00 AM so by 2:00 I have been working seven hours and really need a pick me up.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I had an amazing coupon for <a href="http://www.tazo.com/" target="_blank">Tazo Tea</a> and decided to take a risk on the Cucumber White flavor. Oh my goodness it is good. It is a little minty, yet crisp with a hint of citrus. Dare I say like being at the spa? This is my new favorite herbal tea.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2CEPAosWigZDfiUj7fAXOq0abro5JTe831-sei0TZCFSS_Zkyl15cfz5RnhkSASTbbNdOie3y6pQ7FBw6I-AUOwT2hLa7NvlvBxxGVFb7hMNuSc1kHv6xD6WIhiB4dthuFY__jCCar4E/s1600/TAZ-21402-0.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2CEPAosWigZDfiUj7fAXOq0abro5JTe831-sei0TZCFSS_Zkyl15cfz5RnhkSASTbbNdOie3y6pQ7FBw6I-AUOwT2hLa7NvlvBxxGVFb7hMNuSc1kHv6xD6WIhiB4dthuFY__jCCar4E/s400/TAZ-21402-0.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Black tea is one of my comfort foods. My mom used to give it to us when we were sick. Always with cream and sugar. My favorite black tea is <a href="http://www.pgtips.co.uk/" target="_blank">PG Tips</a>. I find it less bitter than the American Lipton tea. It is sometimes hard to find in the States but we have a <a href="http://www.worldmarket.com/" target="_blank">Cost Plus- World Market</a> in my town so I can always find it there. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaKuzzb9-42jcUnzR7qX5SZlYRbG2QgN8YCn0qf0NERBEERbjJNEBCeUvg-S2C3qJ-Bs6glLYZmLlIYPNcO82-UwtDGp9RVIZHgSV71IKYfKmuD2BowRRJRCZutm9evdZnMsmaGssRPXU/s1600/pgtips.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="312" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaKuzzb9-42jcUnzR7qX5SZlYRbG2QgN8YCn0qf0NERBEERbjJNEBCeUvg-S2C3qJ-Bs6glLYZmLlIYPNcO82-UwtDGp9RVIZHgSV71IKYfKmuD2BowRRJRCZutm9evdZnMsmaGssRPXU/s320/pgtips.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I hope that you will give them a try and pour a cup around 2:00 so we can enjoy tea time together. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<br />
<br />Christinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01251353725581264453noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8501217721717637145.post-1146442821093306462013-02-22T09:33:00.000-08:002013-02-22T09:33:20.262-08:00Facebook Business Page Now OpenToday I opened up my Business Facebook Page. And in honor of the opening I wanted to offer everyone a glimpse of some of my creations so you will have an idea of my style and get some information as to what the future holds for <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/tangerinechic?ref=ss_profile" target="_blank">My Tangerine Chic Etsy Shop</a>. Enjoy your visit!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj16MgdmjaAMJspBDaW1TQ8gq_IH4SRDSBSDD10qufoeOoIjRF1Kel5G3RXgvUvpcJNXbDirFDDpYyse-f9P1sOXFKfi7kOneH4B5D3L4POKBtiz0DdbDIdDkzXqpGNHJAFcF7O8spELrQ/s1600/Picture+067.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj16MgdmjaAMJspBDaW1TQ8gq_IH4SRDSBSDD10qufoeOoIjRF1Kel5G3RXgvUvpcJNXbDirFDDpYyse-f9P1sOXFKfi7kOneH4B5D3L4POKBtiz0DdbDIdDkzXqpGNHJAFcF7O8spELrQ/s400/Picture+067.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Handmade Tags</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBUQvk0ag5HbVdgyN5R39Y_2sgpkPH2DsIc0X4E-o30guXc4iWKHZW6D3yuIFlNU6SZ78wRcMAUWBvwAPyFBGmIDDDX_pyWcW0Q7uT72TzAZ88MIRg50Nyyzs8ZAOXcKdVkDmtB0M4ne8/s1600/Picture+068.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBUQvk0ag5HbVdgyN5R39Y_2sgpkPH2DsIc0X4E-o30guXc4iWKHZW6D3yuIFlNU6SZ78wRcMAUWBvwAPyFBGmIDDDX_pyWcW0Q7uT72TzAZ88MIRg50Nyyzs8ZAOXcKdVkDmtB0M4ne8/s400/Picture+068.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I call these fortunettes. They are vintage spools and each one has an inspiring quote <br />wrapped around it. Great for a little gift for friends or family.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLQCG_AhQ3gogL3X1_wSmpsalRt0bRSYqJa997nT-qcFApoINleLvaCuqsSINgI6PedYundo1KvOqOAfTjCZyyk6-COj8M8QJjZl-mmMTJSZsRzXgoEHsuHCyYJq9BlrHk8ZJePpSAnto/s1600/Picture+058.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLQCG_AhQ3gogL3X1_wSmpsalRt0bRSYqJa997nT-qcFApoINleLvaCuqsSINgI6PedYundo1KvOqOAfTjCZyyk6-COj8M8QJjZl-mmMTJSZsRzXgoEHsuHCyYJq9BlrHk8ZJePpSAnto/s400/Picture+058.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">More Handmade Tags</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkctJWpAFse3PBVl576odS0zq1rSVd1fuMd7ZtDXL6aD4xqgBcxbHvW66_0ctbZD_1IPjfSUvPrYrOTzB19XxGjUuAEBCvrY0w3J9qEmcPzCQcDdk8rIJeRa4-qC4XUxTUdZibgJRf4uY/s1600/Picture+086.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkctJWpAFse3PBVl576odS0zq1rSVd1fuMd7ZtDXL6aD4xqgBcxbHvW66_0ctbZD_1IPjfSUvPrYrOTzB19XxGjUuAEBCvrY0w3J9qEmcPzCQcDdk8rIJeRa4-qC4XUxTUdZibgJRf4uY/s400/Picture+086.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hand Sewn Paper Bird Ornaments</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYpoLfvcaZ2jztsKZdixK_ap8Y-50lvx1fSqAyYrZMz31W3kKW1CU18RIuBFX5J8tNX5ItSITGk74xW7HTZo35dRVEZ-446LN3avrRdxUQBMzaPE6DdOMFxvSaUoZaSAJ-TsekWzE1v0k/s1600/Picture+070.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYpoLfvcaZ2jztsKZdixK_ap8Y-50lvx1fSqAyYrZMz31W3kKW1CU18RIuBFX5J8tNX5ItSITGk74xW7HTZo35dRVEZ-446LN3avrRdxUQBMzaPE6DdOMFxvSaUoZaSAJ-TsekWzE1v0k/s400/Picture+070.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">What the top of the spools look like</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJlmg7QRVIQLwoANvmu-wJVyEapKdewjwiHfoQtsg4rpgnCLZnRFPv3wtZfEtwcYEqFMEc3so2USRyuv1rcxrn-nGmws9nMy2ZxeDfywh9x4Pe92b9cO-vmp0ykcoDU_jqwGDFgFD9oJc/s1600/Picture+087.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJlmg7QRVIQLwoANvmu-wJVyEapKdewjwiHfoQtsg4rpgnCLZnRFPv3wtZfEtwcYEqFMEc3so2USRyuv1rcxrn-nGmws9nMy2ZxeDfywh9x4Pe92b9cO-vmp0ykcoDU_jqwGDFgFD9oJc/s400/Picture+087.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A bit of everything<br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
This is just a portion of what to expect in my shop. Of course I also have my vintage treasures, buttons, seam binding, cabinet cards, and other lovely vintage items to choose from.<br />
<br />
I am also setting up a shop to sell prints and cards of my original drawings. Both shops are still a work in progress but you gotta start somewhere. Have a joyfilled day!Christinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01251353725581264453noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8501217721717637145.post-56715751621525880712013-02-20T05:00:00.000-08:002013-02-20T05:00:12.798-08:00Love As I Know It<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI0c7D-ofU_cTYNwsx4v-WaZtrHK-Ntqi-H0KI35uOw2n7sXxzmkjbXsPGN5R7HM-EqE2PH_bkiATkiqQwRDRZBBi18cammZJtoy5HqTPhrksevcPDi0yIBQjSWAb_2gQuI8XiSeyBbV4/s1600/LoveasIknowit.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="148" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI0c7D-ofU_cTYNwsx4v-WaZtrHK-Ntqi-H0KI35uOw2n7sXxzmkjbXsPGN5R7HM-EqE2PH_bkiATkiqQwRDRZBBi18cammZJtoy5HqTPhrksevcPDi0yIBQjSWAb_2gQuI8XiSeyBbV4/s400/LoveasIknowit.png" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
I woke up this morning thinking of Mr. MM.....as usual.<br />
<br />
As I was lying there with my thoughts it occurred to me that one of the differences between soul mate love and the love I have had in the past is that love with Mr. MM brings out the best in both of us. We cheer each other on during difficult times instead of blaming each other for the difficulties. Even when times are tough and there are lots of scary changes in our future we still tell each other we are grateful for our relationship. We do not go a day with out saying I love you. Even when we may be irritated with each other. We are grateful to have each other as it would be much more difficult if we were not together and going through the same experience.<br />
<br />
We tend to take turns having bad days. If he is stressed I am cheering him on and looking at the bright side. If I am stressed he is telling me everything is going to be better than okay once we get through to the other side of it. The foundation of our relationship is that we are best friends first. We want the best for each other. We want to see the other person happy and are willing to do what it takes to get there.<br />
<br />
Don't get me wrong....we have had some extremely difficult times in the last 2 years. And I mean the kind of times that put your relationship to the test. But we passed the tests with flying colors. We learned that no matter the circumstance, we will love each other through it. The difficult times have made our trust in each other deeper and our relationship and love for each other even stronger. We both know that the other will not run away or get angry at the first sign of trouble.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlbWCI2Bw1clz3o_TdEUKi7bt4VpkzuZDxe8Cp1c8gmGtudxvDAZTXB2cmloyORFDfRsflCNquJqD5hDLm4Rjlqfp28q5fZwJIjDcQYrcSBJUj3YH_hjrXC1aA6vwN633-bwLfppjNuGU/s1600/296705_2137370045315_1578049797_2109492_1381737_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlbWCI2Bw1clz3o_TdEUKi7bt4VpkzuZDxe8Cp1c8gmGtudxvDAZTXB2cmloyORFDfRsflCNquJqD5hDLm4Rjlqfp28q5fZwJIjDcQYrcSBJUj3YH_hjrXC1aA6vwN633-bwLfppjNuGU/s320/296705_2137370045315_1578049797_2109492_1381737_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me & Mr. MM= Soul mates</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: left;">
This soul mate love is new to both of us. We are both in awe of it all the time. We talk about how blessed we are to have it. Neither one of us believed that this type of love existed outside of fairy tales and romantic movies.But here we are....together....living it out....best friends...taking on the world. </div>
<br />
Christinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01251353725581264453noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8501217721717637145.post-44691111588266036442013-02-17T09:00:00.000-08:002013-02-17T09:00:01.912-08:00Pinterest Addict Hello, I am Christina and I am a <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/" target="_blank">Pinterest</a> Addict. I have almost 5,000 photos "pinned" and just over 500 people "following" me. It is the first place I go when I wake up in the morning after I make my coffee. I would like to invite you to a glimpse of my addiction today. I hope I am a bad influence on you and you get the addiction too. If you would like to follow my account go <a href="http://pinterest.com/crfty1/pins/" target="_blank">here</a>, or click on the titles below and they will take you to a few of my boards-but be careful you may never leave.<br />
<br />
1. <a href="http://pinterest.com/crfty1/simply-lovely/" target="_blank">Simply Lovely Board</a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvru__uifFmAAnOZYx4nYTsYwbUovpvwR84mHxD3IPc8NTMGCNkHXKJuz9yBUk0wYIv3CcIAY3_HV6gtgAWjKyz4mA4f3ySiky6CompJcW_FG7LGityaRtI_Txcmv7gzSSWc5_U1z3KkE/s1600/simplylovelyboard.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvru__uifFmAAnOZYx4nYTsYwbUovpvwR84mHxD3IPc8NTMGCNkHXKJuz9yBUk0wYIv3CcIAY3_HV6gtgAWjKyz4mA4f3ySiky6CompJcW_FG7LGityaRtI_Txcmv7gzSSWc5_U1z3KkE/s640/simplylovelyboard.jpg" width="425" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
2. <a href="http://pinterest.com/crfty1/diy/" target="_blank">DIY Board</a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifNTVWwJc-Iyl7-EaGtPhpXmfeNcBO2QTrIb2I6KxQS-iDWoxhtYtZ6vfADA8JoyEks9B7drxVBCGArry_UgSyvGGAkyJaCIjheC2kS_aD_6r_ZRQnoL8xHei63lJLWDbHdYf_kA_kbzA/s1600/diyboard.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifNTVWwJc-Iyl7-EaGtPhpXmfeNcBO2QTrIb2I6KxQS-iDWoxhtYtZ6vfADA8JoyEks9B7drxVBCGArry_UgSyvGGAkyJaCIjheC2kS_aD_6r_ZRQnoL8xHei63lJLWDbHdYf_kA_kbzA/s640/diyboard.jpg" width="427" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
3. <a href="http://pinterest.com/crfty1/my-creative-journey/" target="_blank">My Creative Journey Board</a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjTUlr0oOi5wpzfPyvs1DdAdifkbQB7ZYwwN3mu41ueT4216frxcCJwDtON6JCT1z9P7RjkLIM0zwYYpNIJ-6XTr_7-YVEtXGYQ63QU89AMNnsZh45jgyCMkxfrV81zurVA6Ut56DvOvw/s1600/liveyourart.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjTUlr0oOi5wpzfPyvs1DdAdifkbQB7ZYwwN3mu41ueT4216frxcCJwDtON6JCT1z9P7RjkLIM0zwYYpNIJ-6XTr_7-YVEtXGYQ63QU89AMNnsZh45jgyCMkxfrV81zurVA6Ut56DvOvw/s640/liveyourart.jpg" width="512" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
4. <a href="http://pinterest.com/crfty1/inspiring-journal-pages/" target="_blank">Inspiring Journal Page Board</a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAhMxHvn9QwGLK8m-B7rv7GL98xtvWgQi4kWlb0xgCIchOPMGfUOrqQAFhQZOZuZEl6Lo5Fqcvk6x9flQI2nfhcjGQoaEFrkUXCPHtriS1t4Yl0A-JEEWdnS84c0wjBMBMCHdce47AY0g/s1600/journalpage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAhMxHvn9QwGLK8m-B7rv7GL98xtvWgQi4kWlb0xgCIchOPMGfUOrqQAFhQZOZuZEl6Lo5Fqcvk6x9flQI2nfhcjGQoaEFrkUXCPHtriS1t4Yl0A-JEEWdnS84c0wjBMBMCHdce47AY0g/s640/journalpage.jpg" width="499" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
5. <a href="http://pinterest.com/crfty1/eat-dessert-first/" target="_blank">Eat Dessert First Board</a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLc26Zg_q2qUpQDkXe_BJNoWJCJlPbZhHVifEFrHUjPZC_Mq-CCHYoC39lHyyESazPPxfJ71n5X9_z3p-1kxi076MskNf5_403qh4Dp0yWYuzqQbNI3flSjDu8cmqlRI1QVfN_oPb7rnY/s1600/eastdessertboard.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLc26Zg_q2qUpQDkXe_BJNoWJCJlPbZhHVifEFrHUjPZC_Mq-CCHYoC39lHyyESazPPxfJ71n5X9_z3p-1kxi076MskNf5_403qh4Dp0yWYuzqQbNI3flSjDu8cmqlRI1QVfN_oPb7rnY/s640/eastdessertboard.jpg" width="424" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
6. <a href="http://pinterest.com/crfty1/thoughts-on-life/" target="_blank">Thoughts On Life Board</a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdLTiKcuInGPJmQDhM92yHx49qiv0Q3ZNupuTTp1ZLws190m9fwTmHrrpV7CbV0X3E5UnYBODYfnyOKP1Dy0oFO_BfcQkEKrNrUv9ezBaCPsgVaWJ8d8OWmOHfyKlhMqzvImVAY5qjYvc/s1600/inspire.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdLTiKcuInGPJmQDhM92yHx49qiv0Q3ZNupuTTp1ZLws190m9fwTmHrrpV7CbV0X3E5UnYBODYfnyOKP1Dy0oFO_BfcQkEKrNrUv9ezBaCPsgVaWJ8d8OWmOHfyKlhMqzvImVAY5qjYvc/s640/inspire.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
7. <a href="http://pinterest.com/crfty1/my-jake/" target="_blank">My Jake Board</a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqzyI9JP-rOTy4JL1Ionmk-n4TVuQpuE6njKjzrHq0sY1IOTQIiRlyvCxAg7v9FSafsPSzI97j9C-rMwl9VnLnczT4SJxBK_vJQjwkP5rBt2oWB76poqlh4LwUn50C2cjN85A-rg8-Fwo/s1600/jakeboard.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqzyI9JP-rOTy4JL1Ionmk-n4TVuQpuE6njKjzrHq0sY1IOTQIiRlyvCxAg7v9FSafsPSzI97j9C-rMwl9VnLnczT4SJxBK_vJQjwkP5rBt2oWB76poqlh4LwUn50C2cjN85A-rg8-Fwo/s640/jakeboard.jpg" width="505" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Christinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01251353725581264453noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8501217721717637145.post-16912088291497593582013-02-15T10:41:00.002-08:002013-02-15T10:42:15.193-08:00I Am Stronger<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPP47E1bTim17bsFB6dKqrDFRUDlzTSrESASHa50FQMjt-AIgB_noRhDTuJjk2EPuKth74Xb0h5bBa-TQtnfg9OLlAzgEEX0pM8C4F6jvmJAuDFkPB9fCrnXze6iumIs38mn6uUimVHYY/s1600/stronger.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPP47E1bTim17bsFB6dKqrDFRUDlzTSrESASHa50FQMjt-AIgB_noRhDTuJjk2EPuKth74Xb0h5bBa-TQtnfg9OLlAzgEEX0pM8C4F6jvmJAuDFkPB9fCrnXze6iumIs38mn6uUimVHYY/s1600/stronger.png" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I wanted to share a quote that really inspired me while times were tough. I can honestly say that now that I am on the other side of the pain this quote is so true. I hope this resonates with you in some way today. </div>
<br />Christinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01251353725581264453noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8501217721717637145.post-22509428457447846972013-02-13T17:54:00.001-08:002013-02-13T17:54:31.902-08:00Alaska- A New Place For My Heart<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3dWJLM3JmesBkrwjhMcBdzkhfe_aArGf_yud1SLKndJjxzxkiMUPEmPgoXGB2pipdqE1L1JwJQ_XWhEQZQ9cIla52x2EKweQ9oZHpjEE_9HM26HTH2orI0NgiPh12nshViUDzmFIeJuo/s1600/alaskamap3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="293" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3dWJLM3JmesBkrwjhMcBdzkhfe_aArGf_yud1SLKndJjxzxkiMUPEmPgoXGB2pipdqE1L1JwJQ_XWhEQZQ9cIla52x2EKweQ9oZHpjEE_9HM26HTH2orI0NgiPh12nshViUDzmFIeJuo/s400/alaskamap3.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
I am taking a break in my story to let you all know that Alaska is in my future. In less than 2 weeks I get to meet my fiance ( A.K.A Mr. Mountain Man) up there and spend time at our cabin hanging with great friends while we look for our second home in the town of Soldotna and get Mr. Mountain Man --from here on out known as Mr. MM-- signed up for University of Alaska. The best part is the time I get to spend with Mr. MM of course, but boy I can not wait to get to our little cabin in the hills and snuggle up to a fire, listen to some good music, have a glass of wine and put my nose into a really good long book- Anna Karenina here I come.<br />
<br />
There may be a lot of changes happening in our lives that can be stressful at times but being in Alaska more often is definitely a HUGE bonus in this new adventure we are taking. I am feeling very grateful that I have a partner that takes things one day at a time and doesn't lose his cool when the going gets tough. He cheers me on when I get anxious and reminds me daily that with our love and team work we can do anything.Christinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01251353725581264453noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8501217721717637145.post-69326456463524439702013-02-11T09:41:00.003-08:002013-02-11T09:43:38.509-08:00Depression<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Continued from February 7th, 2013.............</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheEirYIufKR8g-Ug069Mv0-aDWY-fImMkNLU4RACWkt1YUPaFrRi0qN-WKw9ygVSZXm-VdV3qbRAZB8mp5lZGWIScE-ZlFFuhGB9vUtuMrYsU8wSwavQ5BojWN46PnR3Ub3AG-IAT3Y9E/s1600/depressionisnotasign.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheEirYIufKR8g-Ug069Mv0-aDWY-fImMkNLU4RACWkt1YUPaFrRi0qN-WKw9ygVSZXm-VdV3qbRAZB8mp5lZGWIScE-ZlFFuhGB9vUtuMrYsU8wSwavQ5BojWN46PnR3Ub3AG-IAT3Y9E/s1600/depressionisnotasign.png" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="text-align: left;"> </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="text-align: left;"> Weeks before I told my husband I wanted a divorce I had started going to therapy. Now I know some people think therapy is a bit much, or that it's too touchy feely, but I was desperate. I have suffered with anxiety and depression ever since I hit puberty as a teenager. It is hard to admit this in such a public forum but I am at a point in my life that I am ready to share the real me, and part of that real me is anxious and depressed sometimes. At the time of my divorce I was so full of anxiety and depression that I was having a hard time even getting out of bed. That is what I mean when I say I was desperate. I had to find out why I was in such a deep, dark hole before I couldn't get out of it. </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
When I first started therapy I didn't know why I was depressed. Sometimes there isn't a reason for it. Sometimes it is that the chemicals in your brain are not firing the happy chemicals so anxiety and depression can take over your thoughts and feelings. Or sometimes you are in such deep denial of what is happening in your life that eventually your mind and body have to take over in order for you to be desperate enough to make a change before you no longer can make a change. I have been on the abyss quite a few times in my life. With depression so bad that you think the only way out is to leave this world. I am not proud of these thoughts. They scare the crap out of me. But that is what my brain says when I am depressed. You want out of your misery and the misery you think you are causing the people you love. Depression lies to you and makes up the most negative thoughts you could think about your life and the people in it. It is cunning and a thief of joy. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
To Be Continued...........</div>
Christinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01251353725581264453noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8501217721717637145.post-26499967501987539182013-02-07T09:22:00.000-08:002013-02-07T09:23:02.261-08:00To Live a Life of Passion<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhIzArKRXeh1ZcuDKH5jES4HLQiyegtgw9y5vHXflos6qLxW2bxDYd6AXvbO42noRdSLdkSmqpVdvvI3AmL4c4Rj7Q9uRy8CHMnJNz6ZNE5QydZnLtEW3eqUAbK8bigHe-opxWgRPUEUM/s1600/Livewhatyoulove.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhIzArKRXeh1ZcuDKH5jES4HLQiyegtgw9y5vHXflos6qLxW2bxDYd6AXvbO42noRdSLdkSmqpVdvvI3AmL4c4Rj7Q9uRy8CHMnJNz6ZNE5QydZnLtEW3eqUAbK8bigHe-opxWgRPUEUM/s400/Livewhatyoulove.png" width="203" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
I have wanted to live this quote for the last 5 years but could not figure out how to get out of my every day rut of going to work at a job that sucked the life out of me, to make money, to exist in a marriage that was bad. For some reason turning 38 years old was my magic "time to make changes" number. It is when I started to really question the life I had made for myself. For heavens sake, what was the point of living this unhappy, unfulfilled life for another 38 years?<br />
<br />
So I started BIG! Really big- I told my husband I wanted a divorce. It was really scary and the most difficult thing I have ever been through. You know how some people say divorce is the easy way out? Well it's not, not easy at all. It is heart wrenching, painful, sad, overwhelming, exhausting, and out of this world scary. Yet at the same time it freed me up for joy. Joy I had never had. There was this little place in me that started to open up to the possibilities of what a joyful life could look like. It gave me the chance to actually be myself again. To reconnect with the young woman I used to be- full of life, a risk taker, traveler, lover, giver, and artist. It also freed me up to be a better mother to my children. More available to give them the love and joy they deserved too.<br />
<br />
It has been 5 years since my ex-husband moved out and 3 years since our divorce was final. My life continually becomes more fulfilling every day. I am not saying I haven't had difficult times that I wanted to curl up in a ball and sleep for days. I have had a lot of those. But I have less and less of them as time passes. I have more joy in my life than I did 5 years ago. All because I questioned myself if I was living up to my full joyfilled potential.<br />
<br />
To Be Continued...........Christinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01251353725581264453noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8501217721717637145.post-9787898658906098102013-02-01T10:54:00.000-08:002013-02-01T10:54:35.078-08:00Spread Joy<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIMRdRCvfl9CKvRvqyRvYjvjtW-JXFpwC7i5tDCBk7A7XWi5JrtbX8pXPQ7GXGaieUTEFUc_q64qlC88Y_HtZqFIsmEit4Nhh3iXR9VV1jEc6cCq2B8ldHTA_2YZRr73peFRPWAAEbiCY/s1600/b8c4b19b35b865820f06da4aec913b60.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIMRdRCvfl9CKvRvqyRvYjvjtW-JXFpwC7i5tDCBk7A7XWi5JrtbX8pXPQ7GXGaieUTEFUc_q64qlC88Y_HtZqFIsmEit4Nhh3iXR9VV1jEc6cCq2B8ldHTA_2YZRr73peFRPWAAEbiCY/s320/b8c4b19b35b865820f06da4aec913b60.png" width="247" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
I am the type of person that gets joy from giving joy. One of the things I love about the blog world is that there are like minded people out there that want to spread joy. I love seeing little acts of kindness in the world whether it be the cyber world or the real world.<br />
<br />
In our town we have a lot of public art and frequently someone will put a scarf or hat on a sculpture and decorate deer sculptures at Christmas time. Here are some examples of a few of the 30 plus installations we have-<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbubZtPTLj_k1zh-pIxNWnb91pIBqW1GX5YdMQtWrXm09nrFWtUaJpIHTSsJEzO9i_MOYNdIq-cForAJgy2QlSjZJOPycIUJPh2yl-EKPAt2xxj8BK16ANSD0ln5wG8nLuPrgl5ZjkPHU/s1600/art_web_detail_7dt4djqtha45.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="217" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbubZtPTLj_k1zh-pIxNWnb91pIBqW1GX5YdMQtWrXm09nrFWtUaJpIHTSsJEzO9i_MOYNdIq-cForAJgy2QlSjZJOPycIUJPh2yl-EKPAt2xxj8BK16ANSD0ln5wG8nLuPrgl5ZjkPHU/s320/art_web_detail_7dt4djqtha45.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Art by Richard Beyer</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjr9LkyIGLKVC0NenVlEHlKmLz4UFpRKlYTUjm3_3GiZOlsoDIbVDXp1eF90dBpHq8ZPf0SbVa0qsv6og27JufaccD-WEOsgpq5HRcEzhrDwy1mc-Yb6NcvjdDiC0_fY5cXFGQXrryGv0/s1600/big_ears_web_detail_9ywf8in9qhgw.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjr9LkyIGLKVC0NenVlEHlKmLz4UFpRKlYTUjm3_3GiZOlsoDIbVDXp1eF90dBpHq8ZPf0SbVa0qsv6og27JufaccD-WEOsgpq5HRcEzhrDwy1mc-Yb6NcvjdDiC0_fY5cXFGQXrryGv0/s320/big_ears_web_detail_9ywf8in9qhgw.jpg" width="287" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Big Ears by Joe Halko<br />
<br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWk1ObcdTXe3LfXcLE9F-bBbbgRlYwp9VtMSPFB36ayYO9PNMhqGNOimB-6ACbZGsjYrriBpYXm5MsDup7dNc0qdRRcIx7klByHX9Hdz38C-4HceIe_G_bUCWuv2n6Clyg7sBXl1RLVm4/s1600/Migration_web_detail_gu5af23ra6fb.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="227" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWk1ObcdTXe3LfXcLE9F-bBbbgRlYwp9VtMSPFB36ayYO9PNMhqGNOimB-6ACbZGsjYrriBpYXm5MsDup7dNc0qdRRcIx7klByHX9Hdz38C-4HceIe_G_bUCWuv2n6Clyg7sBXl1RLVm4/s320/Migration_web_detail_gu5af23ra6fb.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Migration by Hai Ying Wu</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
This always makes me smile so I wanted to find a way to make others smile and for them to pass it on. I found this little joy spreader download over at <a href="http://www.kindovermatter.com/2010/07/freebie-alert-printable-free.html" target="_blank">www.kindovermatter.com</a>. I doctored it up with a link to my blog and will have these little joy spreaders in my car with some tacks so I can post them all over Bend. It is a small gesture that only took a few minutes to make and print out. Guaranteed to make some people smile with joy!Christinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01251353725581264453noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8501217721717637145.post-85608378475095842262013-01-29T08:53:00.001-08:002013-01-29T08:53:45.747-08:00Our Alaska<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Today I thought I would share about our cabin in Alaska. It is about 40 minutes from Ninilchik, AK which is on the Kenai Peninsula south of Anchorage. We are about 1 hour and 15 minutes from Homer. The cabin was pretty much just a shell and Jess (my fiance) has worked hard to make it more livable. We have running water, a wood stove for heat, even hot water.But an outhouse is necessary for a bit longer. No internet, TV, and hardly any cell service. It is very peaceful, and beautiful like nothing I have ever experienced.We crave it and are unable to be there as much as we would like to.Everyone should see Alaska at least once in their lifetime. I am blessed to have this place to visit as often as we want to.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We have some amazing friends that have cabins up there too. Just wonderful, down to earth, no smoke and mirrors friends. It's hard to find good people like these. We pretty much hop around from cabin to cabin every night laughing, dancing, fire pit talking, eating and drinking too much. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Here are some photos I took back in July 2012-</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXrfdBMbmz9RlqAxrEfatQYeeyLpPP7Vnd7AqxoYjDH8eXMeNRaBhMNzLtgKkyc5sPRvaZ3R6l8tX36tHJf6Ladq7WTZtEFFI-zYitIUkp-87QGWfNBdNtjBZnFUUF9XF_R9M-arD1g6Y/s1600/IMG_0496.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXrfdBMbmz9RlqAxrEfatQYeeyLpPP7Vnd7AqxoYjDH8eXMeNRaBhMNzLtgKkyc5sPRvaZ3R6l8tX36tHJf6Ladq7WTZtEFFI-zYitIUkp-87QGWfNBdNtjBZnFUUF9XF_R9M-arD1g6Y/s320/IMG_0496.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I call these puffs. They are every where. I have not seen them<br />anywhere but in Alaska. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNo_y4vZK9Cy6juxHQ_tOb1t7JEjlLpn0T5QuPIAS0YwflpWui2b0IVMg7KwwpcRf3sr3PIXPGFMd9XnfeexJfkmTfnQ_b2PO_vioIEphb56332AhoM5BoK_H1i6DerAIiUFZ7bWYBiOw/s1600/IMG_0565.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="264" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNo_y4vZK9Cy6juxHQ_tOb1t7JEjlLpn0T5QuPIAS0YwflpWui2b0IVMg7KwwpcRf3sr3PIXPGFMd9XnfeexJfkmTfnQ_b2PO_vioIEphb56332AhoM5BoK_H1i6DerAIiUFZ7bWYBiOw/s320/IMG_0565.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our friends Renee and Scott. Great people to have in our lives. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEionQtT9g6vxMGmgk2lJFu3vhbI-mr-4T94x__Kt-87Yjv7tQv5uxK93NMl9eaFKGSztwhzgQHp5DQIiF1Hw5AsE1tyun4-SyN_4uW5sKmP9bXsGVsthaX50tQwt3jfcwxS4NFhIMAxM-Y/s1600/IMG_0535.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEionQtT9g6vxMGmgk2lJFu3vhbI-mr-4T94x__Kt-87Yjv7tQv5uxK93NMl9eaFKGSztwhzgQHp5DQIiF1Hw5AsE1tyun4-SyN_4uW5sKmP9bXsGVsthaX50tQwt3jfcwxS4NFhIMAxM-Y/s320/IMG_0535.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is Renee and Scott's fire pit and their sauna in the background. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYqOWILKHaa6B0pBQC64s_C6uXAynCBGsWbILk5pWzEvlZTCKM-RqwYQQebYLeqvnNPk7NEV6FVVon2savcci1m81jPblvvesrFeRdBNadeucD1_5UOcMd4WZxQrFR7ZDXHnPdv2YX7nE/s1600/IMG_0561.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYqOWILKHaa6B0pBQC64s_C6uXAynCBGsWbILk5pWzEvlZTCKM-RqwYQQebYLeqvnNPk7NEV6FVVon2savcci1m81jPblvvesrFeRdBNadeucD1_5UOcMd4WZxQrFR7ZDXHnPdv2YX7nE/s320/IMG_0561.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The firepit over at our friends Brian and Cindy's. Always a fun time<br />drinking too much and laughing even more. This was at 10 pm!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilZMu3fPj74fmftX-m8w7rDr0t3p_kK10VLhcLgFiO8jj2pMcuyW8iUGMrSWOXZJuFOd_5GZLJLPSHCYJZMrvpoGrtRrPTEtg9GuAozijRwFsxlP-8mzNssJcR-U52aCBT4qJBr40s5Og/s1600/IMG_0573.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilZMu3fPj74fmftX-m8w7rDr0t3p_kK10VLhcLgFiO8jj2pMcuyW8iUGMrSWOXZJuFOd_5GZLJLPSHCYJZMrvpoGrtRrPTEtg9GuAozijRwFsxlP-8mzNssJcR-U52aCBT4qJBr40s5Og/s320/IMG_0573.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjspDy2FhhGzO9LG1KOUYia1Q-A1dML_GLH5nirVSe4wretB7JpIiFY3YQnjwBCxHm5pSJhh9CV9AL71wRfDttSFshddmqfc5frmfzozLDvi6Bc0j8y_xsGqqSHMuF124tIuPZTMRJLO-s/s1600/IMG_0574.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="278" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjspDy2FhhGzO9LG1KOUYia1Q-A1dML_GLH5nirVSe4wretB7JpIiFY3YQnjwBCxHm5pSJhh9CV9AL71wRfDttSFshddmqfc5frmfzozLDvi6Bc0j8y_xsGqqSHMuF124tIuPZTMRJLO-s/s320/IMG_0574.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCzciBBpaXTNxjyaB8_aooEBNgBk02xZMkm-1C34kC87TXUASAAcxs3-rNziTFxdlhzLEcSGWY7vvzeyn28FmpMXzCkGT4zjiKuwdJgQV24Vk0_qcXcoKMYWZChwVbs8q3K4T4HW8Escs/s1600/IMG_0641.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCzciBBpaXTNxjyaB8_aooEBNgBk02xZMkm-1C34kC87TXUASAAcxs3-rNziTFxdlhzLEcSGWY7vvzeyn28FmpMXzCkGT4zjiKuwdJgQV24Vk0_qcXcoKMYWZChwVbs8q3K4T4HW8Escs/s320/IMG_0641.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our Cabin</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifJ3lWHVpHWKlKM-IjI1wrbXCjzwyd4_pOxknj0kmfDA94LtQceItawJq22RKU_3UQO4B5l6nL4Cep7_kgGNkspYcR_vqagRHnbWWHQkE_cE3Qu0y1BIz-l6yzc5e8IFIJDIsKQeyHNFw/s1600/IMG_0636.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifJ3lWHVpHWKlKM-IjI1wrbXCjzwyd4_pOxknj0kmfDA94LtQceItawJq22RKU_3UQO4B5l6nL4Cep7_kgGNkspYcR_vqagRHnbWWHQkE_cE3Qu0y1BIz-l6yzc5e8IFIJDIsKQeyHNFw/s320/IMG_0636.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our Backyard</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEix8FyKPMYwl7hY56dLYQsYlu2V0GUUktxjusVl9C1geO8F4rTE_myVZqi6M5AAjRDnoXElxKwL2onKWRv54-QTjILnxIZ3qQns7wXZ7JR-rXOLnUkLPKBDZ8SSbXhZjeS5oaEFy6FiRhA/s1600/IMG_0647.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEix8FyKPMYwl7hY56dLYQsYlu2V0GUUktxjusVl9C1geO8F4rTE_myVZqi6M5AAjRDnoXElxKwL2onKWRv54-QTjILnxIZ3qQns7wXZ7JR-rXOLnUkLPKBDZ8SSbXhZjeS5oaEFy6FiRhA/s320/IMG_0647.JPG" width="179" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I took this at about 11pm </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicyQ0TPtoDdVXbp8HtlCksXE5DsfdtAGZZLhFuj1U4rjt-iTbqkb_BOIdwJBE5jbt_JCnlSmMXl3OXntSFjh91Pf3HbOFHwecHiuP8xkhDkiQVkQNup-lk-LFDvioowu2YfXqeO5nFlns/s1600/IMG_0711.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicyQ0TPtoDdVXbp8HtlCksXE5DsfdtAGZZLhFuj1U4rjt-iTbqkb_BOIdwJBE5jbt_JCnlSmMXl3OXntSFjh91Pf3HbOFHwecHiuP8xkhDkiQVkQNup-lk-LFDvioowu2YfXqeO5nFlns/s320/IMG_0711.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The View of Our Mountain. See the Heart on the Top?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigX1pqRtPLrUyvXCiwxATQPPnz_oj7WOYBXMaVVS9uC1U30i3MbMkZX0MhwWzoS85pZIGREKe58JisML48ci5EirdwM_El4swhQEOl4yNw3W8JqGndXk9dv6uhvrAo9_cuhJa-ynZDZKE/s1600/IMG_0704.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigX1pqRtPLrUyvXCiwxATQPPnz_oj7WOYBXMaVVS9uC1U30i3MbMkZX0MhwWzoS85pZIGREKe58JisML48ci5EirdwM_El4swhQEOl4yNw3W8JqGndXk9dv6uhvrAo9_cuhJa-ynZDZKE/s320/IMG_0704.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sunset From The Cabin at 1 am</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUUQTi3CCFiwWJeMYJLMH76SJ3bIL3jZvYDzfDBmFO7FrNdvOgj8XdGx0UTHIuXfjkI-930-c-mYW52fanc48NUyt7KE4VsQUK32mk07x_4hps1Mdw9x6IDhGhTWyqP1v6o-55Hu4syaE/s1600/IMG_0721.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUUQTi3CCFiwWJeMYJLMH76SJ3bIL3jZvYDzfDBmFO7FrNdvOgj8XdGx0UTHIuXfjkI-930-c-mYW52fanc48NUyt7KE4VsQUK32mk07x_4hps1Mdw9x6IDhGhTWyqP1v6o-55Hu4syaE/s320/IMG_0721.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Homer, Alaska</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />Christinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01251353725581264453noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8501217721717637145.post-45063099582369448502013-01-27T21:09:00.002-08:002013-01-27T21:09:40.068-08:00Begin Again<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2VEeSrEcPVewF3RWcqfwtyc5P2wCArMZ19BXIlqa8LyV_D38lEdbkk0wfiNmdpoSm_6lI3Htn4fb9mWeByNaYsXe0NI7ekbcJu8qA1BYySD3bFYVqkQ7R1r6q2wFxR32Vd93Y4d-wWhA/s1600/August-December+2012+466.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2VEeSrEcPVewF3RWcqfwtyc5P2wCArMZ19BXIlqa8LyV_D38lEdbkk0wfiNmdpoSm_6lI3Htn4fb9mWeByNaYsXe0NI7ekbcJu8qA1BYySD3bFYVqkQ7R1r6q2wFxR32Vd93Y4d-wWhA/s320/August-December+2012+466.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgnSo3Ss7LtLWsqU_YCj2nRdpJAfRVvjUFD_T6V3lAOUi4Px2hXEzOldTGqihTtJd7schZVh8esDRI7UQMxjXIH7GJiYramOqgixyhs_FrcHXjM3cPV9l3KPj0XlkKxhPXjzhHx7VnNPs/s1600/August-December+2012+519.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgnSo3Ss7LtLWsqU_YCj2nRdpJAfRVvjUFD_T6V3lAOUi4Px2hXEzOldTGqihTtJd7schZVh8esDRI7UQMxjXIH7GJiYramOqgixyhs_FrcHXjM3cPV9l3KPj0XlkKxhPXjzhHx7VnNPs/s320/August-December+2012+519.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfkX2l8vbAw27dSeufZXyUjTIS72Y-Wa8D4PVCXO2vm_hiRUV46R28uIB11SIanj3TqLE5QLLxiHyTEupjNTgT7w2Ab4eFS3qCEm6rLKv_taDD7Nxn8U9WoV1lvEZnQeO_xpfcbb7cTZw/s1600/August-December+2012+502.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfkX2l8vbAw27dSeufZXyUjTIS72Y-Wa8D4PVCXO2vm_hiRUV46R28uIB11SIanj3TqLE5QLLxiHyTEupjNTgT7w2Ab4eFS3qCEm6rLKv_taDD7Nxn8U9WoV1lvEZnQeO_xpfcbb7cTZw/s320/August-December+2012+502.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmm8aLTMfqFB4YtuTRaEfLNpcZv7_OXM7pTjv4qn_AbWMb8pi-bBEDsvYeohf8VgojFZxkP2E3T42oslPknq0y9DxlH8YwbJKwyrPvEb5XmgjAALsGY2Mymyq2oN4Fy1lqUexTFdiqr1c/s1600/August-December+2012+564.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmm8aLTMfqFB4YtuTRaEfLNpcZv7_OXM7pTjv4qn_AbWMb8pi-bBEDsvYeohf8VgojFZxkP2E3T42oslPknq0y9DxlH8YwbJKwyrPvEb5XmgjAALsGY2Mymyq2oN4Fy1lqUexTFdiqr1c/s320/August-December+2012+564.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9c9DYgRCxD7HAUfsCHWx1eN6iChVyHa1wsFlYTJTqVw1PjCuZvPkA4Cya4LR5EUrhKvfFVRV34z-GdlaWObtStZmxF4d6QrPoxkJTaC3vkv5oNQTWijL_Xr6WsdplHmGVy8sqXDt2ogc/s1600/August-December+2012+565.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="188" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9c9DYgRCxD7HAUfsCHWx1eN6iChVyHa1wsFlYTJTqVw1PjCuZvPkA4Cya4LR5EUrhKvfFVRV34z-GdlaWObtStZmxF4d6QrPoxkJTaC3vkv5oNQTWijL_Xr6WsdplHmGVy8sqXDt2ogc/s320/August-December+2012+565.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUWmpiispG2lgXX9jVSNpQkSRME0FUF456VI-TAkhDzLb2v6KMERPaxAWXVz9FWGufDUIyhwlR77_rz-dHvQEoqpe2Ql8pitTGp0NJhRA-lRqyM7GzaUiP6CH8ieiUwTByOe2t2yfR4kg/s1600/August-December+2012+593.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUWmpiispG2lgXX9jVSNpQkSRME0FUF456VI-TAkhDzLb2v6KMERPaxAWXVz9FWGufDUIyhwlR77_rz-dHvQEoqpe2Ql8pitTGp0NJhRA-lRqyM7GzaUiP6CH8ieiUwTByOe2t2yfR4kg/s320/August-December+2012+593.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK_khdkPC5-PY76jIXF09ceCa0ZORtgM_UPeG26w1Eolg-RT5OSpVQFSwF9Bpaj_wHbdv4hbD1ma94EO5efnJoHGPslZxnRth5RPF58-W8iJNZYgZjuClAPx4LEFDZJT13JRWpedFURMk/s1600/August-December+2012+607.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK_khdkPC5-PY76jIXF09ceCa0ZORtgM_UPeG26w1Eolg-RT5OSpVQFSwF9Bpaj_wHbdv4hbD1ma94EO5efnJoHGPslZxnRth5RPF58-W8iJNZYgZjuClAPx4LEFDZJT13JRWpedFURMk/s320/August-December+2012+607.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFSc7j0x0838_DaPypJzeobsgl4idm_2eTcnB9ljFL6FKpKEO3zIdGV4so5l05pgCMHwAXXtlDVnf0ktqNyEzv4Gio9ISECc2py1a6ikiKgkCV0NZ3i_1-1KNkfhzbU5-tPJiwzaUzmRQ/s1600/August-December+2012+594.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFSc7j0x0838_DaPypJzeobsgl4idm_2eTcnB9ljFL6FKpKEO3zIdGV4so5l05pgCMHwAXXtlDVnf0ktqNyEzv4Gio9ISECc2py1a6ikiKgkCV0NZ3i_1-1KNkfhzbU5-tPJiwzaUzmRQ/s320/August-December+2012+594.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmVRb514AkgN5yqHetJiZ-8w23D0o7ZVmcJ_YQ0hepwBLTtpA4YxpOMF3C7hjJpL0kdXpshM92aiYGR0Pbfw-Ak5yQNIQmsbqIT4J8cVAGYo0yO9fxhATuyM4vo-ywsTXil5O5UAWcOBU/s1600/August-December+2012+643.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="241" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmVRb514AkgN5yqHetJiZ-8w23D0o7ZVmcJ_YQ0hepwBLTtpA4YxpOMF3C7hjJpL0kdXpshM92aiYGR0Pbfw-Ak5yQNIQmsbqIT4J8cVAGYo0yO9fxhATuyM4vo-ywsTXil5O5UAWcOBU/s320/August-December+2012+643.jpg" width="320" /></a>o</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">These are some items I listed in my Etsy Shop today. I missed the creative process I have when I am selling. I feel really good about the images I took and I think that my listing prices are fair. I would love it if you would take a look and give me some feedback. Here is the link......</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">http://www.etsy.com/shop/tangerinechic?ref=si_shop</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">The last few years have brought some major changes to my life and those changes have brought me to one of the happiest places I have ever been. The beginning of change is always the most difficult time but I have found that on the other side of it is a better more fulfilling life. I have learned how to be happy within and to not let the circumstances around me dictate my happiness. If something is bothering me or stressing me out I know I need a plan to change it. I am not saying that I am happy all the time. That is just not possible or realistic. But what I am saying is that I AM happy most of the time now. And that is due to changes I have made or even changes that have happened that were out of my control. </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I am excited to be back to my Etsy Shop and to be blogging again. I hope to bring inspiration, beauty, laughter and love into the lives of others while I am here. I would love it if you would join me.</span></div>
Christinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01251353725581264453noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8501217721717637145.post-18364390111198683552011-05-11T23:54:00.000-07:002011-05-13T13:29:43.034-07:00Tyrone Wells performs "Sea Breeze"<div style="text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="295" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/T2rzET5JyHs?fs=1" width="480"></iframe></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">I never get tired of listening to this song. I don't remember how I found him and his music. I do remember listening to this song and instantly falling in love with it. And no, I had not seen a picture of him yet. It was his voice I fell in love with first and then I saw how gorgeous he is and I was a goner. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Now for a little bit of bragging....</div><div style="text-align: left;">I was on his facebook page a while back....I am a little bit of a stalker---shhhhh....don't tell him. I don't want to creep him out. LOL While on his page I noticed he asked if anyone knew some good things to do while in Bend, OR. Well, I know plenty of good things to do here in my home town so I answered the question and asked him if he was planning on having a show here during that weekend. (See...I am a good stalker, not a scary one.) He sent me a <i>private</i> message and asked where he could play that was a smaller, more intimate venue.. After my heart skipped a few beats..."Oh My Gosh, I just got a <i>private </i>message from Tyrone Wells!!!!! I suggested Silver Moon Brewery. Well, guess what? He took my suggestion and will be playing at Silver Moon on June 5th at 7pm. And yes, I already have two tickets. If you happen to be there...I will be the girl in a day dream pretending that he is singing Sea Breeze only to me. And as far as I am concerned, that is exactly what he will be doing. Okay, just play along with me and my little fantasy. A girl can dream can't she?</div>Christinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01251353725581264453noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8501217721717637145.post-60136207089387778532011-05-07T11:52:00.000-07:002011-05-07T11:52:08.503-07:00Bend, Oregon- The Place Where I Live<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><b><i><u>I love where I live.</u></i></b> </span></div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-bottom: 0.5em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; padding-bottom: 6px; padding-left: 6px; padding-right: 6px; padding-top: 6px; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5tPSYz2yVe7S7vVCDyg5vGqG1eF7Mwr3ifuxcU4RZitQj9KePmOUSt0JyE-FHD9jzVP40GfISY4flQ-tOpZ_2YvMnKssofKmWqqPytq4j-42w-cc2RZe6CmzNju3f13FgUbpHSZ_UKWc/s1600/143.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5tPSYz2yVe7S7vVCDyg5vGqG1eF7Mwr3ifuxcU4RZitQj9KePmOUSt0JyE-FHD9jzVP40GfISY4flQ-tOpZ_2YvMnKssofKmWqqPytq4j-42w-cc2RZe6CmzNju3f13FgUbpHSZ_UKWc/s320/143.jpg" style="cursor: move;" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="padding-top: 4px; text-align: center;">Smith Rock State Park<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: small;">I grew up here in Bend, Oregon. My parents moved us here from the San Francisco Bay Area when I was 5 and my brother was 3 1/2. They wanted us to grow up in the country where the population was low and the people were kind. I moved back to San Francisco to attend school after I graduated High School and lived there for 15 years. Then I had my family and when it was time for them to start school I knew I didn't want them growing up in the city either. So my ex-husband (we were still married then) and I moved back to my home town to raise the girls. </span></div></td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; margin-bottom: 0.5em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; padding-bottom: 6px; padding-left: 6px; padding-right: 6px; padding-top: 6px; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9yAnKwxkd6F-4t_pZXLcPqcmm73OMltjfgLzf4N-Sg4ZjzBx-mdhbUR5nU6PajRFCxZJYCTqyMaCvqgbG4qm7H5-eyNzwsqRBMzj5YW_g3Lv_DxjL6Cst6pwoWTRZHdn0RU0BPO8M5zE/s1600/506514046_dfba749893_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9yAnKwxkd6F-4t_pZXLcPqcmm73OMltjfgLzf4N-Sg4ZjzBx-mdhbUR5nU6PajRFCxZJYCTqyMaCvqgbG4qm7H5-eyNzwsqRBMzj5YW_g3Lv_DxjL6Cst6pwoWTRZHdn0RU0BPO8M5zE/s320/506514046_dfba749893_o.jpg" style="cursor: move;" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="padding-top: 4px; text-align: center;">The View from Pilot Butte<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: small;">It isn't as small as it used to be- the population is now 80,000 compared to 14,000 when I moved here as a child. Most of the people are kind. It is a family community. The city shuts down after 8pm during the week. And on the weekends it shuts down around 10 unless you are out for a night of brewery and bar hopping downtown. It is an amazing place to raise children. And it is only 20 minutes to the ski resort of Mt. Bachelor- the best skiing and snow boarding in the west. It suits the outdoor lover in all seasons....hiking, kayaking, horse back riding, fishing, boating, biking, white water rafting, skiing-both water and snow, sunny days, cool nights. I can't say enough about how happy I am to live here and I hope I never have to leave. </span></div></td></tr>
</tbody></table></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> I thought you would enjoy some pictures of Bend </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">so you could see just how beautiful it is here......</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">The first four pictures are my neighborhood- The Old Mill District. Literally, a hop, skip and a few jumps from my house.</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiG1XGix7k-bGKstlR5-WTC2ZiTovyX518SehvJQimErcxXHqz1GXdFEulxN4NHH0ko0gLUKJ779_6fhraOQmNxP_Q2teTSLItiyDj2CHT7H5ezCV6pjxt1Ihan4jBnqsRsC2p43Ak3buk/s1600/013.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiG1XGix7k-bGKstlR5-WTC2ZiTovyX518SehvJQimErcxXHqz1GXdFEulxN4NHH0ko0gLUKJ779_6fhraOQmNxP_Q2teTSLItiyDj2CHT7H5ezCV6pjxt1Ihan4jBnqsRsC2p43Ak3buk/s320/013.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Old Mill District Shopping/Restaurants</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtfdsrxwef_Ci0FZezb8lD5BQq-QgCRXoLSIB-E1u7RDpbkCVf0wxJOY6krICEClHRKqHeRY7auQbn7rRX8RHiQ88gLN30t1S-Ax7dAlIlAGMT_lKbgo2oXYdF6LqZiQDUMKm5HWT_j7c/s1600/249.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtfdsrxwef_Ci0FZezb8lD5BQq-QgCRXoLSIB-E1u7RDpbkCVf0wxJOY6krICEClHRKqHeRY7auQbn7rRX8RHiQ88gLN30t1S-Ax7dAlIlAGMT_lKbgo2oXYdF6LqZiQDUMKm5HWT_j7c/s320/249.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Farewell Bend Park</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYZcDaZ1fTMpgJSo_LZqfnKNo9skb4vFFx-01NQwAKVUeLlA0SUb_nPxkqR6mZCAzh-RzSxuResVJEZHOTDikAUGHwjp6W1jFAOUxGXm4oAmzVxciNlUL8pEoZVU9-FlOCve2bZCQ3-OU/s1600/246.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYZcDaZ1fTMpgJSo_LZqfnKNo9skb4vFFx-01NQwAKVUeLlA0SUb_nPxkqR6mZCAzh-RzSxuResVJEZHOTDikAUGHwjp6W1jFAOUxGXm4oAmzVxciNlUL8pEoZVU9-FlOCve2bZCQ3-OU/s320/246.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Farewell Bend Park</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRu37wwPgt3hV7UE9OdQQaoCKeib2WKrNchldcPlNmrEyPOqScmE0gz-nijbXh1NbLq22weIXt6559VAselO0QKg1sb7Oge2RSU0upb1nECNejrMD4S6X1pLg0mWp4Lr5bsA1n_Tm5aHQ/s1600/240.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRu37wwPgt3hV7UE9OdQQaoCKeib2WKrNchldcPlNmrEyPOqScmE0gz-nijbXh1NbLq22weIXt6559VAselO0QKg1sb7Oge2RSU0upb1nECNejrMD4S6X1pLg0mWp4Lr5bsA1n_Tm5aHQ/s320/240.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View from my Neighborhood</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhh0_BTqEBrXXQdD6ADwlDqnTC0Pmoeb7FsnEa6eNyDKFI99w5STwggu7ZtR_v8bJQ2GJ3zcdDvIKmqAhf0zjLiKeOq2rXljcNyP3AWtgdXJb1wqeMqpX4p4jMwvEgGl_kst1f6tS4d7x4/s1600/002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhh0_BTqEBrXXQdD6ADwlDqnTC0Pmoeb7FsnEa6eNyDKFI99w5STwggu7ZtR_v8bJQ2GJ3zcdDvIKmqAhf0zjLiKeOq2rXljcNyP3AWtgdXJb1wqeMqpX4p4jMwvEgGl_kst1f6tS4d7x4/s320/002.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Elk Lake with Mt. Bachelor </td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFD6wY2pPxB4xMt08CIfJ4sReesa_O7MrgAu8nuEsacP5EzTHC_IbqdgOA39NK_nioUVKeq6OBeJGUcmpaiG7gwQu42V9oEePTZJ5wuDMNvuJ9ddhCAQlOQwe0dLUItkaU_HxvBNZck-8/s1600/243.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFD6wY2pPxB4xMt08CIfJ4sReesa_O7MrgAu8nuEsacP5EzTHC_IbqdgOA39NK_nioUVKeq6OBeJGUcmpaiG7gwQu42V9oEePTZJ5wuDMNvuJ9ddhCAQlOQwe0dLUItkaU_HxvBNZck-8/s320/243.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The View from Mt. Bachelor</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNt_jxOGPDeZBDsrNKN_QHxWpbdhBoP9VHE4DqnIXJoHPQAQ1HrUlTlTXYoeosVflimJM9ZfufP03KmnoblVq5kENa2TFNRWSZ3vX-LSfujA3pZaQtVYmV2UIE_hXUmx8k4A0OcDCGxf8/s1600/3088330818_be26dd0ebb_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="106" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNt_jxOGPDeZBDsrNKN_QHxWpbdhBoP9VHE4DqnIXJoHPQAQ1HrUlTlTXYoeosVflimJM9ZfufP03KmnoblVq5kENa2TFNRWSZ3vX-LSfujA3pZaQtVYmV2UIE_hXUmx8k4A0OcDCGxf8/s320/3088330818_be26dd0ebb_z.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAx0u0RfIlbDTkylOXP4S7V55iU9WzGkclijIDvbBptqHL8fvrf8bmtrmqVvRdsDz81POvqLudg1g8j1ZqfgqGhADUjLMJ9cBa8J3EywepoW_YtKwOAxFN4D2hAxKlNO1bkkwYhE9nnOI/s1600/4417420522_6662d25a3f.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAx0u0RfIlbDTkylOXP4S7V55iU9WzGkclijIDvbBptqHL8fvrf8bmtrmqVvRdsDz81POvqLudg1g8j1ZqfgqGhADUjLMJ9cBa8J3EywepoW_YtKwOAxFN4D2hAxKlNO1bkkwYhE9nnOI/s320/4417420522_6662d25a3f.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mt Bachelor Ski Resort</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRRY9SnH2dD5JUMEU5A7lsCFr77d-BurWie2bo-cBrEQVbiZymotP862KOlycfmODygltTPFSHg33f-ai6jxBx3B4h-ZQehp9a3GNgs-5EeiYLlCzxgE7JQ0IaQrzN8ihraUdlE-_huSs/s1600/4899692960_3fdf96db3a_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRRY9SnH2dD5JUMEU5A7lsCFr77d-BurWie2bo-cBrEQVbiZymotP862KOlycfmODygltTPFSHg33f-ai6jxBx3B4h-ZQehp9a3GNgs-5EeiYLlCzxgE7JQ0IaQrzN8ihraUdlE-_huSs/s320/4899692960_3fdf96db3a_z.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Old Downtown Bend</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7C18THOiEFrftSfiPlBgC_cYjjhYymhJnvHy9RfBAlAkz5JAVbdx1xe1eg4x5cijv_Y7AZ-f8Nxs5iPxTIdKkgVxSNTcs6aJhiIwrSdGyyxp5ggIdUsNSsHr-qfPcKO3lS5yLM_QUNSw/s1600/4918886732_17d9fd66e5_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7C18THOiEFrftSfiPlBgC_cYjjhYymhJnvHy9RfBAlAkz5JAVbdx1xe1eg4x5cijv_Y7AZ-f8Nxs5iPxTIdKkgVxSNTcs6aJhiIwrSdGyyxp5ggIdUsNSsHr-qfPcKO3lS5yLM_QUNSw/s320/4918886732_17d9fd66e5_z.jpg" width="256" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgciflNGO1fisQ7TTj-gShqRY5dxAu0wxOzgxY5U8SIWJNNXCdrDEg9xVFF1OlzV2OzdjniqR22Qo7qC3mXr6FGQ3pqJB-3NSftqeeOcm9SMm1O_QhwoMrh5m443-aF6rU1vol71tjP248/s1600/3575386814_41f172a7fb_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgciflNGO1fisQ7TTj-gShqRY5dxAu0wxOzgxY5U8SIWJNNXCdrDEg9xVFF1OlzV2OzdjniqR22Qo7qC3mXr6FGQ3pqJB-3NSftqeeOcm9SMm1O_QhwoMrh5m443-aF6rU1vol71tjP248/s320/3575386814_41f172a7fb_z.jpg" width="212" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Drake Park/ Mirror Pond<br />
with Cascade Range in View</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Christinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01251353725581264453noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8501217721717637145.post-9423603203676708822011-05-05T21:57:00.001-07:002011-05-05T21:57:48.948-07:00I Love My Goofy, Funny, French Bulldog...<div style="margin: 0 0 10px 0; padding: 0; font-size: 0.8em; line-height: 1.6em;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/obd-design/2384248378/" title="Bruno Wants to Play too"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3001/2384248378_54ecdb75a8.jpg" alt="Bruno Wants to Play too by MyTangerineDreams" /></a><br/><span style="margin: 0;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/obd-design/2384248378/">Bruno Wants to Play too</a>, a photo by <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/obd-design/">MyTangerineDreams</a> on Flickr.</span></div><p>This is Bruno. How could I ever have a bad day with him by my side? And I mean constantly by my side. He follows me all around the house. Never lets me out of his sight. He thinks he is a watch dog and protects me from all the evil bicycle riders outside.</p>Christinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01251353725581264453noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8501217721717637145.post-20899375591808555772011-05-04T05:00:00.000-07:002011-05-04T05:00:03.113-07:00My Etsy Addiction<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXG6ycKnGc3BlglOoaa6gnIArDLd3ek5EoUO5of_Hj9g5MQMdnWHxvfNb1EsbtK920i-DOEA0dwVQnMPthRyIprlI3fxhNQCD9OtM-5cHkRz6Q52znQg_YL4DvD9f3K5FeC2Aq635GYDE/s1600/Big_Etsy_Logo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="169" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXG6ycKnGc3BlglOoaa6gnIArDLd3ek5EoUO5of_Hj9g5MQMdnWHxvfNb1EsbtK920i-DOEA0dwVQnMPthRyIprlI3fxhNQCD9OtM-5cHkRz6Q52znQg_YL4DvD9f3K5FeC2Aq635GYDE/s320/Big_Etsy_Logo.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><br />
I used to sell on <a href="http://www.etsy.com/">www.etsy.com</a>. If you don't know what Etsy is you need to click on the link and see what you have been missing out on for the last several years. Especially if you are one of those gals that loves to shop. Besides Facebook, and now my blog, Etsy is the only other website that I go to every day. Now, I don't buy something every day, but I do look and find things that I love and then add them to my <a href="http://www.etsy.com/people/tangerinechic/favorites?ref=si_fav">Favorites Page</a>. And when I feel like I have some extra money and want to treat myself I will go to that page and buy something. I also love to buy gifts, party supplies, jewelry, bags or purses, funny stuff, art work, and vintage supplies for my crafting projects.<br />
<br />
I have been called a hippie, bohemian, eco-friendly kind of girl. And I would agree with that to an extent. One of the main reasons I love Etsy is that you can buy from the individual and know who your money is going to. Or you can buy from a small boutique that is just getting started. For some reason I feel better giving my money to the underdog instead of the huge corporations. It is sort of a buy local sort of feeling over there. I have gotten to know many buyers and sellers and have made friends on Etsy too.<br />
<br />
<u>My most recent purchases are as follows:</u><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.etsy.com/transaction/48597463">Horse tags for Mia's 9th birthday party</a>- I am making her invitations and putting together some cute favor bags using these.<br />
<a href="http://www.etsy.com/transaction/48596310">School Messenger Bag for Claire</a>- Her bag just ripped apart the other day and she picked this one out. It was cheaper than buying a backpack and really well made, and according to her much cooler. Love that my kids want to be fashion forward, LOL<br />
<a href="http://www.etsy.com/transaction/45616197">Antiqued lace paper pieces for crafting</a>- I will share what I do with these once I use them. Right now I am working on a collage using a piece of this.<br />
<a href="http://www.etsy.com/transaction/40864042">My favorite earrings</a>- I love these earrings. If you see me out and about I will most likely be wearing these.<br />
<a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/72064058/chantilly-lace-earrings">My latest purchase</a>- She custom made a pair of these for me with a silver ear piece. I don't wear gold usually. Custom ordering is another fabulous option on Etsy. You just send the seller a message and ask if they can make your idea come to fruition. I have never had a seller say no. Oh and I have to link to <a href="http://thepioneerwoman.com/homeandgarden/2011/04/great-summer-earrings/">How I found these Earrings in the first place</a>. Another favorite blog I like to visit. Especially if I am looking for a yummy recipe.<br />
<br />
So there is a good sampling of what you can buy. And if you take a gander over to the right of my blog you will see the last 4 items I have added to my favorites. Go and look around. You can pretty much buy anything you want over there and have fun doing it. Can't beat sitting in your jammies with a mug of hot coffee with the Today show on and shopping all by yourself instead of in a crowded store.<br />
<br />
Cheers,<br />
ChristinaChristinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01251353725581264453noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8501217721717637145.post-21067967995742941462011-05-03T05:00:00.000-07:002011-05-03T05:00:00.701-07:00I Have a Thing for Purses<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><br />
Here are few purses I am currently coveting.<br />
Most of them out of my price range but beautiful to dream about.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPG0b1nP8kdGr_zO6p3rNEzS-yapZ6p-WmfBDYweQxs7Dxxr5B4lEGjoW7EW8PaAjcodhnpH4HKHYD6vsSTkj3kxLa5lP5wgokAaOHS9OuZaF8EDzqZWvV_jdoy3N0rjCAaO3WEkm7oIc/s1600/il_fullxfull.127363023.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPG0b1nP8kdGr_zO6p3rNEzS-yapZ6p-WmfBDYweQxs7Dxxr5B4lEGjoW7EW8PaAjcodhnpH4HKHYD6vsSTkj3kxLa5lP5wgokAaOHS9OuZaF8EDzqZWvV_jdoy3N0rjCAaO3WEkm7oIc/s320/il_fullxfull.127363023.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/41860296/brown-zipper-pouch-with-clip-new-style">http://www.etsy.com/listing/41860296/brown-zipper-pouch-with-clip-new-style</a><br />
I really, really want this one.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnPOZFwTOWyfn0g7k9mF-ixQJjfDCqPzxQVjfQK48kRkPFzQdjPTJjVvGPrP45dCpUkb51FokxDDIDSu2lOrj_QRCcHSpfDhpfYOvbiR9S99iMSD98KZ-TqzljfuW3aCjo8wEvnnEBQ_A/s1600/il_fullxfull.106863338.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="160" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnPOZFwTOWyfn0g7k9mF-ixQJjfDCqPzxQVjfQK48kRkPFzQdjPTJjVvGPrP45dCpUkb51FokxDDIDSu2lOrj_QRCcHSpfDhpfYOvbiR9S99iMSD98KZ-TqzljfuW3aCjo8wEvnnEBQ_A/s320/il_fullxfull.106863338.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> This would get a lot of attention for its uniqueness. <br />
<a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/35801762/gondola-medium-tote">http://www.etsy.com/listing/35801762/gondola-medium-tote</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiP0Bp_YwW6ZryaNHSpSqYsYPMItl0mk9anknJ3Jc1jLRLbMlJC4ArG1WixXD9dmGabp9wWO08Q0Ti_EVAB5pvm2uHYp7IkNECKktlF-HQ9i756FGK0W2kJJ-0dYGKe9UchWOKG9J1P1xU/s1600/il_fullxfull.135533881.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiP0Bp_YwW6ZryaNHSpSqYsYPMItl0mk9anknJ3Jc1jLRLbMlJC4ArG1WixXD9dmGabp9wWO08Q0Ti_EVAB5pvm2uHYp7IkNECKktlF-HQ9i756FGK0W2kJJ-0dYGKe9UchWOKG9J1P1xU/s320/il_fullxfull.135533881.jpg" width="270" /></a><br />
Sunshine and Ruffles make me happy</td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/44250840/yellow-sunshine-leather-ruffle-bag-by">http://www.etsy.com/listing/44250840/yellow-sunshine-leather-ruffle-bag-by</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDxIce1UozZJiHK9QeF8ZbKLBYUBxZysyRlYITZqy1X0HbDkF0eI1EcbuhaPb6Vqmqwkp0ZpkPWjA0ziW56lG9_EwPJACB8YsSxamUpYJeZFreQTVzZ8dbNTNQknuwxp6slYgL_GyE-BY/s1600/il_fullxfull.206746095.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDxIce1UozZJiHK9QeF8ZbKLBYUBxZysyRlYITZqy1X0HbDkF0eI1EcbuhaPb6Vqmqwkp0ZpkPWjA0ziW56lG9_EwPJACB8YsSxamUpYJeZFreQTVzZ8dbNTNQknuwxp6slYgL_GyE-BY/s320/il_fullxfull.206746095.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Perfect for a night at the Opera<br />
<a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/65551154/evening-bag">http://www.etsy.com/listing/65551154/evening-bag</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm5f8MpGnenKwYKTR82iysiIb3kkG24xViyznBWL9Fgv7CMzFCCqZSxCwAzVAj3ZfdG5cYhsP-Uq98fNg-1upGwB8ODWh_CAcypIrEjegbEkPslLfIe9LfomifglPdEbr-mEI4WhupNgc/s1600/il_fullxfull.209824453.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm5f8MpGnenKwYKTR82iysiIb3kkG24xViyznBWL9Fgv7CMzFCCqZSxCwAzVAj3ZfdG5cYhsP-Uq98fNg-1upGwB8ODWh_CAcypIrEjegbEkPslLfIe9LfomifglPdEbr-mEI4WhupNgc/s320/il_fullxfull.209824453.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This one is more in my price range. The perfect Summer bag.<br />
<a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/66315156/rainbow-granny-bag-black-twill-trim">http://www.etsy.com/listing/66315156/rainbow-granny-bag-black-twill-trim</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOrpnZ7mpRNFpgMsCTE18w33Z994dmJ_kYv9ZhQpiNuzvVkc99Qxc1pbHexTtpybA6t331sDx-4Fh08rR779Y1eQIx0JAqUHwtvr3eV_Gm14nP4kgruT59-lXU-PPbMjkwnHwcuxdWU4c/s1600/il_fullxfull.221074513.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOrpnZ7mpRNFpgMsCTE18w33Z994dmJ_kYv9ZhQpiNuzvVkc99Qxc1pbHexTtpybA6t331sDx-4Fh08rR779Y1eQIx0JAqUHwtvr3eV_Gm14nP4kgruT59-lXU-PPbMjkwnHwcuxdWU4c/s1600/il_fullxfull.221074513.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I love the unique shape of this one<br />
<a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/68582876/handmade-capsula-fashion-bag-brown">http://www.etsy.com/listing/68582876/handmade-capsula-fashion-bag-brown</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhL5ihFYevoSbvYM3hLXs-r8Fra13BknrhSOjc8-aQOxse_0KaPhhFmyjvpic6T0OZART0WWjggdlGv_u6zbmqzKspexGET0A6eTYNMm8OiD3p74Kp0pejGtVPPAKFEpWXX6GaX_xwqqvA/s1600/il_fullxfull.221078538.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="274" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhL5ihFYevoSbvYM3hLXs-r8Fra13BknrhSOjc8-aQOxse_0KaPhhFmyjvpic6T0OZART0WWjggdlGv_u6zbmqzKspexGET0A6eTYNMm8OiD3p74Kp0pejGtVPPAKFEpWXX6GaX_xwqqvA/s320/il_fullxfull.221078538.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">For a black tie event<br />
<a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/68583276/completely-crystal-evening-clutch">http://www.etsy.com/listing/68583276/completely-crystal-evening-clutch</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPZh7EbAstNX_9EUpo6lIsut_ptBfcSm5oLdZgqLgEVHSiJt81O0xSaceagiAHyl5tLBeWZWV1WP4BYk_9LacwE9-5xpaNzBLSR6RADs_AW5wbXznTl7DyZt7ZkUAjB1Mzko8mY-uoyk0/s1600/il_fullxfull.224989526.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPZh7EbAstNX_9EUpo6lIsut_ptBfcSm5oLdZgqLgEVHSiJt81O0xSaceagiAHyl5tLBeWZWV1WP4BYk_9LacwE9-5xpaNzBLSR6RADs_AW5wbXznTl7DyZt7ZkUAjB1Mzko8mY-uoyk0/s320/il_fullxfull.224989526.jpg" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The every day bag that would be worth every penny if I could afford it<br />
You have to click on the link below and see the inside. It is gorgeous!<br />
<a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/69521429/red-leather-bag">http://www.etsy.com/listing/69521429/red-leather-bag</a><br />
<br />
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Christinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01251353725581264453noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8501217721717637145.post-48151928778399149932011-05-01T07:00:00.000-07:002011-05-01T07:00:02.512-07:00The Joy and Fashion of RunningAfter yesterdays post I thought I would share my latest purchase with you.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYyQc2Qu2FUsn-IOymtYx-1sNIMa5XhTHhIwgITN8u_5HdO1-m8Ei3mtYE6mMf4tglkKl5b6TsgQzlZE-Vs0L0K6Ls5K3NGD2_J5Q_FGPnMaCCd_fFyVmQx-LJ7G9nBs27q3dZGyqSQi8/s1600/10090-2_1_700x700.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYyQc2Qu2FUsn-IOymtYx-1sNIMa5XhTHhIwgITN8u_5HdO1-m8Ei3mtYE6mMf4tglkKl5b6TsgQzlZE-Vs0L0K6Ls5K3NGD2_J5Q_FGPnMaCCd_fFyVmQx-LJ7G9nBs27q3dZGyqSQi8/s320/10090-2_1_700x700.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYyQc2Qu2FUsn-IOymtYx-1sNIMa5XhTHhIwgITN8u_5HdO1-m8Ei3mtYE6mMf4tglkKl5b6TsgQzlZE-Vs0L0K6Ls5K3NGD2_J5Q_FGPnMaCCd_fFyVmQx-LJ7G9nBs27q3dZGyqSQi8/s1600/10090-2_1_700x700.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a>These are the running shoes I have on order. Originally $100.00 on <a href="http://saucony.com/">saucony.com</a>, but I found them for $85.95 with free shipping at <a href="http://buyshoes.com/">buyshoes.com</a>. I love me a good bargain! Even if it is only $14.00 saved, that is $14.00 I can use for something else. Seems silly to be excited about new running shoes but I can not wait until they arrive! These are the same shoes I have been running in but the updated version. I highly recommend them. I tend to get plantar (bottom of the foot) pain and these babies are so cushiony soft that it is like running on clouds. Okay, maybe that is exaggerating a bit, but really- I love them. And the color....well, what more could a girlie girl want- pink, black and white. No brainer right? I have learned that you can find some cute outfits to run in too.</div>Christinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01251353725581264453noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8501217721717637145.post-86866578415616361952011-04-29T21:57:00.000-07:002011-04-29T21:57:08.226-07:00Losing Weight- What a Difference a Few Pounds Make<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><i><br />
</i></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBBhiI7CxiEjahyG0E8PXFQC8cd1xh0zbA7WnaRhu79DWwNCSbdQzXMA4N5gAYizn_wAYtmNpph2kC3lZK_8ToYEqXol05Lsr-Xl8fPCsmLrnZ6OKam4iJzz6TRYfi0_oxgHqf5AAS65A/s1600/weight-loss-success-story-lost-10-pounds-a-month.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBBhiI7CxiEjahyG0E8PXFQC8cd1xh0zbA7WnaRhu79DWwNCSbdQzXMA4N5gAYizn_wAYtmNpph2kC3lZK_8ToYEqXol05Lsr-Xl8fPCsmLrnZ6OKam4iJzz6TRYfi0_oxgHqf5AAS65A/s320/weight-loss-success-story-lost-10-pounds-a-month.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><i><br />
</i></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><i> <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: purple; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">...I lost 35 pounds...</span></i></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> It was not due to the stress of my recent divorce, it was because I <i>finally</i> had time to work out. I could<i> finally</i> put myself first after 10 years. I felt like myself again. Before getting married I always worked out and took care of my mind, body and spirit. After marriage my mind, body and spirit were slowly whittled away with verbal and emotional abuse. But that story is for another day, and another post. The reason I wanted to post about my weight loss was to share how absolutely easy it really can be. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I made two changes...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><i>Number</i> <i>1</i>- Eat less</b>. I still ate everything, and I mean everything, that I have always eaten only less of it. And I will admit I am not the healthiest eater. In fact, I really need to take a look at that but I am not ready for that lifestyle change quite yet. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><i><b>Number 2</b></i><b>- Move more</b>. I got off the couch and out of bed and moved. I started with walking my dog. A slow walk- I have a French Bulldog and he has short legs and a low tolerance for exercise. With time I kept increasing the amount of time I walked, increased my pace and before I knew it I had to start jogging and pretty soon I was training for a 5K. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> <i>I know</i>....I couldn't believe it either. I have always hated running. Running just brought memories from High School PE class and of huffing, puffing, side aches and dry throat while getting timed for the mile out on the track. I couldn't think of anything I would like to do less other than folding laundry. Seriously though, hated it. I would do the power walk thing in the past, but I was mostly an aerobics type of girl. The music, the dancing, the cute outfits back in the 90's...that was my thing. I was not made for running, I was a cheerleader for goodness sake!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> So when you are mentally ready, take it slooow, eat a little less, and move a little more, lie to yourself and say- I am just going to walk around the block today, but then you will love the feeling and go farther. Plus, the stress relief and the endorphines you get will make you happy! I hope reading this will give you the push to start on a weight loss journey. And I mean a journey, not a race. You are worth it and your family will thank you for it. I kid you not. One of the best decisions I have made.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">****Disclaimer**** That is not me in the picture. I am still working on getting there.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div>Christinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01251353725581264453noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8501217721717637145.post-71874139613504953182011-04-22T17:01:00.000-07:002011-04-22T17:01:49.984-07:00Free Emag that I have to share....This is a seriously gorgeous Emag. You MUST click on the link below to understand what I am talking about.....<br />
<br />
<a href="http://asubtlerevelry.com/styled">http://asubtlerevelry.com/styled</a>Christinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01251353725581264453noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8501217721717637145.post-90196478949846232332011-04-21T10:21:00.000-07:002011-04-21T10:21:48.139-07:00Questioning Everything<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://storagenerve.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/cloud-question-mark-cloud-computing.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://storagenerve.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/cloud-question-mark-cloud-computing.jpg" width="202" /></a></div><br />
<br />
So obviously I have been absent from my blog for quite some time - for reasons obvious or not. This little place of conversation has been on my mind quite a bit lately. I have been questioning whether I want to return here or delete? And if I do return how do I want to use it? Do I continue in the same direction I was initially headed? Or due to all the changes in my life and starting over in many ways, do I take a new direction here also? There is a large part of myself that wants to share on a deeper level than before. But the thought of truly sharing my deepest thoughts and personal life is also terrifying.<br />
<br />
Reading other women's blogs recently I have come across a theme of women sharing only the happiness in their lives. Sort of telling only the fairytale part of their week. Which is nice, and maybe that is all other women want to read- to have a break from their every day reality of work, family, chores, mundane. To maybe have a lifestyle of another inspire them to be a better, happier person. I for one am getting bored with those blogs. The measured words of what their perfect life entails. Maybe that sounds harsh....maybe I am just in a judgmental place at the moment, maybe I am envious of their "reality" or maybe I just don't believe that life really is that wonderful all the time? I don't know the answer to those questions. I suppose that is why I am here....writing what is on my mind, and taking this moment to write about making this choice.Christinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01251353725581264453noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8501217721717637145.post-69694611183301911372009-06-24T08:46:00.001-07:002009-06-24T09:11:39.871-07:00Enjoying a New Life Path<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtf7IoPf_ipQDdDx1KnvlsIt96zK3MG8Vbn38NsPK3lEk4IwHkvjQsCwyMjcSEgkYbO-kMFFA65xMfgurDYm6NEFckX4gL7eO_TY6fOVUBoKGR_MSNAHtWhbHPz5GXwiCY92XNhMMy26E/s1600-h/Dock.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5350925579489319170" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtf7IoPf_ipQDdDx1KnvlsIt96zK3MG8Vbn38NsPK3lEk4IwHkvjQsCwyMjcSEgkYbO-kMFFA65xMfgurDYm6NEFckX4gL7eO_TY6fOVUBoKGR_MSNAHtWhbHPz5GXwiCY92XNhMMy26E/s320/Dock.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div>Where have I been, you say? </div><div> </div><div> </div><div></div><div>Well, I have had a little personal drama going on. In fact, it is almost the same drama as on Jon and Kate Plus Eight.......minus 6 for me. I am actually getting reaquainted with the show. I find it facinating to be able to watch another couple manuever through divorce. I suppose it is due to my situation, but I really don't believe we have ever "seen" divorce portrayed on reality TV yet. All the multitude of couples that have divorced during or after their reality show decide not to show the fallout. I hope that we will be able to watch how Jon and Kate make the changes necessary for their family. I believe that it would be a wonderful education for the more than 50% of couples that end up divorced or individuals that may be thinking of divorce to see what another couple goes through. And how the children fare.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>For me, divorce has been difficult and wonderful. I am the one that asked for it. Granted it has been looming for more than 9 years of the 10 year marriage. I can truthfully tell you I am happier than I have been in a very long time. I feel that I have found myself again. That for 9 years it was necessary to hide and protect the real me so that I wouldn't get hurt to my core. I felt smothered and depressed in my marriage. It took me so many years to make the decision because I could not decide what would be best for my little ones. I finally got so depressed in my denial (the depressed where you can't get out of bed depressed) that I woke up one morning after 3 months, and knew it was due to my marriage and that I had to get out so my girls could have a mom that was available to play, help, teach, and show them what happiness is. </div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div>It truly was the hardest and best decision I have ever made. I have not one regret. My little family of 3 girls, a dog, and a cat is now happy and functional. I am alive, awake and available for my children. The girls have noticed that I am a better mom now. They comment on how happy I am. I have lost 20 pounds since I didnt need to comfort eat anymore. I am taking ballet, gardeing, making art and enjoying every second of my life. </div><br /><div></div><br /><div>For a long time I thought that my marriage was my cross to bear and then I realized that Jesus already bore the cross so I didn't have to. </div><br /><div></div>Christinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01251353725581264453noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8501217721717637145.post-20567511180304499182009-04-08T06:46:00.001-07:002009-04-08T06:49:06.760-07:00Long Time No Post You Say???<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwW95MW1Y7Mrk5ZYkBlioLw7ZsaIDNCZ67FfZbtdwQyGeNWOOS3CEOGLvwsTgrKQrrqWfBRaPQIKuI3T47pDiOtU_HAeJNQUV56jbLuv26tjodDrpirZ-IL7O7uQXm8BdhJCfrEc5jvEc/s1600-h/vintagefunnymen.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5322317200147830114" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 223px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwW95MW1Y7Mrk5ZYkBlioLw7ZsaIDNCZ67FfZbtdwQyGeNWOOS3CEOGLvwsTgrKQrrqWfBRaPQIKuI3T47pDiOtU_HAeJNQUV56jbLuv26tjodDrpirZ-IL7O7uQXm8BdhJCfrEc5jvEc/s320/vintagefunnymen.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div></div><br /><div></div><br /><div>I bet I have lost most if not all my readers by now. I am working on something new and will be posting again soon. So please stay tuned........</div>Christinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01251353725581264453noreply@blogger.com3