tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32219590046395323552024-02-07T17:49:28.096-08:00Livin' with the Lee'sChopsticks and Pearlshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03974444192817438513noreply@blogger.comBlogger29125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3221959004639532355.post-53482462833563303582009-05-07T13:15:00.000-07:002009-06-04T09:51:32.560-07:00NEW BLOG!!!I'm back!!! I know it's been a while since I've posted. My apologizes. I will be a better blogger this summer. I have all sorts of stories built up from the past two months that I've been DYING to write about.<br /><br />With that being said, I would like to announce my new blog:<br /><br /><br /><div align="center"><strong>Chopsticks & Pearls</strong><br /></div><div align="center"><a href="http://www.chopsticksandpearls.blogspot.com/">http://www.chopsticksandpearls.blogspot.com/</a> </div><br />Please note that I'm still working on the design, layout and profile information! <br /><br />It will be the same blog....but without our last name blasted across the internet and without so many pictures of our home. Safety first! :) I have tranfered most my posts, so make sure and change your google reader with this new address. I am only going to keep this up for a few more weeks.<br /><br />Visit <a href="http://chopsticksandpearls.blogspot.com/">Chopsticks & Pearls</a> today to see pictures from our wondeful Mexico vacation!<br /><br /><br />Happy Thursday!Chopsticks and Pearlshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03974444192817438513noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3221959004639532355.post-56569556347005042282009-02-24T14:10:00.000-08:002009-02-24T14:35:46.660-08:00Laisser les bons temps rouler!<div align="center"><strong>Happy <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Mardi</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Gras</span> Day!</strong><br /></div><div></div><br /><div>To celebrate Fat Tuesday, I slaved in the kitchen all night to make a <strong>HOMEMADE</strong> King Cake to bring to work. It was not easy, but it was yummy!!! I used a recipe from one of my favorite cooking blogs: <a href="http://http//elizabethsedibleexperience.blogspot.com/2009/02/throw-me-something-mister.html">Elizabeth's Edible Experience.</a> (please note my first link!)</div><br /><div>I didn't put a baby Jesus in it <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">because</span> I didn't want to answer questions all day long about why there is a plastic baby in the cake. You'd be <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">surprised</span> how many times I've explained the tradition of the King Cake and the three wise men's journey to find baby Jesus....AND it would be just my luck that someone would choke on it!<br /><br />My grandmother used to mail a us King Cake when we lived in Canada from a famous New Orleans bakery. We would get to eat a piece for breakfast before school and it was <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">sooo</span> good! Let me tell you...this recipe did NOT disappoint.</div><br /><div>I completely forgot to take a picture of the finished product before I took a piece. ..or before I chopped half of it to take to work! <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">haha</span>. </div><div> </div><div> </div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5306496069787915426" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0xg0OTNuO9AKulb9EIDZWFKzKEUBF1t0qgBF6tqbG8z8_5V1ie-hEKn8882_xOfHwwHwfbCkRqwnIpiP_Fl9q9GgEqn7qJsEENRLHzhCmt2hyW2UjVWsAtjFajzy1gegUuQ3hIzjyqm4/s400/king+cake+004.jpg" border="0" /><br /><div></div><div>Time to start thinking about what to give up for Lent....Ash Wednesday is tomorrow!</div>Chopsticks and Pearlshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03974444192817438513noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3221959004639532355.post-17850892758421597942009-02-20T08:59:00.001-08:002009-02-20T09:40:02.318-08:00A Very Productive Lunch Break!Last week, I had a very productive lunch break! A quick trip to Old Navy! And folks, I did <strong>NOT </strong>come out empty handed. I had some credit that I needed to use, as well as a 30% off coupon. I couldn't resist. I just wanted a few fun pieces for the spring season.<br /><br /><div><div><div><div>My recent Old Navy purchases:<br /></div><br /><div align="center"><strong>A Classic Trench Coat</strong> </div><br /><div align="center"><br /></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5304934151974409842" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 260px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 345px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEfJULW95Hfl9vFbUfY1Y8xtLGQFHh0RIHSHpRZ2RGmnRVtsUve6BDOxiFFUalq409omGnhAAXDhXrqvGQowsiMD8xl6_X2I4SUBTGK5vEhpZAitnnSmaAXGyDoh0zachW1W0JKzn1NYM/s400/trench.jpg" border="0" /><br /><br /><div align="left">I have been looking for a standard trench coat for SO long. They are either way too long, way too broad in the shoulders, too heavy, or they are <strong>WAY</strong> too expensive. I just want something light to throw on a work when I walk to lunch. I wanted one that could be super casual with jeans or nice with black pants.<br /><br />And...I realize that I'm getting picky...but I also wanted brown tortoise looking buttons. Tar-Jay had a great trench coat, but it was a little heavy...a little tight in the hips when buttoned...and ...gasp....it had ugly tan buttons. I thought about buying it and changing out the buttons, but still.<br /><br /></div><div align="left"></div><div>I <strong>LOVE</strong> this one! It hits at the flattering part on the leg, and is an A-line form to it...so it gives that extra space in the hips that some of us need! :)<br /><br />The ONLY negative part about this jacket is that <strong>TWO</strong> people at work have asked me if I have a bunch of fake Rolex's for sale in there.... whatever. </div><br /><br /><div align="center"><strong>A Bright Colored Rain Jacket</strong></div><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5304934210458640514" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 260px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 345px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFsJmBDGjEPW01BM8YV6-WkuXwfutjv0CNyHumqUFK1UsuQ1voyXfyODrFZLnI8-j1u1swq9v2FC5D_T15RxNslajrQrqWGUgk0G2eoHLNgXdMvFS0BVeTby8RhxIzkPfmnw2v5p2Aia0/s400/rainjacket.jpg" border="0" /><br /><br /><div>I just <strong>HAD </strong>to try this one when I saw it. It was also reduced to $20 bucks. They had them in hot pink and navy too. I just thought the yellow was more "me". The hot pink made my cheeks look too red....and I don't have ANY clothes that work with navy....don't even get me started with picking out shoes to match. </div><div><br /> </div><div></div><div>So anyways....I wore this all day yesterday with a white turtle neck and black pants. It was very cute! Now....I'm not gonna lie....<strong>Several</strong> people at work also mentioned how bright it was! I don't care! :) </div><br /><div align="center"><strong>A Patterned Lightweight Scarf<br /></strong></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5304934257042220226" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 260px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 345px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMZK8Y1cOyvS_R0ivNvLCII9jfk1Dp-o_qNQH960JDQkfETaCFQQNcxX8qaBJD7g_s-uWiF6kM4oUVUWjl7TfO_o39S90hwcpjpPKOXZlgt6r2jTMl9eh0mD8Fv0lzBM7A5p7ib_pGw0s/s400/pink.jpg" border="0" />Okay. I love the "scarf look"...where you do the "double wrap" around the neck. I got the black and white one (couldn't find a picture). It's so cute and casual. I've tried the look before with my pashmina's, but it doesn't work too well. They are too wide and thick. I look like I'm getting read for an Arctic blast.<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5304934340483560802" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 301px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 190px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7uiw4PZgf4ZKAmRF9LaumKsZfqv2S-us4sLe0C5DwG_snpMTC1cx1safl5ha50mrETGrRwsooiDQIKgbTshav_suhcHSPtySA1VUFtTMHYnJBeWhIhvcoyQQtrlFg5I1HuXPTFCnixP8/s400/untitled.bmp" border="0" /><br />Jessica Alba, Nicole Richie, and Charlize Theron pull this look off pretty well. Specifically the style on the far right. I thought this Old Navy scarf looked like those trendy "skull and cross bone" ones. I thought this jazzed up my work outfit pretty well. It also looked cute under the trench coat too.<br /><br />Now...I WILL say that I fiddled with the scarf several times throughout the day. I don't mind. I just couldn't get it to stay wrapped all the way. Does anyone know any tricks? Do you need a speciality scarf for this look? The one wrap around look is probably more flattering for big busted people anyway. Man...looking at the pink one...I might need to get this one too! :)<br /><br /><div></div><br /><div>Anyways...I just wanted to share my fun new spring purchases! Have a great weekend!</div><br /><div></div></div></div></div>Chopsticks and Pearlshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03974444192817438513noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3221959004639532355.post-26441912036828384832009-02-13T08:38:00.001-08:002009-02-13T13:13:20.058-08:00I'm a little tired this morning, folks!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVXkH8qeehuyEDA4VKiPrY2DpDToXLWYGzxowvOiEbvZUhixMjfrIqEcBFjbAL6irwvl40XcdsBkrNaY60eC-xRrOdzPp3rcsv7yPqxS9ZSV_CzE36S4jFDyKln3b1ck6mJipKrbC4sOo/s1600-h/kidde_nighthawk_900.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5302329915565328866" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 246px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 260px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVXkH8qeehuyEDA4VKiPrY2DpDToXLWYGzxowvOiEbvZUhixMjfrIqEcBFjbAL6irwvl40XcdsBkrNaY60eC-xRrOdzPp3rcsv7yPqxS9ZSV_CzE36S4jFDyKln3b1ck6mJipKrbC4sOo/s400/kidde_nighthawk_900.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div>Okay - I would like to re-hash a little "experience" from last night.</div><div> </div><div> </div><div><strong></strong></div><div><strong></strong></div><div><strong></strong></div><div><strong></strong></div><div><strong>12:14AM</strong> The Lee's are sound asleep in their cozy bed. </div><div><br /><strong>12:15AM</strong> Carbon Monoxide Detector goes off. The detector is in our room. It. is. LOUD. </div><div><br /><strong>12:15:01AM</strong> We both jump up out of deep sleep. </div><br /><div><strong>James' reaction</strong>: gets out of bed, rips the detector right out of the wall, pulls out the battery, puts the disassembled contraption on the book shelf.....and gets right back into bed and goes to sleep.<br /><br /><strong>Allison's reaction:</strong> Start smelling for gas, blow my nose so I can smell better, run into the kitchen to check the stove and oven (both are off)....come back to our bedroom to find James sound asleep.<br /><br /></div><div>I mean....<strong>WHAT?</strong> How is he not worried that there could be gas in our house? Mr. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">OCD</span> himself isn't worried that we could die in our sleep? </div><br /><div>Well....I woke him up so we could analyze the situation. He somehow convinced me that it was just because the battery was low, and that I should calm down and go back to bed. </div><br /><div>After laying in bed for about 10 minutes, I had convinced myself that I was breathing differently, and that it had to have been from the gas in our house. SO....I woke him up <strong>AGAIN</strong> and made him research our smoke detector online. He patiently read through the entire users manual online, while I paced back and forth....debating on whether I should call the fire department and have them come check out the situation. (Several of us remember the time we smelled gas in the pi phi house!)<br /><br /></div><div>After ~20 <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">minutes</span> of reading the "fine print" in the manual, we decided to plug it back in the wall and see if it went off again or registered any alarming levels. Well....of course...it didn't. No signs of gas - We were fine.</div><br /><div><strong>12:45 AM</strong> The Lee's are soundly back asleep, and my breathing feels normal again. </div><div> </div><div> </div><div></div><div></div><div align="center">Another reason why I have a wonderful husband! :) </div><div align="center"><br /></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5302390044139919874" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 270px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj20vFQq4mZI3VkNiCNPE-lMWlwPzkRHjokmIOubKJWsKatwaYpnBmvUO81mKzlg_u75a7DXWLcRvMrdt-DWo9E0BfVy6ZBssIlQ7V1x-Bjg6IK4xeZH8VFix9D9omXSCaPplGuGeyHdp4/s400/hes_just_not_that_into_you_ver2.jpg" border="0" /><br /><div></div><div>On Wednesday night, I saw "He's Just Not That Into You" and I swear that the scenario last night could have been straight from the movie!!! <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">haha</span>.<br /></div><div></div>Chopsticks and Pearlshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03974444192817438513noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3221959004639532355.post-69383821568075773642009-02-12T09:18:00.000-08:002009-02-12T09:31:13.022-08:00Someone got flowers at work!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjr_pu8VumrcOPySnTwyQV-bVHY1S0B0sOEpyKrkyKszZ78hEAXSNWpgn3xDpQm7NFWXWA7MC9zfeTr6ejv-pK2xvlF9XHQGqUFUK8_vT3BVLi69DnsuyXFxAsQ177J4ZN9QVgYKNp5OA/s1600-h/before+floors+014.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5301963474455209538" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjr_pu8VumrcOPySnTwyQV-bVHY1S0B0sOEpyKrkyKszZ78hEAXSNWpgn3xDpQm7NFWXWA7MC9zfeTr6ejv-pK2xvlF9XHQGqUFUK8_vT3BVLi69DnsuyXFxAsQ177J4ZN9QVgYKNp5OA/s400/before+floors+014.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div align="center"><strong>I have the best husband in the world! Love you, babe!</strong><br /><br /></div><div>We have a wedding on Saturday, so James and I will be celebrating Valentine's Day tomorrow night. Instead of going out to dinner, we are going to cook at home and enjoy our new house and new floors. I am going to plan our gourmet meal today and go grocery shopping after work.<br /><br />Anyone have any good suggestions? I really want a valentine's day themed dessert! </div><div></div>Chopsticks and Pearlshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03974444192817438513noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3221959004639532355.post-3432714096306211252009-02-09T09:39:00.000-08:002009-02-09T10:17:09.594-08:00BEFORE & AFTERJames and I cleaned ALL weekend. 7am to 11pm. Non-stop. Our house is spotless. Every cabinet, drawer, closet, desk, and shelf has been, dusted, wiped down, and organized. We feel very accomplished. Needless to say, our house feels like a brand new home. <div><div><div><div><div><div align="left"><div><br />We LOVE our new floors!</div><div><br /></div><div align="center"><strong>Before</strong> dining room:<br /><br /></div><div align="center"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5300859167441828690" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiPtkYS-TUVAmEr3CeRA8Dh886rbafEpYgxzQTWWssf_qeiNDd3b1rBdGWsfiUD2BjmEM2eJb9blDSCB-qWgI68aFT7Rqmr-FsE4yNCCDwz_hYMPbXX7Fuz5QMj1rHwUoH2A6yu9A9lhw/s400/before+floors+001.jpg" border="0" /><br /></div><div align="center"><strong>After</strong> dining room:</div><div align="center"><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5300859739221764338" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpWhM92m4Kz7h1KqoIYWrD4XitOEHRQftVRE_iZwdOYHJVPJxkJtovq73yY5twFjRVpgiiMACD3mlRNfWMdXtSZwm3XMWRJQ5FMAM6PLcPyT0M7dEYbcoTO5W86w9Q1JneFDGeiXdG4lo/s400/hardwoodfloors+053.jpg" border="0" /></div><div align="center"><strong><br />Before</strong> living room:<br /><br /></div><div align="center"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5300858820313998178" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEwiotduhu8JqPYBnfjezNSrRAfSrFZa62umvRmaJl25oDIoZtKnbSoRlePX0KbITHB0dlT0DxFBT3yTVGFQJseUIrUHIViH4bk8Axg88gODde8A5g3qNmLv13IfPDBEosfr5YrrqvoN8/s400/before+floors+013.jpg" border="0" /> </div><div align="center"><em>Can anyone find Waldo in this picture?</em></div><div align="center"></div><div align="center"><strong><br />After </strong>living room:</div><div><br /></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5300857282590548146" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXVei2wPHGYtwkmNLY8e0jzqf3g3Vml2oG-HRLmFZntLGx9MXI4f6R04d3juqGTYEbXf_-7IQCXQH8pDDOPtorHk10AHC8P-Alw3b7B5ggqCNfh_AnPAKJr78CkcVyXKvrdPvj-MWccwM/s400/hardwoodfloors+054.jpg" border="0" /><br /><div align="center"><strong>Before</strong> kitchen/breakfast area:<br /><br /></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5300858991976945778" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBzrF0uqJ-X8Ymo__zHhfZeV8KTjdFMd0QgX1crqC-eAK4zrHBmu22bWTrMzuWdniJW0hW1_7a_GwJyuTjIDsnnQEL2NXP3iRVBqY7XpfgzcsRRgD5zzuEy3U3zQ8WxIppCHjjNIqvnbw/s400/before+floors+006.jpg" border="0" /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5300859052933084850" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVmLuK3WEPaht4A5v7VwMnOQFRAnex0l8buWXpbFGc13ilO8ccQhprvo1q7GGhiR-nXAedJx7vnud5qaF74TIJdpZyhq-SGS-y5-em08iU4Wt4EgEw6c5S7vAocJRC_8aec51aCkPzBWY/s400/before+floors+005.jpg" border="0" /><br /><div align="center"><strong>After </strong>kitchen/breakfast area:<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5300858906271567426" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGJDHrRUo_CPvQuML-NimQGRGN7cyG0T93y1CFSXC4i8ULscPVyzyr2ZM0Ittp-ZZcsI0xGMv25rZZhBZxWCFa2oYBlJhlmEMvhCFNi0w-WomJod50YA-_Mad5OnghPiomAJxsQpvdEE8/s400/before+floors.jpg" border="0" /></div><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5300859397545999778" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTKSDMTcVRGxZOeA-JROm3FrEuyRD8OavPbUO75MQ5OE_4OykvGVFewy4YJy7ig9LpLXhhJL-IM9EbtK4fYAt9vtWAIKZ00b4l_TXfoOGbTbUDyMlxxpw0CbEn_Kh0_PgXq_cPFSO4qRU/s400/hardwoodfloors+058.jpg" border="0" /></div><div><br />If you look closely, we put felt pads under <strong>EVERYTHING </strong>to protect the floors....even the trash can has a pad under it. Next time you come over to our house, don't be offended if we ask you to take off your shoes. We are being <strong>VERY </strong>protective over our new floors. I about died when I dropped some ice tea on the floor. You should have seen my panic reaction. I realize this phase won't last for long. ha ha.</div><br /><div>I've also decided that I want a very clean and polished look in the house. You might notice that I didn't put everything back out on the shelves, tables, and fire place mantle. I want to start with a clean slate. </div><br /><div>I'm ready to go rug shopping!!! </div></div></div></div></div></div></div>Chopsticks and Pearlshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03974444192817438513noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3221959004639532355.post-18865856219928377152009-02-06T07:17:00.000-08:002009-02-08T08:52:49.786-08:00Pre-InstallationYesterday was a BIG day in the Lee household! The work is STILL in progress and should be finished this afternoon. James and I both took the morning off yesterday to meet the installers and watch them begin to rip up our floors. By the end of the day, they finished laying all the wood, but still have to finish the transitions and shoe moldings today. <div><div><div><div><div><div><div><div><div><div><div><div><div><div><div><div><div><div><br /><div>I WILL say that our house is a complete mess. There is a THICK sheet of dust over EVERYTHING. We thought that closing the doors would at least protect the bedrooms. No ma'am. The dust is everywhere. We have A LOT of work ahead of us.</div><br /><div>I don't have any wood pictures yet....they will come soon....but I DO have some pictures some of the "prep" work we had to do before they came.</div><br /><div><strong>Step #1</strong> - To save money, we bought all the shoe molding this weekend from Home Depot. We sanded, primed, and painted them. You would have thought Tiger (my car) was in some kind of jousting match. Let's just say that transporting these long pieces of wood....was not easy.<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5299714550253225890" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOj6V0l6s9mHih2yWNShF4bUChKh-VLABtTZNMzizsXgWowpMaN2ADh0KObMWvYLiqe9QuELgpuvu1XN8A8CzP0f0nQyta-ZQ-WHIV40v5lCs-gOJ_d1bxyQHjs-EzVl9CcelhNCZMiBw/s400/hardwoodfloors+040.jpg" border="0" /></div><br /><div><em>Please note the red flag we put on the end. James insisted!</em> </div><br /><div><strong>Step #2 -</strong> Remove all small furniture and accessories. This includes emptying out the buffet will all my china, James' bar, the entertainment center, and the <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">refrigerator</span>!<br /><br /></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5299712113050225826" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitB3ZSzgi7DPvRDwShuB2Rx-M-F_itgyRUDmM1jXUAK5aP-LloMpyzhsgfEnQF9qhMjih97h9uCtwVPgTSIeCZgr1WLQbf4K_Oiw_sb5QUJAq2g8p1LydoK9WQR9mDDeQTwWZYUkIXLeA/s400/hardwoodfloors+024.jpg" border="0" /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5299712438971045074" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6mUm2VNLJ4W6rKf23CO_CxuAHTTvYemOv5s7cAopjEVXuZlTHWjobbCSoS137c7Kfzgj-KvCJEkQUqobfeby8EMCxQI5ZB8Sido6Twg6dG7e2LuMRoSfDnwCzFm-EROvqx4nIslz_Kqc/s400/hardwoodfloors+030.jpg" border="0" /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5299712204909781650" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6NXtsrY4h-ZQuQdnnpN8WE4BWbDnDYnHPlg5qUfeRYrZo09XTGBh1tfFUYNy0weAaxqFXn_5WD2EEqZDDHWcGPiaGNmYhEoW886XpgW9uTmY40LeuV3yIwOyzKMKnYpTmpdyXuEzvqKs/s400/hardwoodfloors+027.jpg" border="0" /><br /><div><strong>Step #3</strong> - Pile ALL objects into spare bedrooms.<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5299712521447543122" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisM_IJaNfSMY8u3jEk7xiL4VFLIWs82wSfZEcAzMs6-pHUVBtL77iMWGHvMlXnUuSYluvBfFSTFSqZXGIIqkAnJrE2INxJzdfNrOVgHh3vBPkubnjlLV5a7W2WNfR1uBmrqADCKSS1Dk4/s400/hardwoodfloors+020.jpg" border="0" /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5299713497803750418" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVggZHuVJYN_z55mwUkmv1Xe4ruau4nnLw26i9rQ8F8_J7_2r1MemF0emV7N8p7jukFpzPNhNLP4vaufN3CxiIFMu9BOwJu62oCpE1kdhLgsE4nbCKpvCxBbcolp6Ogb_u1UrHhG0qOKc/s400/hardwoodfloors+032.jpg" border="0" /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5299713328692987938" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ7XVwugS44NE0UPmOSle7SdQZ9L8Qz8EsQMEftZDRvhH7e5hs2ZdHeONZJLnxntxSWbK2s4WbBK_-GQoHVKrle7JDZ9XePs66jQtnXrmeSM085r5fbMMoNgYPSbQM5-g4meD241XPCMI/s400/hardwoodfloors+022.jpg" border="0" /><br /><strong>Step #4</strong> - <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">GRAFFITI</span> the floors!!!! I've been <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">secretly</span> wanting to do this for weeks. I didn't tell James because I didn't want him to stress out. When he left to get breakfast yesterday morning....I went to town!! I REALLY wish I would have recorded his reaction. He was in pure disbelief as to why I wanted to do this. He also couldn't understand why I didn't just write something small....and why I had to completely cover the floors. My response: Go big or Go home! </div><br /><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5299714625109249794" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0FmlHJXMryxTTbPMRHME9JGzY4U28BisLyhG-_9KbXKPlEDsEBNdF3BXCNQzIOKCYjX1wHEcHyh3lR9Kid00dSq-B0IMYQ4pysYBvl4zDnYFvyZeFOEfawf_bQHeaQ19vP4GFKKk-aFk/s400/hardwoodfloors+001.jpg" border="0" /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5299719461765925970" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj8J8NaBmaEQlLyuTWPJ407_rfCx-dJwa8Nh41vikajTn_fQkW1H0HvAU5-rGzklblQXjfd9DFt7czN055Nz4-IdR6NZbtgjXcLxaC8RaY6xfNSTTS58rTIZ8j5cYrme4gYQlfTBAAee0/s400/hardwoodfloors+011.jpg" border="0" /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5299714711325755538" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgam58iFO4KrAQGhOkZ0I-nDmSQNr3Q6JSNN1Jzd9vAxs-lS6aaqQrKDh4-YyozZObevvCTed7yFvQs7zzFrvi76I8sVJNGZJk01ae6mIxcvjQxJ75X-XN9x8PwO_XUIf9koBPQHMhy3gw/s400/hardwoodfloors+008.jpg" border="0" /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5299714807205841794" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_7Q0KZpwcAqrzkh9RT87rMFfHnEmSdKvq5FLIAw308u22O7Gm6zvX4aa-ecWecSTJVHOhdH678jSI0UicUbASBtOoW73rvthOiagEHEJdFABHrE-xgti-6NztJhTl2enDcl4kmSG1e-I/s400/hardwoodfloors+009.jpg" border="0" /></div><br /><div><strong>Note:</strong> Now that you've seen the pictures. I can tell you a funny story from yesterday. The workers starting pulling up the <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">linoleum</span> pretty quickly. When one of the guys came to the doorway with my drawing of the "welcome mat".....he stopped....went to his supervisor (the supervisor was the only one who spoke <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">English</span>)...and asked if it was okay to pull it up. I saw this interaction happening ...and started laughing inside and told him it was a joke. I'm flattered that he thought my drawing was so "real". We obviously don't have the same sense of humor. </div><br /><div><strong>Step #4 - </strong>Picture of the house with all the flooring removed!<br /><br /></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5299715060630226914" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2PSPI_j9H2ZEEVNDTZTZnil0u74gKqslu0kINlPM2-BI1GuTneTNP1FuNMTm0rbSyBfwvZNuIHPDjgstJiTprgnPY8GIf5mnICsGbal7LKYyL1slIpwmf90e9HQPP5uHYct0cbostw68/s400/hardwoodfloors+039.jpg" border="0" /><br /><div><strong>Step #5 -</strong> James and I had a nice romantic take-out dinner in the study. We had to disconnect our <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">DVR</span>, so this was the only way we could watch the Grey's/Private Practice special!</div><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5299720140894117026" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnH3c2Zw_wezFp06UjqiJH6izgwtrwrXb6797jWT86BPYPajNIhqdBOQRr3XqBS5xrkmd8pWs-HR8J5qbKkTue_o3oCe88DTlnJ5VWcrn5QekdWC0n1CPcu_k3aiCibixEwhr6MTK90pM/s400/hardwoodfloors+018.jpg" border="0" /><br /><div></div><div>We definitely have our work cut out for us this weekend! As you can see, our house is a DISASTER zone. We just LOVE how everything looks so far. It's like a completely different house. I can't wait to start cleaning and putting it back together!!!! I will send before and after pictures soon!<br /></div><div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>Chopsticks and Pearlshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03974444192817438513noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3221959004639532355.post-42004725137484126142009-02-04T11:54:00.000-08:002009-02-04T12:35:03.548-08:00Sundance Film Festival Recap!<p align="left"><div align="left"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRQNBURriJG7TUPRhfynXAm7RiSQtj-GUFJ2_jAIH-KvC-mUFkW1GekLop2y4BhwLS_TboDAd8gvfJ9jyKAY94unRuvviAGG1gWNVjwPcY6w5yutQ9Jj38biUyxGo2ZjMaK7-k6WyK70Y/s1600-h/Christmas+030.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5299040869579231090" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRQNBURriJG7TUPRhfynXAm7RiSQtj-GUFJ2_jAIH-KvC-mUFkW1GekLop2y4BhwLS_TboDAd8gvfJ9jyKAY94unRuvviAGG1gWNVjwPcY6w5yutQ9Jj38biUyxGo2ZjMaK7-k6WyK70Y/s400/Christmas+030.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div align="left">I'm a week or so late, but I wanted to post a picture or two from the Sundance Film Festival in Park City, Utah. When my dad moved up there a few years ago (my parents commute from Dallas to Park City every weekend...crazy, I know!)...we started going up there for Christmas to ski. It's always a blast!</div><br />This year, we decided to spend Christmas in Dallas and go to Park City during the Sundance Film Festival. We had a GREAT time and saw some really great movies. I saw 5 movies in three days. If you think that's a lot, you should hear some of the die-hard movie-goers.....they see over 20 in two weeks! To think I was almost movie'd out after 5.<br /><br />They were all INCREDIBLE films, but they were all pretty "deep". They didn't necessarily have the "warm and fuzzy" endings and famous movie stars, but they all made you really think about life etc. After the movie, the cast and director would go up on stage and answer questions from the audience. It was so interesting to hear the real story and the background on how these films were made....very low budget.<br /><br />You realize how many GREAT movies fall through the cracks...and never made it to the BIG SCREEN...because they can't get investors etc. It's a crazy business. You really appreciate the passion of these actors.<br /></div><div align="center"></div><div align="center"><br /></div><div align="center"><strong>Movies we saw:<br /></strong></div><div align="center"></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5299041031105902274" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 200px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsHgw7Sc87BHdjrpm-De7w60BfSYb7k1eK_nse-c2Vr-uR6IL0Vfaot9fIT7MSbpwjXy1mPXbFLxFK-I1-jrbOntO0p7A8mAJXTQfbEfmlJYQvFlOm4nExuOdUYkcxE3_TaZfqPCrZY2o/s400/SHRIN.jpg" border="0" /><br /><strong>The Shrink -</strong> We went to the premier! Kevin Spacey was the "shrink" and he was there answering questions. I really think the movie will get picked up. We loved it!<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5299041099507721202" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 140px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 207px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiz7jxV47bKCazVGaFnETgv8gbaZ-hkp5A8zZZwXqFFJIiBwoOqLd-TVUPBZFqWHipWsDDPeCblT1CqPeU1GUutR28lBthojjo4MLzJ0VCdq_duPRgJ07vEYTOPL_mZI_GEoVo3EVCkCuo/s400/4855.jpg" border="0" /><br /><strong>Adventureland -</strong> This movie sparked some interest...and I think it will make it to local theatres. It kind of had a "Juno" feel to it.<br /><br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5299041255893703154" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 200px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0_mUFKS9p9TMPiI4wQOac2ry3g52VwwWGXn5DRyLr42h7u2TA4Mgr5cQ7YizehowAgkVbULNND5uRmvJvFjAZVhd6mWyApZHK2GSd-3xyefxtcI2Cmf5kOHFhF-W9WwD3VsPRDobNiPg/s400/ADAMM.jpg" border="0" /><br /><strong>ADAM -</strong> I LOVED this movie. I think it was my favorite.<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5299041315788357250" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 200px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmRRaawcG1HQLYTK-B-WmEcVJ190QrstmvrmEnI5cM0bGbU0gtc_2ZacwsAzX-zVkHk3wBl5_Qi46h4tF9FLKmQITLs9ZZaM9Yr9nAfIbpnwmRhSYOHFm7NTu9W3LhX3NVQQI5AtENcjE/s400/untitled.bmp" border="0" /> <div align="center"><strong>Helen -</strong> I love Ashley Judd. This was a sad movie about depression.<br /><br /></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5299041361533835874" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 200px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJUgVEO11E__ETJ5t_otX8QaqzZFeTiiH24xxl11EdGo_EyWic8QkOsjrf7Kd2rXBmoeKKdkoY-qG9eHygyLyq9_Jw_JfbiubVnh8_WYKkSANZ7rA2i5DEOviG8Q2BSbk65GwxQT104Lc/s400/PUSHH.jpg" border="0" /> <div align="center"><strong>Push -</strong> Sundance Award Winner! (it. was. intense.)</div><br /><div align="left">We went out one night, but didn't see any celebrities. The only celebrities we saw were the ones in the "cast" in the films we saw. Everyone was at the Inauguration! haha. It was the second week at Sundance...and apparently, the first week is when the movie stars all go. We saw a ton of paparazzi waiting on main street. It was crazy. We did sit next to one of the writers for the Saprano's in one movie. I'm sure there were a ton of famous "industry" people around that we didn't recognize.</div><p></p><div align="left">The best part about skiing during Sundance is that NO ONE is on the slopes. Unfortunately, it rained/sleeted most of the time we were there....so it was miserable skiing conditions. It was also super foggy. You couldn't see two fee in front of you...which is just scary on the slopes. You can see how miserable I was below....</div><br />Not our best ski picture.....this was right before I dropped my camera in the snow. Nice.<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5299040935311192402" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaqbN4-mXlKfx6h9Cz4aw4YFZ9HlKjlLJdc3lGYvCGIzQXXPmUgPNMqjlaWFgI9K_AseJ0jcchFRquxkkDr4o7ctJSmoV6Wu8Hw2uJ25hayDceD9LjqzetlFN-QzQBa5kmcmYoSiTmQYg/s400/Christmas+028.jpg" border="0" /><br /><div align="center">T Minus<strong> 1 DAY</strong> until wood floors!!!!!</div>Chopsticks and Pearlshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03974444192817438513noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3221959004639532355.post-72559104408797047732009-02-02T07:18:00.000-08:002009-02-02T07:48:58.716-08:00Super Bowl Cake!<div align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFMopmjQSNYn1Vkl_n9PLn_du41WnAT_NFw4Kp8qIwg6lZjje_ujYCVZ0oI0eaB3PJuUwmCtI-0KkZhhYOvgFKZUrBKmi1IzHGl7k1-DLQeC3k15iifIPjyiFKsdgmHTAIQEjeC1nLQjc/s1600-h/cake+003.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5298220357414100722" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFMopmjQSNYn1Vkl_n9PLn_du41WnAT_NFw4Kp8qIwg6lZjje_ujYCVZ0oI0eaB3PJuUwmCtI-0KkZhhYOvgFKZUrBKmi1IzHGl7k1-DLQeC3k15iifIPjyiFKsdgmHTAIQEjeC1nLQjc/s400/cake+003.jpg" border="0" /></a><strong><span style="color:#990000;"> 2009 SUPER BOWL CAKE!!!!</span></strong></div><br />After slaving in the kitchen for two hours on Sunday, I finally completed the infamous <strong>2009 Super Bowl Cake</strong>. I have to say that I'm pretty proud of myself. I wish the writing was a bit better, but you just can't control those aerosol icing pumps like you used to. The field was yellow cake and the football was chocolate (all 50% less sugar)...so people had a choice. My initial plan was to put the football in the middle of the cake. However, the field came out smaller than I had invisioned...and the football was much bigger than I thought. I had to improvise.<br /><br />I WISH I would have taken a picture of the kitchen. It was a disaster. If you have never been in our house, our kitchen is completely white. When you so much so much as drop a coffee drip on the counter, it stains. Therefore, you can imagine what the counter looked like with all that food coloring and icing. It took 6 different bowls alone to make all the colors, and I also used an ENTIRE roll of paper towls. I didn't want to ruin or stain one of my good dishtowls...so every time I had to wipe my hands....off came another paper towel! haha. <br /><br />Every time that James would walk past the kitchen and shake his head....I just told him that I am practicing for when we have kids. I'm gonna save us money by making homemade birthday cakes...and not having to buy the fancy ones! :)<br /><br />Anyone an "Ace of Cakes" fan out there? I think good ol Duff at Charm City Cakes would have been pleased! I tried to "shave" the cake into a football like they do on the show, but let me tell you folks....it's not as easy as it looks.<br /><br />As for the Super Bowl, I got into the actual game with about 5 minutes left in the 4th quarter. I'm totally bummed that the Cardinals lost. I also thought the half-time show was lame and the commercials were boring. I DID think that Jennifer Hudson did an AMAZING job singing the national anthem though.Chopsticks and Pearlshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03974444192817438513noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3221959004639532355.post-31084676476920817452009-01-30T11:10:00.000-08:002009-01-30T12:03:35.269-08:00SUPER BOWL WEEKEND!!!!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQi_0eVbCH-21nNauykzRy7-_jdk2kPI7qRlxgcYrlii1L3rY_wOJO4AvOisgFWeY72lKc1rM5zTh_9isB-zLDVLJf7WRA82sUByMW5dfbYr2jA4nd6tIBjII89cGDnyPkaeEXd5gVva4/s1600-h/super-bowl-2009.gif"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5297177824264752114" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 316px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 152px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQi_0eVbCH-21nNauykzRy7-_jdk2kPI7qRlxgcYrlii1L3rY_wOJO4AvOisgFWeY72lKc1rM5zTh_9isB-zLDVLJf7WRA82sUByMW5dfbYr2jA4nd6tIBjII89cGDnyPkaeEXd5gVva4/s400/super-bowl-2009.gif" border="0" /></a> It's that time again! I just LOVE watching the Super Bowl. I love the excitement...I love the commercials....I love the half-time show.....I love playing the squares game....I love it all. I ALWAYS watch until the very end...through the trophy presentation, coaches speech, and the MVP player. I love watching the players grab their kids and kiss their wives. I'm usually an emotional mess by that time. I think I picture being a mom and watching your child get the highest honor in the sport of football.<br /><div></div><div> </div><div>I also LOVE when they show all the players back in the locker room pouring champagne all over themselves. How fun does that look? Seriously. I hope there is a time in my life where I am just so happy that I pour champagne all over my body. Surely it ruins the carpet and furniture. I wonder that EVERY time I watch this going on. </div><br /><div>The ONLY time I didn't watch all the celebration was when they had that really dramatic episode on Grey's Anatomy following the game. I can't remember if it was the "bomb" episode or what, but they played that preview every single commercial break. It was before we had <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">DVR</span>, so James and I RACED home from a party to watch it. James <em>might </em>have even gone 5 above the speed limit that night. Come to think of it, he probably just told me that to calm me down. </div><br /><div>We've have hosted several Super Bowl parties in the past. This year, James said that we had to stop hosting parties if we really wanted these hardwood floors. I think the reason I love the Super Bowl <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">parties</span> so much because there is a legitimate theme. Napkins, serving platters, food, games, attire...everything can become a theme. </div><br /><div align="left">Last year, I found this GREAT idea in Every Day Rachel Ray, my all-time favorite magazine. It was the perfect dessert for a super bowl party, and I was so excited.<br /><br /><strong><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">CoCoa</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Krispie</span> Treat Footballs</strong></div><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5297177886393911010" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 140px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 140px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5Scw9Fqv40lNjB-TpmvC5Re_PWmYxDp5iigCRUu4H_2IzNWxsSiajfAm-qToKpZs85C2r4y45wV22-mnulT3aWjBashkRevbr7OQYDKf4-lZWvNiZeb4z-d9ktUKoZmcd_O21449zv-I/s400/179239.jpg" border="0" /><br /><div></div><div>Note: This is the picture from the magazine. How cute are those? Now...mine DID NOT turn out ANYTHING like this picture. It was a complete disaster. They were so sticky that I couldn't form them. I didn't have enough time for them to completely harden. By the time that I got a few shaped like a football, I had completely crumbled all the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">krispies</span>. Then...after a few minutes....they started drooping...almost melting on the pan. I tried to make the white lines with icing and it was a total flop. I still brought them...to show that I put forth the effort. They still tasted good. Who doesn't love to pick at a rice <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">krispie</span> treat, right?</div><br /><div>This year, I found a NEW recipe/idea I'm going to try. I think it will be SUPER cute. Stay tuned for pictures on Monday! Hopefully, it will turn out better than last year! Go Cardinals!<br /></div><div></div>Chopsticks and Pearlshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03974444192817438513noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3221959004639532355.post-40284461089733606742009-01-29T06:47:00.000-08:002009-01-29T08:51:29.005-08:00T minus 1 WEEK until Hardwood Floors!<div align="left"><span style="color:#006600;">I realize that its been two months since I've posted last, but I'm back! I could give a million reasons why I have been such a slacker with my blog, but I'll spare you. I've decided that I will blog more if I stop thinking so much about what to post....or how to make it funny.....and then editing it several times before posting. It just takes way too long!<br /><br />I'll post some pictures from Christmas and the Sudance Film Festival soon. Our big news though is that we are getting hardwood floors in our house NEXT WEEK! I am SO excited. We have spent the past several weekends bringing home samples and getting quotes from companies all around town. It's been exhausting and discouraging. Of course, ALL the wood we loved was the most expensive, and you don't want to settle with something you don't like.<br /></span></div><div align="left"><span style="color:#006600;"><br />One company quoted us significantly lower than all the others. It was still higher than we wanted to pay, but we were considering it. James HATES negotiating. He's actually terrible at it. He has the patience of a 4 year old and always gives in WAY to early. I, on the other hand, have no shame...as we've all seen with my celebrity pictures.<br /></span></div><div align="left"><span style="color:#006600;"><br />That's when he made me a deal. Whatever I negotiate the final price to be, he will give me the difference from the original quoted price to spend on furniture/rugs! So what does a girl do?????</span></div><br /><div align="left"><span style="color:#006600;"></span></div><div align="left"><span style="color:#006600;">Pearls - check!</span></div><div align="left"><span style="color:#006600;">Preppy pink cardigan around the shoulders - check!</span></div><div align="left"><span style="color:#006600;">high patent leather pumps - check!</span></div><div align="left"><span style="color:#006600;">Extra mascara & lipstick - check!</span></div><div align="left"><br /><span style="color:#006600;">I marched right down to that warehouse full of men ready to make me a deal. I joked around and laughed. I wouldn't say it was flirting per say....but I definitely started out playing the role of the naive wife who knows NOTHING about hardwood floors. Little did they know that I had memorized ALL of our measurements...and price points. I also mentioned about how I have this "friend" that sells the exact brand of wood that I wanted...and he was going to cut me a deal. The assured me that they could beat it.<br /><br />20 minutes later..<br /><br />I walked outta there with the best deal in town. I knocked it down a good $1,000!!! hahaha. Installation and everything! They even said they would pull up all our vinyl floor for free because I was so nice! The manager even said that the probably wouldn't make a dime off my project because they are selling the wood at cost! James was so proud!!!!</span></div><br /><div align="left"><span style="color:#006600;">Now...they DID say that we would save money if we bought and painted all our quarter rounds ourselves. If you dont' know much about flooring, it's the edging around wall. Looks like James and I will be at Home Depot this weekend!!! I'm so excited! All I can think about is how different our house will look ...and how I'm going to decorate! I'm gonna hit up some consignment stores this weekend. </span></div><br /><div align="left"><span style="color:#006600;"><strong>My inspiration rooms:</strong> </span></div><br /><div align="center"><span style="color:#006600;">I love the white chairs with the table in between. I'm finally going to be able to buy the IKEA white chairs! woohoo! I also love the stacked books on the coffee table. <img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5296739303771686754" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 313px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2T5eJ9gFL-th-pm1UCDnguMVTgtkNSxl760h2NSBl7xS-eDn03wFHVPrsu3iXlzXpd5Q7EbRLbFd7IY8gMpk_awNnQjiVa3srbZlPyWnRDFGx3Fh6Ndk0BWDOmUeA1gEoKEUXAylWgKA/s400/3126093519_97ef35702e.jpg" border="0" /></span></div><br /><div align="center"><span style="color:#006600;">I LOVE these chair covers. I am going to try and 'make' these for our dining room chairs. I also love the sconces...and the blue/grey paint color with the goldish curtains.<br /></span></div><span style="color:#006600;"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5296739846781944850" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 304px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4PI9veWjcvsseUT6dHaNW6Fwe_vMolJ9gvJdp5SnNT7IeLVkPc7hQwrbXTAlw_XtSlfMWHa3MCNAWCEUb2Yk9ksCk6qO1Y0UYjnyQLrLUm5ZDd5GRPq2bda86z5tWZf_pNeb1bPzcZT0/s400/slipcovers_willow.jpg" border="0" /><br /></span><p align="center"><span style="color:#006600;">I love this chandelier and the color of the room. I also love that they put the curtains higher than the window to make the room look bigger.<br /></span></p><span style="color:#006600;"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5296745261007816850" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 258px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIihRi3k4vZ_sKornZS8rp89hNCDf1SKx3NN2kTSxesCJ9QgdochoE5-YpGpKoJnM_ot9jTXlkeZvpV3OaICLkjjuMFv0aAHsHivHh-iDYrnr7rDHR7RxYDzcUPhb9ebpbqGm0UkzGnSg/s400/madeline_stuart.jpg" border="0" /><br />We have this small space when you first walk in the house...in the dining room. I thought this pretty way to use the space. A table with two chairs ..and curtains. I will FINALLY be putting curtains up in the front room. I also love the stacked books.<br /><br /></span><div align="center"><span style="color:#006600;"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5296739753880552898" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 297px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQoOZ_XiFyO7KhuzXrSp9P9MiObG04DcxncRaCDRWVgLz9jGGTUM2kcEZFsdlV55psmqWczVzCKvzSOEDX81liP2ko5t9UKd9AW3r0427jPGO6wSUlsdtjjvW2wxCRbFdbJRhIadQl3iA/s400/michaelsmith.jpg" border="0" /><br />I love the way the two rugs work in this room. I definitely want to use get a jute rug for the front room. I also LOVE mirrored funiture. Love, love, love. It probably wouldn't go with our funiture now..but one day! <img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5296739699854563346" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 303px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3EI5y62y9w_c9mp4_JIpt7QcoFJTqdf7ROS44kT7O_k4ca2dPErGnI1Euvek3KxDXUSgyckC7aL9yC_ZsFVyGSeOVYkExi6Khvj2xdCR2DWas-CnM3M22r-TwO4IoXNBZhJWXzscKWfA/s400/2.jpg" border="0" /><br /></span><div align="center"><span style="color:#006600;">I just love the mirror and antique cabinet. I think it looks formal, but casual at the same time.<br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5296739798207055458" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrH9QhPBefgBFmTeMkGlkBmm_CWNRsR7VcSjHNqbN0by2MVp37cVUw8dliqeWQwCQMpiBf7Oz1V_gNSS4hXNC9FO_-IdsXmhDhd23hR4mXUXlMYrm4WflK1B3RJb7-phLul_YC3kG080A/s400/mrshoward1.jpg" border="0" />I have LOVED this coffee table for over a year now. It would be my entire decorating budget...so I need to find a knock off. <img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5296744369695216498" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 230px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 288px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfY0mM689rBl0Ib-oACksevcLQYgYNmf1K0Wq6HQ6qvL4YPDSVaKHRCYLQcRqbD7Cvgl3RL7THx2tWfKtp_5Wgf4U93jRINNQcPKuvMWWH54LYm5KnTbj1eV7Rutfgea0IHXmYCuds0is/s400/HCH3RAX_mj.jpg" border="0" /></span></div><br /><span style="color:#006600;">I have also LOVED this mirrored cabinet. It would go perfect in this little nook in our house, but it's not practical...we don't need it...and it probably wouldn't match everything else. oh, but I love it!</span><br /><span style="color:#006600;"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5296744321570626738" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 230px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 288px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikWiDOc78vN8sBbvazbNW9l8i5KXNGh9KiVSYRKrai2a7uwdOLvmhb7GOdK0uNCwQiFffwsytYK4PZ8pTmdphvjVhGZ1DkJTh-sV7xiCrQMO83VAZSKOqwNm9M2A4qeWfDJCQcvnKs44g/s400/HCF01K7_mj.jpg" border="0" /><br /></span><br /></div>Chopsticks and Pearlshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03974444192817438513noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3221959004639532355.post-54075768189608920322008-12-08T13:37:00.000-08:002008-12-08T14:01:25.737-08:00AS SEEN ON TV<span style="color:#009900;"><br />I’ve wanted to post about this for a while. No one knows this better than James, but I am a SUCKER for infomercials. The moment one of those infomercials comes on, I’m in a trance. Now with that being said, I DO have enough self control not to pick up the phone and order a product just because there is a limited time offer for $19.95. BUT I HAVE purchased SEVERAL items at Bed Bath and Beyond in the “As Seen on TV” section.<br /><br />Therfore, I wanted to do a review of some products I have tried, as well as share some of the products that I am DYING to try. Hopefully, this will help some of your future impulse purchases. <br /><br /><strong>Reviews:</strong><br /><br /></span><span style="color:#009900;"><strong>1. Ped-Egg<br /></strong><br />I have the WORST feet. I don’t know if I walk too hard in my heals or what, but there is so much dry and callously skin. When I get a pedicure, it is not uncommon for the ladies to laugh and point at my feet to the other ladies. It’s like I’m a circus animal and everyone has to come see for themselves. The first time I saw this product in BBB, I was sold! I just pictured myself like the lady in the commercial…rubbing it on my feet really quick before I went to bed….magically making my feet soft and smooth.<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5277537701796880434" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7CwHNeN4b0yaVzuO2-jjVxfg-8DBvX-Oq90mEqKXrNVOQyG4NiW0Y-h2QrE0c1ZtIsJYQkqIlP3pkH-lXjLcAmXMw-m5UdwdyGsU5kuY9utSkhSTqHNVb59Vusc47un-u6rtJHk2Ix84/s320/ped+egg.jpg" border="0" /><br /><strong>Review:</strong> <strong>NOT WORTH THE MONEY.</strong> You literally have to rub this thing on your foot for an HOUR to feel any difference. I tried it when my foot was both wet and dry. It didn’t make a difference. My foot was just as callously when I woke up the next day. AND..this might be T.M.I. (too much information) BUT…to get the sucker open to empty it out…you need super human strength…and when it finally pops open…the dead skin flies EVERYWHERE!!! It’s AWFUL! I apologize for being gross, but this is the stuff you need to know.<br /><br /><strong>2. Lateral Thigh Trainer</strong><br /><br />I bought this at BBB for an incredible steal. I thought it would be perfect to use while I was watching TV in my apartment. My thought was that I would get on every time I watched those "Friends" reruns right when I got home from work. When you watch the commercial, it seems like a BEST idea. You get to watch how many calories you are burning while it tones not only your leg, but your whole body. Then you just slide it under your bed when you are finished. Who doesn’t want that? <img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5277539504092818706" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 225px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-bs_U0an-naG-aiaqgY5JfzFrAIzVBhitDu3gYT_oOSRTQG3eb0iXROMguaATMZ4aLk4bVJHSbXiv2IK8T6EfYBz5B-p9XSvyM9v_6NovUBxZ9SA1tI4QgqR49x-lk0-EcA3jcyvZqqQ/s320/thightrainer_thumb.jpg" border="0" /><br /><strong>Review:</strong> <strong>IT’S STILL EXERCISE, BUT WORSE.</strong> First, it probably weighs 40 pounds. So your workout really starts by just carrying it from your car to your apt. By the time I got it up 3 flights of stairs, I had to call it a day. I MAYBE used it three times. It's just NOT a normal body movement. It’s impossible to get the rhythm going because you have nothing to hold on to…so by the time you try to go as fast as the lady in the infomercial, you basically fall off. I swear that lady must have some kind of invisible rope holding her up during the taping. And to top it all off, it wasn’t even close to fitting under the bed. Needless to say, I just left it in my apartment when I moved.<br /><br /><strong>3. Space Saver - Vacuum Seal Bags</strong><br /><br />We found these at Costco after seeing them in a few commercials. You basically fill these bags with clothes, pillows, blanket etc. and then vacuum seal. It’s supposed to shrink the pile to 1/3 of the actual size. The selling point is that you will literally be able to fit 3 times to amount of stuff in your small closet. Because our home does not have that much storage space, James and I were sold!<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5277537857758497234" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 250px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhR3jjDPxtLswvSltJ7E5IkIE_HgXC5f3zVCuAe3DH066rVulyaSXuSiYqZjPo4g3YOn6E16cxfdSbScser4xILL438DfXQe2PYzGzS2o-BuDfPdfOEDah2p-wgTJG5ktJuyYVByyu_9FY/s320/vacuum+seal.jpg" border="0" /><br /><strong>Review:</strong> <strong>WORTH EVERY PENNY</strong> – We LOVE these bags!!! They work exactly like the commercial. It is truly amazing when you actually watch the vacuum seal happening. And you really CAN fit 3 times as many blankets and pillows into your closet. AND…the bags slide perfectly under the bed. I don’t even remember how we lived before we had these bags. It’s a must have for sure!<br /><br /><strong>Things I am DYING to try:</strong><br /><br />1. <strong>SHAM WOW towels.</strong> Have you people seen the demonstration? The amount of water this towel can hold is mind boggling. Especially when it soaks up the coke from the carpet..even the under-layers are dried up. Who doesn’t need that? I think it would be the perfect gift for a guy. They can dry their entire car with one towel. Every time I see that commercial, I think of that Real World/ Road Rules extreme challenge finale two years ago when they had to fill up a big pale of water by soaking up water from the ocean with towels and then running up the beach and ringing out the water into the pale. If they only had the shamwow towels!<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5277537955843356866" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 227px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnZy-jACm3Nd2vpGJcQjLAJf4_z1qSJDPmOjuH2YeT8tJOGdX0C2XkA2UL-MPwH5boHbUcx_YqjIh-iNZ3znlA6eYYUKASfpKPbc2m04jSGvGqYyPfuM2rx-rQjB2kaZn4fu9hMxyn-4U/s320/shamwow.jpg" border="0" /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5277539024443702914" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 220px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_9I2KCngeO2KoB2WWC6W1-4m1EpBW4OM4iCBINiGYLXylEZs_2Z27RSBpahL8lJ9I0BPWcX17wJmpzJgFpopGVffA7VU0Bnu_Qc6V4W7SB92rW7pyW8jGkWN_hb4-Hy3rEJ6_dSiOtIE/s320/shamwow2.jpg" border="0" /><strong>2. Detox Foot Patches</strong> – This is a pad that you stick on your foot at night and it soaks up all the toxins in your body. When you wake up, you have more energy and feel better. The more toxins you have, the dirtier the pad is when you take it off. According to the commercials, people feel so much better after using these. And after reading about it online, it's very scientific. Now..before you judge, I realize this sounds ridiculous. But for $9.99, why not give it a try. Who doesn’t want to get rid of toxins? I’d rather try and simple pad on my foot over some kind of random diet that cleans you out. Who’s with me?<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5277537913347863906" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 126px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 120px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyfAO3W5bBRy_1AB8RRM8hy4Jx5tbeg_zsFpHFVNju-7_Qw3onvlFsbD48BbZK8WArHF9ITcU7Cy7hfVnztz1cPzQfWP_KN0tIsmmrt7QpGrrpWCygruwAorYzlDx4IA3bZ4Tjo6T7t3U/s320/detox.jpg" border="0" /><br />3. <strong>Debbie Meyer Green Bags –</strong> Have you SEEN the before and after pictures? Every time I see this commercial, I think of all the money I would save on groceries. We always have to throw away old fruit and vegetables because we go out of town for a few days or something comes up and we didn’t end up eating at home. How nice would it be if you didn’t have to worry about that anymore? You knew they would be fresh for another whole week! SOLD!<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5277538075716614274" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 83px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBZdu5Js6ICna8aDvCyic6ToFC3GgRfJL_BqjYNi6937fsvlR8M-FGoIkQWXkupDowzg5eIMi7mKBPbIkNmUvBxWPWaai2GCtegiYAi981qt5KbTr26e6E-GE1jvsoLlEvT3hH7SrVV0s/s320/green+bags.jpg" border="0" /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5277538140323691714" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 219px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 137px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlwmblzUC_NjcvBP9YwnRLaON9HEphjPEfcDkb_7f3eCiqM6QNPAQ8sLAQZOjYGroMdrCFUccu65uhOGCANTdTebzheS5dBnZqecVrBg5BLc23DkgB09XOyFiUgi_DUnVlu52zA2X5nbo/s320/before+and+after.jpg" border="0" /><br /><strong>If any of you have reviews on the products above, I would love to hear them!<br /></strong><br />I mean…Is it sad that I’m looking forward to getting on a plane in a few weeks because I can browse the Sky Mall magazine? Who doesn’t love that magazine? Those products are BRILLIANT! I always take them with me just in case I want to buy something later. Don’t worry, I always ask the attendant and they say its fine! ;) </span>Chopsticks and Pearlshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03974444192817438513noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3221959004639532355.post-7300851534934735732008-12-02T09:32:00.000-08:002008-12-02T13:04:41.697-08:00I got THE BOOT.<div><div><div><span style="color:#009900;">Working downtown can be nice…fun restaurants at lunch, a million happy hour places after work, and the pure excitement and energy that comes from tourists visiting the capitol every day. However sometimes it’s not all it’s cracked up to be. There are several disadvantages that come along with working in the Capitol complex. …the PARKING.<br /><br />Our parking garage is THREE blocks away from our building. UPHILL. No lie. I have worn out several pairs of expensive heals, sweat through my suits in the summer walking to the office….not to mention the trials and tribulations when it rains or hails. You get my point. It’s not ideal. The only benefit is that I get the satisfaction that I’ve burned of a few more calories a day than planned.<br /><br />Every now and then, I have to load my car with materials for an event I’m planning (gift baskets, signage, binders…you name it). When this happens, I park my car in a “loading zone” in front of the building. I REFUSE to take several trips to load my car THREE BLOCKS away. No ma’am. That was NOT in the job description.<br /><br />On a few occasions, I’ve left my in front of the building until the end of the day. I received ONE parking ticket from the Capitol DPS last year and protested the fine. They are always so nice. So when I didn’t hear back, I assumed they just took it off my record.<br /><br />Well friends…several weeks ago I tested my luck again and got the BOOT. Apparently, the ticket from the previous year was not removed. Well, my coworkers thought it was so funny that they took this picture from our office of me in complete panic mode.<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5275301299279667074" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 212px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsB0boHsBP9Wrg99sIv1uFV4dWa2U2rvv8oXl9vCRqRiJjVkfvQtMZv-iqesLNMTj2itO9Eqis0QK3DpuG_cTcTomhiPm2TMe1KGzJ856OTelTleL7yhSbKA_h_AjQfjUr3_xKajlN0bU/s320/car2.JPG" border="0" />The only real unfortunate thing was that the coworker who took the picture knows James….and had already emailed it to him at work with the subject line “she’ll never learn”. Awesome.<br /><br />I ended up paying the fine. They took off the boot, and I got on with my day. Moral of the story - Did I learn my lesson? Sure…pay your parking tickets. Will I ever test my luck again and park there again? Probably so! :) </span></div></div></div>Chopsticks and Pearlshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03974444192817438513noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3221959004639532355.post-33570732389744990562008-11-19T12:53:00.001-08:002008-11-19T13:42:53.217-08:00I have no shame....<span style="color:#009900;">Well, folks....I had another celebrity sighting today! I'm in Atlanta for work and was at the CNN Center downtown waiting for a meeting...and who walks up to the security desk, you ask?</span><br /><br /><div align="center"><span style="color:#009900;"><strong>Mr. RUBEN STUDDARD</strong></span></div><div align="center"><span style="color:#009900;"><strong>American Idol - Season 2 Winner!</strong></span></div><span style="color:#009900;"></span><br /><span style="color:#006600;"><span style="color:#009900;"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5270477009953046690" 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/AVvXsEh7ghWBh_LHAgqiXhPhmFcrQyy9cSixlBmkHB73yiJlvVs19A4FxZ5CkV1vKja0LcCf6vccsXLkskQAw9WECrn1tiBK_Nb2rch3sPdfcKidGlgg23rGQQqZM_1SEmI8S8aVM1ZPFFe6nZ4/s320/Ruben+Studdard.jpg" border="0" />He was making an "appearance" on CNN to promote his new Broadway show in Atlanta. Luckily, I saw a commercial for the show earlier at the hotel, so I had something to talk about before I asked for his picture. I wasn't the only one who noticed him either, BUT I was the ONLY one who got a picture with him. His physco PR lady stopped all that none sense quick. She wasn't too happy when I had to ask him to wait ...because the memory on my blackberry was full...and I had to delete some pictures! ha ha.</span> </span>Chopsticks and Pearlshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03974444192817438513noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3221959004639532355.post-18631573349559334832008-11-02T17:34:00.000-08:002008-11-03T13:50:26.719-08:00A Halloween Treat!<div align="left"><span style="color:#009900;">On Friday, I left work early so I could early vote with James and get ready for the tricker treaters! I hadn't purchased my candy yet because I wanted to catch a last minute candy sale. I was in the best mood. </span></div><div align="left"></div><div align="left"><span style="color:#009900;"></span> </div><div align="left"><span style="color:#009900;"></span> </div><div align="left"><span style="color:#009900;">That mood quickly turned sour as we pulled into the Randalls parking lot to find the early voting line wrapped AROUND the block and the parking lot to be one big traffic jam. James drove back to work and I drove across the street to HEB.<br /><br />I wasn't grumpy because I didn't vote, but because it was James last chance before he left for his trip....and he didn't get to...he had to go back to work. I actually don't like to early vote, I LOVE voting on election day....it just feels more patriotic and I love the excitement that surrounds the first Tuesday after the first Monday of every other November.<br /><br />Well when I walked into HEB....I saw the HUGE display of apples and smelled all the cinnamon goodness from those broom looking things, which really don't make any sense to me....but it did put me right back into the spirit of Halloween! I decided I needed a craft project for the afternoon. We weren't going to a Halloween party OR dressing up for the tricker treaters..so I needed something. </span></div><div align="left"><span style="color:#009900;"><br /></span></div><div align="left"><span style="color:#009900;">I decided to make chocolate & caramel covered apples for the neighbors. We usually don't get a ton of tricker treaters, just the kids on our block. I decided that I would have the candy for the kids, but give all the parents a little treat too! It was so easy and came out so cute that I decided I needed to share it with everyone.<br /></span></div><div align="center"><span style="color:#009900;"></span></div><div align="center"></div><div align="center"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#009900;"></span></strong></div><div align="center"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#009900;"></span></strong></div><div align="center"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#009900;"></span></strong></div><div align="center"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#009900;"></span></strong></div><div align="center"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#009900;"></span></strong> </div><div align="center"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#009900;"></span></strong> </div><div align="center"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#009900;">Chocolate & Caramel Apples</span></strong></div><div align="center"><span style="color:#009900;"><br /></span></div><span style="color:#009900;"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5264504715119477122" 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/AVvXsEgsUPe6YQ8Jlu7WYcgGLrd_VNr_231ciX12YvdHUx_v52Zr7-C1ksw_euHmBzVTTvrjLVE0VDXZAJVHsRBKeOXGMm4d8vHfkt6zPb6Qh-YMbMN0zbXJn8WjFfilvbMIzzWpaoXYoWoxmKA/s320/plain+apples.jpg" border="0" /></span> <div align="center"><span style="color:#009900;">Set the apples on a greased cookie sheet. Next time I do this, I won't use the foil..it ripped easily.</span></div><div align="center"><span style="color:#009900;"><br /></div></span><span style="color:#009900;"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5264504824858367410" 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/AVvXsEgoBbESRWdMbR8Ixuaf3wldKjE0fna65Yyt4hkZA22aO3CVXrcBDpxK1ja_Eq7opN0myDWZbkdVXVYzqBCsJfoG5cmsWPDa_YhWsyEq1a8gR84AisGH1z_H8Hgc9Ix8jVe4sG6CkVI9tEo/s320/ingredients.jpg" border="0" /></span><br /><span style="color:#009900;">Mix all your ingredients together. I got the cheap caramel apple mix from Randalls (99 cents and it comes with the popsicle sticks) The only thing missing from this picture is the sugar.<br /></span><br /><div align="center"><span style="color:#009900;"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5264504918875387954" 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/AVvXsEjZCZAK18DZtqeTcq9mLDknuXjOjWTtLj2EDReIsOCsIy4fIPztS5yph3l-Js9PN2GQ8qz1NtgWY5H7VstBf2yga81SU6QE0_nPb4Ezpj-74mwXisnOCBXQO0UkYWGSPeSIlNY6VpBWoZg/s320/temperature.jpg" border="0" /><br />Boil the mixture together until it reaches "soft ball" stage ~242F on a candy thermometer. I randomly had one. </span></div><div align="center"> </div><div align="center"><span style="color:#009900;"></span></div><div align="center"><span style="color:#009900;"></span></div><div align="center"><span style="color:#009900;"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5264504978156916034" 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/AVvXsEiG297ALhTx93NmW1a5tYRlAa8HY5MNmxSHVaQUbZlnjmpAMCIRCQuCgknt_rGpTYRRNftSEaq-AC3iDQuuXD5wpJ3kaJkIj-JRTZf6oL_nKIvnXU9I1sSNIw5zrU5JEx32TBhfM_mbUgA/s320/sticks+and+apples.jpg" border="0" /></span></div><div align="center"><span style="color:#009900;">It takes a while to reach that temperature, so I went ahead and stuck the sticks in the apples.</span></div><div align="center"><span style="color:#009900;"><br /></span></div><span style="color:#009900;"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5264505053789772882" 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/AVvXsEhN4DMZie1V9gHsR71KfzBw2sixs6bYvFs-dDkzu4HQyNL6UZo5DPx6uIxPx1nt3RcW0hcI5Z8c-8W2W4uB9a5vOKRFg4Qvc346rnVvds7Y7B-T5xgv9BmFFgMak8sjDgeAsXLsG2fkVmA/s320/getting+ready.jpg" border="0" /></span> <div align="center"><br /><span style="color:#009900;">After waiting 10 minutes for the caramel to harden a bit, I got my stations ready.</span></div><span style="color:#009900;"><br /></span><br /><span style="color:#009900;"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5264505136573410738" 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/AVvXsEjYmyQ9VyxyjUcVgPHJ6r8PbpTYLNTjqxlrkjela5MTzhMMPKdinbkT9eGLza8ikdUy4NcY3T-YEoaESNYbhbBt6nFJVjiIdmZVgqJR8K7xEmsDFC9Crhj7TnE2jqSVj9DTtJmE8WYKyMg/s320/covering+the+apple.jpg" border="0" /></span> <div align="center"><span style="color:#009900;">Time to cover the apples! </span></div><div align="center"><span style="color:#009900;"></span></div><div align="center"><span style="color:#009900;"></span></div><div align="center"><span style="color:#009900;"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5264505228909579714" 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/AVvXsEhcqFEf60-TT5GgQxZcTIMt6i1AUFzq0ThtRbzp8m82tpVlvfKiWl2FhNsrONaMIg_PFk3Ma-IulBBI1nOErbasvmfB7hbFa4lgVI5oydqCviddvjByMCna9tKDyjYjDvqVCk_KG_fm2nw/s320/caramel.jpg" border="0" /></span></div><div align="center"><span style="color:#009900;">It gets a bit messy, but it hardens quickly! The nuts didn't stick too well to the caramel directly.</span></div><div align="center"><span style="color:#009900;"></span></div><div align="center"><span style="color:#009900;"></span></div><div align="center"><span style="color:#009900;"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5264505290387508978" 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/AVvXsEhznFr6e4N3Y1QQUFdiBt8k8paKPuhOAJwigPwr9P8CCblFxWkJaOL03CQDUly2h3qSXRVXkpU5Ns3Z2EA0iKO9v_BqGvM7xKgplEPmmTch_1NJ86bAy_5uPVI-KStSQKQmBXzamvFPplk/s320/chocolate.jpg" border="0" /></span></div><div align="center"><span style="color:#009900;">Then... I did the same thing with chocolate. I used almond bark (the same chocolate you use for cake balls). As soon as I covered the apple in chocolate, I dipped the apple into a bowl of nuts.</span></div><div align="center"></div><div align="center"><span style="color:#009900;"></span></div><div align="center"><span style="color:#009900;"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5264505380692911922" 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/AVvXsEiTWE_n1VjbkW6lXJqQBWtxWFRxXhywDicOEskRSMIPkta3Vh5dYx1clk7j1KK9x8Un6gJfsFKo5yS2edWiCRJMTmcG1QzBz3NfKnHAmyA6xW0AB9A_SlElEKKLWNL8iNyNxeVcCkg7JDg/s320/finished+1.jpg" border="0" /></span></div><div align="center"><span style="color:#009900;">After I let them cool in the fridge, I wrapped them in clear plastic bags and tied them with raffia with a little "Happy Halloween" note. </span></div><div align="center"><span style="color:#009900;"><br /></span></div><span style="color:#009900;"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5264505452613056658" 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/AVvXsEjByp_dPIdiDITyval8QaeT1clMvaJRAQrTwFxovKVom2HBHSwscpZsnkzp4fPbriUFG1wdQsSgYYxjqEZCd-BykRs7qdQxKLpI8hxFZ4ZHOvzYnff6BkQJicyFPvstO2M1XrDxbHUttl4/s320/finished.jpg" border="0" /><br />As the tricker treaters came to the door, I let the kids grab the candy and then I brought out my little tray with the apples for the parents...and let them choose (nuts or no nuts)!!! They were SUPER cute and went over so well with the neighbors!</span> <span style="color:#009900;">I think this will become a tradition!</span>Chopsticks and Pearlshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03974444192817438513noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3221959004639532355.post-81126833575397436242008-10-31T08:30:00.000-07:002008-10-31T09:43:22.395-07:00Our Napa and San Francisco Trip!<div align="left"><span style="color:#009900;">I've been meaning to blog about our Napa trip for over a month now! For all you bloggers out there, you know how frustrating it is to format a ton of pictures in one post. There are always a few curse words said. However...it's Halloween and time for a little treat! </span></div><div align="left"><span style="color:#009900;"><br /></span></div><div align="left"><span style="color:#009900;">James and I had a blast on this trip! It was such a beautiful part of the country. We can understand why people who love Napa go all the time. We are ready to go back! Maybe when we all have kids old enough to go to summer camp, we can ship them off and do a group trip! We can have their "grandparents" send all the care packages and letters. </span></div><div align="center"><br /><span style="color:#009900;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">NAPA</span></strong></span></div><span style="color:#009900;"></span><br /><span style="color:#009900;"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5263342412062926594" 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/AVvXsEiwE31GtDC7Zwq57zgja5Lb-CUvpZmLn5d5nBmySBLyh4tr8iJ8HLvrbyNPyvV4vObRcPxjgTTxMZZAtqBcOMDoX6wEh-8GVeofblOYIgFahQ4rqzvamVbqLuT0P97NvUOnsMNT0VazjXw/s320/bouchon2.jpg" border="0" /></span><br /><div align="center"><span style="color:#009900;">We drove straight to Napa when we landed and headed to Bouchon's Restaurant. It's was the cutest french bistro with the same owner as the famous French Laundry Restaurant. It was a late dinner (1AM our time) and my mystic tan was still fresh...as you can tell! </span></div><div align="center"><span style="color:#009900;"><br /><br /></div></span><span style="color:#009900;"></span><br /><span style="color:#009900;"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5263342920259898162" 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/AVvXsEgco3G5-8R1IghwnQj4TEJsnPDyaY26sYfx3Og3Zps7DadMm-jM2D1lDAyZKMrYJ9sa-ET-nQrKeTYYwEqtdjYbn8roo0iwbjw042af5H1jZpLLTvy-913dpk8XRIAyy8pl3A-dwpZGWac/s320/nicewinepic.jpg" border="0" /></span><br /><div align="center"><span style="color:#009900;">One of the many gorgeous views of the winery. A possible Christmas card pic! And NO..we did not mean to match outfits that day. </span></div><div align="center"><span style="color:#009900;"></span></div><div align="center"><span style="color:#009900;"></span></div><span style="color:#009900;"></span><br /><span style="color:#009900;"></span><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiq1TITifL3oJx6rrAYsvp1zd55Atmm0QlpLwr2BI5GvoOWcQe4vypiRPWl0cWirkcRqw-m0cMx6JrvOX2wdL6Y2TOXzJqxIknSg2k7IsU0bFaL7g4bYAdT_tCfpa89fIZdkyAtnsgS6XI/s1600-h/pejupic.jpg"><span style="color:#009900;"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5263343670928306754" 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/AVvXsEiq1TITifL3oJx6rrAYsvp1zd55Atmm0QlpLwr2BI5GvoOWcQe4vypiRPWl0cWirkcRqw-m0cMx6JrvOX2wdL6Y2TOXzJqxIknSg2k7IsU0bFaL7g4bYAdT_tCfpa89fIZdkyAtnsgS6XI/s320/pejupic.jpg" border="0" /></span></a><br /><div align="center"><span style="color:#009900;">Another Christmas card option! This was one of James' favorite wineries...and not just because we had a coupon for a free tasting. </span></div><div align="center"><span style="color:#009900;"><br /></div></span><span style="color:#009900;"></span><br /><span style="color:#009900;"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5263342845083765234" 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/AVvXsEgFjB8SXpQO52xoc1Ua3UH2SXRJX5pXHRWbdlUZxPNv1e6Z5Rf8HxEpXo2qsQ645S2bAQjcrladTXY7zjWiRYGer1DdF7tTl2-p11bKzo9WruxSI8pwEGxDtEFsMTQHczONmSxEa-IHY6o/s320/countryside.jpg" border="0" /></span><br /><div align="center"><span style="color:#009900;">The countryside. One of the 1239023 countryside pictures we took.<br /></span><span style="color:#009900;"></div><div align="center"><br /></div></span><span style="color:#009900;"></span><br /><span style="color:#009900;"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5263343076913316946" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTOyzBgwA4OxfJi7KKX-1gH0xyo37189grc3UYU4RZCLUgIEQ5pJiB-ISrn-LCQ2SZ2-V9tVXwAMHxjQYWYALL1xhVSpphJ9N8C_EbM-_vGqwApFRIkIL95x_NQVmWNlTZ4M0rKs3iBYo/s320/nickel1.jpg" border="0" /></span><br /><div align="center"><span style="color:#009900;">Our favorite winery - Nickel & Nickel. It was so educational and the wine was fabulous.<br /><br /><br /></span></div><span style="color:#009900;"></span><br /><div align="center"><span style="color:#009900;"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5263343356619996354" 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/AVvXsEgKqqAsA3rx1prnaWoxHNyzdeKwU4zJm5QZizmmIFaahDjVoKDkRGhsQUOzxC9X1bqi_bcC5LbAYr1dVHg4zONSe0NYf-UQeqLh6nOGCfPat3djmbWHRmkY7tQOeR1B1BcyrWe6RCOuee0/s320/winebarrels.jpg" border="0" />In the cellar. It was freezing.<br /><br /><br /></span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2oqA0vMYkKbbi_XyjKQ_x_AGU_houojIDxs5iFDRR6U6C6xC9ulB6Cc-VEkbKxP-1hWJ-rpjPR4LJCr5FEZAh_UZyvBrzF79ci98Wu_RQju4EnBq7-pMnPk9PEJiaKwguqBQRxFowdVw/s1600-h/jamesbeer.jpg"><span style="color:#009900;"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5263343551715315442" 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/AVvXsEi2oqA0vMYkKbbi_XyjKQ_x_AGU_houojIDxs5iFDRR6U6C6xC9ulB6Cc-VEkbKxP-1hWJ-rpjPR4LJCr5FEZAh_UZyvBrzF79ci98Wu_RQju4EnBq7-pMnPk9PEJiaKwguqBQRxFowdVw/s320/jamesbeer.jpg" border="0" /></span></a><span style="color:#009900;"> After several tastings, James was CRAVING a beer.<br /><br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5263343606416333410" 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/AVvXsEiNE8d1bj0j-X0MoZ11FaN48uUqwP30QYXqD0n6ahOWsbglOyowGKzZg72_Js4RMvtRXmtfaKNA3IidulXjMGIho2ei1-Lbhn8eX6lHtiTAdnKSCSBDRDSxKRFN-ums98H9XOskVFtfKpY/s320/garlicfries.jpg" border="0" /> The infamous Ahi Tuna burger with garlic fries. It was James favorite meal! Taylor's Refresher is a MUST for anyone who goes to Napa. It's been featured on Rachel Ray AND Diner, Dives, and Drive-In's - My favorite shows.<br /><br /><br /></span><div><div><span style="color:#009900;"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5263343418670041042" 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/AVvXsEgPlu7s5g05WKhpddJ3vfJo6SQ_j7zh7xPnR_viaNwnV50mn9pP2hf8IbAdZim5f0BbRjndPT72c-oMp2AvkhPEtFhP2JsX_yzlcTWXU4AccN7kj-roNd5pnCEMh0CDMAejkFJ62gfseqE/s320/allisonface.jpg" border="0" />After several wineries, they all start to taste the same!<br /><br /><br /></span><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgVdilxBQfxXRdC1Z3Z3PZOyljD2M2NxBrfbl2dtaxEf5hxZul5dhDKcAyT-xUyKuB7T8w4_a8C0fM5VPQ1-GVP_xWjSgGmMgDcDtBsucAkJQbCG1Vwqs4nQb86TBU2Y4PrjSjM3yO3VU/s1600-h/jamesface.jpg"><span style="color:#009900;"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5263343276656811778" 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/AVvXsEhgVdilxBQfxXRdC1Z3Z3PZOyljD2M2NxBrfbl2dtaxEf5hxZul5dhDKcAyT-xUyKuB7T8w4_a8C0fM5VPQ1-GVP_xWjSgGmMgDcDtBsucAkJQbCG1Vwqs4nQb86TBU2Y4PrjSjM3yO3VU/s320/jamesface.jpg" border="0" /></span></a><span style="color:#009900;">Our teeth became purple.<br /><br /><br /></span><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMa2AcqsEngNov5hlY3gN7_Am_r9IkFN4nuD6njo79q_T1sZwSdwhagcvrjDW1lsdl7bGCxU9esEsEWmzqyDXR5kc2Ae4PGxNMap3wDWEViTQL_sVCSg9G_s6iQc4cTP7HHBvF8uBoOW8/s1600-h/dippingpicture.jpg"><span style="color:#009900;"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5263343184060752018" 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/AVvXsEiMa2AcqsEngNov5hlY3gN7_Am_r9IkFN4nuD6njo79q_T1sZwSdwhagcvrjDW1lsdl7bGCxU9esEsEWmzqyDXR5kc2Ae4PGxNMap3wDWEViTQL_sVCSg9G_s6iQc4cTP7HHBvF8uBoOW8/s320/dippingpicture.jpg" border="0" /></span></a><span style="color:#009900;"> And we were taking crazy pictures in the vineyard. Don't worry, it was our last stop....and our camera was sitting on the fence on a timer. We did NOT make a stranger take this picture. </span></div><div> </div><div> </div><div><strong><span style="font-size:130%;color:#009900;">SAN FRANCISCO</span></strong></div><div><span style="color:#009900;"><br /></span></div><span style="color:#009900;"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5263344351801497890" 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/AVvXsEjvGK3-ShgB1cYdSPCxO-RSoVzTl9OdyoVS0tze6sKhy0wj_gINtVUAlA4XLzgNgVq_4sTazUam162ZDHyov3rZguKSmR_ANvCSR2bUxVZfh0k39GWkNQ08CbrJbFoVJ9oa4gt_ctVxmew/s320/trolleypic.jpg" border="0" /></span></div><div><span style="color:#009900;">The Powell-Hyde trolley outside our hotel. This is something everyone needs to experience. It was actually kind of scary. Christmas card picture (option 3). </span></div><div><span style="color:#009900;"><br /></div></span><div><span style="color:#009900;"></span></div><span style="color:#009900;"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5263344433034253970" 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/AVvXsEhrK-DtQZzmey0MqU_oinmOTp8HTR4keD2AnXuxnyufUvqSmRDt7ntqHpwU06k15teLyibRjhXVc9SHYFxs5njWDPHoN_OPAnTFYeHy6cWPu4CRaWuPRr3apvjQklHuZGIswDct3-A6LL4/s320/bikepicture.jpg" border="0" /></span></div><div><span style="color:#009900;">BIKING the BRIDGE. It was not much of a <em>leisurely</em> ride, but quite challenging. I did walk my bike up the hill twice...AND was in pain for SEVERAL days after. When I say "bike the bridge", I mean bike the 5 mile park before the bridge, down fisherman's wharf, and all the way into Saulsalito (another town!). We definitely burned off some of those garlic fries from the day before. It was a fun experience and worth every penny! It also became a funny story. </span><span style="color:#009900;"><br /></div></span><div><span style="color:#009900;"><br /></span></div><span style="color:#009900;"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5263344495645711154" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 214px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUHq7LIgjOrGPBpZ8Nfiq6XbUf16sOFYLwi4uUocFHhDcHivUGD339P1pXgC27uRAGeNZCE5Rvw4rslwtTwt7tQLBO-VTOmVhrxJb9kpEX-So2ay-z2ShvPiUKYodLgVJN9dCj4zSeSUo/s320/bridge+pic.jpg" border="0" /></span></div><div><span style="color:#009900;">Golden Gate Bridge! YAY!<br /></span></div><div><span style="color:#009900;"><br /></span></div><span style="color:#009900;"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5263344552605238898" 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/AVvXsEjdkxQgTNq_aSmkc4OcC9QPEZL8ZA4win7Ma4m11PGUCOGOgWZfk_T6utbXidS8DVFLrH797UPWfGpzZ80ShXoK391F_l_qwVine0N-_qeErS_ANbJFFeB9qOkX3GcM0hHi4ZikodluaxY/s320/bigsealpic.jpg" border="0" /></span><br /><span style="color:#009900;">Pier 39. With all the sea lions. It's smelly and gross, but tourist attraction none the less!<br /><br /></span><br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5263344666388504914" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0Z5X6ubtMsfYdk97w4gUKQqWTULA-0nMXfYY_dP7nhucMa-JRqseepOmsFG5tRBhj6WSQMp56l85G-NqyirxOoND_Au2iEvszGPK9nuxQhY6helQF4umaakT8_TZSafxucPV9P_Vz7B4/s320/lombardi+street.jpg" border="0" /><span style="color:#009900;">Lombardi Street. This was after our "bike ride" and after we walked up a HUGE hill. My forehead was quite shiny. </span><br /><span style="color:#009900;"><br /></span><div><div><div><div><span style="color:#009900;"></span></div><div><span style="color:#009900;">All in all, it was a great trip!</span> </div><div><br /></div><div></div><div><span style="color:#ff9900;">HAPPY HALLOWEEN</span></div><div></div></div></div></div><br /></div>Chopsticks and Pearlshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03974444192817438513noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3221959004639532355.post-61280898685293753292008-10-29T07:24:00.000-07:002008-10-29T08:05:01.615-07:00Bling, Bling!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeUvklshBMbcAZZjA-Hfjn2G1iJWuKThFGZi526MqSOmRZBiJXHufIlcXdK5R0dQAxY6VcKv_kSGjrCp7kEorETOpdku5XcBIjDilVsjQU3e6lKnq0v0nJDP-k7KdEN1ZOzwfQDS48JI8/s1600-h/gold+tooth.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5262582842676366434" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 180px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeUvklshBMbcAZZjA-Hfjn2G1iJWuKThFGZi526MqSOmRZBiJXHufIlcXdK5R0dQAxY6VcKv_kSGjrCp7kEorETOpdku5XcBIjDilVsjQU3e6lKnq0v0nJDP-k7KdEN1ZOzwfQDS48JI8/s320/gold+tooth.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div align="center"><span style="color:#009900;">Note: This is NOT a picture of James. </span></div><br /><div align="left"><span style="color:#009900;">Oh yes, my friends…James has a new tooth. Several people have heard about James' tooth drama over the past year. The bone was decaying and he had to get a tooth extracted. This is not something that can be fixed with one easy appointment. This is a year long process.<br /><br />About a year ago, he got the tooth and some of the bone extracted. He was put under anesthesia during this process. Some of you might remember my story about waiting for James to wake-up in the recovery room. While he was still a little woozy, he asked the nurses SEVERAL TIMES if he could keep the tooth they removed, asked me to “steal” more gauze when the nurses weren’t looking…”just in case”…AND did fist pumps out of the doctor’s office IN the wheel chair when they told him that he could keep the tshirt they put him in during the surgery. It was a circus to say the least.<br /><br />About six months after that, he had the post put in and got fitted for the crown. Well, yesterday was the BIG DAY…the Grand Finale of this crazy tooth journey. I was pretty excited to have this over with, and so was our bank account. The insurance company has barely covered ANYTHING.<br /><br />On Monday night, this is how our conversation went:<br /><br /><strong>James:</strong> I have that dentist appointment tomorrow to finally get my cap put on my tooth.<br /><br /><strong>Allison:</strong> That’s awesome! This whole thing will finally be over.<br /><br /><strong>James:</strong> Yeah. It will be weird having a tooth there.<br /><br /><strong>Allison:</strong> Oh, you won’t even notice. They make them look and feel so real these days. You won’t even be able to see it in your mouth.<br /><br /><strong>James:</strong> Yeah I will….it’s gold.<br /><br /><strong>Allison:</strong> GOLD?????<br /><br /><strong>James:</strong> Yeah, it was the cheapest option. The white ones were super expensive.<br /><br /><strong>Allison:</strong> What?? You CHOSE gold??? Even over SILVER?? Are you crazy???<br /><br /><strong>James:</strong> Well..the gold tooth is a stronger metal than the silver tooth. I figured it was better to get the stronger one. Besides, it’s a back molar..you can barely see it.<br /><br /><strong>Allison:</strong> Whatever. It’s your mouth.<br /><br />Case and point. The difference between a man and a woman. James chose the gold because it was the stronger of the two metals. I probably would have chosen the more expensive white one and pretended like it was my ONLY option to James! : ) </span></div>Chopsticks and Pearlshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03974444192817438513noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3221959004639532355.post-62579617117306739532008-10-22T07:26:00.000-07:002008-10-22T08:22:53.642-07:00The past 6 weeks!<div align="left"><span style="color:#009900;">I'm finally back on the blogging band-waggon! These past six weeks have been non-stop. I've barely had time to fill up my gas tank much less sit down and post on my blog....<br /><br /><strong>Note:</strong> The running out of gas "situation" is a whole other blog topic. I will eventually post about the <em>many times</em> I have run out of gas, but not before my husbands blood pressure goes down from my most recent experience. </span></div><div align="left"><br /><span style="color:#009900;">I would like to re-cap the past few months: </span><span style="color:#009900;"><br /></span></div><br /><div align="center"><span style="color:#009900;"><strong><span style="font-size:130%;">My Cousin's Wedding in August</span></strong><br /></span></div><span style="color:#009900;"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5259997669318192962" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2ZIJZYa_YTo6FBLGCbOoummo8c8ORAVdGl70afSfZct3kD8itCvlf4_DrZtEZ2Jz8SyJMi0GfumZENcbVfr6RvBA_sbUbUcuNh6eefOZPCyV6zMlg4bbp4PFZKhAM-m5gHgxjvE4S5XY/s320/charles.jpg" border="0" /><br /></span><div align="center"><span style="color:#009900;">The happy couple (Charles and Amada) during the traditional parasol wedding dance!<br /></span><br /></div><span style="color:#009900;"></span><br /><span style="color:#009900;"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5259995186430965650" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhduGRtLERqE8w3WXDRkWtiHWDbYQgeRkRztBRH7dbanTNLN7wVXgWVoP4xPZ-hYOF1xy1a9WqYGNcPBu7ZQIyln-ngKWFyVLtWACr90wVfAm32uZcAgMaXomK79yrv_-0lXw6Xg6MBloI/s320/cousins.jpg" border="0" /><br /></span><p align="center"><span style="color:#009900;">The girls!<br />Karen, Me, Angie<br /><br /></span><strong><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /><span style="color:#009900;">Find a Cure!</span></span></strong><span style="color:#009900;"> </span></p><span style="color:#009900;"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5259995337033498082" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLKUQvVExmuGsR-YVGr3hvjpCnaKtYoMs5LBai_-pyZQd1U9zBTzzJllr5tHsECcYztUqtC_FUjF90dwiXoGdlnlBJLgFvsxhhWhTEs7IEvvbjAaZ8SOCoStJ_UQHjN6PfjFhMjNbPhxo/s320/Breast-Cancer-Ribbon-thumb.gif" border="0" /> In August, we found out that mom was diagnosed with breast cancer. I didn't want to post about it because we had so many questions and unknowns....and I wanted to keep my blog upbeat. Well...there is good news to report! Mom has since gone through surgery and is cancer free! She is still in the recovery process, but doing better every day. She has been so strong throughout the journey. God had truly blessed us through this process and I'm thankful for everyone's thoughts and prayers.<br /></span><div align="center"><strong><br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#009900;">Canada<br /></span></strong></div><span style="color:#009900;"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5259995641067944306" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlov4WTggAjkEKh0Ady6GFz6fzE3SuiC65zksdEg4jpByz9UoxRv_wY_xapFh-pT0hBF2YBbEQmMGEEh5Kv5qy3xIrawQoCJEdl72-a7HfOhZrORgyXTEzo0Kvtq2yIdNXqAEo_iXpn0Y/s320/Canada.jpg" border="0" />James and I on the dock. Please notice that I'm sporting a hat AND cover-up. I didn't get one bad sunburn all summer! After my last dermatologist appt, I had a "Come to Jesus" moment and have been taking MUCH better care of my skin ever since. Here's to looking younger when we are 40!<br /><br /></span><span style="color:#009900;">A few pictures of the crazy Canadian family:<br /></span><br /><span style="color:#009900;"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5259996088596277666" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjL3HSz3MGZ2b4IcVTqRzAHVpOMCBEyjVjINQ1yfDkdIgt0xqTckSNKqj1oPE7YMYocqLX8w1VrCT6m60DiS9e4WGjof5BNW5ZviWSpxazfNkMZClZad1KmvKOJBdvfvqvnlZTX9pvkkqM/s320/canda+2.jpg" border="0" /> <img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5259996244589698098" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrrJwkWLqWFIX47DQOloCDr-T9rIHxnsENQFq99eaYBJxxtyZXgVAcg6WS5BsPBbh3HCyZ5HY-KRJXDtzPeEyuGmMA-VojFsHDwPjY_Q5BdjqbwSJq2pcmTDfg0BeghyphenhyphenQPpfnYQDMHmYU/s320/canada+dinner.jpg" border="0" /><br /></span><div align="left"><span style="color:#009900;">James and Jon's Birthday Celebration in Canada:<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5259996398620525954" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJawKQu5EpQmET4GxgmL6aYXVEGzIJ2yvkMJaBiYOwW8CoqQgSUFr1uycUYGe8VsnB8NGC-SAqnB5AAI8kERoLDqcg8j_Hf5d2NfEI1tdujMe6G8yMZjk-gNlvSqDZw3m7Gx254OgKyyk/s320/james+bday.jpg" border="0" /> </span></div><br /><span style="color:#009900;">Tomorrow's post: Our Napa and San Francisco Trip! </span>Chopsticks and Pearlshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03974444192817438513noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3221959004639532355.post-74866205215138037922008-09-09T13:51:00.000-07:002008-09-09T13:55:48.746-07:00The Man, The Myth, The Legend<div><span style="color:#009900;">Ladies and Gentleman, my celebrity sighting of the week, potential Spotlight business client, and now my good friend……<strong>Mr. Don King</strong><br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5244127543454337858" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwh3B67o2f27kFnPUBOm2ulj3VZIjrmxTcejytAvhAeHp8PiM4m1U1k2tVimDGo5ZWCOr2jLB-erJvGeLwD9FvsIro3scKCGLqgJUmNZc7sPw-O1hnkP5hyphenhyphene7PS7o100mWzcvEIQIyglo/s320/DSC03242.JPG" border="0" />Every year, my office hosts a group of clients in New York in a suite at the US Open for the Men’s Semi-Finals. I have planned the event for the past two years and it’s always a blast! Last year, I rode in the same elevator with Catherine Zeta Jones and Michael Douglass. You could tell they were trying to go “un-noticed” so I didn’t bother them for a picture or autograph. I didn’t want to be one of those “celebrity stalkers”….and I have regretted that decision for the past 12 months.<br /><br />This year was a different story…..not only did I run into Don King, but I asked for his picture…AND gave him my Spotlight business card! We struck up a conversation about Texas politics (note: He is a HUGE Republican fundraiser) and I also mentioned that I worked with former Secretary of State Roger Williams…one of his good friends. On that note, he grabbed his cell phone and started to call him personally….to let him know we were hanging out….oh man…heart racing…please don’t pick up! What if he doesn’t remember me? Ha ha. Luckily, he had the wrong number! Phew. I told him that I could track down his new number and email it to him….which resulted in several entourage members handing me business cards. Nice.<br /><br />He was in the Nike suite at the US Open. We was partnering with them on an event called “Grapple in the Apple” for the chance that Nadal and Federer played against each other in the finals….both are represented by Nike. Unfortunately, Nadal lost in the semi’s so his event was cancelled. By the time we stopped talking..…I was in his suite…..had received a “Grapple in the Apple” XXXL event tshirt….AND physically bumped into Charleze Theron…also in the Nike suite. Sunday was a good day!<br /><br />So folks….sorry to cut this blog post short, but I have an important email to draft…..and an important phone number to track down…..how do I get myself into these situations?!?!<br /><br />More pictures and stories to come….</span></div>Chopsticks and Pearlshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03974444192817438513noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3221959004639532355.post-76859110723948044192008-08-22T07:05:00.000-07:002008-08-22T07:12:36.897-07:00Recipe: My Famous Cake Balls<span style="color:#009900;">Over the past 1 ½ years, I’ve been perfecting my cake ball recipe. This recipe is so easy and makes the perfect dessert for road trips, pot-luck work parties or birthdays. You get a big bite of yummy cake and icing mixture without the mess. At work, they refer to them as “crack balls” because everyone craves for more. I’ve been asked for the recipe so many times that I thought I would officially spread the word.<br /><br />The picture below is from Emily and Kevin’s birthday a few weeks ago. Kevin is a HUGE fan of cake balls!<br /></span><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5237344602677532722" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjw4id9nLu-2A73oO6eS86W9m_cMjbpoAjFKBQqRX7_PUvAoQiXfRjsEoUxgdq4vOEYgVW2nDLrz-zFx39GuUslWUa1oqc_cLMnNpU_6CNH1pTAf6mrmhemCAOZgA17ARevVEWnf_2KsLk/s320/cakeballs.JPG" border="0" /><br /><div><span style="color:#009900;"><strong>Ingredients</strong><br />1 box of cake mix, your preference<br />1 tub of frosting, again, your preference<br />1 pkg. almond bark, chocolate or vanilla<br /><br /></span><span style="color:#009900;"><strong>Directions<br /></strong>Make whatever flavor box cake according to directions, in a 9X13 pan. Let cool for a few minutes.<br /><br />While it’s still a bit warm, crumble cake in a BIG bowl and add a tub of store bought frosting.<br /><br />Mix until it becomes like a dough. (cake and frosting evenly mixed) My favorite is yellow cake with classic vanilla icing or cream cheese icing. I’ve also tried chocolate on chocolate and that’s good too!<br /><br />Put the bowl in the fridge for an hour or so until the mixture hardens. It’s easier to make the balls after the mixture has hardened…some people might skip this step if they are in a rush.<br /><br />Take the mixture and make balls with your hands laying them out on foil or wax paper.<br /><br />Melt almond bark in bowl in the microwave. I usually do half of the package at a time. Make sure it’s almond bark and not baking chocolate. At HEB, they come in a tray of 12 squares in a red plastic package (~1.99). Also, clean the bowl before you melt the next 6 squares….the left over chocolate will burn in the microwave. This also makes for a smoother coating.<br /><br />Dip cakeballs into melted bark with a spoon & set on wax paper to dry. I usually spin the ball around a bit in the chocolate with my spoon to completely cover.<br /><br />It makes about 30-40.…depending on size. YUMMY!</span></div></div>Chopsticks and Pearlshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03974444192817438513noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3221959004639532355.post-59923059412576063512008-08-18T12:38:00.000-07:002008-08-18T12:49:25.261-07:00JP, the Intern<span style="color:#009900;">When we first got our intern’s resume from the HR department, his first name was listed as Jonathan Paul. However when I saw that his experience included “Abercrombie model & retail”, I was certain he went by JP. That just sounds more Abercrombie model-ish. I was extremely disappointed when he introduced himself as Jonathan.<br /><br />He was pretty shy on his first day, so I decided not to ask him about his modeling career right off the bat. I’ve seen one of those catalogues…those models don’t wear clothes so I didn’t want to embarrass him! After a week or so, he showed up to work in a wrinkled button-down with slouchy khakis…the perfect intro!<br /><br />Me: “Morning, Jonathan. Nice shirt. Did you by chance get that at Abercrombie? I know how they like that ‘wrinkle’ effect.” (I realize that this comment immediately aged myself)<br /><br />Jonathan: “huh huh. Yeah, how did you know?”<br /><br />Me: “Oh well, I figured you get a good discount. Don’t you work there? I saw something on your resume.” (very nonchalant)<br /><br />Jonathan: “Yeah, I do..it’s okay.”<br /><br />Me: “Don’t you do some modeling for them too?” (trying not to laugh)<br /><br />Jonathan: “oh…yeah…just a few times”.<br /><br />Me: “Cool. I think you should go by JP. It sounds more “Abercrombie””.<br /><br />Jonathan: “Okay”<br /><br />Me: “Okay, I’m calling you JP from now on…JP”</span><br /><br /><div><div><div align="center"><span style="color:#009900;">End of conversation. </span></div><br /><div align="left"><span style="color:#009900;">I’m assuming that after he dropped the subject, I shouldn’t pry too much more. I’m guessing that he’s probably the type of model that stands in front of the store without a shirt on. Probably not something you want to talk about at your professional internship. </span><br /><br /></div><div align="center"><span style="color:#009900;"><strong>Meet Intern JP</strong> – taking a shift at the front desk </span></div><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5235946123660599970" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRHO5ZmaSc29pYBWxj5zox0c0C979h2TiDFjytd4IO1VDexueIqgwR_FT166Tv2PY8iz0lebxlkuV0bQx2mobjYuJzQdYxEEZQRyP1nF1pj37Ze60yHYIBD1zHb12YgKg2o126tzq2_OU/s320/P1000026.JPG" border="0" /><span style="color:#009900;">It’s been pretty quiet around here this summer, so it’s been hard to find projects for him to work on. Two weeks ago, I had to overnight a bunch of invitations. I had all the labels printed and just needed JP to stuff, seal and sticker each envelop. Easy, right? Well after an hour or so, I went to go check on him and this is what I saw:<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5235946258021474034" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY6x3cPHpdbkPFCJxfLUMoG-TZ0Kq5PAdzAaXm4CCGsWiCKFysWDBIvHXTHo0kGsntIAbczm9_KxWI7PQivfkgTCc5BqYsKYXFJsdw_i5x4CpSryqFtAwCxHTGEU6zOBJwXdDDmTLGUQw/s320/P1000029.JPG" border="0" />That might look fine until you see the other side of the envelope. CLEARLY, the sticker goes on that side. It only says “Place label here” in bold. I THOUGHT it was pretty self-explanatory and I didn’t need to go over every detail, but I was wrong. JP disappointed me big time. I know I can be anal about a few things, but anyone would agree that THIS would drive you crazy!<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5235946197511085778" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRlVmXcyaJKm9VVc1yKZznq8Q43iHL1kwD0UG5Doz3PzZPsUshS6eCIqaGsnCR1PlCzv42QkEXoNU5kpQzc-VeYdhZJAjD1k4PcsQ4bK5LswQibhFs3gNbfAxQFrhyphenhyphenanrw7utynakh8Ww/s320/P1000027.JPG" border="0" />From that point on, I began referring to him as “intern” and told him that he has a lot of work to do to redeem himself around here. I also told him that I think he should stick to his day job as a model. </span></div></div>Chopsticks and Pearlshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03974444192817438513noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3221959004639532355.post-8046194423268133542008-08-01T08:39:00.001-07:002008-08-02T07:54:58.428-07:00Nicknames<span style="color:#009900;">As I started writing out my next post, I felt like I needed to clarify a few things for those who did not live in the Pi Phi house at A&M from the years 2000-2002. If you did, I’ll go ahead and let you know that you can probably skip over this post.<br /><br />While living in the sorority house, we got in this permanent habit of calling everyone by a nickname. Some of the nicknames were given out of necessity. Having two Allison’s in the house got confusing, so we became “Bradley” and “Lynch”. Some of the nicknames were given just because they sounded better when you yell down the hall. That’s when Tiffany Rogers (now Mendenhall) became “T-Rog” and Laura Mercy (now Dawson) became “L-merc”. My parents actually thought T-Rog was my good Indian friend for several years…not realizing it was just a nickname.<br /><br />Liz Lozier (now Farrar, but not legally..long story) became “The Loj”...Well…There’s really not cliché to explain this name. After many late nights of delirious studying and old high school pictures, she became not just “Loj”, but “The Loj”.<br /><br />On one hand, yelling these names down the hall kind of made you feel like you were in a sports locker room calling out to a fellow teammate. On the other hand, it sometimes made you feel like a gangster rapper…especially if you yelled in a deeper voice, cupped your mouth, and leaned back a bit.<br /><br />It was not uncommon to come home from class fully dressed in an old date party shirt, LLBeen monogrammed backpack, hair in a high “messy” bun usually with some pearl earrings …and hear a fellow “sister” yell “BRADLEY” in her deepest gangster voice possible. I usually gave a fist pump or a “wha, wha” back. (Note: This was before the word “holla” was popular or I probably would have used that too.)<br /><br />All in all, not something you would typically invision in a sorority house in the south. That’s maybe why it was always so funny and stuck for so many years. In fact, we STILL use them today, and there have been several occasions when I have forgotten the person’s actual first name…or at least how to spell it. I tried to get our wedding calligrapher to use their nicknames for our invitations, but my mom nixed that idea. Little did she know, I used them in our “thank you” notes and wedding album.<br /><br />The following people will be making cameo’s on my blog from time to time. Therefore, I would like to introduce them to you and review their nicknames.<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5229575282791116946" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqPecyU0oQg1oLeQqZ753uG9bHm9JOcrx1XzenzhNP1VDa62dBiNMl40VmYa72T4D5wjrqOfmR9IdQsgAgD0MkidymZr4heMgDxeSCUl0ujJRwE07wLu282lp0byFxgrvRRXfFGK38iww/s320/DSC02453.JPG" border="0" /><br /><strong>The girls from left to right:</strong><br /></span><ul><li><span style="color:#009900;">Robyn Reams (now Robertson) – Reams, Reamsy, cReams, Cookies and Cream, Cookies</span></li><li><span style="color:#009900;">Katie Lemmon (now Norwood) - Barcardi Lemon, Bacardi, or Martha "f''ing" Crocker</span></li><li><span style="color:#009900;">Liz Lozier (now Farrar, but not legally) - The Loj</span></li><li><span style="color:#009900;">Laura Mercy (now Dawson) – Lmerc</span></li><li><span style="color:#009900;">Tiffany Rogers (now Mendenhall) – T-Rog</span></li><li><span style="color:#009900;">Allison Bradley (now Lee) – Bradley, the Braids</span></li><li><span style="color:#009900;">Allison Lynch (now Assunto) - Lynch</span></li></ul>Chopsticks and Pearlshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03974444192817438513noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3221959004639532355.post-24613462019759363932008-07-29T14:20:00.000-07:002008-07-29T14:32:54.746-07:00My Little City Slicker<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7TxwuVnE7lEeDTe6ve0eyHxHASZRBXaUcQIVVHNht0D27Z4vT2f5vBEna9XVuzeCnsUxmKy65ocBI21ujA8pY1_PiBklqIhj2GpbFUy0yubLU248xoq7J54vsMeMh4-q2KXT5X0mqIO8/s1600-h/278.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5228550731388552114" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7TxwuVnE7lEeDTe6ve0eyHxHASZRBXaUcQIVVHNht0D27Z4vT2f5vBEna9XVuzeCnsUxmKy65ocBI21ujA8pY1_PiBklqIhj2GpbFUy0yubLU248xoq7J54vsMeMh4-q2KXT5X0mqIO8/s320/278.jpg" border="0" /></a><span style="color:#009900;">Not only did I have a big weekend, but James did as well! He was asked to go to the “ranch” or “hunting lease” with his boss. When your boss asks you to go on a trip like this, you can’t really say no. Neither James nor I grew up in a family that hunts, farms, or ranches…so we didn’t quite know how to prepare or pack for a trip like this. Like the typical wife, this suddenly becomes my stress of the week!<br /><br />I figure that my main job was to make sure he at least looks the part. So I had James ask his boss what a city boy like him needed to bring on this trip. His reply was: beer, cash for poker, sleeping bag and work boots. Work boots? We don’t know the first thing about “work boots”.<br /><br />I suggested that we go to the Red Wing outlet to find some good quality work boots. James felt that Red Wings looked too much like cowboy boots and that Asians don’t wear cowboy boots….even though they apparently have no problem putting in a dip. Hmm. After trying on almost every pair and over analyzing each look, we settled with some high-top hiking books that looked similar to “work boots” when you wear them with jeans.<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5228550910281188626" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 242px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 131px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" height="179" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjazLV0wWbGWWAyS_jdgOcZZ26WgguhQY1CXqb4CzRT266ULUwvkw9pyKqqDG_r8ReQgbSQX0hcusbZYuVTlhc57hfYzK2RYyl9zZP9wF3sYGltIpM4XF9sWG8CqEkHNcw5U8AfES6bNJQ/s320/timberland+boot.jpg" width="303" border="0" />As for apparel, I was pretty excited to get him a Columbia fishing shirt. I just think they are so cute with all the pockets. He already has the bathing suit shorts that match. I’ve been trying to get him one for a while and this was the perfect opportunity. When I brought it home, he took one look at the $50 price tag and said “no way, take it back”! Little does he know that $50 won’t even buy you a shirt at the Gap these days.<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5228551663459993490" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 157px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 182px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" height="256" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDkMouaEGZUSP-orHkQEH_81k76e0631Bl-VOfq9dEoyqJrNBlcJ2QOlTJzqVLySH2rBolEqJCkuajJFFOzdhTLCrQ74TLLZBF-SF4ebsbtxw7Zj_QfwbnXTwRiomkvz8a775zTTRX-2w/s320/columbia+shirt.jpg" width="251" border="0" />I finally convinced him to at least pack it for the weekend and I would take it back if he didn’t wear it. That’s always my rational when I buy new clothes. Well friends….not only did he wear it, but everyone the exact same shirt. My goal was accomplished…my little city slicker fit right in at the ranch. To top it all off…He said it’s the most comfortable shirt he’s ever worn. </span><span style="color:#009900;"><br /><br /><br /><div><div><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5228550579503349394" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-w4HdFZ5TpoRm_X5qozMkoOD8H2drIKHictSgnd2oF3-HdBPPlCe7vRpLiLRsq0Sg4b8cWPpavBwkX7BZhT7GYA532PJWoFO_6xAD7_mUYm7xjzTOXB5y-LQ1T8Q0-AeJi991LGkNimo/s320/285.jpg" border="0" /><br />All in all…he survived and had a good time “roughing it”. He only came back with one chigger bite and $80 bucks for winning poker. Just enough to cover the cost of his new “designer shirt” and take his wife to dinner! </span></div></div></div>Chopsticks and Pearlshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03974444192817438513noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3221959004639532355.post-21312047601364716962008-07-28T12:51:00.000-07:002008-07-28T13:03:07.274-07:00The Turkey Wreath<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFCtXqzWUC3yYTrLufRDfrE54sPLiLi395sdm-K7S_RhwP5WvburFJEO14hubwFGB5TMuYh10ixAUKEyfmN83x-qnIYykF1WPV8hY7-qhtfP7t_y84zCa5oRe-FX-ueUUZMzCoHzGn7mk/s1600-h/201_girls.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5228157294321892546" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFCtXqzWUC3yYTrLufRDfrE54sPLiLi395sdm-K7S_RhwP5WvburFJEO14hubwFGB5TMuYh10ixAUKEyfmN83x-qnIYykF1WPV8hY7-qhtfP7t_y84zCa5oRe-FX-ueUUZMzCoHzGn7mk/s320/201_girls.JPG" border="0" /></a><span style="color:#009900;">This weekend was our 4th Annual freshman year roommate reunion (201 Room Reunion). Once a summer, we get together and float the river, watch movies, catch up on each other’s lives, and eat a lot. Due to a pregnancy last year, we cancelled the tubing (you know, the turbulence and all) and went shopping instead. It was such a fun time that we decided to repeat the weekend in Houston and ‘shop ‘til we drop’…and that we certainly did.<br /><br />These girls are the type of girlfriends where you don’t necessarily talk to on the phone once a month and share every detail of every day, but the kind of where when you get together once a year, you go straight back to being best friends who talk about life, laugh a ton, analyze every detail of every relationship….where nothing has changed since that freshman year. The good ‘ol days!<br /><br />One highlight of this weekend was making the “Turkey Wreath” recipe. We had it for brunch on Saturday and it was VERY yummy! It’s the perfect dish to bring to a shower, game watching party, or make with Thanksgiving leftovers….with just a few simple ingredients.<br /><br /></span><span style="color:#009900;"><strong>The Turkey Wreath:<br /></strong><br />1. The ingredients to combine in a bowl (exact measurements coming soon!)<br /><br /></span><div><div><div><div><div><div><span style="color:#009900;"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5228156091177633298" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeHRxVxku-uOW1F2NX2hnMLASI3K9iOVxvGyGH_PkwXbYobd_OqXW98EEN0uTib39zEnLOXKNimVn8GFVmcsIEG9GutBo-krOHJvIdjsc_khXBwIbBCgVmRW74Qta9sCjqRVA42cn3-Q8/s320/Peteprins+House+001.jpg" border="0" /> <img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5228156245059410290" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQePn5WGqHenkyZ2sxKQ1YfNP2Hu6fsOGVMhfNmQ4g_9w7cyCqfmO5ipItRL6RIGkiWnYLUWcUwR7gcQjj-MRAEB7EC-zfrHNUOu4zi1HS0cK26qlvalWHWcH_Hgwrhj3tJOEq36pnl6E/s320/Peteprins+House+003.jpg" border="0" />2. Lay out the one box of Pillsbury crescent rolls in a sun formation. Then attached another layer to each roll facing inward. Add scoops of the turkey mixture around base the circle. Fold the inner and outer layers together to make the “wreath”. It’s easier than it sounds. Promise.<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5228156373280490642" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCCvSYZceAs9goo2LZQRhx-VgwhH6UwAYAEIDrNTLQiMo_8NeH2jR9e33T7mo2RtJHQmllu8mv2U-5Y1kv_E5u14ntGHkevJJuySBpu1na8SYO7S4H1p9vDQz2rDdacr6l5sLKiYv6_E8/s320/Peteprins+House+004.jpg" border="0" /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5228156461240337650" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-RiKBgsOtrIU4JWLmcRsy1cn9zLbRXuzAEdpQ0EwCc7rVCPAZQnHFIjiK4zoCNIztk_8vvHducRoYfhUpSVMD0JRZdof_ttgciQYEzWf0mDMQOr4xr44b2HX8voXRbA7w58AGhStELAc/s320/Peteprins+House+006.jpg" border="0" /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5228156526986607410" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgizTr6fJVVHtt_nfeWPWu7zPPOIrN-Xe1d3X_EuDONoCtditkSawaGq6smGM80iI0vpgkQPYWNGaKM5rq_IsDvPW8dKKaJRjLf2xAdriKJAZ_B7str4R9qmhOfH_Yr-8HTCuTZ0ZCcKzM/s320/Peteprins+House+007.jpg" border="0" /><br />3. The final product. Once you put it on a pretty plate, you can add garnish to jazz it up a bit!<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5228156593691275810" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg29wKXAGTBw2SYIIUBUSA6RSoUva_mjlM8ycfUuYSzt3GrlsuPGv_vLQhqvXAG8GZutawXMA2UVnEx2ftu91z1Q0mrqCL7fjb9iELEHD86AcvptCsJl-xCena6Z09EVEvS0VKVcWGaZcw/s320/Peteprins+House+008.jpg" border="0" /><br />After making this dish, we talked about the many yummy dishes that you can make with a roll of Pillsbury crescent rolls. I have made almost ALL of these recipes and they are DELISH!<br /><br />1. Tammy’s Treats – Cream cheese and breakfast sausage ..soo good. (Thank you, Trog!)<br />2. Pigs in a blanket (sometimes with cheese…YUM)<br />3. Apple Turnovers (a VERY yummy dessert a made at Christmas…Thank you, Rachel Ray!)<br />4. Sloppy Joe’s (the “Manwhich”)<br />5. Turkey Wreath (as shown above…Thank you, Robin!)<br />6. Soppapilla Cheesecake (yummy Mexican dessert)<br /><br />If you know of any recipes that I’m missing, please let me know. I will add them to the list! Maybe I’ll start making one by one and document the recipes!!!!!</span></div></div></div></div></div></div>Chopsticks and Pearlshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03974444192817438513noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3221959004639532355.post-26735097938586359402008-07-23T06:58:00.000-07:002008-07-23T07:32:02.703-07:00Project #1 (of 3)<span style="color:#009900;">Yesterday I found the most fabulous fabric store in Austin. It’s not huge, but they have unique fabrics at unbelievable prices….Fanny’s Fabrics on South Lamar. I went on my lunch break to look for a bright red pattern to re-cover my dining room chairs…and I left with something completely different! A whole new look! I fell in love with so many patterns that I even bought a yard or two of a random fabric to use for pillows or a table runner…who knows!<br /><br />Before I show you the pictures….keep in mind that I’m trying to brighten up the room and give it a fresh look. Our front room is really long and narrow and doesn’t get much natural light.<br /><br />The room before with the ugly chair fabric:<br /><br /></span><span style="color:#009900;"></span><div><div><div><div><div><div><span style="color:#009900;"></span></div><span style="color:#009900;"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5226210707247873874" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1Ls7rMTMCry6QeWXGU2k1-z0Io3dva9TxhjmwpQm52W0C2_oJPv9nStCJ4OiggS1KM43-b6Cxp2eIg-l7Z6-fu-QHgJii33QJ5U7lbP1v5xDHw5J9P9Im8hewkb-59z_CeT2ZwdxQfFA/s320/chair+project+001.jpg" border="0" /> <img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5226210880439090514" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqiDrtnXnUT0T-S2hRCF4k51LkkD8EW_OGdD3428e-tKrArYbBEtuK27fFhmoc_6MDTfiMm6a6spuw_JWVNaLM6JyNCNx3jgHsB4__t1_ihsW9WkmxuJ_bWEAylHadeOk3IP809vC80O8/s320/chair+project+005.jpg" border="0" /></span></div><div><span style="color:#009900;"></span></div><div><span style="color:#009900;">My new subtle, but fresh make-over: </span><div><br /><div><span style="color:#009900;"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5226211469617694242" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdx5wTDngHukNmlopxLQDzddU7xqT3LJzI4To9v-W1EZAU8KJ4r3knr7SX1YVvfFlJqkYhD9KdfE0AP1GGfLe7sx3ZqeAYmcZxIkSPGoZX8yRmnOnsuC0o4TcCmDgNyMUK1ZwMl32d3dg/s320/chair+project+012.jpg" border="0" /> </span></div><div><span style="color:#009900;"></span></div><div><span style="color:#009900;">Room views: I'm still playing around with the table decoration!<br /><br />Look #1: Clean and Simple (I think I like this the best!)</span></div><div><span style="color:#009900;"><br /></span></div><span style="color:#009900;"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5226213303067358338" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjET0kNmd9m2_ikhylXlW-o5u3HKwjXlekJodoQKvmZD9AZOKaI1g-zoNNqK0GfZNSdUFqevyGUfQnWDHZwd4Xqv-rxoQe_4cwaDNBIKo0DxRzst8vuOb5GXcGZ0IZb8SLjuc0ilxdOTiI/s320/chair+project+019.jpg" border="0" /> </span><div></div><div><span style="color:#009900;"></span></div><div><span style="color:#009900;">Look #2: A simple runner (that I would definately iron)</span></div><div><span style="color:#009900;"><br /></span></div><span style="color:#009900;"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5226213003685071314" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdwLGcKFF6SAlgZOChEsV44Pqh2twjEBEcrwR17hNtshgwepJBd23iI_LF7hI-IQNxuu0siQYaLlLYBeJnkZbSduWbwpqejs3-zw5s9ni2gfwtSZ1ND1rDtO9_Vw_dcTdm5KDBeaDkgkw/s320/chair+project+016.jpg" border="0" /> </span></div><div><br /><span style="color:#009900;">Look #3: Playing with the colors...might be too springy! </span></div><div><span style="color:#009900;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="color:#009900;"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5226212761648070530" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeWFp_nSQlcX8ICpYQNVuJj9v5mEV9YJXCPUg1dH7Lb2SwMatBUdkrsmwXuvYTJ2RIpAayTOGGMMgUnOjHp5nXFNNxHAeBpz07UoE-p377-JS1ILhgxoegNiWudwG9lYrcrJd6OpCOgS4/s320/chair+project+011.jpg" border="0" /><br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5226211239644053794" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRJOW-uHi1xiDDXrGYrsJ9Rg0VpepKlkcCaZf530TkItl5ZrB-AL7upEVmzi4Lyy6RHLEbTUHLnG548-vDnE3DMWLsJ2buDZDZ4vPb7faXYsfjYLfhx2UcDeKy9Q_DTy1FuSvKg8bvncc/s320/chair+project+010.jpg" border="0" /><br />Okay..I know what you are thinking. It’s completely different from my typical taste and doesn’t match my china (that I will eventually bring down from my parents house), but I just loved the pattern and the “shabby chic” look! James wasn’t the biggest fan of all the pink, but I know it will grow on him. I kept re-assuring him that it’s easy to un-do…and that you can barely see the pink when the chairs are pushed in.<br /><br />Originally, I was going to make little seat covers that would just lie over the seat cushion until I figured out how easy it was to actually recover them. I just unscrewed four screws holding the seat cushion to the chair, used a staple gun to attach the fabric, and re-screwed the seat back on the chair. Super easy! ~10 minutes/chair and I only used two yards of fabric.<br /><br />Now that I know it’s so easy…I might just change them out all the time! Once we get a china cabinet, I’ll probably go to a more formal look and change them out again! But for now..I thought this would be fun! </span></div></div></div></div></div></div>Chopsticks and Pearlshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03974444192817438513noreply@blogger.com6