tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-70875916705068835462024-03-13T03:03:12.943-07:00Wisteria Home... Amazing EverydayJessica Ryanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12026783815905169830noreply@blogger.comBlogger26125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7087591670506883546.post-65822601420881907482012-07-08T09:16:00.002-07:002012-07-08T09:16:53.821-07:00Estate Sale Finds . Amazing . Everyday<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0I592nyBNa1COj5WwMblcrIr-_3LHXGFlDop9PbYjILv3EYxjVNS7Rz74qmNYGTOJ8yMjF1MYHFbVGFLjxfB7hSH6WCmUd07F8JY6VxlCCARkKBxS0N8bLyB_kXkGAjAcLukqw4Zi7J4/s1600/Estate+Sale+Chair.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0I592nyBNa1COj5WwMblcrIr-_3LHXGFlDop9PbYjILv3EYxjVNS7Rz74qmNYGTOJ8yMjF1MYHFbVGFLjxfB7hSH6WCmUd07F8JY6VxlCCARkKBxS0N8bLyB_kXkGAjAcLukqw4Zi7J4/s320/Estate+Sale+Chair.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Estate Sale Purchase $40<br /><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Starting to scare myself with the hoard of vintage furniture I have collected. Heading out this morning to rent a storage unit to house the collection. I can only work on one piece at at time and the hoard is crowding my creative energy. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">I frequently remind myself....re-purposing is a true form of "green living". My hoard would otherwise end up in a land fill. The furniture was made by Americans! How patriotic is that...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Creating mood boards for my pieces on Olioboard helps me to visualize the end result and this chair screams Vintage Beach House.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Now I can see my vision come to life...wood trim will be painted with Benjamin Moore Sea Salt and slightly distressed. Fabric selection is from Robert Allen's Tropical Collection. Skipping the buttons on back cushion. Can you see it now....sitting in the chair watching the surf roll in from the huge window. Of course there is a cup of coffee in your hand.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Being a female I have the right to change my mind a few times. What would it look like in a city finish or suburbia look?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Right? Same chair refinished in Benjamin Moore Black Beauty in a high gloss finish and Marrekesh Ikat Dusk fabric. Sans the buttons. Fabulous!!!! Serve me a martini now!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Before I tackle this project...I am off to rent a storage space! Then a few decisions! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Which look is your favorite? City or Beach? I would love to hear.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">One this I am sure of is.....</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">I will make my upholsterer very happy!</span></div>
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<br /></div>Betty Shepard BHHS Fox Roach Realtorshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03042265915868099391noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7087591670506883546.post-40778438588907537382012-07-02T06:13:00.000-07:002012-07-02T06:26:00.897-07:00Organization . Amazing . Everyday<div style="text-align: justify;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxSRuh3l3cYUIofen-reroSmu6TnCRXKLQ6eyRv2UvykRa498coeStCRVyDqIaeByIrhcVXrc9HFaeLu5qr23ntNG0v7BprV42jZ_50jeImvH-IWhk9G5qZUklStZVwwqQRmCdzJIjrvk/s1600/clutter_butt_fat.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxSRuh3l3cYUIofen-reroSmu6TnCRXKLQ6eyRv2UvykRa498coeStCRVyDqIaeByIrhcVXrc9HFaeLu5qr23ntNG0v7BprV42jZ_50jeImvH-IWhk9G5qZUklStZVwwqQRmCdzJIjrvk/s640/clutter_butt_fat.jpg" width="419" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Being organized is in your DNA! I envy organized people
because they know where everything is in their homes. Ask an organized person
where something is and they will tell you exactly what shelve or closet it is
in and what is right next to it. NO wasting
time looking for their other black shoe, car keys, a missing sock or something
even more important. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Organization does not have to be an extreme and most people
fall in the middle of the spectrum, like me! I will admit to spending a lot
time looking for things…and I am an empty nester. Having a family can thwart
the most organized person efforts.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">So when I was invited to join OlioHop’s 15 bloggers writing
about organization and clutter I immediately agreed…then panic set in for a few
minutes. Being a managing partner of a residential cleaning company I see every
client’s home before they begin service….first hand knowledge of where most
clutter ends up in peoples homes. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Think you can guess which room it is? It is the laundry
room. Yep, no matter how neat and organized the rest of the house is…it is the
laundry room where items line the floor, odd socks and everything else that
does not have a place ends up. I get the
same response from most clients….just clean the laundry room floor. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">So I set out to design the perfect laundry room using
Olioboard 3D to create my mood board. It was so easy! There are a ton of tools and you can upload your own images. I am so inspired by the results I plan to
redecorate my own laundry room. </span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My mood board for the perfect Laundry Room<br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Storage space is the key to keeping this room organized because most LR lack storage. The 2 large storage cabinets flanking the appliances allow for plenty of storage and easy access. Each unit has 3 large compartments and the higher ones can be used for detergent and household products. The lower one is great for kids to store bookbags, shoes and sports equipment.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">While the flat surface of the dresser is perfect for folding clothes the drawers give added storage. The wooden planter boxes ...a stylish way to hide the items which usually line the floor of your LR.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Being organized is really about storage space and without enough of it is hard to achieve. This look can be achieved without spending a ton of money. Personally, I love to find a good piece of furniture in thrifts stores and re-purpose. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Being organized and removing clutter from your home is "freeing"! No more closed doors in my house!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">I mentioned several other bloggers participated in Oliohop and I peeked at a few! Happy to say they are awesome so please read all of them for more tips. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #663300;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">1. Lesley of @chaoticallycrea -- </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><span style="color: #663300;">BLOG: </span><a href="http://chaoticallycreative.com/" rel="nofollow" style="color: black; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank"><span class="yshortcuts" id="lw_1341170538_0">http://chaoticallycreative.com</span></a><span style="color: #663300;"> *chaoticallycreative*</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #663300;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">2. Kate of @DabbleInChic -- </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><span style="color: #663300;">BLOG: <a href="http://dabbleinchic.blogspot.com/" rel="nofollow" style="color: black; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank"><span class="yshortcuts" id="lw_1341170538_1">http://dabbleinchic.blogspot.com</span></a> *</span><span style="color: #663300;">kdsessoms*</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #663300;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">3. Selma of @DesignerSelma -- </span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #663300;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">BLOG: <a href="http://blog.selmahammer.com/" rel="nofollow" style="color: black; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank"><span class="yshortcuts" id="lw_1341170538_2">http://blog.selmahammer.com</span></a> *selmahammerdesigns*</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #663300;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">4. Colette of @frugalfinds1 -- </span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #663300;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">BLOG: <a href="http://frugal-finds.net/" rel="nofollow" style="color: black; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank"><span class="yshortcuts" id="lw_1341170538_3">http://frugal-finds.net</span></a> *cconway915*</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #663300;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">5. Julie of @gosimplysavvy -- </span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #663300;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">BLOG: <a href="http://gosimplysavvy.com/blog" rel="nofollow" style="color: black; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank"><span class="yshortcuts" id="lw_1341170538_4">http://gosimplysavvy.com/blog</span></a> *julieatsimplysavvy*</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #663300;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">6. Joanne of @homestyling101 -- </span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #663300;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">BLOG: <a href="http://homestyling101.blogspot.com/" rel="nofollow" style="color: black; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank"><span class="yshortcuts" id="lw_1341170538_5">http://homestyling101.blogspot.com</span></a> *homestyling101*</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #663300;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">7. Jennifer of @iheartorganize -- </span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #663300;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">BLOG: <a href="http://iheartorganizing.com/" rel="nofollow" style="color: black; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank"><span class="yshortcuts" id="lw_1341170538_6">http://iheartorganizing.blogspot.com</span></a> *iheartorganzing*</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #663300;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">8. Marilyn of @Marilyn_Russell -- </span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #663300;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">BLOG: <a href="http://design-magnifique.com/" rel="nofollow" style="color: black; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank"><span class="yshortcuts" id="lw_1341170538_7">http://design-magnifique.com</span></a> *marilyngrg*</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #663300;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">9. Tamara of @myurbaneclectic -- </span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #663300;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">BLOG: <a href="http://myurbaneclectic.com/" rel="nofollow" style="color: black; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank"><span class="yshortcuts" id="lw_1341170538_8">http://myurbaneclectic.com</span></a> *tarcher*</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #663300;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">10. Lindsey of @pinkletandc: </span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #663300;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">BLOG: <a href="http://pinkletandc.blogspot.com/" rel="nofollow" style="color: black; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank"><span class="yshortcuts" id="lw_1341170538_11">http://pinkletandc.blogspot.com</span></a> *lindseypinks*</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #663300;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">11. Antoinette of @PUSHinteriors </span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #663300;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">BLOG: <a href="http://pushinteriors.blog.com/" rel="nofollow" style="color: black; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank"><span class="yshortcuts" id="lw_1341170538_12">http://pushinteriors.blog.com</span></a> *PUSHinteriors*</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #663300;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">12. Katrina of @seasideinterior </span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #663300;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">BLOG: <a href="http://seasideinteriors.ca/" rel="nofollow" style="color: black; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">http://seasideinteriors.ca</a> *seasideinteriors*</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #663300;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">13. Stacy Naquin of @StacyNaquin </span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #663300;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">BLOG: <a href="http://stacynaquininteriors.com/blog" rel="nofollow" style="color: black; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank"><span class="yshortcuts" id="lw_1341170538_13">http://stacynaquininteriors.com/blog</span></a> *stacynaquin*</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #663300;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">14. Ana of @whitelinenintrs </span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #663300;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">BLOG: <a href="http://whitelineninteriors.net/blog" rel="nofollow" style="color: black; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank"><span class="yshortcuts" id="lw_1341170538_14">http://whitelineninteriors.net/blog</span></a> *whitelineninteriors*</span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #663300;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Don't forget to try Olioboard!</span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #663300;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">www.olioboard.com</span></span></div>
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<br /></div>Betty Shepard BHHS Fox Roach Realtorshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03042265915868099391noreply@blogger.com27tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7087591670506883546.post-56111657318837767452012-06-14T14:55:00.000-07:002012-06-14T14:55:02.803-07:00Fathers . Amazing . Everyday<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwncwhsg7CKUrN20NHbLxaAX0lJcYyV33-1Q66Z3oJkVorkC5SaoWLgaT5coZTtQI46_pp50dCUgOYXbZnwtCQtW3neDtvFcnQMIz5XQl5ylZsOK4Y5VevVfu0p1Zbm1yTV4QLKYxBb9o/s1600/Dad.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwncwhsg7CKUrN20NHbLxaAX0lJcYyV33-1Q66Z3oJkVorkC5SaoWLgaT5coZTtQI46_pp50dCUgOYXbZnwtCQtW3neDtvFcnQMIz5XQl5ylZsOK4Y5VevVfu0p1Zbm1yTV4QLKYxBb9o/s400/Dad.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Father's Day in our family has always been a day to honor a man we loved, Clinton J. Stites Sr, our Dad. I invited a guest blogger @KitchenClatter and my real life sister to capture his essence as only she can do.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Our
Dad……..</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">He was
Archie Bunker, before there was an Archie Bunker. No kidding. The first time my
family watched an episode of “All In The Family”, we looked at each other and
said, “Wow, that’s Dad”. My father, who always watched TV in the kitchen, walked
in after the show and said “hey, I like that guy”. And for those of you too young to remember
the famous TV character, Archie was a family loving man who was okay with the world…..as
long as everything was done his way. That was Dad!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Life
wasn’t always kind to my Dad. After losing our mom to cancer at the age of 39,
he was left with three young children to raise. And with our oldest brother in
the Coast Guard, it couldn’t have been an easy time. Shortly after my mom
passed, it seemed unfathomable to me that she wasn’t in the house. At night, I
would always check to see if my Dad was still there. I have such a vivid memory
of sitting on the top landing of the stairway and seeing him iron our clothes,
while watching the Phillies. On the end of the ironing board was a bottle of
Schmitt’s Beer and a cigarette burning in an ashtray. I am sure he knew I was
there, but he allowed me the comfort of seeing him without bringing attention
to it. </span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Times
were lean for sure. But our Dad was the epitome of the term “never let them see
you sweat”. He didn’t want his children to feel pity or be pitied and took
great pride in making the best of what we had. At one point, my mother’s family
seemed convinced that they could do a better job with us then my Dad, and
petitioned the court for custody. I use to wonder if that option was ever
tempting to him. How much easier life would have been for him if he could have
said, “live with your aunts, I will visit often.” But not Bud, he marched in
front of the judge and proclaimed the three of us his to care for. “I lost my
wife. I’m not losing my children.” And that was the end of that.</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;"><o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Still,
there were challenges, for sure. When my mother first died, we ate a lot of
Spam. A lot of Spam! It was cheap and easy to cook. But as Bud gained
confidence behind the stove, he became….well rather adventurous. Tomato soup
with sliced hot dogs and macaroni was his go-to favorite. It wasn’t as good as
it sounds. He claims to have invented this recipe and I’m sure that even if he
didn’t, no one else would claim it. Ironically, in later years, some of his grandchildren
actually liked this concoction. Go figure. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Eventually,
he became quite the cook, handling everything from homemade soups on Saturday
nights (a tradition I continue to this day) to five-star Sunday dinners. Sunday
dinner attendance, by the way, was mandatory. To Bud, it was family day and not
the time to eat at a friend’s house. Roast beef was my favorite and to this
day, when we have a family gathering, someone will inevitably ask “did you make
Dad’s coleslaw?”</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Dad loved the holidays and Thanksgiving actually became his favorite. He’d get up early
to put the turkey in the oven and off we’d go to my younger brother’s football
game. Dad had an open door policy that offered anyone who had no one to spend
the holiday with a chair at our table. We never knew from year to year if we
would have one, two or even three tables to set up in the dining room. It
simply didn’t matter to him. He’d buy the biggest turkey he could find and cook
a breast alongside of it. There was always plenty.</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">In later
years, Dad married Rosalie, who brought two young kids into the family that he
raised and loved as his own. Rosalie, who like my mother, was Italian, and
could hold her own against Bud’s constant joking. “I asked Rose to see if my
turn signal was working, and she stood behind the car and said ‘now it is, now
it’s not, now it is, now it’s not”. Rose would reply, “Why don’t you go stand
behind the car, while I’m behind the wheel”. He loved that joke. He loved
Rosalie. There was a constant bantering going on in that house. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Bud
loved banter. He loved to argue.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> He was a proud republican who could take you
to task on a political debate. I was never quite sure if he had all his facts
straight, but he argued with such conviction, that you would always end up on
the losing side. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Life with Dad was at times exasperating, at times challenging, at times frustrating, but
always, always loving. He taught us by example to be independent and strong
willed. To be able to handle whatever life throws our way. So, Happy Father’s
Day to the man who wore a Phillies hat for six months of the year, and an
Eagles hat for the other six….. To the man who invented hot dog soup and Spam
burgers…. To the man who decorated his kitchen with hanging spiders on
Halloween, and his Christmas tree with bubble lights…. To a man who after
working all day, stuffed a frozen turkey into a storage locker at the mall so
he could Christmas shop for his kids….To a man who made the absolute best
chicken soup…. To a man who once bought an artificial tree and then never took
it out of the box because we cried when he brought it home. To a man who loved his grandchildren as
fiercely as he loved his own…. To a man who hurdled every obstacle that life
put in his way and landed on his feet with his family intact…. To a man who once
walked into a court room with empty pockets and a full heart, and told a judge
“These are my children, no one is taking them from me” and we were all the
better for it. </span><br />
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<i>Thanks Dad!</i></div>
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<i>Clint, Betty, Joann, Tommy, John and Rosemarie and a slew of grand kids and great grand kids.</i></div>
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<br />Betty Shepard BHHS Fox Roach Realtorshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03042265915868099391noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7087591670506883546.post-52626316701679487122012-05-23T10:37:00.000-07:002012-05-23T10:37:02.327-07:00Red, White & Blue . Amazing . Everyday<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Summer's here and the red, white and blue season begins. It happens every summer mostly impart because of our patriotic holidays. The colors represent American to many of us. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">It makes me feel proud when I see our country's flag on display. You know... freedom, mom's apple pie and simpler times. Aside from that, the color combination fascinates me with rich navy blue (a fav of mine), crisp white and the pop of red.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I am not alone in this since designers, product developers, brand enthusiastic use RW&B all the time. Think of the most memorable logo's and what color are they? FaceBook, Twitter, Dell, Sears are blue and Comcast, Bank of America, ESPN and YouTube are red.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Ralph Lauren built his brand based on it...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Interior designers know how to use the rich color combination without it screaming USA!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I mean look at this chair. Adore it!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Really, how chic is this outfit? </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Not sure why....but find a group of bikers and you are sure to see RW&B on their leather jackets, head scarfs and pants.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Promise not to laugh but my fascination began in the 70's when I first married. It was shortly before the Bi-Centennial and RW&B was completely the rage in fashion and decor.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">You may think I lost my mind! My couch was RW&B along with the floor lamp currently<strike> hidden</strike> stored the attic along with it's cousin the Betsy Ross lamp. I swear I was so hip!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Thank goodness my taste has matured like fine wine. Now a days, I rather be at the beach relaxing on a lounger with crisp red cushions and blue accent pillows. After, I will head out for a little dinner...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">in this sweet boat with the escort included.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Wisteria Cleaning Company would like to thank the brave men and women serving our country. It is such an unselfish thing to do.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Happy Memorial Day!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Betty</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>Betty Shepard BHHS Fox Roach Realtorshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03042265915868099391noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7087591670506883546.post-78555054449632598162012-05-13T18:18:00.001-07:002012-05-13T18:18:46.472-07:00Brimfield Tweet Up . Amazing . Everyday<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjj9dC0dpJ3sVt7St22pxw-O_hpXdmdNHxj1JnlBUj1qE8k2vDE5w3pO3_IC5JoM5wYrkTvhUEJTZ-fF4dRRM7Ae_PEgay75UB_0YhvhiyGs2hGUOfITRdMplbO5Q9RjEUiYv-ouBsarQ/s1600/Brimfield.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjj9dC0dpJ3sVt7St22pxw-O_hpXdmdNHxj1JnlBUj1qE8k2vDE5w3pO3_IC5JoM5wYrkTvhUEJTZ-fF4dRRM7Ae_PEgay75UB_0YhvhiyGs2hGUOfITRdMplbO5Q9RjEUiYv-ouBsarQ/s640/Brimfield.jpg" width="425" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Whew...I am exhausted after an exciting trip to Brimfield, Massachusetts to attend the Brimfield Antique Show. It is one of the largest antique and vintage shows in the Northeast and easily hosts thousands of vendors. I have blogged about my love for finding vintage furniture and putting my mark on it. But I had another reason for taking the 4 1/2 hour drive.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPBUJGNO1-lGOeT4Sq7Gp9OlwCgv5UHJj8QUGWbOh6vUJpduBt28r6M9rjEYoog_xnVBVITObf-C-q8Hiyk7wiTrDqgSL1BgJg5KM_Y9WvxGm2iRFZEHTYaID-99gUbaBP77LiTsSyhtE/s1600/tweet+up.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPBUJGNO1-lGOeT4Sq7Gp9OlwCgv5UHJj8QUGWbOh6vUJpduBt28r6M9rjEYoog_xnVBVITObf-C-q8Hiyk7wiTrDqgSL1BgJg5KM_Y9WvxGm2iRFZEHTYaID-99gUbaBP77LiTsSyhtE/s640/tweet+up.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">YEP! The Brimfield Tweet Up! The brain child of Gretchen Aubuchon, Fashion and Decor, and Cynthia Bogart, The Daily Basics. They bring together interior designers. bloggers, design enthusiasts and vintage hounds with sponsors such as Benjamin Moore Paint, Aubuchon Hardware, Kathryn Markel Fine Art, Company C and media partner Style at Home. It is a three day networking event with shopping involved. The ultimate! Introduce yourself by your twitter handle and more than likely you end up in an embrace because these are the tweet friends you talk to most days but never met in real life.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Most attendees are women who own and manage their own business. It was refreshing to listen to women exchange ideas on how to attract clients, readers and how they could help each other grow their businesses. What kept running through my mind was...this is the 2012 version of "the good old boy's club" and we are brain storming in our own unique way. One thing I learned is...large retail companies ask bloggers to blog about a product or service but are not always paying the bloggers. As women and business owners we should not give our work away. This is just my casual business observation and not intended to hurt anyone's feelings. I will admit to being a little bit of rebel and my "protesting days from the 70's" surface every now and then...but all companies regardless of their size have budgets for advertising.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Business getting done! Look at the happy faces of these women....I think a lamp just found a shade but you will have to visit @Casualinterior or @Doovah to find out. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I met some wonderful vendors like Rebecca Brawn who strips antique chairs down to the frames...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">and works her magic. After chatting with her I learned she started her business after raising 5 children. She wanted to do something for herself and never expected she would grow large enough to employee a staff. Most of her clients are designers and she now buys the chairs in bulk to keep up with the demand.<i> I am a sucker for this type of success story. </i>She is working on getting a website and did not know anything about social media. So I made an introduction to a social media expert and finger's crossed maybe business will get done.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Gotta love Randy! One of the few vendors I met at Brimfield who uses social media. If you look at the bottom of the sign you will see his blog address jerseypicker.tumblr.com. Brilliant tactic!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The message on this sign says it all....because if you read my bio I said I might slip in a blog about sales. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">At the end of my two days at Brimfield, I was tired from walking miles but left with a huge smile on my face. I made new friends, built new relationships and had an amazing experience. </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; text-align: center;">Sign Me Up for September!</span></div>
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<br /></div>Betty Shepard BHHS Fox Roach Realtorshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03042265915868099391noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7087591670506883546.post-8592048251707164092012-04-24T16:34:00.000-07:002012-04-24T16:34:12.642-07:00Steam . Amazing . Everyday<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkth6JY9TgDB-awMg-65KP6uf-wwoBae6ykP03FeKdXQ6PaxdOhR77EWcSoG-QSliTNu5rirRByHR7iZTDHH24Eh3H_K3fe5kojRl3lnVmjGYwSrWYVz9-419kbPMycp6Gp-M4QD_Ttvc/s1600/Wisteria+4.27.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkth6JY9TgDB-awMg-65KP6uf-wwoBae6ykP03FeKdXQ6PaxdOhR77EWcSoG-QSliTNu5rirRByHR7iZTDHH24Eh3H_K3fe5kojRl3lnVmjGYwSrWYVz9-419kbPMycp6Gp-M4QD_Ttvc/s640/Wisteria+4.27.jpg" width="454" /></a></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Find it hard to believe it is the end of April and the Wisteria is in bloom. Most people asked if we named the company after Desperate Housewives of Wisteria Lane and the answer is "NO". Wisteria, the flower, starts out as a small vine and needs support to grow but once it takes root it is evasive and can grow for hundreds of years.....so you can see why we named our company Wisteria Cleaning. A metaphor for success! Today's blog is not about flowering wisteria... so onto the real topic of the day.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Recently, a few twitter friends tweeted me questions on how to resolve simple household problems. I am flattered when this happens, so thank you! But what really struck me was my answer to each question was the same...use a steamer. I will tell you I am not being paid to endorse any steamers only relaying our experiences.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">The virtues of using steam to clean your home are endless but I will give you a few facts.</span></div>
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<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Kills 99.98% of surface germs and bacteria</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Environmentally friendly - you use only water</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">No cleaning products necessary</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Cost for steamers are around $130 and will pay for themselves quickly</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">The list of what you can clean with a steam is only limited to your imagination </span></li>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Don't stop reading yet... let me make a believer out of you.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">The tile entryway is in my sister Rosemarie's house and is about 5 years old. During this time she used traditional cleaning methods and products and the grout is discolored.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Now do have your attention? This is the same entryway after she used a handheld steamer. The grout is white again and the silver trim is even shinning. If you think she scrub awhile the answer is no. Steam quickly loosens the dirt and grim and then wipe with a rag.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">I swear this is my favorite use...because trying to get price stickers off of vases, mirrors, glasses or china has ruined many of good manicures. Steam will take the sticker right off and the adhesive too. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><br />Hand held steamers come with a variety of attachments. So I felt compelled to try each and every one. I was a steaming machine! Window screens, gas grill, stove top, micro waive, glass window on oven door, glass shower door, bathroom tile, toilet seat and base, sliding glass door track, door knobs, tile floor and freshen drapery and pillows. Carpet - Steam will get rid of impression marks in carpet left from furniture or the Christmas tree stand. Hit with steam and fibers will pop back into place.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Steam cleaning is addictive and I rank it right up there with my IPhone and IPad. Can't live without them.</span></div>
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<br /></div>Betty Shepard BHHS Fox Roach Realtorshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03042265915868099391noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7087591670506883546.post-79944294665295901622012-04-06T18:52:00.000-07:002012-04-06T18:52:40.247-07:00Easter . Amazing . Everyday<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">The table setting is absolutely beautiful! I have a collection of blue and white dinnerware, a ton of blue and white vases and even have a tablecloth very similar to the one on the table. Makes me wish I was hosting Easter Dinner for a quick minute. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">It also made me think...what I would do if I had the time. Women are faced with this dilemma everyday and time is our enemy. Recall a boss admitting she forgot to buy Easter candy for her daughter and remembered at 8:00 the night before. </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">So planning a beautiful Easter table is not on most of our radar.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Should it be? I'll admit I am a sucker for the creative elegance of it all. When I host a dinner it is all about the details and drive myself crazy. May be the reason I do not do it more often. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">So if I had the time...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">I would dig out my ceramic bunnies and spray paint them white...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">This adorable trio would be sitting on my kitchen counter...</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWzH5D74_r-B1i5wHWnbqJECdo3fiKpJxP2JI2UcKdoQOoPMxo3HUpafJYnvskzGIc5O0RhrlsxYB6hzgLntTg0klgL1GbUqei37EPr8bnea_9TitzO4_qQSLjYHr-Fn3Bi1_DzEIpdxE/s1600/vitthusmedvitaknutar.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWzH5D74_r-B1i5wHWnbqJECdo3fiKpJxP2JI2UcKdoQOoPMxo3HUpafJYnvskzGIc5O0RhrlsxYB6hzgLntTg0klgL1GbUqei37EPr8bnea_9TitzO4_qQSLjYHr-Fn3Bi1_DzEIpdxE/s400/vitthusmedvitaknutar.jpg" width="267" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">I would decoupage beautiful eggs for place settings...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Or maybe these...</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidCFMWC8Nkiopzq8vBxiw1rmpqPf457U8NCPRHv3ey2axj89oH2g6Ia86HdQsOGLXgJzaYjNIvJVajRP7XYT1AerDcTdUKmeLAehqXJRfP5QWzRx62FdFJC6Dxpg83ZjqbdS9L172IScw/s1600/Eastertip+Junkee.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="314" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidCFMWC8Nkiopzq8vBxiw1rmpqPf457U8NCPRHv3ey2axj89oH2g6Ia86HdQsOGLXgJzaYjNIvJVajRP7XYT1AerDcTdUKmeLAehqXJRfP5QWzRx62FdFJC6Dxpg83ZjqbdS9L172IScw/s400/Eastertip+Junkee.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">I would make this center piece to make my grandchildren smile...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">I would <strike>buy</strike> make Italian Easter Bread...</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9hMNPiHz3m_W-PPVOHmboE2fC4_KtiYnRh6KR5ZAZAzMWcBqXNiL4pYX5yEMGIJE-kiqdPVo44MiXfDic6Vd4w3jsc4Ckl0N39wQ7ltkoJz4CvjgFFtzCD5foc7FVEZViwqBSaiUmyDI/s1600/eggs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9hMNPiHz3m_W-PPVOHmboE2fC4_KtiYnRh6KR5ZAZAzMWcBqXNiL4pYX5yEMGIJE-kiqdPVo44MiXfDic6Vd4w3jsc4Ckl0N39wQ7ltkoJz4CvjgFFtzCD5foc7FVEZViwqBSaiUmyDI/s400/eggs.jpg" width="150" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">I would tap into my creative energy and create an original center piece and share the how to's with all...If I had the time.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">This year I will celebrate Easter with my family, wish my children and their families did not live hundreds of miles away and say a little prayer that all women find the middle ground between serving Easter dinner on paper plates and Royal Dalton China.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJP_7nRQh8BxjFfdDQ6QABir3BkmB9NPOUHrnoPs3hD4RS4FwLXoVDmt27UleqqQ8LZnjr6bjGJ9S2234o-Y0ayAxZHwJOAzkQZv4O-sngQzcK8g6KuiL9PDU1F3hLwfT1GLzgwT6tTLw/s1600/Blue+Eggs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJP_7nRQh8BxjFfdDQ6QABir3BkmB9NPOUHrnoPs3hD4RS4FwLXoVDmt27UleqqQ8LZnjr6bjGJ9S2234o-Y0ayAxZHwJOAzkQZv4O-sngQzcK8g6KuiL9PDU1F3hLwfT1GLzgwT6tTLw/s400/Blue+Eggs.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><b><i>Happy Easter! </i></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><b><i>Images and Inspiration Eddie Ross, Pottery Barn, Tumblr , Pinterest and the Italian Dish</i></b></span></div>
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<br /></div>Betty Shepard BHHS Fox Roach Realtorshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03042265915868099391noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7087591670506883546.post-43032464604598995392012-04-01T13:11:00.000-07:002012-04-01T13:13:14.332-07:00Bedding . Amazing . Everyday<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmW6I3nmUFqzu5CRQoPebFI-0xl2WewfBiMTbxlIQlkorxf6xLVkoQlAW6HgjeHgEn7aswmGnYLYCGIf3qfR4YqGSEJ8Ct7bwc7_6sK0zEVYakjTX1IbZHU_bX_POX9Ff6bKCEkgeV34I/s1600/gray+room.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmW6I3nmUFqzu5CRQoPebFI-0xl2WewfBiMTbxlIQlkorxf6xLVkoQlAW6HgjeHgEn7aswmGnYLYCGIf3qfR4YqGSEJ8Ct7bwc7_6sK0zEVYakjTX1IbZHU_bX_POX9Ff6bKCEkgeV34I/s400/gray+room.jpg" width="370" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Oh! Does this bed make me want to hop under the covers and lay in the lap of luxury. The whole room screams serenity, romance and "Do I really have to get up to go to work".</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">If you notice the star of the show is the bed and the bedding! White on white and the texture on the comforter is the kicker. How you dress your bed creates ambiance and can change your mood just by walking into it.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Dressing the perfect bed is easy and can fit everyone's price range. Color choice is personal but I love white on white bedding. Love the serene, romantic and timeless look. You can add additional pieces to a white linen collection over time. Not necessary to have each piece matchy matchy. White is the easy color to remove stains so don't shy away!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><i>Making a Bed</i></b></span></div>
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<i style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">If you have an older mattress add a feather top mattress...you will not be sorry.</i></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Sheets -I like cotton sheets and purchase the highest thread count I can afford but the feel is also important. So yes, I am the person who opens the pack of sheets for a feel test. If you try this be discreet. My favorite are Royal Velvet Antique Sheets from Bed Bath and Beyond.</span></div>
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<li><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Place a fitted sheet on the box spring and mattress</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Lay the top sheet with the decorative side facing down. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Add a blanket perfect for the season and then fold the decorative part of the sheet over the top.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Add the comforter you love and a throw blanket on the foot of the bed.</span></li>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Pillows! How many are too many? I am sure you have had a few complaints about the number of pillows on the bed. Experts recommend a Euro Sham, Standard Sham, Bed Pillow and a accent pillow not only for look but each has a purpose. Euro Sham is perfect for people who like to prop a pillow and read in bed. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Now to finish off the spa treatment there is a few tricks. Wrinkles on pillow cases can be smoothed out with a spray bottle of water. Simply spritz and smooth. Add a few sprigs of lavender to the bottle and spritz the sheets...the scent will lull you to sleep.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">And now a peek at a few inspiration rooms...</span></div>
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Adore the blue throw blanket...</div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Chandelier and gray walls....</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipGIVYmneAKyRAJOO_nVKlJskTXzkxFqFtjMaAu-2ExtZAobP6L7VqEAUpEe5PLHbNxgG8hQHH4ahpe3PGo2XJsl-zv8iDAWjOaUgHq-Pc2Np-RLN1MLAb0uoVWRVJSPhBpmXzcRVrZL0/s1600/Little+girls+dream.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipGIVYmneAKyRAJOO_nVKlJskTXzkxFqFtjMaAu-2ExtZAobP6L7VqEAUpEe5PLHbNxgG8hQHH4ahpe3PGo2XJsl-zv8iDAWjOaUgHq-Pc2Np-RLN1MLAb0uoVWRVJSPhBpmXzcRVrZL0/s640/Little+girls+dream.jpg" width="427" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I see a young girl feeling special while she dreams...</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKfiGthMVeIGEEbMMdU0ByKk3sVtu2HPi39vm73R3bReUqfdSD9rUzJ0JCgLHruRzv_MRp7m5PKDmhI7AKjDWHtoTK2xZFTknRHSs7GsHriCaT8GeyxI_87uE4OvOSIxwx8_Jz-kAZsaM/s1600/Green+room.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKfiGthMVeIGEEbMMdU0ByKk3sVtu2HPi39vm73R3bReUqfdSD9rUzJ0JCgLHruRzv_MRp7m5PKDmhI7AKjDWHtoTK2xZFTknRHSs7GsHriCaT8GeyxI_87uE4OvOSIxwx8_Jz-kAZsaM/s640/Green+room.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Love the doors and tile but would change the comforter...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Rustic and beachy at the same time...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">When I grow up...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Buying linens is not an everyday purchase and usually we only buy them when we redecorate our bedrooms. But for my money...just updating and making your bed special with the right linens and pillows will change your room...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b><i>Sleep Tight...</i></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><b><i>Inspiration and photos from Pottery Barn, Pinterest, Google Images and BHG</i></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>Betty Shepard BHHS Fox Roach Realtorshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03042265915868099391noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7087591670506883546.post-68056387743253276512012-03-20T12:39:00.000-07:002012-03-20T12:41:02.083-07:00Spring . Amazing . Everyday<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2hx5g7q50kTgMX0Hk1ErZversggqm6bbrb4fdFtcuiM_KerjdqUQbl3xw3qbANFjWf_GrYmu11iDTaZztojYOFxeBK0-eiLPdFVcyavewQbeqYPYcaulgnxpgolGVIOAfR17PGhhGrHA/s1600/Wisteria+FB.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="297" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2hx5g7q50kTgMX0Hk1ErZversggqm6bbrb4fdFtcuiM_KerjdqUQbl3xw3qbANFjWf_GrYmu11iDTaZztojYOFxeBK0-eiLPdFVcyavewQbeqYPYcaulgnxpgolGVIOAfR17PGhhGrHA/s400/Wisteria+FB.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Today is the first day of spring and I should be busy
writing a post about spring cleaning.
But the temperature feel more like May and I have a full blown
case of spring fever. My brain is saying
keep the course but my heart is screaming get outdoors, plant a garden, take a
ride!</span></i><o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i>So I listen to my heart and changed out my dinning room
center piece to something a little brighter. Something saying spring is here...<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i>Next stop was Lowe's to purchase pansies and mulch. Love fresh mulch...it
screams spring as it defines my day lilies and tulips which are have
already surfaced. As I loaded six bags
of mulch into the cart one thought went through my mind..."this is why
more women are not mass murderers..we can't carry the dead body." I am still thinking this when approach the checkout and the young male employee make a face because the bar codes on the
bag are facing down. Little did he know
how lucky he really was since I cannot
carry dead weight. I admit it is not a spring like thought! By now I have worked up a hunger and there is only one
place for me to go!</i></span></div>
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<i style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><o:p style="text-align: justify;">S</o:p><span style="text-align: justify;">tewart's Root Beer Stand, a landmark for many, </span><span style="text-align: justify;"> </span><span style="text-align: justify;">has stood in this spot since 1940. Owned and
operated by the same family the entire time. </span><span style="text-align: justify;"> </span><span style="text-align: justify;">It opens in March and closes in October. It is
a ritual of spring around here...the place I went as a teenager to hang out, the place
I took my kids to and now my grandchildren. Generations of families come back
every year and it is no different for my family. Of course, I could not resist sending pics to my children and sisters. Everyone has their favorite order! Hot dogs, Pork Roll, California Burgers...</span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i>Yep...they only have car side service. The” carhops” are male and wear white uniforms. So
nostalgic! I was greeted the same
way he greets me every year "Hello
Gorgeous" which makes my day. While I was waiting for my order, I noticed
an elderly women waiting for a takeout order at the counter. Seems my carhop guy was not
allowing her to pay for her order. I could over hear her saying "if you do
this I can't come here anymore". Depression area people are a proud bunch and she reminded me of my grandmother. The carhop gently rubbed her arm, kissed
her on the cheek and sent her on her way.
Secretly, I could have hugged him because despite her protest he made her day!</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i>So as I sat in my car eating my cheesesteak sandwich, I
thought "yep" it is Spring! Flowers ate blooming, I am wearing flip flops, just witnessed such a sweet act of kindness and tomorrow ....<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i>I will write the post about spring cleaning!</i></span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><i>Betty</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><i>Inspiration from Google Images and my photographs</i></span></div>
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<br /></div>Betty Shepard BHHS Fox Roach Realtorshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03042265915868099391noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7087591670506883546.post-84068323186537382182012-03-20T10:40:00.000-07:002012-03-20T10:40:38.750-07:00Spring . Amazing . EverydayBetty Shepard BHHS Fox Roach Realtorshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03042265915868099391noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7087591670506883546.post-67294378167544049632012-03-13T11:49:00.001-07:002012-03-13T11:49:36.271-07:00Paint It Black . Amazing . Everyday<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<i style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-large; line-height: 21px;">I See A Red Door and I want it Painted Black No Colors Anymore I want them to turn Black"</i></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium;"><i>Rolling Stones 1966</i></span></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Just like the Stones rocked it out...<b>"Paint it Black" </b>is my standard answer whenever my daughter, sisters and I are chatting about refinishing a piece of furniture. It is has become a family joke with only my daughter agreeing with me. My sisters roll their eyes...knowing full well I will paint it black and eventually they will like the finished piece. But come to think of it they have never asked me to finish a piece for them...hmm! </span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">My preference in decor and decorating is casual elegance. Shabby chic, while popular, isn't the look I want when refinishing a piece of furniture. Maybe why I have an addiction to black paint. Black is a strong color and makes a statement. More my style! No one would every describe me as a sunshine yellow or feminine pink.</span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>I am always on the look out for my "next score" at flea markets and the local Goodwill Store. Over the winter I purchased several pieces and was forced to wait for warmer weather. Living in a townhouse has it advantages but not having a garage to work in is not one of them. </i></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 13.5pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvYnSQYxJHq2uecVSlF6iQl3c_UPMH39UGu5UONxK53Ts2ZaBCyRlPYdG0SfvlQGU0ksV8yAxvAF1l6g73KQeNbfC25kb-vT148Nq-tpYvrHWFn7gZ7-dMkPhXcfTfOV95S27BL0QigjE/s1600/Start.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvYnSQYxJHq2uecVSlF6iQl3c_UPMH39UGu5UONxK53Ts2ZaBCyRlPYdG0SfvlQGU0ksV8yAxvAF1l6g73KQeNbfC25kb-vT148Nq-tpYvrHWFn7gZ7-dMkPhXcfTfOV95S27BL0QigjE/s640/Start.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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<i style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21px; text-align: center;">Warmer weather arrived and I could not wait to start this bench i picked up a Goodwill for $5.00. It quickly became my Saturday project.</i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOMmtkOpORIDg8TSGCWmqinX-2aU9J22O2y6j2juw5l7-Va0LOJrrMfdO7CK-VtUwkgHPl7ub4-2bTWu_KjQlqEvGb_1sx1-S1O1HpDiuKaBjf96Z5vBXeH71kkO_8sRHRAy6OjYTZexM/s1600/Seat+Cover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOMmtkOpORIDg8TSGCWmqinX-2aU9J22O2y6j2juw5l7-Va0LOJrrMfdO7CK-VtUwkgHPl7ub4-2bTWu_KjQlqEvGb_1sx1-S1O1HpDiuKaBjf96Z5vBXeH71kkO_8sRHRAy6OjYTZexM/s640/Seat+Cover.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>Any sign of varnish was worn off long before purchasing the bench so only a light sanding was necessary. The seat had two layers of fabric to remove. Here is were I day dream wondering who owned the piece? Was it part of a vanity set where a young girl watched herself grow into a lovely young women? Did the owner pass away and no one in the family saw the beauty? </i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i><br class="Apple-interchange-newline" />Once down to the batting...EEK! It was in pretty bad shape and imagine full of dust mites. So, I replaced with 4 layers of new batting. </i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>Since working with a small piece, I decided to go with Valspar Spray Paint Satin Finish in black, of course.This is were my project move outdoors. I sprayed the base of the bench with 2 light coats of paint to avoid dripping. While it goes against my nature ,I have learned not to hurry this step. Several light coats gives the piece a beautiful finish.</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>While the paint was drying I quickly covered the seat with a cream and beige silk fabric, I had used on another project. Covering a seat is just like wrapping a package. Only...use a staple gun instead of tape to secure the fabric to the wood. Bing, Bang, Done! </i></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP9Q1BbErVSx_aTAk8rNin0PkP6-yw50Ppxw1MVE31m5loW8pRBxmXhdji7HjC4SF_L2WQCMeB7PEbScc-5z1z_NPA5m8wOHiIRIqxBogD85likxXmXprZ9Dcby_KAFirjjHiE_igfm2s/s1600/bench+against+wall.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP9Q1BbErVSx_aTAk8rNin0PkP6-yw50Ppxw1MVE31m5loW8pRBxmXhdji7HjC4SF_L2WQCMeB7PEbScc-5z1z_NPA5m8wOHiIRIqxBogD85likxXmXprZ9Dcby_KAFirjjHiE_igfm2s/s640/bench+against+wall.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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<i style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 21px;">Close up of the finished bench...</i> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3Nx7ongkNRbQaN32pQO8hWoKc0urcalDEHRC27Hp6poE-FtzPrgkO-PSd0LlWHQPSx90KKoNJ5yvKmy4tYZBy4Obdhw-0PuLO9gfTYiftR5ZoSQfoiJ5SaiUUuFsZ_DGYsTKfM_zEcr0/s1600/Blog+use.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3Nx7ongkNRbQaN32pQO8hWoKc0urcalDEHRC27Hp6poE-FtzPrgkO-PSd0LlWHQPSx90KKoNJ5yvKmy4tYZBy4Obdhw-0PuLO9gfTYiftR5ZoSQfoiJ5SaiUUuFsZ_DGYsTKfM_zEcr0/s640/Blog+use.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>My passion for re-finishing furniture is not about saving money or decorating on a budget. I like the romance of it all! The story behind the piece and transforming something old into beauty again.</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>I hope I inspired you to take a trip to your local Goodwill Store or flea market and find the piece just waiting to be Painted Black.</i></span></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: 'Bradley Hand ITC'; font-size: 24pt;">Betty</span></i><span style="font-family: 'Bradley Hand ITC'; font-size: 24pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br />Betty Shepard BHHS Fox Roach Realtorshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03042265915868099391noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7087591670506883546.post-40955165361084272972012-03-13T11:27:00.000-07:002012-03-13T11:27:35.068-07:00Spring Clean . Amazing . Everyday<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br /></div>Betty Shepard BHHS Fox Roach Realtorshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03042265915868099391noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7087591670506883546.post-65475904966648689952012-03-12T14:02:00.000-07:002012-03-13T06:53:41.682-07:00Paint it Black . Amazing . Everyday<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<i style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">I See A Red Door and I want it Painted Black No Colors Anymore I want them to turn Black"</i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Just like the Stones rocked it out...<b>"Paint it Black" </b>is my standard answer whenever my daughter, sisters and I are chatting about refinishing a piece of furniture. It is has become a family joke with only my daughter agreeing with me. My sisters roll their eyes...knowing full well I will paint it black and eventually they will like the finished piece. But come to think of it they have never asked me to finish a piece for them...hmm! </span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">My preference in decor and decorating is casual elegance. Shabby chic, while popular, isn't the look I want when refinishing a piece of furniture. Maybe why I have an addiction to black paint. Black is a strong color and makes a statement. More my style! No one would every describe me as a sunshine yellow or feminine pink.</span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>I am always on the look out for my "next score" at flea markets and the local Goodwill Store. Over the winter I purchased several pieces and was forced to wait for warmer weather. Living in a townhouse has it advantages but not having a garage to work in is not one of them. </i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>Warmer weather arrived and I could not wait to start this bench i picked up a Goodwill for $5.00. It quickly became my Saturday project.</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>Any sign of varnish was worn off long before purchasing the bench so only a light sanding was necessary. The seat had two layers of fabric to remove. Here is were I day dream wondering who owned the piece? Was it part of a vanity set where a young girl watched herself grow into a lovely young women? Did the owner pass away and no one in the family saw the beauty? </i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>Once down to the batting...EEK! It was in pretty bad shape and imagine full of dust mites. So, I replaced with 4 layers of new batting. </i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>Since working with a small piece, I decided to go with Valspar Spray Paint Satin Finish in black, of course.This is were my project move outdoors. I sprayed the base of the bench with 2 light coats of paint to avoid dripping. While it goes against my nature ,I have learned not to hurry this step. Several light coats gives the piece a beautiful finish.</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>While the paint was drying I quickly covered the seat with a cream and beige silk fabric, I had used on another project. Covering a seat is just like wrapping a package. Only...use a staple gun instead of tape to secure the fabric to the wood. Bing, Bang, Done! </i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>Close up of the finished bench...</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>And where it will live.</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i> My passion for re-finishing furniture is not about saving money or decorating on a budget. I like the romance of it all! The story behind the piece and transforming something old into beauty again.</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>I hope I inspired you to take a trip to your local Goodwill Store or flea market and find the piece just waiting to be Painted Black.</i></span></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: 'Bradley Hand ITC'; font-size: 24pt;">Betty</span></i><span style="font-family: 'Bradley Hand ITC'; font-size: 24pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i><br /></i></span></div>Betty Shepard BHHS Fox Roach Realtorshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03042265915868099391noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7087591670506883546.post-66129509762370234762012-03-06T18:03:00.000-08:002012-03-06T18:03:08.732-08:00Women . Amazing . Everyday<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Our blog is an extension of our brand and is intended to entertain and provide helpful tips and information so please allow me express by feelings on a current event. You see, I had a nice post on "Spring . Amazing . Everyday" just about complete but felt compelled to save it for another day. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The Sandra Fluke and Rush Limbaugh travesty has me all riled up. Sandra, a law student, was called a "SLUT" a "PROSTITUTE" because she is an advocate for insurance companies to cover birth control. Several men have echoed Sandra's opinion and may have been "chastised" by Rush but they were not called names. Guess the "Wink Wink" is alive still intact in some circles.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I want to be clear, this post is not about my position on birth control or a women's right to choose. It is simply about tolerance for diversity, treating women with respect and not allowing men to call women degrading names. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The "Rush" incident reminded me of "Imus in the Morning". Another radio talk show host who used a "racial slur" while referring to a young female basketball player while on the air for a station owned by MSNBC. Imus lost his job after being on the radio for 25 years and rightfully so. I applaud the efforts of everyone involved in making an ethical decision. It should be noted he was back on the air in 9 months for a different station.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Reverend Jessie Jackson and Reverend Al Sharpton, iconic African-American leaders, took a staunch stance against Imus and applied pressure to hold him accountable for degrading the young women. If not for these two men, MSNBC may have let Imus skate by on an apology and not because they agreed with his choice of words...but they stood to loose a healthy steam of revenue. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">In the case of Sandra Fluke, she had no iconic leaders for women's rights to jump to her defense. If this happened in the 70's or 80's, Gloria Steinem and Helen Gurley Brown would be all over this type of <strike>bull</strike> bias. Women would be protesting outside of Clear Channel's offices demanding action against Rush! News reporters with mic's in hand would stalk Gloria's office for a comment. Chance are he would have been asked to leave by now. I checked Gloria's Facebook page to see if she was up in arms; ready to stage the fight for a young women's rights. She had 3 recent post but she has not been in the limelight for many years.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">You see, Gloria and Helen did their job and completed their mission! It is time for them to enjoy life. Problem is no one picked up the baton to act as a watchdog. We were all too busy reaping the rewards, getting promoted and making our way.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Seems "fabulous women" of a certain age including myself, failed to teach our beautiful, independent, and smart daughters about the women who came before us. The women who made it possible for women to be <i>in power </i>and <i>empowered</i>, treated as equals, CEOs of Fortune 500 Companies, doctors, lawyers and even a make a run for President of the United States. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">And I do know, plenty of people are up in arms about the public disgracing Sandra Fluke received for voicing her opinion. Turn on any news channel or pick up the paper and the story is still news. I applaud the sponsors who canceled their advertising on the show. I fear without an iconic women leader to put the pressure on Clear Channel to fire Rush Limbaugh there is an excellent chance his weak apology will get him by.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">You see...somewhere between the women's movement and today we lost our voice. We became a little complacent and secure in our world. So when Limbaugh spewed his venom, I felt like a bucket of cold water was thrown on me. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">So the next time you talk to your daughter and explain she has the<i><b> power</b> r</i>emember to tell her it was not always like that....</span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Poem by Maya Angelo </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>Betty Shepard BHHS Fox Roach Realtorshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03042265915868099391noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7087591670506883546.post-30909209708451511402012-02-29T16:17:00.002-08:002012-02-29T16:17:59.077-08:00Grandson . Amazing . Everyday<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYqERWdoS1lQxhRgrFtXxQG4k1pWDkggu4A2RmbxxIiK5bla_7dRxXKbZ0qydmfarNZlch1W_d-VjbrWgDRFEGBzvVN1aFGW4f_LSY4e3fV6quMwuSdzIfFlmBgwM_LYQRe0E21gUwmRw/s1600/Drew.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYqERWdoS1lQxhRgrFtXxQG4k1pWDkggu4A2RmbxxIiK5bla_7dRxXKbZ0qydmfarNZlch1W_d-VjbrWgDRFEGBzvVN1aFGW4f_LSY4e3fV6quMwuSdzIfFlmBgwM_LYQRe0E21gUwmRw/s640/Drew.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">He calls me Nonnnie...my grandson Drew! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">My daughter's first child captured my heart moments after being born.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> All ready smiling it is easy to see he would be a happy baby!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">And does he smile...a charmer who lives a charmed life on the beach in Florida...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The mayor he is as he makes his busy rounds...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">and doesn't miss the chance to laugh as he scares the birds...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">and build castles up to the sky...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">and takes a spin with Uncle Clint...</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsRrvp0FxutLCBts6OhM46bmi6M0XV0TmYkx0yc9Ddj-nxwWr8WhM9-r9ZHev9vEzDi2RBLcM6_Lndw9mNXa1YvEGBsuKyXaNLVhg-tS1GAZV28a7HLK1P_f4L4tDZUw7Mt68qF8Li82s/s1600/11600124.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsRrvp0FxutLCBts6OhM46bmi6M0XV0TmYkx0yc9Ddj-nxwWr8WhM9-r9ZHev9vEzDi2RBLcM6_Lndw9mNXa1YvEGBsuKyXaNLVhg-tS1GAZV28a7HLK1P_f4L4tDZUw7Mt68qF8Li82s/s640/11600124.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">But what amazes me most is he never forgets me even with a thousand miles between us. He is thrilled when he picks me up at the airport...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">and gets mad at me when I leave...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Today is his birthday and he is turning 3...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">and of course...Drew decided it will be Pirates Day too!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">My birthday wish for my grandson is simple....I wish he never forgets how much I love him and he continues to dance when he hears the music and not worry who is watching....</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">and knows he has 2 crazy aunts who love him...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I know my daughter will keep us in his heart.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">So ARR Matey & Happy Birthday Drew!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Love Nonnie</span></div>
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<br />Betty Shepard BHHS Fox Roach Realtorshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03042265915868099391noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7087591670506883546.post-60548435404722945812012-02-29T11:51:00.000-08:002012-02-29T11:51:39.251-08:00Clean . Amazing . Everyday<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwxksdbV80SzKJBaGcxoLAMd2HDUW40h-vs68urY28KRJGgYqD5u0vYcobDqQcooJLgmKSF-CwUUCtn3qPnaW7l9bqW-WQkMJdm5Hhl7Hv-V0RmP_V5ybskYGYjkYUPsyykk8JPHwoIgI/s1600/1950.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwxksdbV80SzKJBaGcxoLAMd2HDUW40h-vs68urY28KRJGgYqD5u0vYcobDqQcooJLgmKSF-CwUUCtn3qPnaW7l9bqW-WQkMJdm5Hhl7Hv-V0RmP_V5ybskYGYjkYUPsyykk8JPHwoIgI/s400/1950.jpg" width="256" /></a></div>
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<i>Much has changed for women since the 50's 60's and 70's and I am proud of being apart of the generation of women who burned our bras and knocked our heads against the glass ceiling in the corporate world. Saddens me a little to know many young women today do not even know who Gloria Steinem is..but that is a story for another day.</i></div>
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<i>What hasn't changed is women are still the keepers of their castles. Along with demanding careers and kids with multiple activities that require both chauffeurs and cheerleaders. If by chance an unexpected guest drops by your house and everything is not in order they would never blame the male of the house. Yes, it is us who they secretly judge. And if that's not bad enough...</i></div>
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<i>Open any ladies magazine's March edition and you will be reminded it is time for spring cleaning. These magazines are filled with all sorts of wonderful ideas from what to use to clean, to how to clean, but they never seem to addresses how you are supposed to find the time to clean.</i></div>
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<i>What I know for sure (borrowed from Oprah) is when my house is messy or, God Forbid, an appliance breaks down, my karma and positive energy go right out the door. I have been late for meetings because I could not find both shoes I wanted to wear. So, I am sure you will agree a clean home fosters inner peace and happiness. </i></div>
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<i>Going back to my corporate days... If we had a task to accomplish, or goals to reach we gathered around a table to knock out the best solutions. So, join my virtual table and listen to a list of "tactics" to get our Project Clean House done.</i></div>
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<i>Project Clean House Tactics</i></div>
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<li><i>Professional Cleaners If you budget allows it... Hire a professional cleaning company to routinely clean for you. No need to read the blog any further. Just make sure the company you hire is fully insured and bonded.</i></li>
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<li><i>Seasonal Cleans - Many companies offer seasonal cleans. They will come in 2 or 3 times a year and do a thorough deep clean. Average cost depending on where you live for a 2500 square foot home would be $200 -$300 depending on several factors. Most companies supply their own cleaning products. But be sure to ask in advance.</i></li>
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<i>Having your home professionally cleaned is the ultimate in pampering yourself. There is nothing like opening your front door to the sweet smell of "clean." I would love all women, especially single mothers, to be able to experience this feeling but understand that this is not in everyone's budget. So I have another tactic which I think will be fun.</i></div>
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<i> Progressive Cleaning Party </i></div>
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<li><i>Invite 2 girlfriends to the party! Three women can clean 3 houses from top to bottom in one day. Each clean will take 1 1/2 to 2 hours.</i></li>
<li><i>Pool your funds and purchase the supplies to use at each home. </i></li>
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<i>Fill 2 buckets with the products most used by professional cleaning companies to get the job done quickly.</i></div>
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<li><i>Microfiber Rags - They clean and shine all surfaces since they are lint free no streaks are left behind.</i></li>
<li><i>409 DeGreaser - I would not clean a kitchen or bathroom without it. Clean microwave, stove top, glass shower doors and kitchen cabinets.</i></li>
<li><i>Stainless Steel Polish - Quickly removes finger prints and helps keep them away for use on all stainless steel appliances.</i></li>
<li><i>Polish - There are quite a few products out there designed to work on all solid surfaces. So you can use on granite, wood and laminate surfaces and it keeps the expense down.</i></li>
<li><i>Invisible Glass Cleaner - Say no more.. this stuff does not leave streaks on windows or mirrors.</i></li>
<li><i>Floor Cleaner - Depending on everyone's flooring there are several products to choose from. A floor steam is ideal but if you do not have one at your disposal, I recommend Bono's Hardwood and Laminate Cleaners for floors.</i></li>
<li><i>Bar Keepers Friend - It is a cleanser and removes all the rust and mysterious gunk that shows up in bathrooms.</i></li>
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<i>BAM! That is all you need so let get to making it fun.</i></div>
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<li><i>Invite everyone to kick off the day a 1/2 hour before you plan to start and have coffee and bagels ready for everyone. Decide who will clean kitchens, bathrooms and who will dust, vacuum and do the floors. Time management is key so start cleaning at the agreed upon time.</i></li>
<li><i>Everyone should bring their own lunch. Prior to arriving at the second house stop by a local park and enjoy a lunch and more girl time. Switch up who cleans which room to keep it interesting.</i></li>
<li><i>Now after the second house is cleaned you will be feeling a <strike>little </strike> very tired and we have to punch up everyone's energy level. So pull out your IPODs and dance around to this little ditty...</i></li>
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<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/f7abcHi1a-8?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
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<b><i>Christina Aguilera - Tough Lover</i></b></div>
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<i>You maybe thinking... I could clean my house myself in one day but I guarantee you will not have as much fun as doing it your best girlfriends, you will have no excuses and not get side track from cleaning because you won't let your friends down. That is just how we are! Women are awesome and work well in teams.</i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6CE4nTuWBlUSti16UlkRDWR_kOn4u_SRR4qFMXu8rp7w6c5iTlwoSghr06vPbhP0A1HwuyoOs-s64-BDcDXUdE-WfI3wONWVtQreLp8qtDfjFPorxugm9sIeAy6Wmz5hzRle8QOc5uCs/s1600/Chamaign.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6CE4nTuWBlUSti16UlkRDWR_kOn4u_SRR4qFMXu8rp7w6c5iTlwoSghr06vPbhP0A1HwuyoOs-s64-BDcDXUdE-WfI3wONWVtQreLp8qtDfjFPorxugm9sIeAy6Wmz5hzRle8QOc5uCs/s400/Chamaign.jpg" width="266" /></a></div>
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<i>Just one thing left to do...Pop open the bubbly! Sit back and admire your beautifully cleaned homes and thank your girlfriends.</i></div>
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<i>"A movement is only composed of people moving. To feel it's warmth and motion around us is the end as well as the means." </i><i style="text-align: right;">Gloria Steinem</i></div>
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<br /></div>Betty Shepard BHHS Fox Roach Realtorshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03042265915868099391noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7087591670506883546.post-35771577054431950362012-02-20T16:20:00.000-08:002012-02-20T17:47:31.227-08:00White . Amazing . Everyday<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><b>Family Photo 2009</b></i><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><i>I have a thing for "White"! Look at how it pops even against the almost white sandy beach in Florida. Ironic that I am the person wearing the blue top but I swear my skirt was white. Guess I missed the memo about wearing a white top. My love affair with the color "white" sometimes battles with my love affair for black but I do love .....</i></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBdwqbuBEJybZLMf8ujLc6WMMZYkDuC8e9yhRzalu-v3L0ry9x15oJAcHEeO9VSqWEId4qvSjWq1UAxDz-yD9QTwhyphenhyphenxgHdC-9KecQ97busrFeyf67INXAXCLUcL0o3jNjJu-7ZKDJhyMI/s1600/Women's+white+shirt.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBdwqbuBEJybZLMf8ujLc6WMMZYkDuC8e9yhRzalu-v3L0ry9x15oJAcHEeO9VSqWEId4qvSjWq1UAxDz-yD9QTwhyphenhyphenxgHdC-9KecQ97busrFeyf67INXAXCLUcL0o3jNjJu-7ZKDJhyMI/s400/Women's+white+shirt.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><i> the look of a crisp white shirt on women</i></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_1KIG6za6AU-AUmuAfoNA0namXnLkWaZQPz8QMGS5IhJXJ2t_vM12WgXGKmWCUGcckfT6TejMDEDYLpetqrrw6CD_zd43Qi6HUUqGJ0CiGbQFH78unAaMR4_ue2cUEQqu-dLdrLr0Xac/s1600/men+in+white+shirts.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_1KIG6za6AU-AUmuAfoNA0namXnLkWaZQPz8QMGS5IhJXJ2t_vM12WgXGKmWCUGcckfT6TejMDEDYLpetqrrw6CD_zd43Qi6HUUqGJ0CiGbQFH78unAaMR4_ue2cUEQqu-dLdrLr0Xac/s400/men+in+white+shirts.jpg" width="281" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><i>and a man in a white shirt</i></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimI5d8X5ii6CaLP5-VFiUMC9FqKp7vX7WuiS-8lD4VKqkqJbIUsmkVFGLSaXgPB6eaATBAKQ157BTYBVKqv8K6vChy2zAY1AYjEmWDEFdGXz04P7i6g5tRWbg2KidXVdG7cvW9LpcUC70/s1600/White+jeans.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimI5d8X5ii6CaLP5-VFiUMC9FqKp7vX7WuiS-8lD4VKqkqJbIUsmkVFGLSaXgPB6eaATBAKQ157BTYBVKqv8K6vChy2zAY1AYjEmWDEFdGXz04P7i6g5tRWbg2KidXVdG7cvW9LpcUC70/s400/White+jeans.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><i>the perfect pair of white jeans in the summer</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><i> little girl in white party dresses</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><i>little boys in white canvas sneakers</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><i>any table dressed in white linens, white dishes and white flowers</i></span></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: small;">and the elegance of a white living room.</span></i></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><i>Like all good romances spills and drips occur. My knight in shinning armor begins to yellow and take on a grayish hue. But this time I know it will work out because of a little advice I read in a woman's magazine years ago...</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><i>Cascade Dishwasher Detergent removes most any stain from fabric. Easy enough, just soak item in hot water and one ActionPac.</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><i>Really! I successfully removed mustard, coffee, grass, blood and more stains from my whites. Recently, my daughter treated the cushion covers on her couch and removed everyday dirt marks a professional cleaner was not able to remove. </i></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><i>So now you know my secret to keeping my love alive with the color "white". </i></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Inspiration for this blog came from @lynneknowton & @gimletstyle images are from our family photo, Pinterest, County Living Magazine, Crewcut Kids and Google Images</span></div>
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</div>Betty Shepard BHHS Fox Roach Realtorshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03042265915868099391noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7087591670506883546.post-17552714648029338102012-02-15T18:31:00.000-08:002012-02-15T18:58:33.718-08:00Olive Oil . Amazing . Everyday<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<i>Olive Oil especially Extra Virgin
variety, now commonly known as EVOO, can
now be found in most family’s pantries today. When I was growing up it was not
the case unless you were Italian or Greek. <span style="font-size: 16pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<i>Our grandparents were immigrants
from <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:state w:st="on">Sicily</st1:state></st1:place>.
Olive oil was always in the kitchen, on hand, ready to fry meatballs or
cutlets, drizzle on salad; vegetable oil was not in the pantry. My grandmother
often used olive oil for other purposes. If we had earaches she got out the
olive oil. Stomach ache? Nothing a couple of teaspoons of olive oil couldn’t
fix! I am embarrassed to say as children it sounded crazy! <o:p></o:p></i></div>
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<i>After doing a little research I
learned my Grandmother was correct! Olive Oil is more than food staple it is
tremendously useful and has many applications. Seems olive oil does it all.</i><o:p></o:p></div>
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<b><i>Olive Oil as a Moisturizer<o:p></o:p></i></b></div>
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<i>It was stated, beautiful Sophia
Loren baths in olive oil once a week! I imagine Sophia knows olive contains 4
different antioxidants which minimizes wrinkles going deep into the skin and
reverses skin damage. She is still
fabulous today! So if it worked for her who am I to say otherwise.<o:p></o:p></i></div>
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<i><b>Use it as bath oil or moisturizer.</b> Here is a recipe to make it a little more special… infuse the olive oil with flowers from
your garden. Fill a glass jar with fresh flower petals or buds, pierce 6
Vitamin E Capsules and squeeze the oil into the jar. Heat 1 ¾ cups of EVOO in
micro wave and then pour over petals. Seal and shake jar gently to mix. Place
jar in sunny location and turn it over daily for 2 weeks. Then strain to remove
all petals and pour in a sterilized container. Lavender, Marigolds, Rose Petals
are good choices however do not use flowers that have been sprayed with
chemical.</i></div>
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<i><b>Olive Oil for Hair</b> – Warm a few tablespoons of olive oil in micro wave
for 30 seconds and then rub into your scalp and hair. Wrap in a towel for 30
minutes and then shampoo as normal to reveal a beautiful mane of hair.<o:p></o:p></i></div>
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<i><b>Olive Oil for Earache</b> – I know…Grandma! Some folks swear by this
natural remedy. Very carefully use a cotton swab to apply the olive oil to the
outside of the ear cavity to help earaches and excess wax.</i></div>
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<i><o:p> </o:p><b>Olive Oil for Diaper Rash</b> – Gently wipe olive oil on your baby’s
bottom to relieve diaper rash.</i></div>
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<i><b>Olive Oil for Polishing Furniture</b> – It helps remove dust and gives
a nice shine. Add a teaspoon to a quarter cup of lemon juice, and you have a
non-toxic, petroleum free polish to gently clean wood surfaces.<o:p></o:p></i></div>
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<i><b>Olive Oil for Polishing Hardwood Floors</b> – You can bring hardwood
floors to a shine with a little bit of olive oil and lemon. Use a ¼ cup of olive oil 2 TBS cider vinegar and 3 TBS of vodka. Or 1 TBS of olive oil mixed with 1 TSP
of lemon juice. Apply to clean dry mop and wipe on floors. <o:p></o:p></i></div>
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<i><span style="background-color: white; color: #211922; font-family: inherit; text-align: center;"><b>P</b></span><b>olishing Stainless Steel and Brass</b> – Simply pour a
small amount on a soft cloth and wipe in a circular motion to restore a shine
to stainless steel or brass.<o:p></o:p></i></div>
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<i> Lemon Chocolate Olive Oil Cakeby</i> <a href="http://www.saveur.com/" target="_blank"><b><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; color: #221919; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">www.saveur.com/</span></b></a></div>
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<i><b>Oil For Cakes</b> - Baking with olive oil has been done for
centuries. It gives cakes and cookies a light texture and can be used in lieu
of butter. 1 Cup of butter converts to ¾ cup of EVOO. It does not convert if
the recipe calls for a solid form like icing. <o:p></o:p></i></div>
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<i>Olive Oil for Lanterns – Don’t
you love these little lanterns? I can just see them in the backyard on a summer’s evening. <o:p></o:p></i></div>
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<i>The list goes on to <b>include
polishing shoes, fixing squeaky door hinges, removing paint from hands, personal
lubricant, treatment for head lice, cleaning up garden tools and exfoliating
your skin </b>with a mixture of olive oil and sea salt. With all the uses I
have covered in this blog, I will let you in on a little secret…</i> I<b> have 2 favorites.</b> </div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><i><b>Olive Oil as Party Favors -</b> Absolutely love this idea! Plan to use at my next dinner party. Print your own labels to personalize.</i></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAShi_cymCnwRwQ0qKGDtVmscILwbtw2sRApWVNGFAGFpl9mCNuH7V0gfl0_BKEcjumqDi9-9COiYaI0OFFMEeSwXdVVIO-OvNVOmkpLOQJRbLRHX9CJkR8MTEd9F1ZeQ4hCULc9sFmbc/s1600/olive+oil+soap.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="264" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAShi_cymCnwRwQ0qKGDtVmscILwbtw2sRApWVNGFAGFpl9mCNuH7V0gfl0_BKEcjumqDi9-9COiYaI0OFFMEeSwXdVVIO-OvNVOmkpLOQJRbLRHX9CJkR8MTEd9F1ZeQ4hCULc9sFmbc/s320/olive+oil+soap.jpg" width="320" /></a> </td></tr>
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<i style="font-size: medium;"><b>Olive Oil Soap</b> – This is a splurge item for me. I have used the soap and body lotion for the past two winters and at times I am surprised at how soft my skin feels. But I should not be because my grandmother skin was so soft to touch. Again…she knew something about olive oil.</i>
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<b><i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Sources
and inspiration from Huffington Post, The Daily Green, The Tip Nut, Olive
Source, Pinterest and Google Images<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
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<br /></div>Betty Shepard BHHS Fox Roach Realtorshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03042265915868099391noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7087591670506883546.post-50654368413932323972012-02-09T11:45:00.000-08:002012-02-09T11:55:07.291-08:00Snow. Amazing. Everyday.<br />
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<strong><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial;"><span style="font-size: large;">There is something magical about snow…‘real’ snow. Not just
the kind we tend to get here that soon turns to slush. We’re talking about
pristine, brilliant white snow that glistens. The kind of snow that actually
crunches underfoot!<o:p></o:p></span></span></strong></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmNfyHzkIPpe2M2x8bgOlCUiOE-GqWUuCkQSx_jhZCu7klmimG7UbMKR92VQnUawwVIu6iUP9tB9YaCiDpci4q0rdZVt-47j9UJnOq2C971g9iyh6aG9kZSkeAKydJJ0F9MH5YZgQ1Yzg4/s1600/Snow+2+Gate+Pinterest+Helen+Delaplane.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="333" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmNfyHzkIPpe2M2x8bgOlCUiOE-GqWUuCkQSx_jhZCu7klmimG7UbMKR92VQnUawwVIu6iUP9tB9YaCiDpci4q0rdZVt-47j9UJnOq2C971g9iyh6aG9kZSkeAKydJJ0F9MH5YZgQ1Yzg4/s400/Snow+2+Gate+Pinterest+Helen+Delaplane.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<strong><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial;"><o:p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></span></strong><strong><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial;"><o:p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></span></strong></div>
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<strong><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; font-size: 10pt; font-weight: normal;"></span></strong><strong><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; font-size: 10pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></strong></div>
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<strong><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; font-size: 10pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></strong><strong><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial;"><span style="font-size: large;">It is February 8<sup>th</sup> and we have not seen any
measurable amount of snow in <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:state w:st="on">New
Jersey</st1:state></st1:place>. I never
thought I would say this… but I miss having at least 1 major snow storm.</span></span></strong></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3GL9VJx8IImte_NfUEvHfSvCkQtOhDflBn5wuHghxKJC7rtxLF4qPBxjYgR5bguuo3HpL2hQtWglVIR116PtOPOxG2jxDaMbg2T5PvZ0xw5GrVFG9_xMfD2soWSVLGOvtpUwPsWVrmhoJ/s1600/Snow+3+fence+sweden.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3GL9VJx8IImte_NfUEvHfSvCkQtOhDflBn5wuHghxKJC7rtxLF4qPBxjYgR5bguuo3HpL2hQtWglVIR116PtOPOxG2jxDaMbg2T5PvZ0xw5GrVFG9_xMfD2soWSVLGOvtpUwPsWVrmhoJ/s400/Snow+3+fence+sweden.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<strong><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial;"><span style="font-size: large;">When snow is falling and blanketing the
earth it captures for a brief time a peaceful feeling. Everything is all right
in the world as we nest in our amazing everyday homes.<o:p></o:p></span></span></strong></div>
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<strong><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial;"><span style="font-size: large;">And when wind stops howling and the snow
stops falling you awake to a world covered in white. The contrast at times is
breathe taking. I think I may paint my home this gorgeous color of deep yellow
in preparation of any future snow storm.
Of course my house is made of brick so I will miss the pleasure of
witnessing this scene.<o:p></o:p></span></span></strong></div>
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<strong><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial;"><span style="font-size: large;">Even the hustle and bustle in the City of <st1:city w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Philadelphia</st1:place></st1:city> is slowed
during by snow. Everything moves a little slower.<o:p></o:p></span></span></strong></div>
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<strong><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial;"><span style="font-size: large;">Snow days are the best! Kids go wild when
school is closed. Their excitement is contagious. Even adults wonder if work
will close and they will have a snow day too.
One of my fondest memories is my kids coming in from a day of sledding
with red cheeks, frozen toes and fingers and begging for hot chocolate.<o:p></o:p></span></span></strong></div>
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<strong><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial;"><span style="font-size: large;">I miss the snow…. Just look at the vintage
sleds outside my front door. When I arrive home the sleds scream at me “put us
away” it is not going to snow this year.
I am stubborn and think there has to be one snow storm so I can run to
the grocery store to buy comfort food, check my rock salt supply, discuss the
pending snow with everyone I meet, watch the local newscasters think of how many
ways they can measure the snow, curl up with a book and smirk because I know my
sleds look great in the falling snow. <o:p></o:p></span></span></strong></div>
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<strong><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial;"><o:p><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></span></strong><strong><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; font-size: 10pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></strong></div>
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<strong><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; font-size: 10pt;">Inspiration and photos from Google Images,
Helen Dalaplane and Adrienne Rise<o:p></o:p></span></strong></div>Jessica Ryanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12026783815905169830noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7087591670506883546.post-24381508536511635372012-02-04T04:08:00.000-08:002012-02-04T04:08:31.706-08:00Superbowl Sunday!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXA5SDn9iuYQPURdrDSyx_zS515sSlfFi69jAiFyM4hOlCKzIhfrAp1lpnacqTIfMu7-GIT1FFRsc65pwjpnDPFW2nj1NMU6OlmLJRTwH3LhkXNn9HrdCMeQRKUELYECfFAWK69s4C5SkC/s1600/Super+Bowl+Party.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXA5SDn9iuYQPURdrDSyx_zS515sSlfFi69jAiFyM4hOlCKzIhfrAp1lpnacqTIfMu7-GIT1FFRsc65pwjpnDPFW2nj1NMU6OlmLJRTwH3LhkXNn9HrdCMeQRKUELYECfFAWK69s4C5SkC/s400/Super+Bowl+Party.jpg" width="313" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: 11pt;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 11pt;">Super
Bowl Sunday is </span><i style="font-size: 11pt;">celebrated</i><span style="font-size: 11pt;"> in most
homes as a major holiday. I am not a diehard fan but do follow the Philadelphia
Eagles. Super Bowl Sunday is different…it’s a party, the commercials are funny and
the half times shows are great. The next day, conversation at work will be about everyone’s favorite commercial so you really have to watch the game.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 11pt;">Even
if you are not a football fan, or your team did not make the championship game,
chances are you will attend or host a viewing party.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 11pt;">Hosting
can be a little stressful since emotions often run high during championship
games. Here are seven pre-party planning
tips designed to help make the post party clean-up easy - even if your guest
get a little rowdy. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Every television in the house
should be on and broadcasting the game. Guests will be able to see all the
action as they move about. For an extra special touch have the game playing on a
radio in the bathroom.<span style="font-size: 11pt;"><o:p></o:p></span><br />
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Super Bowl menus are usually
dips, pizza, meatball and pulled pork sandwiches and it seems the messier the
better. Maybe because it is a man’s day. Spills and drips can ruin or stain so
minimize the chances.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Super Bowl menus calls for
paper plates and a ton of napkins! Spills and drips are all most certain so I
use inexpensive plastic plate chargers with paper plates. They make it much
easier for your guests to balance their food especially when eating in front of
a TV. For fun, you could use Giants and
Patriot’s colors. This even helps with drips since the charger is larger than the
plate.</div>
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<i><em> </em><em><o:p></o:p></em></i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtq3SYFepa8Z54Cg1t_CupgeNh9CyvLGko9dC9zOXAssYLpyquPKl6xUERu8cIdckpf4u8CK_IPVtcJie7pbughOztlf4wfKQ_HGbse8yvcO2fGRYOAW1q4KDobYBbYpjHMYOvGxUX5ZBu/s1600/soda.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtq3SYFepa8Z54Cg1t_CupgeNh9CyvLGko9dC9zOXAssYLpyquPKl6xUERu8cIdckpf4u8CK_IPVtcJie7pbughOztlf4wfKQ_HGbse8yvcO2fGRYOAW1q4KDobYBbYpjHMYOvGxUX5ZBu/s1600/soda.jpg" /></a> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit3czsYTrkoH9KhTUti2Od621Dob52a4HYgowqDYEf2ICXvlv47dSxYDYrs8IacqDc8ZHMvnV_F5yDWIIIzBOQfZv0eObEmVeROGzO2OLrjcQVFwGujautw3mVn-XZMp-2_7GaqJV6p2q_/s1600/stemless.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit3czsYTrkoH9KhTUti2Od621Dob52a4HYgowqDYEf2ICXvlv47dSxYDYrs8IacqDc8ZHMvnV_F5yDWIIIzBOQfZv0eObEmVeROGzO2OLrjcQVFwGujautw3mVn-XZMp-2_7GaqJV6p2q_/s1600/stemless.jpg" /></a></div>
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I know it is tempting to use
plastic cups but I never, never use plastic especially when I have company.
Plastic is too light and easily knocked over making a mess and possibly
staining your beautiful furniture. Opt for the new wine glasses without stems to
avoid the accidental knock down. You can purchase inexpensive glassware at any
dollar store for game day. Ecco-friendly too! <o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="text-align: justify;">It’s a football game, and the
<b>only</b> reason I am suggesting that you
provide beer drinkers a Koozie. Trust me it will protect your tables from beer
can ring marks.</span></div>
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<em><br /></em></div>
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I refer to these as mess
makers. Kids love to play with them but they will end up spread out all over
the floor and possible on your walls. You can save a lot of clean up time by
hiding the toys you know will be a bear to pick up when guests leave.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikUic_0yT0aQQf-mjuYkW4FOBcRyMDoVHgdnJS17ZdacPyWSDyUZ4wRj44WPXW741HArgpzCKsoFAgmpRcZSlvF4NO799fqeNAZGPk7DZrTQWvHpK2wSOUvCwgks57ugcXeGL3EK-UGbQd/s1600/red+wine.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikUic_0yT0aQQf-mjuYkW4FOBcRyMDoVHgdnJS17ZdacPyWSDyUZ4wRj44WPXW741HArgpzCKsoFAgmpRcZSlvF4NO799fqeNAZGPk7DZrTQWvHpK2wSOUvCwgks57ugcXeGL3EK-UGbQd/s400/red+wine.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<i><em><o:p></o:p></em></i></div>
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<i><br /></i><br />
Make sure you have emergency clean-up supplies for
spills and drips handy. Windex Wet Wipes are great for spot cleaning drips on
rugs and furniture. For tougher stains like red wine try<span style="font-size: 11pt;"> use </span>white wine. It will help neutralize
red wine and make it easier to lift the color off. Simply poor white wine onto
the stained area and gently blots the liquid up with a thick towel. Rubbing
will force the stain into your carpet. If the stain is still visible, you can
add salt or soda to continue to lifting out the pigment.<o:p></o:p></div>
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The import thing is to remember is just having a good
time! Except for the <st1:state w:st="on">New York</st1:state> and <st1:place w:st="on">New England</st1:place> areas, to most of us, it is just a chance to
eat things we usually don’t eat on a Sunday night, hang out with family and
friends, and watch some great commercials! It’s also a great opportunity to
chase away the mid-winter blues! ENJOY!<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Happy
Super Bowl Sunday!</span></b><span style="font-size: 11pt;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-size: 11pt;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 11pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 11pt;"><i>Images
and inspirations is from Google Images<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
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<br /></div>Jessica Ryanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12026783815905169830noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7087591670506883546.post-67567116940792976112012-02-01T04:47:00.000-08:002012-02-01T06:24:09.568-08:00Brass. Amazing. Everyday.<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisM6LAoVQTVtpKNn7M7btA4-aCglpAirc2JqDy-cMrwCBcB5pLi8R9WRi2zBBoyOITaFbV5POOymzLb5RDEeMpHwVwMDKAvqQPBAsvh4YIwOP8NUUv0waBZcx0AnwOOSeHMvAEdbxiFoPv/s1600/pinterest+chairs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisM6LAoVQTVtpKNn7M7btA4-aCglpAirc2JqDy-cMrwCBcB5pLi8R9WRi2zBBoyOITaFbV5POOymzLb5RDEeMpHwVwMDKAvqQPBAsvh4YIwOP8NUUv0waBZcx0AnwOOSeHMvAEdbxiFoPv/s400/pinterest+chairs.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">image via Tracery Interiors</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<br />
<div style="text-align: -webkit-auto;">
I am a mother, sister, aunt, friend and businesswomen. What
I am <i>not </i>is a designer. Oh I do love
to peruse home décor magazines. I am friends with more than a few designers on
twitter, and I am always daydreaming about my next project around the house.</div>
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A couple of years ago I tackled the master bathroom and
powder room. The last time we renovated our home was in the 1980’s. I loved that this time I could decorate anyway I wanted and did not
have to balance someone else’s likes or dislikes. </div>
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So I decided to decorate like I dress and chose blacks, blues
and brass for my choice of paint, wall paper and fixtures. The problem was that
everyone else was using chrome, steel and more spa-like paint colors. But it
never crossed my mind to use those. I knew what I liked and what I wanted. I placed
a special order for the bathroom fixtures. </div>
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I loved the finished results and was so proud of my effort. Then,
one day I was watching HGTV’s <i>House Hunters. </i>The young couple touring a home complained about the brass fixtures in
the bathroom and stated that they would have to be changed. This surprised me.
Did they not like the warmth of the brass? And then I wondered how I would ever
sell my home if prospective buyers don’t
like brass? My house was not for sale, nor
was I thinking of selling it. But I had spent quite a bit of money on the rooms
and the thought of not adding to the resale value was a bit upsetting to me. Had
I made a mistake?</div>
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So, imagine my joy when brass began to show up on some of my
favorite blogs. Brass is back! Could this be true? Could my choices just be ahead
of the curve? </div>
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See for yourself. Blue, black and brass is showing up
everywhere!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiua3pyjUM3Yr4vlmbZqBCy44P66IbZIAXM0Op3UXN5o2dHNG0QW882pDS7mAtW7CMVzjKne_miIpypvNNDMMQXdZAMHdNsA-I2J8IghhjhUId7UL21oUNTh4v3jZKrcmz6uOTVpis7y81/s1600/Blue+and+Brass.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiua3pyjUM3Yr4vlmbZqBCy44P66IbZIAXM0Op3UXN5o2dHNG0QW882pDS7mAtW7CMVzjKne_miIpypvNNDMMQXdZAMHdNsA-I2J8IghhjhUId7UL21oUNTh4v3jZKrcmz6uOTVpis7y81/s400/Blue+and+Brass.jpg" width="298" /></a></div>
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Just look at all the brass and gold in this kitchen by
Bloomsbury Design Company</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPZ8gfXh3lMBqE2cbD7rWjTgr8NUwZamsHJac8eGtPBIEFXu6nzWZcX87L28d2tDD4-OyPQ-cvMBZQij1GUG68T7_4H6XRHMy5gKymIakwLwCtIHYUIgtpR7uIzDXGqtJu1nbAdW6WoZll/s1600/House+Beautiful.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPZ8gfXh3lMBqE2cbD7rWjTgr8NUwZamsHJac8eGtPBIEFXu6nzWZcX87L28d2tDD4-OyPQ-cvMBZQij1GUG68T7_4H6XRHMy5gKymIakwLwCtIHYUIgtpR7uIzDXGqtJu1nbAdW6WoZll/s400/House+Beautiful.jpg" width="311" /></a></div>
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Brass fixtures, brass lighting and gold metallic on chair. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWiDb1rRFqQOHN7Is9PniGjzCBeslqt_Ai4DyvIedntRlLelirGtNgw93PCj0wEk68YEyTftv3U1xZrX1Ju-8UHo_I4FXJYuq-Qs9igvHZpIyJpZo4oygZ_3M0O5xiALM9DfWvDqUObun_/s1600/Touch+of+Red.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWiDb1rRFqQOHN7Is9PniGjzCBeslqt_Ai4DyvIedntRlLelirGtNgw93PCj0wEk68YEyTftv3U1xZrX1Ju-8UHo_I4FXJYuq-Qs9igvHZpIyJpZo4oygZ_3M0O5xiALM9DfWvDqUObun_/s400/Touch+of+Red.jpg" width="312" /></a></div>
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I wish I had this mirror and sink.</div>
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So am I now back in vogue!
I can sell my home if I choose and will not hear <i>“Oh brass!”</i> as though it is some sort of disease. </div>
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Your home is your haven and styling it should make you feel
safe, warm and Amazing Everyday.</div>
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<i><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Inspiration and photos are from Bloomsbury Design
Company and House Beautiful Magazine<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<br /></div>Jessica Ryanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12026783815905169830noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7087591670506883546.post-34315965177584509482012-01-25T19:50:00.000-08:002012-01-26T04:24:49.624-08:00Tulips. Amazing. Everyday.<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfpKhJhuSBuQccOCtNoRQmW9BSRYMX3ID5zVwpW41RReOkjgqTW2NKvbCP0OPAnz34YoTdWkP5n6tqJyKX-l6f7K_gLrgApOl6tqwNJv1-B0KBA_KxXGFAnuwIQ7c9xnEbhZWbhuXrMPCd/s1600/Red-Tulips1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfpKhJhuSBuQccOCtNoRQmW9BSRYMX3ID5zVwpW41RReOkjgqTW2NKvbCP0OPAnz34YoTdWkP5n6tqJyKX-l6f7K_gLrgApOl6tqwNJv1-B0KBA_KxXGFAnuwIQ7c9xnEbhZWbhuXrMPCd/s400/Red-Tulips1.jpg" width="357" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">image via Google</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Look through any home magazine and you will see at least one
room styled with fresh flowers. The images are striking, breath-taking. It’s
just not the beautiful furnishings, décor, flooring and the fact that
everything is perfectly in place that makes you think <i>I’d love to live here!</i> It’s
the flowers! The extra special little touch makes such a big statement. Designers and stylists know that flowers make a
room look warm and inviting.<br />
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Knowing this trick of the eye, I make it a point to purchase
a bunch of fresh cut flowers every week, but there is a method to my madness
and I like particular flowers each season. <o:p></o:p></div>
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I love Tulips this time of year! First, they appear in vases
around my home, and then by April they will be in full bloom in the garden in
front of my house. </div>
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The first year I
planted tulips I anxiously waited for the red and black beauties to bloom. I checked
their progress every day until one morning I knew they would be in full bloom
by the time I arrived home from work. Since I was new to tulips I was didn't know how much the squirrels enjoyed them too. When I arrived home they had bitten off every beautiful bloom. ARRGHH! The next year I learned to
place dried hot peppers around the tulips to ward off the squirrels.</div>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
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There are a few things to keep in mind when working with
fresh cut tulips.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal">Because
tulips continue to grow even after being cut, they will bend to conform to
their container.<o:p></o:p></li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Cutting
an inch off the stems every 2 days will promote water intake making them
stay fresh longer.<o:p></o:p></li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Tulips
do not like direct sun, heating vent and drafty places.<o:p></o:p></li>
</ul>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0wz-DVlAJPcmKl3hKBeXVDxnxMUgROhXip-5UGFzapTybsnSGwa9CnNxRghqy0QVMFx0QBZ47Eues2NwuHScZrgbfcv11FQtTsNloxr6v6tvO9aNYUsg-gEZBeFLEwJ2tv0MHli3t25pN/s1600/red-tulips2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0wz-DVlAJPcmKl3hKBeXVDxnxMUgROhXip-5UGFzapTybsnSGwa9CnNxRghqy0QVMFx0QBZ47Eues2NwuHScZrgbfcv11FQtTsNloxr6v6tvO9aNYUsg-gEZBeFLEwJ2tv0MHli3t25pN/s640/red-tulips2.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">image via Wisteria Home</td></tr>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
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<div style="text-align: center;">
My freshly cut tulips.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyWAf3dMvYaCrcZYjuS-A0m-Of3R5SRj-k6nmcLOjqscFNa0bO_rUzn2SX8rVj-rySd2XqNd-_iYYDzoTgeJ0yXjTYOmQ83HaKJEvT0QNtZm5jdUhW3Os0m8C4XLvuOhQ6Z5f3rTHFIALx/s1600/Tulips-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyWAf3dMvYaCrcZYjuS-A0m-Of3R5SRj-k6nmcLOjqscFNa0bO_rUzn2SX8rVj-rySd2XqNd-_iYYDzoTgeJ0yXjTYOmQ83HaKJEvT0QNtZm5jdUhW3Os0m8C4XLvuOhQ6Z5f3rTHFIALx/s640/Tulips-3.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">image via Wisteria Home</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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My daughter-in-law carried tulips on her wedding day!</div>
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It is no coincident that red tulips are my favorite as they are the most popular variety. Just like roses, red tulips symbolize love. Legend has it the first red tulip were tears shed by a Persian Prince who was completely devastated by an unrequited love. Red roses have become quite common to show true love but red tulips are a more unique flower to show true love.<o:p></o:p></div>
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So if you want to chase the winter blues away, make your home look amazing every day, or show some one how much you love them…pick up a bunch of red tulips!<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>Jessica Ryanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12026783815905169830noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7087591670506883546.post-25588978686442478342012-01-13T10:53:00.000-08:002012-01-13T10:53:51.354-08:00Lemons. Amazing. Everyday<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img alt="thatkindofwoman:
loveorfear||meyer lemons (by Abi Porter)
" src="http://25.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_lgv1h7akpR1qannrdo1_500.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">image via Pinterest, via abi porter</td></tr>
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<span style="color: #444444;"><b>LEMON TRICKS IN THE KITCHEN</b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><br /></span></h2>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">STORING YOUR LEMONS<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; line-height: 15pt; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit;">Lemons can be stored in the refrigerator for about three
weeks. I like to keep some in the fridge and some on my counter in a pretty
room. They liven up the atmosphere. Out in room temperature the pretty yellow
fruit will keep for a week or two. However, we use them a lot in our home and rarely
do they have a chance to go bad on us! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; line-height: 15pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;">
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<h2 style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; line-height: 22.5pt; margin-bottom: 3.75pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;">
<span style="color: #444444; font-size: small;">LEMONS FOR FLUFFY RICE</span></h2>
<div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; line-height: 15pt; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit;">If you have a problem with your rice being too sticky a
teaspoon or two of lemon juice added directly to the water will do the trick. Your
rice will have the slightest lemon flavor to it. We liked it so much that we now
add lemon as a seasoning to our rice at the table. I find it cuts down some on
our salt intake! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">LEMON JUICE IN SALAD DRESSING<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit;">I love to replace the vinegar in my salad with lemon
juice. You’ll want to play around with the measurement, keeping in mind the 1
part acidity to 3 parts olive oil ration. A pinch of sea salt, a dash of fresh
pepper and you have a perfect dressing! Now add some fresh Parmesan… Delissimo!
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">LEMON IN FRUIT SALAD<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit;">Adding a little lemon juice to your fruit salad will not
only add a lovely flavor but will. The lemon juice will keep fruits like
bananas and apples from turning brown.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">GETTING THE MOST JUICE FROM YOUR LEMONS<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
<div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; line-height: 15pt; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit;">To get the most juice from a lemon it is better to choose
lemons with thinner skin. Wash the lemon in warm tap water. Then roll the lemon
on a flat surface like your kitchen table. The inner membranes should break at
this point. This will allow you to get more juice from the lemon.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">LEMONS FOR A CRISPIER PIE CRUST<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit;">Rumor has it that by simply adding a tablespoon of lemon
juice to your dough by replacing tablespoon of cold water with one tablespoon
of lemon juice makes a taster crispier crust. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">LEMON JUICE AND POACHED EGGS<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
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<div style="line-height: 15pt;">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit;">By adding little bit of lemon juice to the water before
boiling your eggs should end up whole and unbroken. A drop or two will do the trick<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="line-height: 30px;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">LEMON AS A MEAT TENDERIZER<o:p></o:p></span></h2>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit;">Lemons are often used by chefs to tenderize meat. Marinate
the meat with about ¼ cup lemon juice to each pound of meat, leave in
refrigerator overnight. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444;"><b>CLEAN YOUR KITCHEN WITH LEMONS</b></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #444444; font-family: inherit; line-height: 15pt;">Instead of harsh cleaners that often
leave you gasping for air, that aren’t environmentally sound wipe down your
kitchen counters and cupboards with a solution made from lemons. Fill a mug
with hot water and about half a cup of lemon juice. Soak your towel or sponge
in the mixture and wipe away the grime!</span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit;"><b>CLEAN YOUR MICROWAVE WITH LEMONS</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit;">Place half a lemon in a bowl of water
in your microwave. Cook it on the highest level for five minutes. With a damp
rag simply wipe away the food, grease and grime!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit;"><b>CLEAN YOUR WINDOWS WITH LEMONS</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit;">Cut a lemon into four pieces, using one
piece at a time; rub the fruit directly on to your window. When you are done
wipe your window down with a damp cloth, then with a dry cloth. This works like
magic! Alternately, you can wash your windows with water containing a few
tablespoons lemon juice. This is a great alternative if you happen to have some
lemon juice on hand but no fresh lemons. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit;"><b>CLEAN YOUR CUTTING BOARDS WITH LEMONS</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit;">Chopping blocks harbor all sorts of
bacteria and it’s vitally important to keep your chopping board clean and free
from bacteria. By scrubbing lemon, a natural antiseptic, you’ll not only rid
your chopping board of harmful bacteria but you’ll be able to remove those
stubborn stains as well. Sprinkle some coarse salt, if you wish, for a deeper
clean. Naturally this is a great
non-toxic solution. I do suggest tossing your chopping boards into the
dishwasher as often as possible as well.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit;"><b>LEMONS AS INSECTICIDE</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit;">Lemons are a natural insecticide.
Pesky house flies and mosquitoes do not like lemons! Lemons can help reduce those
annoying flies and mosquitoes. Look around for places you suspect those nasty
insects may try to enter your home and pour some lemon juice around those spots
and cracks. It has been suggested that lemon juice is also effective for keeping
ants away. Be sure to squirt some lemon juice around your window sill.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit;"><b>LEMON COPPER POLISH</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit;">A half a lemon dipped into salt and
baking powder should clean your copper beautifully. It is important to rinse well
with water and dry with a dry rag. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit;"><b>LEMON FURNITURE POLISH</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit;">You need to polish your furniture
from time to time if you want the wood to stay fine-looking. An easy way to
make homemade furniture polish is to mix olive oil with lemon juice. Use twice
as much olive oil as lemon juice. Your homemade furniture polish will work
beautifully and help your furniture last longer. (If you have any leftover you
can pour it onto your salad for lunch!)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit;"><b>CHROME AND ALUMINUM POLISH</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit;">Lemons are perfect to clean chrome.
Rub with lemons. When you are done rinse with water and finally wipe with a dry
rag. The result will absolutely amaze you.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit;"><b>LEMONS AND CRYSTAL</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit;">Use half a lemon and rub it on the
stains on your crystal vase or crystal glasses. Wipe off the lemon with a damp
cloth and finish up using a dry cloth.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit;">Remember to rinse with a rag damp
with clean water and wipe dry.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit;"><b>GARBAGE DISPOSAL FRESHENER</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit;">Use your left over lemon peel to
freshen up your garbage disposal. Throw in the lemon peels, add some ice and
grind. The lemon rind will leave your garbage disposal smelling fresh and the
ice will clean the blades. (This works well with all citrus fruit!)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit;"><b>LEMON IN YOUR VACUUM</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #444444;">The next time you need to change your
vacuum bag be sure to place a cotton ball, dipped in lemon, juice inside the
bag before you use it. Your room will smell lovely!</span><span style="color: #444444;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="color: #444444;"><b>LEMONS FOR BEAUTY...</b></span><br />
<br />
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<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 15pt;"><span style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit;">Lemons are great for
skin. Lemon is a natural remedy. One should remember that Lemons are very acidic
and therefore you should do a patch test on an area of your skin to be sure
that you are not overly sensitive or allergic. Lemons also increase photosensitivity,
so do keep away from the sun’s harmful rays after you have applied lemon juice
to your skin. </span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444;"><b>LEMONS FOR YOUR NAILS</b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit;">For soft and pliable
cuticles soak your fingernails in warm water containing lemon juice for a few
minutes. Do not ever cut your cuticles. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit;"><b>LEMON FOR YOUR FEET</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit;">After soaking your
feet in warm water, give your feet a “lemon treatment”. Dip a half a lemon into
some coarse sugar and massage all over your feet. When done rinse your feet in
lukewarm water. Lemon squeezed onto a cotton ball and dipped into sugar will
work as well. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit;"><b>LEMON JUICE FOR AGE SPOTS</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit;">Age spots are simply
pigment left in the skin. You can use lemon juice to make these age spots fade
some. Dip a cotton ball in some lemon juice and pat it on the age spots once a
day. Continue this process until you notice the age spots fading. Because lemon
is very drying, you may want to mix some lemon juice with some grapeseed oil.
The mixture should be three parts lemon juice to one part oil. This will
hydrate your skin beautifully. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit;"><b>LEMONS ON YOUR BLEMISHES</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit;">Dab lemon juice on the
blackheads every evening before going to bed. Rinse off the lemon juice in the
morning. You may have to do this for a few nights, but it is well worth it. It
is a natural, cheap and easy way to get rid of blackheads. If you find this
leaves your skin excessively dry, rub a few drops of vitamin E oil into your
skin. Massage well.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
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</div>
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<b><span style="color: #3c3c3c;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">THE HEALTH BENEFIT OF LEMONS...<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b><span style="color: #3c3c3c;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">LEMONS FOR DIGESTIVE HEALTH<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<span style="color: #3c3c3c;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Lemons, when mixed with hot water, can help relieve many
digestion problems. These include, but are not limited to nausea, heartburn,
indigestion, bloating and gas. Lemon water can keep you regular, and can cure
constipation. Lemon juice acts as a liver tonic and helps you digest your food
by helping your liver produce more bile. It is also thought to help dissolve
gallstones.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b><span style="color: #3c3c3c;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">LEMONS FOR SKIN CARE<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<span style="color: #3c3c3c;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Lemons can cure skin-related problems. Rich in vitamin C rich lemons
are a citrus fruit that enhances your beauty, by rejuvenating skin from within
and thus bringing a glow on your face. Daily consumption of lemon water will
not only keep your digestive system on track but can make a huge difference in
your skin’s appearance. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<b><span style="color: #3c3c3c;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">LEMONS FOR WEIGHT LOSS<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><span style="color: #3c3c3c;"> </span></b><span style="color: #3c3c3c;">One of
the major health benefits of drinking lemon water is that it paves way for
losing weight faster, thus acting as a great weight loss remedy. Lemon water is
known to aid in weight-loss.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><span style="color: #3c3c3c;">LEMONS FOR HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE</span></b><b><span style="color: #3c3c3c;"><br />
</span></b><span style="color: #3c3c3c;">The high potassium content of the lemon makes it a perfect
natural solution to help with the control of high blood pressure, dizziness, and nausea. The wonderful aroma released by the lemon provides
mind and body relaxation and can reduce stress and depression.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><span style="color: #3c3c3c;">LEMON AS A FEVER REDUCER</span></b><b><span style="color: #3c3c3c;"><br />
</span></b><span style="color: #3c3c3c;">Lemon water can treat a person who is suffering from cold, flu
or fever. It helps to break fever by increasing perspiration.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #3c3c3c; font-family: inherit;"><b>MY FAVORITE LEMON WATER RECIPE</b></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img alt="Pinned Image" src="http://media-cdn.pinterest.com/upload/128282289355481837_Eo9DEbN3_c.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">image via Pinterest</span></td></tr>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit;">I drink a lot of this in the summertime and during the rest of the year when I feel like I need to lose a couple of pounds. I started off drinking lemon water, but then wanted some more flavor. I now add lime, cucumber and when I have it around, mint.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit;">In a 2 quart pitcher I squeeze the juice from a lemon, slice it and toss it in. I add 1 sliced lime, 1/4 of a thinly sliced cucumber and some mint springs. I bruise the fruit with a wooden spoon and add water. If you want a slightly sweetened drink you can add a couple of tablespoons of honey to your mixture (which also has purifying qualities) or a non-calorie sweetener such as Truvia or Splenda. I keep this in the fridge all day. However, if you want to keep this in the fridge overnight, I might suggest you remove the limes as they can make the beverage rather bitter over time. Also make sure the pitcher is filled to the top.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit;">Enjoy!</span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit;">Information culled from MarcusSamuelson.com and Lemonmania.com</span></div>
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</div>Jessica Ryanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12026783815905169830noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7087591670506883546.post-26754301978821853202012-01-10T09:52:00.000-08:002012-01-10T09:58:31.685-08:00Jambalaya Soup: Hot Stuff for a Cold Day!<span style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit;">This article first appeared at <a href="http://www.theentertainingkitchen.blogspot.com/">The Entertaining Kitchen</a> and has been reprinted with permission.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit;">My children come home from school tired and hungry. At the end of the day I'm tired and hungry. And cold. We all crave foods that will nurture our souls and yet trying to feed my family warm comfort food that is not loaded with unnecessary fat and calories can be hard to do. My family does love soup, but they like hearty soups. I loosely followed <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/emeril-lagasse/mardi-gras-jambalaya-recipe2/index.html" style="text-decoration: none;">Emeril's Mardi Gras Jambalaya</a> - I took the idea and his ingredients and made it my own. As a busy mother of three children, I do not have hours to spend in the kitchen and yet I do not want to cut unnecessary corners. I want to prepare a nice meal that won't cost me what little free time I have. This worked wonderfully!</span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit;">Ingredients:</span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit;">1 red bell pepper, finely diced</span></div>
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit;">1 yellow pepper, finely diced</span><br />
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit;">3 stalks celery, finely diced</span><br />
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit;">1 medium to large onion, finely diced</span><br />
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit;">4 Tbs Olive oil</span><br />
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit;">1 lb chicken breast, trimmed and cut into bite sized pieces</span><br />
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit;">1lb chicken sausage</span><br />
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit;">1 1/2 cups of excellent quality jarred salsa</span><br />
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit;">2 cartons organic chicken broth</span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit;">1 cups of rice</span></div>
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit;">2 bay leaves</span><br />
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit;">Emeril's Essence (Recipe follows)</span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white;"><b>Emeril's ESSENCE Creole Seasoning</b> (also referred to as Bayou Blast):</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white;">2 1/2 tablespoons paprika</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white;">2 tablespoons salt</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white;">2 tablespoons garlic powder</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white;">1 tablespoon black pepper</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white;">1 tablespoon onion powder</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white;">1 tablespoon cayenne pepper </span></span><br />
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white;">1 tablespoon dried oregano</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white;">1 tablespoon dried thyme</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white;">Combine all ingredients thoroughly. </span></span><br />
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white;">Yield: 2/3 cup</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white;">This creole seasoning is fabulous and should be a staple in your pantry!</span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit;">Traditional jambalaya does not use salsa but chopped or canned tomatoes. I like the ease of the salsa and the additional flavors it brings to this dish. It's also a good way to sneak some extra veggie into my kids' diets!</span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit;">Directions:</span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit;">In a large pan saute sausage. (I remove bite-sized bits from the casing and toss them into the pan) When sausage is nicely browned -- the darker the better -- place into a paper towel lined bowl. Add 2 tbs of olive oil to the pan and toss in vegetables. Cook until nicely browned. Add 1 tsp of Emeril's Essence. When done, add the vegetables to the bowl the sausages are in. Add 2 more tablespoons of olive oil to the pan and add the cubed chicken. Season with another teaspoon or so of Emeril's Essence. Cook until well browned. Add to bowl.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit;">In a large sauce pan cook the rice per directions on the box. When the rice is done add the broth, salsa, bay leaves, meat and veggies. Simmer until ready to serve.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white;">We sliced up and toasted a Parmesan baguette and used it to sop up the broth. Fabulous!</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">This soup is Amazing Everyday! I hope you enjoy!</span><br />
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</div>Jessica Ryanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12026783815905169830noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7087591670506883546.post-70615070174033779652012-01-09T11:42:00.000-08:002012-01-09T12:10:05.606-08:00Deep Clean your Kitchen: A Guide<br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">This article, first appeared on the <a href="http://www.housewifebliss.com/">Housewife Bliss </a>website in October 2011. Reprinted with permission by Coryanne Ettienne.</span></h1>
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<span style="color: #4e4e4e; font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><span style="font-weight: normal; line-height: 20px;">The holidays are now behind us and for the most part we'll slow down on our entertaining and cooking for large groups. Our pantries are leaner; our refrigerators are no longer jam-packed and </span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><span style="color: #4e4e4e; font-weight: normal; line-height: 20px;">as the cold, dark days of winter remain with us for a while </span><span style="color: #4e4e4e; font-weight: normal; line-height: 20px;">there is no better time to really go through your kitchen and give it a top to bottom scrub. Sooner than we can imagine, the weather will be warmer, the days will be longer and we will want to spend our time outdoors on our decks or in our gardens. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">Kitchen deep-cleaning guide </span></h1>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><a href="http://sp.life123.com/bm.pix/kitchen-cleaning-tips.s600x600.jpg" style="color: #5c9095; text-decoration: none;"><img alt="" class="alignleft size-medium wp-image-901" height="199" src="http://www.housewifebliss.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/kitchen-cleaning-tips.s600x600-300x199.jpg" style="border-bottom-style: none; border-color: initial; border-image: initial; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-width: initial; display: inline; float: left; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 10px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="Hand in glove with sponge" width="300" /></a>The kitchen is, now more than ever, the heart of the home, and with that lofty title comes the heavy foot traffic and mess that hides behind corners slowly building up into a shocking sight that would send even the cleanest of home owners running from shame. It might seem like a huge task but deep cleaning your kitchen is good for your health and for your soul.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">Roll up your shirt sleeves, put on your cleaning gloves and spend the day (<em>gasp, yes probably a day</em>) making your kitchen sparkle and shine just in time for the holiday season to arrive and messy it up again.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><strong>Scrub your walls, skirting boards, back boards and floors.</strong> Start from the top and work your way down, the daily dirt that has been piling up is no longer noticeable to you, but the difference you will see from a light scrubbing will make your kitchen brighter and more inviting. Don’t forget to move all large appliances and large furniture away from the walls to ensure that even those hidden areas are given a deep clean.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><strong>Clean out your refrigerator and freezer. </strong>Frozen food diminishes after 6 months, and odours can penetrate the surface of even the cleanest fridge, so take the time to follow my guide to loving your <strong><a href="http://www.housewifebliss.com/2011/04/25/getting-the-most-out-of-your-refrigerator/" style="color: #5c9095; text-decoration: none;">refrigerator</a></strong> and <strong><a href="http://www.housewifebliss.com/2011/02/24/getting-the-most-out-of-your-freezer/" style="color: #5c9095; text-decoration: none;">freezer</a></strong>.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><strong>Clean your dishwasher.</strong> One would think that an appliance that cleans for us would not need cleaning itself, but alas, that is not the case. If your glasses have ever carried a musty or sour smell, washing your dishwasher will put a stop it by following this simple 30 minute deep clean routine: use 1 part vinegar, 3 parts warm water to wash the inside of your unit, clean out the filter (<em>usually located at the bottom of the unit</em>), wash the racks in warm soapy water and then place a 1/2 lemon on the top rack and run a high temperature wash.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><strong>Wipe down your cupboards and drawers.</strong> Any number of undesirable elements can collect in your drawers and cupboards, vacuuming them and then washing them down with a damp cloth can turn a drab storage area in to a sparkling clean one.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><strong>De-clutter your pantry.</strong> Spices, if stored well should last up to 6 months in your pantry. Your pulses, grains, rices and pasta that have not been stored in air tight containers may be ready for replacement, and those condiment jars that you had to have 3 years ago, if not yet used are just taking up space. Check the expiration dates on everything and only keep items that are usable. Once done, make a list of what you need to replace and restock your pantry using this <strong><a href="http://www.housewifebliss.com/2010/01/25/how-to-make-your-pantry-do-all-the-hard-work/" style="color: #5c9095; text-decoration: none;">pantry guide</a></strong>.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><strong>Examine your cookware.</strong> Warped baking pans, scratched non-stick pans, mismatched lids and chipped serving platters, no matter how well loved, have lived a good life and need to be replaced.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><strong>Sharpen your knives.</strong> A dull knife not only wastes time in the kitchen, it is dangerous. Your knives should be sharpened every 6 months.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">For more fabulous household tips please visit Coryanne Ettienne at her blog <a href="http://www.housewifebliss.com/">HousewifeBliss</a></span></div>
</div>Jessica Ryanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12026783815905169830noreply@blogger.com0