tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13996518878966217322024-03-21T19:52:30.957-04:00Beauty in the Attemptmy small attempt to live life more beautifully than I have beforeMegandvd@Beauty in the Attempthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06805696515123695246noreply@blogger.comBlogger207125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1399651887896621732.post-48882550057641054642014-11-30T21:13:00.001-05:002014-11-30T21:13:14.545-05:00You Lose it if You Don't Use it....How True Those Words Are<blockquote style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;" type="cite">
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>A snapshot of a snapshot & a glimpse of my happy little corner of the world</i><span style="background-color: transparent;"> </span></td></tr>
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Let's just be completely honest. Blogging is work. And here is the kicker -- {for me at least} -- I already have a lot going on and even fun work is still work that requires more energy than I am sometimes willing to give. I wanted with every fiber in me to love blogging. But -- I hated it. I hated it because instead of inspiring me it was breaking me. In fact, I felt such a freedom when I stopped concerning myself with my blog and the pictures and the content and the dreaded ordeal of having to document EVERY. SINGLE. MOMENT.<br />
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After all, life is raw. There are no filters or editing. There is no commentary. There is no feedback. There is just a lot of living and that is what I want to capture. It took me a long time to finally see what I want from this blog.<br />
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I want to document my life.<br />
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I want to document my experience.<br />
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I want to capture the moments that will keep me warm when the nights are cold and my memory fails me.<br />
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I want this for me and I will do this for me. Is it possible for me to fail again? Absolutely. Do I care? Not at all. So, if you are curious to see what makes me happy in my little corner of the world...you will witness first hand my attempt at living a beautiful life.<br />
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The key thing for me at this point is remembering how I actually got here to post something.<br />
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Cheers~<br />
eMegandvd@Beauty in the Attempthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06805696515123695246noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1399651887896621732.post-47615492729552094112013-07-07T14:00:00.000-04:002013-07-08T09:11:02.679-04:00no pictures..just ramblingsI find it amusing that EVERY blog that does a post on how to blog says to post often and with oodles of pics. Sadly I am not up to the snuff in that aspect but here I am all the same. But then again -- this is the real me on my blog and I just need to ramble. <br />
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<em>HOME</em></div>
I am in the <strong>slow</strong> process of creating our home. Like everyone I know, it must come in stages and in steps -- both from a logistics point and a budget point. Yes, we have been in our house a year come August 1st and yes, lots of our home is the same as it was from that day in August, but such is living life. I will say this though. The things I have done are big -- maybe not from a decor perspective, but definitely from a design perspective. I got rid of the dinky so-called fireplace with pitiful built-ins and moved it 2 feet to the left with carrera marble surround and a REAL mantel. Pulled up the carpet and laid hardwoods. Got rid of every column (ick) there was and painted all my walls on the main floor. The purple taupe HAD to go.<br />
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I still have much to do. I will take a few pics and share -- just don't expect me to photoshop. I giggle at the thought of me having the time to do so. It is truly though a slow process but I find joy in documenting it. The overall goal that I want in my home is to for it to be fluid in color, texture, and feeling -- inviting, but fun...cozy but stylish. As I did with my first home...I do it the way I want envision it from the beginning. I am not the one who does it one way and then in 3 years changes. I am definitely not a changer. I am very committed to perfection & my vision from the beginning.<br />
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<em>MOTHERHOOD</em></div>
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I am constantly in awe of my children. I never knew I could love so much. Being a mom, is a dream come true. My little ones have taught me about selflessness and forgiveness and my unending need for grace. Thank you, Thurgood and Harper, for wanting me & needing me & accepting me. I look forward to watching you two become the man and woman your daddy and I know you will be. I love you like blueberry pancakes and strawberry milkshakes.</div>
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<em>INTRINSIC</em></div>
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This is why I need to blog. I need a place in which I can be me. I need a place to remind me that I am more than just a wife, a mom, a pharmacist. I need a friendly reminder that I am still me. I still have a lot of dreams that rumble inside -- my top 3 have been checked off - 1. wife 2. mommy. 3. earn a doctorate. But there are more. I want to do this or that. So many things. Maybe it is time to add to the list. Here are 3 more to throw out there: </div>
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1. I want my home to be like a page in a magazine. (yes, I am a bit self-absorbed...oh well. I LOVE pretty homes and I want my home to be that for my family and friends.)</div>
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2. I want to run for office. (that is out of left field, but seriously I am all that and a bag of chips. So maybe school board, city council, senator, etc -- let my blog be my grassroots)</div>
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3. I want to own my own business **not in healthcare please. I want to exercise the other hemisphere**. (this is a big one. I am dabbling with a company right now learning the basics of who I am as an entrepreneur. I am just so smitten with so many ideas...how do I choose just one?)</div>
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Off to complete my day...I think a trip to TJ Maxx and Homegoods is in store for me.<br />
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Hope you are still here friend as I continue to ramble...</div>
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Cheers~</div>
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e</div>
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<br />Megandvd@Beauty in the Attempthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06805696515123695246noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1399651887896621732.post-66021532616405450182013-05-30T11:25:00.000-04:002013-05-30T11:28:52.644-04:00a brave new blogAfter a rather long sabbatical from the world of multi-media, I have decided to once again venture into the world of blogging. <br />
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<em>Harper less than 5 days old with her Big Brother</em></div>
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My last entry was in March of 2012. It amazes me how much has changed since that last sentence was typed. Within the scope of 2 months from that last post my real-life took over and took me away from the computer. Having a baby, then moving, then starting a small side venture, then moving again, then going back to work – it all left me with such little precious time to my little family. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLN1hPJA-kWNaWUfxb7Z8m18Hxpr4LV32t-bmNEpS25Hl-m6fdnVW2qxn5TZ8k3zYATjb-3QEcm0wSUoVRnY1MEJKEve7hS73WMFt6jfCwM1DH6Tm2e8mwpxjV_j2WR0jJu3LX6NmiD-g/s1600/Our+house.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLN1hPJA-kWNaWUfxb7Z8m18Hxpr4LV32t-bmNEpS25Hl-m6fdnVW2qxn5TZ8k3zYATjb-3QEcm0wSUoVRnY1MEJKEve7hS73WMFt6jfCwM1DH6Tm2e8mwpxjV_j2WR0jJu3LX6NmiD-g/s640/Our+house.jpg" width="640" yya="true" /></a></div>
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<em>the new home -- FINALLY</em></div>
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And so, blogging had to be put on the back burner. And then it went from the back burner to the kitchen sink. And then my little blog went into the cupboard. You know the one…the one way at the top and to the right. And there it sat and waited patiently for me to come back – when I was ready. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiX4ICWuCGEiakxwSbj4G6Q16mMpHdtTBEMN4ejzIEYUeqLhcSNx27qjL0EHmQlVAHIHEuolLnv-DUZW1IW3Y-jDVm9bfqtZURJTQykvo3tGIWyo56lQa0gVifrt-N8Rts6DUjk7s5IAMs/s1600/LR+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiX4ICWuCGEiakxwSbj4G6Q16mMpHdtTBEMN4ejzIEYUeqLhcSNx27qjL0EHmQlVAHIHEuolLnv-DUZW1IW3Y-jDVm9bfqtZURJTQykvo3tGIWyo56lQa0gVifrt-N8Rts6DUjk7s5IAMs/s640/LR+3.jpg" width="640" yya="true" /></a></div>
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<em>the 1st project I HAD to tackle when we moved in: new mantle & surround, new flooring, new paint --stay tuned for the lovely AFTER</em></div>
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Among the whirlwind of 2012-2013, I kept stalking here and there on all the blogs close to my heart. It amazed me how I still relied on these blogs to inspire as well as entertain me. Whether I was pumping in the wee hours of the night or coming home from a long day of work, I still found myself logging on. Always there and ever present..my friends from afar were still close and still sharing their lives with me. It made me realize I missed my little blog.<br />
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<em>Baby Girl in her Downton Abbey hat</em></div>
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After baby girl’s first birthday, I decided that if ANYTHING my blog could be used as a candid journal/reflection. I believe if I commit to this aspect, I will remove the pressures that consumed the enjoyment I found in blogging. This endeavor will hopefully allow me to focus on my trials & triumphs, cute pictures of my children (see above), a home update here and there (stay tuned), and ultimately change the dynamic of "wanting" to post rather than "having" to post. I hope this is a game changer for me.<br />
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So with that being said…I welcome you, dear reader to a brave new blog. <br />
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Cheers~<br />
eMegandvd@Beauty in the Attempthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06805696515123695246noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1399651887896621732.post-72598511565107486142012-03-13T20:15:00.000-04:002012-03-13T20:23:27.933-04:00move in & love meOur house went on the market less than 2 weeks ago, so I thought I would dive right in and inquire with no shame {maybe a dash of fear} in regards to ---- how do the pics look? Before you ask..yes, these are the realtor pictures. Yes, they are the general pics that may lack a tad bit of sparkle
and character, but it is what we currently have online and what the public see.<br />
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I am playing with the idea of taking a few myself and see what emotions I can bring to the online page. Afterall being online is not the only key to a successful sale, but having another family truly fall in love with our home.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg54TQ8BEPZv2bUETBdmnThg1r0GIu7bWoZy2EacQ125nBKvKPCBsg75jfoXRyN9pu7SHPjmxY_9T97TKeRTEgRR0pKTCrdODC0NFdFDLMBsfDTDd7uYNwRJ1V6qd93ezbQDl8Crj4FiL4/s1600/4_201201468_28%255B1%255D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg54TQ8BEPZv2bUETBdmnThg1r0GIu7bWoZy2EacQ125nBKvKPCBsg75jfoXRyN9pu7SHPjmxY_9T97TKeRTEgRR0pKTCrdODC0NFdFDLMBsfDTDd7uYNwRJ1V6qd93ezbQDl8Crj4FiL4/s640/4_201201468_28%255B1%255D.jpg" width="640" /></a>
The front view: I am thinking of adding some black urns and flowers underneath the garage lanterns. Thoughts?</div>
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A view of our great room</div>
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another view</div>
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and yet another view</div>
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a view of the dining room & kitchen</div>
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another kitchen picture</div>
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and yet another.</div>
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our hall bathroom</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijOG2wpWlPDHbfc91klla52vMB6fGwkEIMKhgMJWmVj508eg9w5_rrmDyWKqPndYAI-a7erv7BQ8Ecx_M5qs3yJpJvvTIGuipvA4B-yd2K1NIbwvqoccwTKSp05amJIsIJYU9Hhyo4pe8/s1600/4_201201468_12%255B1%255D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijOG2wpWlPDHbfc91klla52vMB6fGwkEIMKhgMJWmVj508eg9w5_rrmDyWKqPndYAI-a7erv7BQ8Ecx_M5qs3yJpJvvTIGuipvA4B-yd2K1NIbwvqoccwTKSp05amJIsIJYU9Hhyo4pe8/s640/4_201201468_12%255B1%255D.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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our master bedroom</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHQw-6zwjUJ9V3EFSdaKSVfQe5ymE4xid_fM3ItHTr4quxvLqqebgcn_BUh5brw4zQqqrrxHpJ_eWMqhiz14nuRVdjekNILLEfzViJkjPj0fWKYkXll-ISw_AvfNrNBX-qfR6V5oX2Kw4/s1600/4_201201468_19%255B1%255D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHQw-6zwjUJ9V3EFSdaKSVfQe5ymE4xid_fM3ItHTr4quxvLqqebgcn_BUh5brw4zQqqrrxHpJ_eWMqhiz14nuRVdjekNILLEfzViJkjPj0fWKYkXll-ISw_AvfNrNBX-qfR6V5oX2Kw4/s640/4_201201468_19%255B1%255D.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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our little boy's room</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgflhSzg7JFWbCxT0mqSqQZYpoSvJrW6wdMc5ipqW2NiHDVR-lDDUE1gNZdUKDzP7YfFHyK0kTIhvg_cXmHnB4A339TOYe1X13XRsEDCQzyuuvDysrQjz6CH0pYUw64z21PLgGoMEhr9as/s1600/4_201201468_21%255B1%255D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgflhSzg7JFWbCxT0mqSqQZYpoSvJrW6wdMc5ipqW2NiHDVR-lDDUE1gNZdUKDzP7YfFHyK0kTIhvg_cXmHnB4A339TOYe1X13XRsEDCQzyuuvDysrQjz6CH0pYUw64z21PLgGoMEhr9as/s640/4_201201468_21%255B1%255D.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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another view</div>
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I am thinking of exploring giving my home its own website and fill it will light filled photos that take advantage of as many different perspectives as I can.</div>
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I just need people to walk thru the door. I think my home will take care of the rest.</div>
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I need your thoughts and feedback...I need your help to sell my home.</div>
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Cheers~</div>
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e</div>
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<br /></div>Megandvd@Beauty in the Attempthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06805696515123695246noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1399651887896621732.post-82974368401843899392012-03-11T16:00:00.000-04:002012-03-11T16:12:50.741-04:0032 weeks...and counting<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY001rlkrgA-GPOJPTyFQdFcvdSitLvovDpNuN-84JSFywiK1AWpo_GsXpuTmDEZhLPrT9w6GC1N1e8PI-vgCIJRehZ8msPs5-EEsSldkLdQK7-osFW8IX3d3CpIuHrxGcg6Ygprss6ko/s1600/32+weeks.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY001rlkrgA-GPOJPTyFQdFcvdSitLvovDpNuN-84JSFywiK1AWpo_GsXpuTmDEZhLPrT9w6GC1N1e8PI-vgCIJRehZ8msPs5-EEsSldkLdQK7-osFW8IX3d3CpIuHrxGcg6Ygprss6ko/s400/32+weeks.JPG" width="223" /></a></div>
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Here we are...baby and mommy with less than 8 weeks to go. Since our little home is now on the market, I am not planning on creating a nursery in this house. I plan to save that sweet little endeavor for the new home. (I am obviously optimistic that we will be gone sooner than later.)
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As for where baby will rest her little head, I have found the perfect solution for our situation.</div>
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<a href="http://media.rhbabyandchild.com/is/image/rhbcis/rhbc_prod218363?$PD$" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="388" src="http://media.rhbabyandchild.com/is/image/rhbcis/rhbc_prod218363?$PD$" width="400" /></a></div>
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Isn't it divine?
There are so many elements of the bassinet that I adore. I love how sturdy it is and that it has wheels that lock. Perfect for moving baby around to the "quiet" corner of the house. I also heart the peek-a-boo shelf hidden beneath the skirt. <br />
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<a href="http://media.rhbabyandchild.com/is/image/rhbcis/rhbc_prod218363_av1?$PD$" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="388" src="http://media.rhbabyandchild.com/is/image/rhbcis/rhbc_prod218363_av1?$PD$" width="400" /></a></div>
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This shelf will be ideal for holding the necessities without running from room to room. I can already see diapers, burp cloths, and a few onesies calling that shelf home.</div>
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Cheers~</div>
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e</div>
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<br /></div>Megandvd@Beauty in the Attempthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06805696515123695246noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1399651887896621732.post-57302255887367372332012-03-08T18:00:00.000-05:002012-03-08T19:59:40.447-05:00how to get the bathroom countertops clean of clutterSorry for being a stranger. Just been working as well as being a mommy to one outside the womb and inside the womb. <br />
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Anywho, remember one of my oldest design dilemmas? Visit <a href="http://beautyintheattempt.blogspot.com/2011/01/battle-i-can-not-win.html" target=blank>here</a> and <a href="http://beautyintheattempt.blogspot.com/2011/02/on-hunt-for-peace-in-potty.html"target=blank>here</a> to refresh your memory. Well I have the perfect solution to achieving a blissful, spa-like nirvana in your master bathroom.<br />
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<em>Put your house on the market.</em><br />
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As of March 2nd, our little home is now for sale.<br />
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<a href="http://photos2.sierrainteractivemls.com/4/mlslarge/17/4_201201468_13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://photos2.sierrainteractivemls.com/4/mlslarge/17/4_201201468_13.jpg" width="265" /></a></div>
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Look how clean that countertop is now! Oh....and yes, the base has been painted. I will update you on all the home decor updates I did in February {I guess you can see if I chose my <a href="http://beautyintheattempt.blogspot.com/2012/01/elements-that-sell-home-part-1.html"target=blank>"selling" elements</a> wisely). Let's just say I have been very busy in preparing for March. <br />
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I am excited and terrified all at once.<br />
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Cheers~<br />
eMegandvd@Beauty in the Attempthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06805696515123695246noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1399651887896621732.post-80353253518047009182012-02-06T20:35:00.000-05:002012-02-06T20:41:30.864-05:00welcome little leoAmid the whirlwind of living life, it sometimes takes a simple picture to remind you how miraculous life is.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTPL4vLGRKJ2msAhqHUntWgOfvLLGTnuCYL5rbhVYcB8kZukoW6FF9RJDrOAomEJibvljVmev_j2SJ2TJJtvko4nw8KYgp7dH9R5OrYb1zHsjyUTY2F_THr_x2ERzEvDU4oJDCaHHOxL8/s1600/431675_10151251427440602_787575601_22935770_1773687571_n%5B1%5D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTPL4vLGRKJ2msAhqHUntWgOfvLLGTnuCYL5rbhVYcB8kZukoW6FF9RJDrOAomEJibvljVmev_j2SJ2TJJtvko4nw8KYgp7dH9R5OrYb1zHsjyUTY2F_THr_x2ERzEvDU4oJDCaHHOxL8/s640/431675_10151251427440602_787575601_22935770_1773687571_n%5B1%5D.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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<em>Christine with her two lovely children, Leo and Olivia</em></div>
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Welcome to the world little Leo. I have no doubt you will change the world and make it a better place..afterall with just a simple snapshot, you made my soul smile. </div>
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You have one amazing mom little Leo. She is so strong and beautiful..you are so lucky. Know you are always safe in her arms and will be forever loved. I look forward to meeting you, little Leo. </div>
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Feel free to see more of Mr. Leo and Miss Olivia <a href="http://thecutestlittleblog.blogspot.com/" target="blank">here</a>.</div>
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Cheers~</div>
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e</div>Megandvd@Beauty in the Attempthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06805696515123695246noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1399651887896621732.post-84622751581853387142012-01-17T19:00:00.000-05:002012-01-17T19:09:15.576-05:00thank you pinterestI rarely buy magazines. Not only are they quite pricey, but the internet quite easily fulfills all the eye candy I can feast upon in an evening (maybe too much sometimes).<br />
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Anywho, it was the summer of 2010 and I was starting my pharmacy rotations at a local Krogers. Well on my lunch break I would relish the chance to thumb thru all the home decor magazines..less risky than perusing the candy aisle. Well it just so happened that I came upon an image that stopped me in my tracks.<br />
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I think I drooled a tad bit too.<br />
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Ok, so I know I drooled because within seconds I was forking over the $5 to have the image.<br />
Fast forward a tad bit (less than a year) and I <em>lost</em> the magazine. Sadly I can find pharmacy notes from my 1st semester and yet this artifact is gone...and so was the image. Only 2 images truly capture the vision I have for my next home and this was one of them. {Oh...<a href="http://beautyintheattempt.blogspot.com/2011/07/dried-hydrangea.html" target="blank">here</a> is the other.}<br />
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Enter pinterest. <br />
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Someone I follow pinned it...and it was a joyous reunion.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijmA96_TQEOu0iPtd7Rvin8FjgBVucggrQgsCp55yyxguXcbC60tfsbVBNtdh4g6xlNz1J07pp-IJkxnWd-sPIblSSm30aI5LnRxGf0vgpnW9pPsa9Fxttr70NlKw6h_wkZvVgJuwziX4/s1600/20266267042648986_k97xUcz9_c%255B1%255D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijmA96_TQEOu0iPtd7Rvin8FjgBVucggrQgsCp55yyxguXcbC60tfsbVBNtdh4g6xlNz1J07pp-IJkxnWd-sPIblSSm30aI5LnRxGf0vgpnW9pPsa9Fxttr70NlKw6h_wkZvVgJuwziX4/s640/20266267042648986_k97xUcz9_c%255B1%255D.jpg" width="464" /></a></div>
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<em>from Women's Day Specials - Easy Decorating July 2010</em></div>
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I think I am drooling again.<br />
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Cheers~<br />
e<br />
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<em>P.S. Come follow </em><a href="http://pinterest.com/megandvd/" target="blank"><em>me</em></a><em> on pinterest...you never know what you could be missing.</em>Megandvd@Beauty in the Attempthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06805696515123695246noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1399651887896621732.post-62658323218090205742012-01-15T20:35:00.005-05:002012-01-17T18:24:09.752-05:00elements that sell a home {part 1}My dad and I have been "house shopping/stalking" for over 3 years now...yes, my dad and me. We came up with this grand idea to find a home that suits my "old" family (mom, dad, & sis) and my "new" family (Mr. B, Thurgood, & Baby #2). We figure you only live once -- why not spend it with those you love. The idea was brilliant and everyone (except for Baby #2) has had their voice/concerns heard. So far..the hunt continues.<br />
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Amid the hunt for the <em>next</em> home, I find myself a tad nervous on the sale of <em>this </em>home. Therefore I am dedicating a snippet of my blog to what I need to do to sell my home from what I have seen in homes online and inperson. Better yet, I am hoping that I get a little if not a LOT of feedback and help from you.<br />
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Are you willing to help a girl..a PREGNANT girl out? :)<br />
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Since dad and I have become gurus of open houses, I have made a list of elements that win me over when I view an open house. Tonight I will focus on 2 specific spaces and tomorrow I will share with you pics of my own home in those given spaces (and my plans for tweeking them if needed).<br />
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I want your thoughts, concerns, praises, etc. In the end, I plan to post a walk thru of my home -- a virtual tour for you to see and critique. It is my hope you can help me create a space that will catch a buyer's eye.<br />
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Is this a lot to ask? Yes...but I figure you enjoy snooping into homes as much as I do and this is just a way to get that fix. Plus...I also think you will do it because you like me just a tad.<br />
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<strong>1. Curb Appeal that Stops the Car</strong><br />
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<a href="http://images.meredith.com/bhg/images/2008/04/550_100556044.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://images.meredith.com/bhg/images/2008/04/550_100556044.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<em>from bgh.com</em></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XoPA2HzEjqE/TufCL3Tg6NI/AAAAAAAADVw/JGQMP1yQg8k/s1600/frontdoor1%25255B17%25255D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="275" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XoPA2HzEjqE/TufCL3Tg6NI/AAAAAAAADVw/JGQMP1yQg8k/s400/frontdoor1%25255B17%25255D.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<em>from <a href="http://homeandharmony.blogspot.com/" target="blank">Home and Harmony</a></em></div>
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<a href="http://media-cdn.pinterest.com/upload/27092035228006806_MbGmbUor_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://media-cdn.pinterest.com/upload/27092035228006806_MbGmbUor_c.jpg" width="353" /></a></div>
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<em>from pinterest</em></div>
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<a href="http://media-cdn.pinterest.com/upload/134896951308184954_eR5CaJt1_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="262" src="http://media-cdn.pinterest.com/upload/134896951308184954_eR5CaJt1_c.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<em>from pinterest</em></div>
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I admit it, I have past many a home based on how they look from the outside. I don't have the time to waste on a house when I am not enticed by what I see from the car. While overhauling the outside exterior can be intense, finessing the front door can be project worth attempting. I think the door and the area leading up to the door needs to be magical and welcoming all rolled into one. The curb appeal should give a sneak peek to what is within the home. The door should open so much more than a home.<br />
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<strong>2. A Foyer</strong> <strong>that Promises Great Things Ahead</strong><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMzhgiEF7JS3Qwdjs8wnIySmmVzN9ZvTo0faTE1qDvb7aP0T__IsKpiB7sWgsdjZ5LTFE9Jq33USekclXsDEO_p4Bnqp7eQuU1TIMHmynTmdlkdH0BDjaNa61igk50wxQVCuT7yD2bTSo/" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMzhgiEF7JS3Qwdjs8wnIySmmVzN9ZvTo0faTE1qDvb7aP0T__IsKpiB7sWgsdjZ5LTFE9Jq33USekclXsDEO_p4Bnqp7eQuU1TIMHmynTmdlkdH0BDjaNa61igk50wxQVCuT7yD2bTSo/" width="300" /></a></div>
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<em>from Shortycake (via the Nest)</em></div>
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<a href="http://media-cdn.pinterest.com/upload/144889312981367643_EotmKmc7_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="291" src="http://media-cdn.pinterest.com/upload/144889312981367643_EotmKmc7_c.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<em>from pinterest</em></div>
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<a href="http://www.housebeautiful.com/cm/housebeautiful/images/f3/2-american-casual-white-foyer-dec0407-xlg-64689591.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://www.housebeautiful.com/cm/housebeautiful/images/f3/2-american-casual-white-foyer-dec0407-xlg-64689591.jpg" width="310" /></a></div>
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<em>from House Beautiful</em></div>
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<a href="http://media-cdn.pinterest.com/upload/143693044330394203_l1zLm4Ry_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="271" src="http://media-cdn.pinterest.com/upload/143693044330394203_l1zLm4Ry_c.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<em>from <a href="http://theoldpaintedcottage.blogspot.com/" target="blank">The Old Painted Cottage</a></em></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPFDUh840Ieyo1Cv8j30vwl024vK6nLWYRVH0dkmXZ0_cX-V94FKT3W-x0pAEYRdo5bc6pr5b0Mgp0v87K7SAEqwS1epGFqQuOYx4OWw7Nlq1pZ_Ub6XCZ6y1rHFggwVOAWTgZl4aB0Sc/s640/P1130988.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPFDUh840Ieyo1Cv8j30vwl024vK6nLWYRVH0dkmXZ0_cX-V94FKT3W-x0pAEYRdo5bc6pr5b0Mgp0v87K7SAEqwS1epGFqQuOYx4OWw7Nlq1pZ_Ub6XCZ6y1rHFggwVOAWTgZl4aB0Sc/s400/P1130988.JPG" width="212" /></a></div>
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<em>from </em><a href="http://ourfifthhouse.blogspot.com/" target="blank"><em>Our Fifth House</em></a></div>
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There is nothing like the first hello & this is the job of your entryway to any guest (buyer or not). It is the beginning of a beauitful relationship or the beginning of the end. Everything from the color, texture, lighting, and size matter here. Also, the personality of a home can make a cameo here. You have to work with the space and let the space guide you.<br />
<br />
So are you ready to help a pregnant, hormonal girl sell her house?<br />
<br />
I need to get myself ready...I know I will have some work to do quite soon.<br />
<br />
Cheers~<br />
eMegandvd@Beauty in the Attempthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06805696515123695246noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1399651887896621732.post-8328823482445933242012-01-12T20:00:00.001-05:002012-01-12T20:06:29.094-05:00happy little shoppeEver since I was a little girl I have dreamed of one day owning my very own little shoppe. {And yes...I prefer this spelling --- it just looks happier with an extra "p" and an "e"}. <br />
<br />
There is just something special about having your own little nook in the retail world whether in mortar & stone or online. In fact, I would vividly daydream about it with one of my childhood friends. We envisioned a store that was divided into a flower shoppe on one side and a bakery on the other. We planned {or maybe I had planned} on calling it<em> Flourpetals</em>.<br />
<br />
I still yearn for a little shoppe of my own...and one day I think it will happen. I dream big but I also live large.<br />
<br />
I have collected tidbits here and there of the atmosphere I would create if given an actual store:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UKNSPg8lxG8/Tvku4Gz75EI/AAAAAAAABgQ/hTZH27UGaNQ/s1600/DHcounter_general_store%255B1%255D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UKNSPg8lxG8/Tvku4Gz75EI/AAAAAAAABgQ/hTZH27UGaNQ/s640/DHcounter_general_store%255B1%255D.jpg" width="496" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><em>Love this color scheme. Hmmm...neutral. Who would have thoughtI would be attracted to that?</em></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wS8S2ie8Q4k/TvkvsL1KWfI/AAAAAAAABgc/88p4OiaHr9g/s1600/DHupstairs_general_store%255B1%255D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wS8S2ie8Q4k/TvkvsL1KWfI/AAAAAAAABgc/88p4OiaHr9g/s640/DHupstairs_general_store%255B1%255D.jpg" width="496" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><em>I love cubbies and apothecary bottles. Oh and hello there lovely chanderlier from</em></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><em>Pottery Barn. The interest you bring to the space enrichs the experience even more.</em></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-a9PCH_0KOcw/TvkwMUnxGRI/AAAAAAAABgo/uj_f3Wpxxvc/s1600/DHproduct_wall%255B1%255D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-a9PCH_0KOcw/TvkwMUnxGRI/AAAAAAAABgo/uj_f3Wpxxvc/s640/DHproduct_wall%255B1%255D.jpg" width="496" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><em>Gorgeous product in perfect aligment. My OCD-ness as a pharmacist is coming out, but </em></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><em>all the same </em><em>I find this sheer bliss.</em></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div>This little shoppe actually gave me some inspiration outside the divine design scheme...even with all its loveliness -- it inspired me.<br />
<br />
It made me think about products. What draws us to certain products? It is the prospect of the lifestyle it hints at? Does it whisper to the heart -- make me yours? What is it that makes you purchase something? For me...I shop with the heart and only buy what I love.<br />
<br />
It made me think about artisans/craftsmen. It made me think about empowerment. It made me think otside the box.<br />
<br />
Ok...so where am I going with this?<br />
<br />
I think I am in the midst of answering that question.<br />
<br />
More important...what is your hidden passion or secret? I think 2012 is all about inching closer to finding serendipity.<br />
<br />
Cheers~<br />
eMegandvd@Beauty in the Attempthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06805696515123695246noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1399651887896621732.post-8464064888024370042012-01-11T00:00:00.056-05:002012-01-11T12:28:48.990-05:00attempting 2012..for real2012 will come and go so I need to make sure that I attempt to finish what I started...even if I started some of these a few years ago. (**pitiful whimper**) <br />
<br />
This is a big year to renew and redo the home because Mr. B and I would like to sell our home this year. (yes...for real. Afterall, pharmacy school is now OVER!!)<br />
<br />
So here is what I have planned:<br />
<br />
<strong>Family Room:</strong><br />
<ul><li>repaint the room but I will be keeping the same color (LOVE SW Whole Wheat)</li>
<li>add quarter round...oh yes my dears -- look close and you will see it is missing</li>
<li>add some height to the base trim too</li>
</ul><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidkE5LcczcVpDCwXnt68h4Ti2GS79E3EsuyDnDeb0XooMrkL3_NmGgI5CA0bXqWqDLMle35Wqh7g8iuQ_BFmGt3486a-LtEW3k629sSs5SRV5VZaXldDqo37I3pu5-BctdRYPPnrjA0jo/s1600/11199157543_cBPvv.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidkE5LcczcVpDCwXnt68h4Ti2GS79E3EsuyDnDeb0XooMrkL3_NmGgI5CA0bXqWqDLMle35Wqh7g8iuQ_BFmGt3486a-LtEW3k629sSs5SRV5VZaXldDqo37I3pu5-BctdRYPPnrjA0jo/s640/11199157543_cBPvv.jpg" width="430" /></a></div><br />
<div> </div><strong>Kitchen/Dining Area:</strong><br />
<ul><li>repaint the cabinets (It has been almost 6 years since I 1st painted these cabinets. Before blogging & pinterest, I used the insight of my "nesties" to help guide me thru the process. This should be cake 2nd time around..now if only I could have a real life nestie come and help.)</li>
<li>new microwave (Ours pooped out during the holidays.)</li>
<li>repaint the dining room table</li>
<li>new chairs (I have a few in mind that I can repaint and use.)</li>
</ul><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrH21DsWU4pj5VSe7U9a2oI_bDWv5YclKBQB3c0UDL_2dXm35Q6WL9Mj9gHIF9yXPq4XgHOZBpC0pydKA_zQcNdo1oTG0hieKLHUXGM_a6RAVM5MIFT8elBjlkZ_McUcRu34legLV4tyw/s1600/DSC01137%255B1%255D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrH21DsWU4pj5VSe7U9a2oI_bDWv5YclKBQB3c0UDL_2dXm35Q6WL9Mj9gHIF9yXPq4XgHOZBpC0pydKA_zQcNdo1oTG0hieKLHUXGM_a6RAVM5MIFT8elBjlkZ_McUcRu34legLV4tyw/s640/DSC01137%255B1%255D.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><em>Wanna see the </em><a href="http://beautyintheattempt.blogspot.com/2010/01/defining-my-design-style-kitchen-before.html" target="blank"><em>BEFORE</em></a> when we 1st moved in 6 years ago<em>?</em></div><br />
<div></div><strong>Master Bathroom:</strong><br />
<ul><li>a complete, chic, & CHEAP redo (sadly it is still where it was <a href="http://beautyintheattempt.blogspot.com/2011/02/on-hunt-for-peace-in-potty.html" target="blank">last year</a>)</li>
</ul><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjELJ8EFgBHnD6GK7IFeCin3XCvVDRVGwjoIUqsQKD0EQn3jIT6xEcK9Q1yePdRRZKw1Ln1vqwGUrrFw0p336os61YLvAruftC_rIdVgM1TfZH_CbRrEa42AyX_X96HGZloHok7Q9V4lKY/s1600/IMG_1869%255B1%255D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="427" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjELJ8EFgBHnD6GK7IFeCin3XCvVDRVGwjoIUqsQKD0EQn3jIT6xEcK9Q1yePdRRZKw1Ln1vqwGUrrFw0p336os61YLvAruftC_rIdVgM1TfZH_CbRrEa42AyX_X96HGZloHok7Q9V4lKY/s640/IMG_1869%255B1%255D.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<div></div><strong>Hall Bathroom:</strong><br />
<ul><li>should I or shouldn't I repaint to a more neutral color?? The forever question...thoughts? I need lots of feedback, please.</li>
</ul><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVZ-IFe9vTzx9caG3IJafK7Fr3DPCxOMJ1Adrusr4AQPKN37Uf7jfMJp2MzOkgLvLqDpR2e0eLj_Fx7VRu3UAOiw5DlYZTX4p-oJtYu0ojDfmLA-TfM6SXyMumZ01wVQuOnvQdmhDZ8-o/s1600/Bath_2_After%255B1%255D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVZ-IFe9vTzx9caG3IJafK7Fr3DPCxOMJ1Adrusr4AQPKN37Uf7jfMJp2MzOkgLvLqDpR2e0eLj_Fx7VRu3UAOiw5DlYZTX4p-oJtYu0ojDfmLA-TfM6SXyMumZ01wVQuOnvQdmhDZ8-o/s1600/Bath_2_After%255B1%255D.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><em>See the original </em><a href="http://beautyintheattempt.blogspot.com/2010/03/countdown-to-renovation-2010-i-mean.html" target="blank"><em>post</em></a></div><br />
<div></div><div style="text-align: center;">Other notes of interest to add to my goal list:</div><div style="text-align: center;">-post Thurgood's room on the blog</div><div style="text-align: center;">-finesse my closet into a chic nook</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">I think all of these are doable. I just wonder how doable they are when you are working full-time AND pregnant.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
Please keep <strike>nagging</strike> encouraging me to complete these goals. I have even bigger plans for our new home, but I have to finish what I started on this little home.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
<div></div></div><div style="text-align: left;">Cheers~</div><div style="text-align: left;">e</div>Megandvd@Beauty in the Attempthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06805696515123695246noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1399651887896621732.post-15338557927416389612012-01-08T21:05:00.004-05:002012-01-08T21:14:37.020-05:00happy...Thank you for all your wonderful wishes and comments. My little family feels so blessed. I want you to know that I read and appreciate every word you share with me on my humble little blog. I am ever so grateful for you coming to my little corner of the blog world and sharing my little journey with me. I hope I will still entice you to peek more often than not.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDukc7h2laCbfmiPydJYKhqm1Oawi0lSp_JasqjaAdqL6Riw__hERjoAGsyW_4JVlCwjlmNeMGT3lw-7r41mj1xLOAHYVo-RQse-2g6QiAWcqS72ilR4EkFloqZUG4OE-hWuWL4FV5FXo/s1600/255086766363525737_0my9VMfR_c%255B1%255D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDukc7h2laCbfmiPydJYKhqm1Oawi0lSp_JasqjaAdqL6Riw__hERjoAGsyW_4JVlCwjlmNeMGT3lw-7r41mj1xLOAHYVo-RQse-2g6QiAWcqS72ilR4EkFloqZUG4OE-hWuWL4FV5FXo/s640/255086766363525737_0my9VMfR_c%255B1%255D.jpg" width="512" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><em>from flickr.com</em></div><br />
It is my hope that my daughter is able experience true happiness, true love, and exceptional confidence..all the things that make a woman truly beautiful. It is also my hope that my blog family and friends help me accomplish those dreams for her...afterall, you make me feel so happy, so loved, and so confidant.<br />
<BR><br />
Cheers~<br />
eMegandvd@Beauty in the Attempthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06805696515123695246noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1399651887896621732.post-73844541620662976502012-01-02T10:30:00.002-05:002012-01-02T10:34:19.359-05:00anticipation for 2012Our lastest project for 2012:<br />
<br />
<div style="margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcN1JopCj3b_V8-RRBPHr7FVX4w0AqTwE2hUsQaWPBs-jjJENKsMumyTphWGrACE1XY9sU0NVRSwrtazha0npOuXYr_y5f9XqYc5PixA_3Qp-M4SEdz7bYk8fW_3uZ5kEMgx4EPtGA77M/s1600/baby2.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" height="277" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcN1JopCj3b_V8-RRBPHr7FVX4w0AqTwE2hUsQaWPBs-jjJENKsMumyTphWGrACE1XY9sU0NVRSwrtazha0npOuXYr_y5f9XqYc5PixA_3Qp-M4SEdz7bYk8fW_3uZ5kEMgx4EPtGA77M/s400/baby2.JPG" width="400" /></a> </div><div style="margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;"><em>Baby Girl due in May</em></div><div style="margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: left;">I thought it would be fitting to post my 1st post of 2012 on the 2nd day..in honor of Baby #2. Hopefully this gives you another hint as to why my posts starting in August were few and far between. :) This Christmas and New Year brought us much anticipation for 2012 and for Thurgood to now share his throne with a princess. It will be an exciting time for us as our little family of 3 welcomes a new baby.</div><div style="margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: left;">Now for the naming...a project unto itself. :) We have a few in mind, but I am open to suggestions. Afterall when your big brother is named Thurgood, you need a name that is just as distinguished.</div><div style="margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: left;"></div>Cheers~<br />
eMegandvd@Beauty in the Attempthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06805696515123695246noreply@blogger.com21tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1399651887896621732.post-78884367693114443352011-12-26T19:35:00.001-05:002011-12-26T20:01:11.231-05:00just the beginningMy little blog has kept the calendar of posts light towards the latter half of 2011. My little holiday from blogging started as a focus on my family and career. And then for reasons I have yet to fully disclose {mainly due to an upcoming secret that will soon be announced), my blog has been revived. Simply put..time is for what and who you love. <br />
<br />
Love also allows the freedom to <em>not feel</em> <em>guilty</em>.<br />
<br />
Not feel guilty if I only post once a week. Not feel guilty if I don't have pictures, let alone perfect pictures. Not feel guilty if I am posting about what I am feeling rather than what I am doing.<br />
<br />
Why love? Because love helps us see clearly & live more beautifully.<br />
<br />
Hoping your Christmas holiday was just the beginning of what the next year holds for you and yours.<br />
<br />
Cheers~<br />
eMegandvd@Beauty in the Attempthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06805696515123695246noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1399651887896621732.post-37347943678492569812011-12-18T20:00:00.002-05:002011-12-18T20:23:31.081-05:00save the last dance for me7 years ago today I married Mr. B. It was a day just like today here in Louisville, KY. The sun was out shining, it was not too cold at all, and there was a hint of Christmas in the air.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6NDJCoCMCb9NlBiKNHQgjYdjdv4PvkQmlnH1bML0vFfxYLxQxoEOFQekBhRwMPsCiSwT8aHbIL9hrAGVxddW3k448jsJMm8enCZ1YYeFZRhRxHevai8n8cOl-XvHm3rkryP99ayCZ8HA/s1600/ry%253D400%255B1%255D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="465" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6NDJCoCMCb9NlBiKNHQgjYdjdv4PvkQmlnH1bML0vFfxYLxQxoEOFQekBhRwMPsCiSwT8aHbIL9hrAGVxddW3k448jsJMm8enCZ1YYeFZRhRxHevai8n8cOl-XvHm3rkryP99ayCZ8HA/s640/ry%253D400%255B1%255D.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><em>I think we still make the cutest couple.</em></div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><div style="text-align: left;">I carried the most beautiful red roses {that I put together myself}. I walked down the aisle in my Dad's arms in our little country church. We had a big band orchestra at our reception in downtown Louisville that played into the wee hours in the morning. And as a complete suprise...my new husband serenaded me with "Save the Last Dance for Me" while I danced with all his friends and fraternity brothers. Such lovely memories...and even more followed after 7 years.</div><br />
<div style="text-align: left;">With our anniversary approaching I find it is so hard to buy gifts for Mr. B, but this year I found something that was perfect. Since the 7th year is copper {at least according to the internet}, I had this stunning <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/74489231/leather-brown-black-cuff-bracelet-copper" target="blank">cuff</a> from Etsy customized with 7 copper plates. Each plate commemorated something special for each of the years we were married.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFPEfPAmrP9RHOYBQzRcB0pf35VGfnIeVZhcmKxY7tr0MthajQ6u29ZktMvar9B73bCbAmIF_BJOJ_g8gDibOEmtqFfFrFuD2yx5Od7FAsDS4tybNn0XQnY6aYGu-4HqyIgriQ0qMYtZs/s1600/IMG_2451.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFPEfPAmrP9RHOYBQzRcB0pf35VGfnIeVZhcmKxY7tr0MthajQ6u29ZktMvar9B73bCbAmIF_BJOJ_g8gDibOEmtqFfFrFuD2yx5Od7FAsDS4tybNn0XQnY6aYGu-4HqyIgriQ0qMYtZs/s640/IMG_2451.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />
And to keep it real..as I re-promised myself to do on this blog...once you pan back, you get the <em>real</em> image of Mr. B in his natural habitat.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilgjQsY__3xKnCWCW98VkdcQjRmO87mIAx4Carckthyphenhyphen3TBqHv3ElJDMQ9hARo-RInirc5UJaCZIWLdI5gCHy_S7RI335HXKS8jiY3YwXFJOsVK8hyphenhyphenhQHA-1HffwrUgyGQfFfhsTYAc3Fw/s1600/IMG_2453.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilgjQsY__3xKnCWCW98VkdcQjRmO87mIAx4Carckthyphenhyphen3TBqHv3ElJDMQ9hARo-RInirc5UJaCZIWLdI5gCHy_S7RI335HXKS8jiY3YwXFJOsVK8hyphenhyphenhQHA-1HffwrUgyGQfFfhsTYAc3Fw/s640/IMG_2453.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><em>No. He had no clue I even took these pictures. After 7 years, I have gotten pretty sneaky.</em></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">There is no need to save the last dance for my husband. He has my dance card filled now and forever.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Cheers~</div><div style="text-align: left;">e</div><em><br />
</em>Megandvd@Beauty in the Attempthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06805696515123695246noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1399651887896621732.post-86540447288964584202011-12-17T19:08:00.003-05:002011-12-17T19:33:35.612-05:00the twinkle of ChristmasAmid the hour or 2 of waiting for my dough to rise {<a href="http://thepioneerwoman.com/cooking/2007/06/cinammon_rolls_/" target=blank>I am making Pioneer Woman's Cinnamon Rolls</a>}, I thought I would tinker with the settings on my camera to take a twinkling picture of Thurgood trimming the tree (that is..after the cat knocked off an ornament).<br />
<br />
Thank you to one of my nestie buddies, <a href="http://unskinnyboppy.blogspot.com/2010/12/taking-pics-of-tree.html" target=blank>Beth</a>, for the tips on creating a memorable Christmas tree photo. You brought that extra twinkle to our family tree...thank you!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifzqN16Q3nxwf4hQ5-_qd0UR7XvbAXa1eWPN9PZ5wWenC7MmbJGqRqQNTYiOINHUUzLs7eU2ltRk2nXBzlLthiO71V1svK1L3IrDbaTVrDxcl4wgjsDWUeE6omV97NyzgwtONRZiGQnC4/s1600/IMG_2436.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifzqN16Q3nxwf4hQ5-_qd0UR7XvbAXa1eWPN9PZ5wWenC7MmbJGqRqQNTYiOINHUUzLs7eU2ltRk2nXBzlLthiO71V1svK1L3IrDbaTVrDxcl4wgjsDWUeE6omV97NyzgwtONRZiGQnC4/s640/IMG_2436.JPG" width="426" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><em>Raising the bar..Thurgood placed one ornament much higher away from the swat of Atticus.</em></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifLEy_mrnXnlLwER20LBOQJRFAYVHlteOdK1wezUXTiOI8qZc3YZjXWpsrmcrt_D3B56X04t_uhyWMyYcVq3M2r_SZApC67ek8KCeSXfPDBg2zBzBtBuoI-vaTLacTWiRFC73nLEWVVGk/s1600/IMG_2441.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifLEy_mrnXnlLwER20LBOQJRFAYVHlteOdK1wezUXTiOI8qZc3YZjXWpsrmcrt_D3B56X04t_uhyWMyYcVq3M2r_SZApC67ek8KCeSXfPDBg2zBzBtBuoI-vaTLacTWiRFC73nLEWVVGk/s640/IMG_2441.JPG" width="426" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><em>Admiring one of his favorites...one that Lola gave him.</em></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUkD5kw6DlxEAp1pczHwO9HrctVd1hLV7tKhxCV-knf8IIakxzPUiR5Bzna2tzLufYva-EGa6Kixz2ZZmO2vP_Rq43I6lN0blpTOx0mAp_-9LJLgPZxC7LknpUBpZpHIRaCl-6me5kZ14/s1600/IMG_2446.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUkD5kw6DlxEAp1pczHwO9HrctVd1hLV7tKhxCV-knf8IIakxzPUiR5Bzna2tzLufYva-EGa6Kixz2ZZmO2vP_Rq43I6lN0blpTOx0mAp_-9LJLgPZxC7LknpUBpZpHIRaCl-6me5kZ14/s640/IMG_2446.JPG" width="426" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><em>The twinkle picture from my eye to yours.</em></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Hmmm...I need to take a few more of our Christmas decor and join all the Open Houses while there is still time. I have a few tins of yummy rolls to make. <br />
<br />
Cheers~Megandvd@Beauty in the Attempthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06805696515123695246noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1399651887896621732.post-36257245958118695802011-12-07T20:36:00.003-05:002011-12-07T20:48:05.991-05:00Are you there blog? It's me, MeganDVD<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0Sd5X7kAYU3SLYSdGaisGv_V9vddVhHWnuHZ3aFEKMBxN6V-HqienCUsEWkVlud-0XmB3kQ0sPewAk1YeWR5bnRXC-Pad7tXieydGEenw1tUoH6LjnpNzhkAPCa6SPGDHorhA0JrJQB0/s1600/me.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0Sd5X7kAYU3SLYSdGaisGv_V9vddVhHWnuHZ3aFEKMBxN6V-HqienCUsEWkVlud-0XmB3kQ0sPewAk1YeWR5bnRXC-Pad7tXieydGEenw1tUoH6LjnpNzhkAPCa6SPGDHorhA0JrJQB0/s400/me.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><em>taken today in ordinary clothes and in ordinary light</em><br />
<br />
</div>It has been close to 19 weeks since I last posted on my blog. 19 weeks...it has been so long and yet gone by so fast. While I could say I needed a vacation or a break, what I really needed was to refocus myself and my blog. I needed to rediscover my voice because I was not sure who was being the author of this blog anymore.<br />
<br />
So...I closed the computer.<br />
<br />
And I have had a bit of an awakening.<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I guess now the true reason as to why I have been hesitant in coming back is #1 coming to full terms with what I have discovered and #2 it was nice to just relish in living life and not having a "burden" of documenting it. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Life is so much simpler when you do not have to tote a DSLR around. Life is so much more quiet when you do not have to tweet your latest find. And..it is amazing how many minutes are left in the day to focus on the world rather than the virtual one.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Am I leaving my blog? No...I am just realizing where it needs to go and I hope you will come with me.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Cheers~</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">e</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">P.S. I smiled when I realized this was my 200th post...it was meant to be.</div>Megandvd@Beauty in the Attempthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06805696515123695246noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1399651887896621732.post-30145349733583610612011-08-28T20:45:00.003-04:002011-08-28T20:45:00.624-04:00no socks left behind<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://d30opm7hsgivgh.cloudfront.net/upload/83140471_BwSuwps9_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="367" src="http://d30opm7hsgivgh.cloudfront.net/upload/83140471_BwSuwps9_c.jpg" width="554" /></a></div><br />
I love this idea. I find it so adorable....but I have to be honest. It may be only cute with colorful itty bitty socks. I can only imagine what this would look like with my hubby's rather large and sometimes grey hued white socks or his long black socks on a line.<br />
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Either way...this is darling for kiddos.<br />
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Cheers~<br />
eMegandvd@Beauty in the Attempthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06805696515123695246noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1399651887896621732.post-33659592868293350172011-08-21T18:30:00.003-04:002011-08-21T18:47:14.511-04:00a litte nesting to doI have about a million projects/crafts started in and about my home.....and none to show you because they are far from being finished. Well, either that or they need a bit more love {aka tweaking} before they make it on here for their debut party. What I have noticed though is that I am completely drawn to DIY necklaces. <br />
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And these little necklaces are so sweet and endearing.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.sarahortega.com/2011/05/diy-bird-nest-necklace.html"><em><img border="0" height="369" src="http://d30opm7hsgivgh.cloudfront.net/upload/128772331_0TIc2YhI_c.jpg" width="554" /></em></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.sarahortega.com/2011/05/diy-bird-nest-necklace.html"><em>for her easy-peasy tutorial</em></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I am head over heels for these little nests. Imagine doing these little nests in the birthstones of your babies. And look! She made a single pearl one for my little man already! I think Miss Sarah has a way of inspiring...all I need is some wire and I can do this.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Yes, I will most likely shamelessly copy this idea. It is just too sweet to not at least try. More importantly maybe I can peer pressure you into trying them too so I won't been alone in being shameless. Who is with me?</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Time to take the baked dough (oh..I mean cookies) out of the oven. Thurgood and I have a small addiction to Sunday night baking.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Cheers~</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">e</div>Megandvd@Beauty in the Attempthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06805696515123695246noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1399651887896621732.post-5522472062799086552011-08-17T20:00:00.003-04:002011-08-17T20:01:12.161-04:00the next chapterMy world is spinning. SPINNING. I love my job, but I am more busy now than I have been in quite a while. I am finessing the art of balance from a whole new perspective with this new chapter in my life.<br />
<br />
With so much going on, it was kismet that one day I came across a wonderful home for my family that has so much possibility.<br />
<br />
As of this moment I have tunnel vision on this home:<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://cdn.photos.sierrainteractivemls.com/4/mlslarge/4_201104689_01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://cdn.photos.sierrainteractivemls.com/4/mlslarge/4_201104689_01.jpg" width="478" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><br />
Oh how I wish you could see it. Oh wait...you can :)<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="349" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/PZ1v_E9sc0A" width="425"></iframe><br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="349" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/L11VuICt0ok" width="425"></iframe><br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="349" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/xHH_R2gOSvQ" width="425"></iframe><br />
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Thought you might enjoy a glimpse with me. Now..comes the hard part...what to do next.<br />
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Cheers~<br />
e<br />
<br />
Megandvd@Beauty in the Attempthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06805696515123695246noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1399651887896621732.post-83703120684579479182011-08-08T19:45:00.005-04:002011-08-08T19:52:28.541-04:00the taste of summerThe days of summer are numbered. Now is the time to savor water balloon fights and lightning bugs...and summer foods.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsSqSCHfDz8k14Qgd9_WJEhPxtQx2_Aey7FpdHIBeJFGUHq-WEJ9gi0-ZLWaGyuoxFcN0dhI8yHtMR2Mgsqn8OuT9yvZGBRXtE6LIKCWxsEbLPrIxvIK6fZEo_G0ykXb3xNOgHfCZbiDM/s1600/IMG_2290.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsSqSCHfDz8k14Qgd9_WJEhPxtQx2_Aey7FpdHIBeJFGUHq-WEJ9gi0-ZLWaGyuoxFcN0dhI8yHtMR2Mgsqn8OuT9yvZGBRXtE6LIKCWxsEbLPrIxvIK6fZEo_G0ykXb3xNOgHfCZbiDM/s640/IMG_2290.JPG" width="426" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><em>Abby and Thurgood prepping for a water balloon explosion.</em></div><br />
Especially summer fruits...I love fruit and there is something wonderful about in season fruits...it is a small taste of heaven.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4VJBG-1FiH09dAIaGP1iLneIWOeofuUG0zqQ_cSp2iPIWA_L95xhopr6E5kQgar1Dpb8qr33XzMs35LsVxPXbJH1kc3TDkGVSDx8Qf4Rm_psVKzVjcga27e4xPlwCa84FnVe9nTKJ7m4/s1600/fruits_009%255B1%255D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="427" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4VJBG-1FiH09dAIaGP1iLneIWOeofuUG0zqQ_cSp2iPIWA_L95xhopr6E5kQgar1Dpb8qr33XzMs35LsVxPXbJH1kc3TDkGVSDx8Qf4Rm_psVKzVjcga27e4xPlwCa84FnVe9nTKJ7m4/s640/fruits_009%255B1%255D.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
One of my best friends, <a href="http://thecutestlittleblog.blogspot.com/" target="blank">Christine</a>, reminded me of the glousiously unbeatable fruit-sugar-mint combo. She made it for our family get together. Is it possible to have 2 families so close and the best of friends?<br />
<br />
Absolutely.<br />
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Look at her little girl. She is getting so big. Those big eyes have big ideas just waiting for the world to see.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2UsOsaS_eKBk3L36McJsytdF5l7HggOcQPgyf46mLRQ5tuofqbQMT1a4rmjWig1vk6nyFtjvkw8nNigtJCIJIRyjvJx-6TtuuKVmx64ibBszrExebo5Se5oLZHCNGhnLcEO5xbK9zEZw/s1600/IMG_2306.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2UsOsaS_eKBk3L36McJsytdF5l7HggOcQPgyf46mLRQ5tuofqbQMT1a4rmjWig1vk6nyFtjvkw8nNigtJCIJIRyjvJx-6TtuuKVmx64ibBszrExebo5Se5oLZHCNGhnLcEO5xbK9zEZw/s640/IMG_2306.JPG" width="426" /></a></div><br />
Christine, I have now made this 4 times this summer and love every bite. Thank you for showing me how to embrace simple sweetness.<br />
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Small note if you plan to do this and you should...do this while peaches are still in season, and you’ll hardly need the sugar. <br />
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<b>Ingredients:</b><br />
12 oz Strawberries (throw in a pint of raspberries for an extra burst of goodness)<br />
4 peaches<br />
1/3 cup mint<br />
1 tbsp sugar<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVTTf51GgX5CUvjyLqrYz_QAMlf4Lmldn92NQ-sJEvJct4lXBZqzoQJ9V3Elt3OlNQD7uwBOCL-nf9VToIQGpsgwD76WMx7sOtpSTRDK2BgZGU3p7tw4dvTZkIP3xbeHZCLBQUIGwRImQ/s1600/fruits_008%255B1%255D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVTTf51GgX5CUvjyLqrYz_QAMlf4Lmldn92NQ-sJEvJct4lXBZqzoQJ9V3Elt3OlNQD7uwBOCL-nf9VToIQGpsgwD76WMx7sOtpSTRDK2BgZGU3p7tw4dvTZkIP3xbeHZCLBQUIGwRImQ/s640/fruits_008%255B1%255D.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<strong>Instructions:</strong><br />
Clean and chop strawberries and peaches. Coarsely chop mint. Combine fruit, sugar and mint in a medium bowl and toss to coat. Serve chilled.<br />
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There it is...the taste of summer. Now all I need is some sun sweetened iced tea and a water balloon.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC7DxSqKXEGb7GDWYGnld3qXsOOc733USd8pNzwA9POGtZ_TtN7c4NpcgFR44gzccMZGvMd5QYygFK_2b0yhzDbVb_nh6qY_REFpNSMauMkCYuUeWyc9FLtC0LuwKboFLhtEkzkso1oRs/s1600/IMG_2293.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC7DxSqKXEGb7GDWYGnld3qXsOOc733USd8pNzwA9POGtZ_TtN7c4NpcgFR44gzccMZGvMd5QYygFK_2b0yhzDbVb_nh6qY_REFpNSMauMkCYuUeWyc9FLtC0LuwKboFLhtEkzkso1oRs/s640/IMG_2293.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Do you have something that tastes of summer?<br />
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Cheers~<br />
eMegandvd@Beauty in the Attempthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06805696515123695246noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1399651887896621732.post-80310375391025867222011-08-05T21:45:00.004-04:002011-08-05T21:52:12.836-04:00oooh the places you will goThere is something about maps. I find them fascinating and inspiring. And now..I am all about repurposing them. Just take a glimpse at all the cute things you can do with maps.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://ny-image0.etsy.com/il_570xN.259805276.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="http://ny-image0.etsy.com/il_570xN.259805276.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">You can bet your bottom dollar I will be doing this! You know me and how much I adore "prettifying" {yes...I am creating new words too} lamp shades.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://ny-image3.etsy.com/il_570xN.254353207.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://ny-image3.etsy.com/il_570xN.254353207.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Oh...how this mobile would be lovely in an office or playroom</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><a href="http://ny-image3.etsy.com/il_570xN.259976915.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="524" src="http://ny-image3.etsy.com/il_570xN.259976915.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">Who needs GPS when you have this as your clutch?</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://ny-image3.etsy.com/il_570xN.227187431.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="http://ny-image3.etsy.com/il_570xN.227187431.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I love garlands...and this is beyond cute.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">And of course the whole repurposing of maps with the 3 hearts of: where we met, married, and honeymooned is simply wonderful. If the nest was still around this would be THE thing to make. I guarantee it. :)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://ny-image3.etsy.com/il_570xN.238935731.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://ny-image3.etsy.com/il_570xN.238935731.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><em>all images from etsy</em></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div>So I think I am going to see if I can spy a few old maps to repurpose...on to the hunt. Do you have anything you are keeping an eye out for?<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Cheers~</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">e</div>Megandvd@Beauty in the Attempthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06805696515123695246noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1399651887896621732.post-41591604495723332732011-08-01T19:00:00.000-04:002011-08-01T19:04:39.152-04:00awaiting the august moon<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit9K_R_cC1ngXyid1dYs0CEM3pIWpwgScb5NvJ7vLJ47foVq7Sc1MJ256nJsve6syiBycoG9yVJ4dnpXuKbl214P25xiTME-HkuJzUNYUv67tqt8zdN3FMbZMYgTJHndxTOWFhQTeotFs/s1600/Lush+Summer,+Louisville,+Kentucky.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit9K_R_cC1ngXyid1dYs0CEM3pIWpwgScb5NvJ7vLJ47foVq7Sc1MJ256nJsve6syiBycoG9yVJ4dnpXuKbl214P25xiTME-HkuJzUNYUv67tqt8zdN3FMbZMYgTJHndxTOWFhQTeotFs/s640/Lush+Summer,+Louisville,+Kentucky.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Goodbye July...I am glad you are gone.</div><br />
In less than the 31 days of this month, I have lost a friend from HS in a tragic car accident, my mother in law had triple bypass surgery, and I had my 1st full code on my unit that ended sadly.<br />
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I greet August with much anticipation.<br />
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With August comes my boards and all that business with my pharmacy license, but it also brings the last lingering days of summer. <br />
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Hello wonderful August....I have been waiting for you.<br />
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Cheers~<br />
eMegandvd@Beauty in the Attempthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06805696515123695246noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1399651887896621732.post-79257171469417884532011-07-19T21:00:00.003-04:002011-07-19T21:01:10.513-04:00when i have time<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg29GnUx2mFe8mLT6hhbyx78RtfkishabHqmEpGqwIcrj6Ko6NzjIo0uL_e0ZmBFHS1F7JFebAG-TXELAdWHqOg0WBJBueGe_vZxdC6s1OuPT-OJyiyII17NWgNqX6uPo_g7kG3JaIB6Ew/s1600/babyboy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="295" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg29GnUx2mFe8mLT6hhbyx78RtfkishabHqmEpGqwIcrj6Ko6NzjIo0uL_e0ZmBFHS1F7JFebAG-TXELAdWHqOg0WBJBueGe_vZxdC6s1OuPT-OJyiyII17NWgNqX6uPo_g7kG3JaIB6Ew/s400/babyboy.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">I want to make little ties for my little man.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://d30opm7hsgivgh.cloudfront.net/upload/71174744_ZuRUtrK2_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://d30opm7hsgivgh.cloudfront.net/upload/71174744_ZuRUtrK2_c.jpg" width="363" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Cut some glass for a bit of magical glow {ahem...someone out there knows my thoughts on this}.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://d30opm7hsgivgh.cloudfront.net/upload/36146334_D4WRo8eh_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://d30opm7hsgivgh.cloudfront.net/upload/36146334_D4WRo8eh_c.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Create delicate ribbons of frosting on a 3 layer cake.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><em>{all images from pinterest that I found during my lunch break}</em></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">What little projects do you have in the back of your mind?</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Cheers~</div><div style="text-align: left;">e</div>Megandvd@Beauty in the Attempthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06805696515123695246noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1399651887896621732.post-77271314522766242011-07-10T20:00:00.001-04:002011-07-10T20:02:28.889-04:002nd sunday in julyFor me the definition of summer is a good church picnic. Here in Southern Indiana, we have so many, and the season officially starts with my home tri-parish picnic that supports the grade school I went to and the grade school my sister teaches at: the St. Joe Picnic in Corydon, Indiana.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNsW5Ym_BDDrtl2qIwFcdYoQ6vtM6bq8qxfdy7vfglQMsaxtRTeLB23wWFp6QqG_dohP69ybeYdEKlN9T4kh9y3WO9shHwcD974hMiIOEvYqngxVBwibrSklOBwemJuf-f0lqD_41PIYs/s1600/IMG_2271.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNsW5Ym_BDDrtl2qIwFcdYoQ6vtM6bq8qxfdy7vfglQMsaxtRTeLB23wWFp6QqG_dohP69ybeYdEKlN9T4kh9y3WO9shHwcD974hMiIOEvYqngxVBwibrSklOBwemJuf-f0lqD_41PIYs/s640/IMG_2271.JPG" width="592" /></a></div><br />
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You have not lived till you have been to a church picnic....and mine is extra special. Trust me...after 20+ years of working it and going to other picnics, the St. Joe Picnic is sacred to me. Every sense in your soul comes alive..here is my attempt to capture them for you.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6UBuc4YvwiAynz68Orb5znfPx6RGiW47jeHk9zoGnwhMP2twvx3rJLe9lKGrgN6vq92Hi1SoFjpR7HjvZW_7ivFRf-q8vg8jyw_J1mgEHXdYwWbjeE_YrBvzvOrymoeE7wavBE32ypTs/s1600/IMG_2248.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6UBuc4YvwiAynz68Orb5znfPx6RGiW47jeHk9zoGnwhMP2twvx3rJLe9lKGrgN6vq92Hi1SoFjpR7HjvZW_7ivFRf-q8vg8jyw_J1mgEHXdYwWbjeE_YrBvzvOrymoeE7wavBE32ypTs/s640/IMG_2248.JPG" width="510" /></a> </div><div style="text-align: center;">The smells & crackling sounds of the Miller family frying the chicken in one of the 4H barns {no doubt the hottest job EVER}. For generations they have been the "top chefs" of the chicken.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvYtb1uz3fqSV7P04RA23spoXJQ801SiS8QeWsWv5XwAwlw4LZMLpPDvuzsDZ9stmtHq8uXdQowaMIA88zlHvl4vJX2CXMxf_EQ0DWXrKYB3B6cfXBHzkBSnvqoPhYHmkuBPuo9XuRALU/s1600/IMG_2282.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvYtb1uz3fqSV7P04RA23spoXJQ801SiS8QeWsWv5XwAwlw4LZMLpPDvuzsDZ9stmtHq8uXdQowaMIA88zlHvl4vJX2CXMxf_EQ0DWXrKYB3B6cfXBHzkBSnvqoPhYHmkuBPuo9XuRALU/s640/IMG_2282.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> The nostalgic sound of the 80's speakers calling out bingo numbers. The families of the Bierlys and the Babcocks have Bingo down to a science.<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ4Kg6dfN5qhu6dzCOHdPB6FXqGow95Prm7rt3ld4rahwy-3slZW0IPNKQo0Sv1QotzebguA6s70w2XNyF3E0JCSZTR6ZZxnaKUd2f6nXLKip-d-RRKobDV3QyZra26cYy13EJeFZfz8s/s1600/IMG_2278.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ4Kg6dfN5qhu6dzCOHdPB6FXqGow95Prm7rt3ld4rahwy-3slZW0IPNKQo0Sv1QotzebguA6s70w2XNyF3E0JCSZTR6ZZxnaKUd2f6nXLKip-d-RRKobDV3QyZra26cYy13EJeFZfz8s/s640/IMG_2278.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>The St. Joe Picnic tea is better than any golden arches could ever make. Brewed and then poured into old saurkraut crocks with huge ice chunks floating on top...this tea is pure heaven. To get some, one of the church ladies dips her steel pot into the crocks and pours each pot of liquid goodness into steel pitchers for young children to carry table to table {as I did when I was 9}.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghKZa9yyoDwGx5ogEwJOw_z09irnefV0bUfT4pN7Vzr6Q_YjxPwSKfGjpuuezCkBFT8PQQhtO48YeTlxsxwNWuSnGTtF-5C3-jAQf843mKm1fw3YvyPesopDRz13AkjzK6sjPYjRe1OYQ/s1600/IMG_2265.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" height="449" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghKZa9yyoDwGx5ogEwJOw_z09irnefV0bUfT4pN7Vzr6Q_YjxPwSKfGjpuuezCkBFT8PQQhtO48YeTlxsxwNWuSnGTtF-5C3-jAQf843mKm1fw3YvyPesopDRz13AkjzK6sjPYjRe1OYQ/s640/IMG_2265.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">The picnic would not be the picnic without Daddy Don and Rowena (they are my 2nd set of parents and took care of my sister & I growing up.) They made the picnic what it is today. And even though their kids have not been students of St. Joe in over 30+ years..they work every year.<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjaSYlvQ9oqwDqDvBxIl4zcHngEIvqFyQ9Pt2UgaAlJ4Xhb29xQ8vuk7xJOuz_jZmamFsjPqi3c9u5cRvAe3c-XxvtKXZiYK0mOCq_rAFetBCIumik1-78fuFZNqZiyXy-lHI7w8mrlNU/s1600/IMG_2268.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjaSYlvQ9oqwDqDvBxIl4zcHngEIvqFyQ9Pt2UgaAlJ4Xhb29xQ8vuk7xJOuz_jZmamFsjPqi3c9u5cRvAe3c-XxvtKXZiYK0mOCq_rAFetBCIumik1-78fuFZNqZiyXy-lHI7w8mrlNU/s640/IMG_2268.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>There is something divine about homemade cakes and chicken wire. The two are just meant for each other. Here is my favorite row...the chocolate cakes with white frosting. Yes...they put them in rows by flavors. Each family in the tri-parish makes 2 cakes & 4 pies. I use to make the ones for our family: 2 German Chocolate Cakes & 4 Derby pies.<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghlRWpWr4sfILAoTN-7RBtLQRbtMfu7dJ5zHlEzqg8TE2n5S5KU0KLtSFMbPwTU_CxYIGOHcpya7nwkkOkVm5uz0HJOodTQBOLAcD-0VBI3f2b2IQOHyTlfA38SZpw8vVKRsd6627NcwQ/s1600/IMG_2281.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghlRWpWr4sfILAoTN-7RBtLQRbtMfu7dJ5zHlEzqg8TE2n5S5KU0KLtSFMbPwTU_CxYIGOHcpya7nwkkOkVm5uz0HJOodTQBOLAcD-0VBI3f2b2IQOHyTlfA38SZpw8vVKRsd6627NcwQ/s640/IMG_2281.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>A craft on the verge of extinction..quilting. My parents have worked in the quilt booth for over 30+ years. My mom is always out and about looking stylish with a hat fit for a Southern belle as she sells quilt chances. Why did I not get a picture? Argh.<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhK6c4hCEgkl7qS3f1X0PvZDOvpi8WT5R99K1yHuuTmT72FJfwbqlT2lrJiMhJfxgFLf91p8bzjyp2nNXTip9rncTQ81dMaH1kdMRH-WAO5R7xdTp2MUpWbfZPygnESxrtryzmdQWapdc/s1600/IMG_2261.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhK6c4hCEgkl7qS3f1X0PvZDOvpi8WT5R99K1yHuuTmT72FJfwbqlT2lrJiMhJfxgFLf91p8bzjyp2nNXTip9rncTQ81dMaH1kdMRH-WAO5R7xdTp2MUpWbfZPygnESxrtryzmdQWapdc/s640/IMG_2261.JPG" width="427" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">This is the reason people come from Missouri, Ohio, and the southern parts of Kentucky: the food. Nothing is better. This is just a sampling of the 7..yes, 7 sides that our offered to our guests. I could eat my weight in the dressing {a recipe from my late Aunt Hannah}. And those noodles...they come from Rowena's family. The Bierly women do the noodles and the Bierly men do the Bingo. :) Haha...don't even get me started on the pies. We have everything you could ever imagine.</div><br />
<div style="text-align: left;">Hope you enjoyed a glimpse of what makes summer special to me and my family. I cherish this event and will forever anticipate the 2nd Sunday in July.<br />
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What makes your summer sacred?</div><div style="text-align: left;">Cheers~</div><div style="text-align: left;">e</div></div>Megandvd@Beauty in the Attempthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06805696515123695246noreply@blogger.com4