tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-87350934631637069452024-03-12T23:05:52.562-04:00early morning peacebreath in! breath out! good!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07463266924643629828noreply@blogger.comBlogger238125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8735093463163706945.post-12655291721326161422016-12-26T08:56:00.001-05:002016-12-26T08:56:58.405-05:00A quick moment to share - Blue MondayWOW what a year. I have been busy teaching classes at the local gyms, keeping up with the kids, the house, and life in general. Some sad news but mostly it's all good. The fact that I am busy with things and people I have in my life is truly a blessing. If I could vent on my blog once a week next year that would be awesome. We shall see.<br />
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So since it's Monday I'll start by sharing some blues in honor of our friend Sally who so loved the blue. Rest in peace Sally. Blue Monday is now hosted at <a href="http://backyardneighbor.typepad.com/backyard_neighbor/" target="_blank">The Backyard Neighbor.</a><br />
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My daughter and I were having a discussion in the car and she mentioned her love of Octopus. She's very artistic so doing this for her was way out of the box for me but I wanted her to know I was listening and wanted her to have something no one else had. She LOVED that I did this and loved my painting. Brought tears to my eyes and hers.</div>
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My little guy loves Lego's. He was so excited to get this Mega Truck Light-up <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Laser-Pegs-Monster-Truck-Building/dp/B00K6EYJH0" target="_blank">Laser Peg</a> kit. He assembled it and disassembled it only to do it all over again. Best part, he can use it with his existing Lego toys. Win-win on this toy from his Aunt.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglnXGsFWRXA8DV7Mfo-CKjTU7o6Nz5N7GE9vyUrmtn8rBNXOWReKfP7F-m45WK4B61nY9O1SkPLZRjtHL8ov3BFqjXI5780OT3i0ruUOG5xIDd36DlcBcWYxgIY1rvVSBaDxo_wDnhuPU/s1600/IMG_7483.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglnXGsFWRXA8DV7Mfo-CKjTU7o6Nz5N7GE9vyUrmtn8rBNXOWReKfP7F-m45WK4B61nY9O1SkPLZRjtHL8ov3BFqjXI5780OT3i0ruUOG5xIDd36DlcBcWYxgIY1rvVSBaDxo_wDnhuPU/s320/IMG_7483.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Here we have my dad surrounded by people who care for him everyday. He lives in the Dominican Republic and these people are my family. They are with him all day everyday and keep him company when I can't be there. I am blessed to have them in our lives. He is happy to be able to live in his home.</div>
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Lastly, my mom. She was my heart and gave me so much love. She was an amazing mom who always thought of others first. Selflessly gave more than she took and raised us to be loving, caring, and grateful for all we had. She left this earth to join the angels in heaven this past August. She did not suffer, she was happy until the last moment. But we miss her laughter, her singing in the garden or in the kitchen. We miss her welcoming smiles and of course her cooking. I love my mom and I miss her with all my heart. I feel her arms around me everyday.</div>
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I wish everyone a happy new year. Please be safe out there and trust that you will have another year full of love, laughter, and happiness. Have faith in your journey.</div>
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Terie</div>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07463266924643629828noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8735093463163706945.post-90265681328468303742016-07-04T08:06:00.001-04:002016-07-04T08:06:38.292-04:00Blue Monday: Summer Fun<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Rainy days in the summer can be a little challenging if you are not prepared with crafts or games that will take the kiddos away from electronics. Don't get me wrong, they get their share of TV/Video/Computer time and it's not all games. </div>
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I've managed to establish some learning time before any playtime can be had. YES I KNOW, I'M SO MEAN. Just a little reading, practice music, online education via Kahn Academy and other learning sites and of course chores. But all that takes a short amount of time and it is broken up into chunks throughout the day.</div>
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Besides electronics and board games, we work on some crafty things - playdoh, art, build a fort, cooking, cleaning.... oh wait, cleaning doesn't count. </div>
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This week I bought a 3 in 1 game of Ladderball, Bean Bag Toss, and Washer Toss. The game came in what felt like a million pieces with instructions that only showed pictures in black and white and numbers which did not necessarily match the pieces. Yay me! This hurt my brain, then I got the idea that I needed to "hire" my little scientist to help put it together. Ninety minutes later and we were done and with no energy to play, Ha!! However, when the rain came we had a game we could play in the patio or the playroom without breaking any windows or putting holes in the walls.</div>
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Having fun in the summer can be exhausting, but it is worth it to go out and explore and see what's behind that tree or down that little narrow path...well sometimes, because on this narrow path we found thousands of baby crabs all running from us and all the while we were afraid to step anywhere for fear of crushing them. Short stroll through the marshland during low tide to discover a crab habitat.</div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tuVxYuZe8dc/V3pA9--vt9I/AAAAAAABVr0/kvqIS5K--WMM3RoKf071DmNpYnrkFr_RgCKgB/s1600/94f79a70-0b37-4b89-a939-154d3417ca01" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tuVxYuZe8dc/V3pA9--vt9I/AAAAAAABVr0/kvqIS5K--WMM3RoKf071DmNpYnrkFr_RgCKgB/s320/94f79a70-0b37-4b89-a939-154d3417ca01" width="240" /></a></div>
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Greatest invention ever, right here. I know, it's not reusable BUT they claim to be made from recycled plastic and it is biodegradable so it goes in the recycle bin. Water balloons are so much fun to play with but after the fun is over, no one wants to pick up the pieces of latex left behind. These are said to decompose over a short period of time. I should really put that to the test. Either way, we need to have these for a teen birthday party and filling them up took all of 2 minutes...400 balloons in 2 minutes!!</div>
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Tandem bike rides with this little guy was a lot of fun. We made a few stops along the way to discover new critters living by the water and interesting plant life. This is less stressful for me and more fun for both than him riding on his own bike.</div>
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A day of summer fun has to end with a cool, refreshing beverage for me. This pinot was light and perfect to sip while recovering from a day of fun adventures.</div>
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Looking forward to more creative summer days filled with discovery and fun.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrPSCVGCrniGHSqEPfuNT3KI40B6j7w3pEZzcLV5ekZuQS0VM9-aV6fuOwLOmOBV1V3HK6v1dcluRudxvvXzb3kQDPqz-YTCA4iG-JULamgbO_xAz6hBzcF_0iW-RaX2gkaxq3JuCv0EQ/s1600/13615501_10209705706143410_5452222735422150467_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrPSCVGCrniGHSqEPfuNT3KI40B6j7w3pEZzcLV5ekZuQS0VM9-aV6fuOwLOmOBV1V3HK6v1dcluRudxvvXzb3kQDPqz-YTCA4iG-JULamgbO_xAz6hBzcF_0iW-RaX2gkaxq3JuCv0EQ/s320/13615501_10209705706143410_5452222735422150467_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Celebrate your independence, we are lucky to have it.</div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 22.4px; text-align: start;">Sharing the blues with </span><a href="http://backyardneighbor.typepad.com/backyard_neighbor/2016/07/blue-monday-happy-independence-day.html" style="background-color: white; color: #6699cc; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 22.4px; text-align: start; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Backyard Neighbor</a><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 22.4px; text-align: start;"> and all our friends around the world.</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://backyardneighbor.typepad.com/backyard_neighbor/" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd4Y1ksTSFoslUuyJxyRcDslGu4n0lmEG58fMhKHWkSI23Qj5CkbIyySBGnEMN2Utyv93fdBpr4rkJgAOZaxbp-uEsDSduvPVVPoOWdUxbZH7m8U4NCDXk4gN0sp8R2yn9VRCThIfwXzs/s1600/bluemonday.jpeg" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://backyardneighbor.typepad.com/backyard_neighbor/" target="_blank">In honor of Smiling Sally</a></td></tr>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07463266924643629828noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8735093463163706945.post-49587568465315585882016-06-25T20:50:00.001-04:002016-06-25T20:50:37.753-04:00Pink Saturday: Pigs of SmithfieldThese little piggies are so adorable I just had to share. I know at least one blogger in this community will recognize these.<div><br></div><div>They are a part of the Porcine Parade-- click here to learn more about it <a href="http://www.genuinesmithfieldva.com/porcine-parade.html">http://www.genuinesmithfieldva.com/porcine-parade.html</a><br><div><br></div><div>Happy Pink Saturday, hosted by How Sweet The Sound @ <a href="http://howsweetthesound.typepad.com/my_weblog/" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">http://howsweetthesound.typepad.com/my_weblog/</a></div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2Yyj-PVrT_yhp5Nxb1qToFPYPaS7ToIJ-TqgaDL9Azo3H2I63wtybsbnCkcU_VUN6kpLAHkZiI8QbtcUCGhQ_mTDSaV611A6AgcLcXrcYQGfCd-6m6RUEVd0zFZsr96ULXs8iyYPAeRk/s640/blogger-image-1774855681.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2Yyj-PVrT_yhp5Nxb1qToFPYPaS7ToIJ-TqgaDL9Azo3H2I63wtybsbnCkcU_VUN6kpLAHkZiI8QbtcUCGhQ_mTDSaV611A6AgcLcXrcYQGfCd-6m6RUEVd0zFZsr96ULXs8iyYPAeRk/s640/blogger-image-1774855681.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqpkPDMHFwuWy-7idmicyCGnVW_pvvDa3kQ_t-vs1vUBXZefpKjFtlPZnTzsgJbZi4xHuj8Dl7TJ1Ukk6MUSzVzT-oSZ22F-2EeL2TfEw1mTyDaNKiW4b0AcilW3-ym_9TxAQAuvODRqc/s640/blogger-image--1349054870.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqpkPDMHFwuWy-7idmicyCGnVW_pvvDa3kQ_t-vs1vUBXZefpKjFtlPZnTzsgJbZi4xHuj8Dl7TJ1Ukk6MUSzVzT-oSZ22F-2EeL2TfEw1mTyDaNKiW4b0AcilW3-ym_9TxAQAuvODRqc/s640/blogger-image--1349054870.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho_bftSqqWFLmuRr8JWlJ8voVpkdrAvraL13nWTkOjfizfYUm_b4kmbkMV2Olex5WQOfDhWECLxL0VUYqtYtLJqZVSSgLrkaLOWpnU8TuVXH8SZaxeDTrj0OH8jRIKNyz5bC6vaarN174/s640/blogger-image--1633322098.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho_bftSqqWFLmuRr8JWlJ8voVpkdrAvraL13nWTkOjfizfYUm_b4kmbkMV2Olex5WQOfDhWECLxL0VUYqtYtLJqZVSSgLrkaLOWpnU8TuVXH8SZaxeDTrj0OH8jRIKNyz5bC6vaarN174/s640/blogger-image--1633322098.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjD9N0b4X_Ywf2ROOwqnspQkXDeGnUrgegLsIIaaSinP7STo-Iq_dt4-yTHQvO2UzV8HXzwUmKnuuazmCiaCG22YUpIeYNcAqVAT914-KIIF00PyKkogl2zPPux7L2LDmLUNs_rX-5Pxqc/s640/blogger-image--405095048.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjD9N0b4X_Ywf2ROOwqnspQkXDeGnUrgegLsIIaaSinP7STo-Iq_dt4-yTHQvO2UzV8HXzwUmKnuuazmCiaCG22YUpIeYNcAqVAT914-KIIF00PyKkogl2zPPux7L2LDmLUNs_rX-5Pxqc/s640/blogger-image--405095048.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Enjoy the rest of your weekend!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Terie</div><br></div><br></div><br></div><br></div></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07463266924643629828noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8735093463163706945.post-24968889415186503162016-06-20T06:39:00.000-04:002016-06-20T06:39:46.134-04:00Blue Monday - Beach Day<div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue light" , , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">A beautiful day at the beach...</span></div>
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The Grandview Nature Preserve has no boardwalks, bathrooms, shops, restaurants, and very little parking. It is a protected environment. Never crowded.<br />
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Love taking the kids to a beach where I know I won't lose them in a crowd. They had a blast playing in the waves.</div>
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Beautiful day!</div>
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Sharing the blues with <a href="http://backyardneighbor.typepad.com/backyard_neighbor/2016/06/blue-monday-blue-hydrangeas.html" target="_blank">Backyard Neighbor</a> and all our friends around the world.</div>
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Have a wonderfully blue day!!</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07463266924643629828noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8735093463163706945.post-29231666413618003712016-06-13T07:51:00.000-04:002016-06-13T19:23:13.547-04:00Peaceful mornings are priceless<br />
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Since our big move last year I have been swamped with life. All good stuff that happens when you have kids, home to maintain, pets, and trying to get or do a job. It's life and it happens and I consider myself blessed to be busy because of it.</div>
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Almost an entire year and I am finally taking the time to just sit and write, read, listen to the birds, and just be one with nature. We rented a house in this small town, primarily because the schools are great, secondly because it is a safe and beautiful neighborhood. </div>
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What makes it beautiful is simply the accessibility to nature, watching the sun rise and set unobstructed. More than anything is the large number of birds and other small animals we enjoy watching.</div>
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Sharing some peaceful blues was such a treat for me. Smiling Sally made me look for blues and actually helped me to focus in times when I was not all there. Sally passed away recently and I was saddled to learn the news, however, I believe she is resting peacefully in a sea of blue.</span><br />
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Sharing our blues in honor of Sally on http://www.backyardneighbor.typepad.com</div>
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Have a beautiful day!</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07463266924643629828noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8735093463163706945.post-28709815621398185912016-06-11T07:59:00.001-04:002016-06-11T07:59:47.951-04:00Pink Flowers and quiet mornings<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
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Sometimes we need a little prompt from another blogger to really notice the beauty around us.</div>
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With little time to say much, I realize not much needs to be said. It's a beautiful day in Virginia. I just spent an hour peacefully enjoying my quiet morning. Can't ask for anything else.</div>
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Sharing my pink pretties on http://howsweetthesound.typepad.com/my_weblog/</div>
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Thanks for visiting,</div>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07463266924643629828noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8735093463163706945.post-61577906055528078722015-08-28T07:19:00.000-04:002015-08-28T07:19:47.592-04:00We moved...again<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZR9g1E2N2RLCa2IJ9vScHHsvnebA0o1wF6eaR0q4S1p6G5hOP1B9jzlzPZNKmfILJAuiFSaLym6of67jaoX_1206u2iTnIQG38i3IeyENSyTWf_hgmDurGPjbVHChPS-Yo7UkCun2p2A/s1600/_DSC0681.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZR9g1E2N2RLCa2IJ9vScHHsvnebA0o1wF6eaR0q4S1p6G5hOP1B9jzlzPZNKmfILJAuiFSaLym6of67jaoX_1206u2iTnIQG38i3IeyENSyTWf_hgmDurGPjbVHChPS-Yo7UkCun2p2A/s320/_DSC0681.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Now that the move is over and we are settled in to our new place I can find the time finally rest, write, read, enjoy my morning coffee before anyone else is awake, and share the beauty around me.</div>
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Living in the DC Metro area was really great. I miss my friends, my gym, and all the activities we could do for free in the city. A lot of people complain about traffic and congestion and yes that is definitely alive and thriving in that area, however, if you are not a commuter or if you use public transportation that is less of an issue, OR if your commute was anything like mine, less then 5 miles from home, communities was never really bad unless there was an accident along the way.</div>
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But we are military and we knew that would not last. I make it a point of finding the positive of every new home, town, and the people in it. We did not move too far from DC. Now we are in the Virginia Peninsula -- yes been here before except now I'm closer to the water and that's definitely a plus for someone like me.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkscQxBTBLQqCfgG7FJ_8eG4NLDiO_2U0Ka2y0Cf9sOm1M4L_kyJqnQCguxWYhmYHIdi6HFnN5g8LYXSlMpr4CGQPmAAK57H070x8Phjs_7LH1XOkiN4jxDJg9XHEfip922bloraB39Cc/s1600/_DSC0743.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkscQxBTBLQqCfgG7FJ_8eG4NLDiO_2U0Ka2y0Cf9sOm1M4L_kyJqnQCguxWYhmYHIdi6HFnN5g8LYXSlMpr4CGQPmAAK57H070x8Phjs_7LH1XOkiN4jxDJg9XHEfip922bloraB39Cc/s320/_DSC0743.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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We are settled in, the kids can't wait to start school [that's a lie, ha!], I am already employed at a few local gyms, kids are signed up for soccer, piano, swimming lessons, and my main squeeze is enjoying the shorter commutes to work. </div>
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Here are a few pictures of the local waterways and canals I get to enjoy seeing while drinking my morning coffee. It's a good thing I know how to embrace change...actually my husbands says I look for it, like it feeds my soul. Yes. Nothing wrong with that.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyrBdK5vz3A-mywu_RND3KSW61W5hOUoACGqmwLDXTpuxFsCtXsY7DBfYOEAkcOXOymhGQ0u2RwXq8XV7zpTUc9i2q7L0R5M2lCG2TWn_aNF0qXZRT0Z78edcNWe9kYMxamDoA9cijenk/s1600/IMG_7564.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyrBdK5vz3A-mywu_RND3KSW61W5hOUoACGqmwLDXTpuxFsCtXsY7DBfYOEAkcOXOymhGQ0u2RwXq8XV7zpTUc9i2q7L0R5M2lCG2TWn_aNF0qXZRT0Z78edcNWe9kYMxamDoA9cijenk/s320/IMG_7564.JPG" width="240" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1wk1e4S4akJLj5T5gfC3L7iUqQfYA8DURweDgtDdfaBsJZNSSahfon6M_ch45cslD659v8yRzR1daRQsG2OajLmdxGhqQk1OW47R1pQlbLta2VO4QVb_cnlK60BLGIHMSaOzbR3mji2w/s1600/IMG_7562.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1wk1e4S4akJLj5T5gfC3L7iUqQfYA8DURweDgtDdfaBsJZNSSahfon6M_ch45cslD659v8yRzR1daRQsG2OajLmdxGhqQk1OW47R1pQlbLta2VO4QVb_cnlK60BLGIHMSaOzbR3mji2w/s320/IMG_7562.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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It's Friday morning people... Enjoy your weekend!<br />
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TerieAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07463266924643629828noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8735093463163706945.post-86816314559620116082015-08-02T08:16:00.001-04:002015-08-02T08:16:45.877-04:00Taking time to be with me<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3ntTxuZZFuLC7WSXUSklioFVxlDFMwVSW3kGToBlYE2f64L-9hRrvIrGgq1Jewq5E61p24nGC0OmQRYyJLxCf4Yt33H9SUHRB_LKH_SbYHoMZihb7ss7kbn-duw0_zFIys1p6_9fT2m0/s640/blogger-image-1530989655.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3ntTxuZZFuLC7WSXUSklioFVxlDFMwVSW3kGToBlYE2f64L-9hRrvIrGgq1Jewq5E61p24nGC0OmQRYyJLxCf4Yt33H9SUHRB_LKH_SbYHoMZihb7ss7kbn-duw0_zFIys1p6_9fT2m0/s640/blogger-image-1530989655.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">"I never found a companion as companionable as solitude" -Henry David Thoreau</div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Spending some alone time realizing how important it is to let the dust in our thoughts settle. Makes getting up early</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">So worth it.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Terie</div><br></div><br></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07463266924643629828noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8735093463163706945.post-75417699606106418992015-04-06T07:11:00.003-04:002015-04-06T07:11:54.970-04:00Hug the people in your life<br />
<i><span style="color: #674ea7; font-size: large;">I want to sleep in</span></i>....I say this in the most annoying whining voice one could imagine. I really wish I could sleep in and I really mean sleep. My body or my busy brain is so accustomed to waking up at a certain time that no matter when I go to bed I will wake up before the sun rise and it is annoying because then I start to think even when I do stay in bed. Sometimes I doze off a little, just going in and out of what could be more awesome sleep, but no, it never happens. Brain function is activated and the to-do list starts to scroll through my thoughts, <b>there is no going back</b>....ugh.<br />
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However, I find that I am very productive at this crazy hour. The house is very quiet because everyone else seems to be able to sleep until they are woken by the sun. Just recently I planned and executed my daughter's<span style="color: #e69138;"><i> 21st birthday</i></span> event with the family. Cake done and decorated, lunch plans, what to wear and even made a trip to the local CVS store to pick up last minute items. When it was all over, I felt accomplished and everyone else was still asleep. With coffee in hand I kicked up my heels and took a well needed mental break. <br />
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Sometimes I get up and plan my schedule or my upcoming fitness classes, other times I prep a room I plan to paint or organize all the kitchen cabinets and pantry. It is crazy how productive I can be this early in the morning.<br />
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This week has been pretty busy because the kids are on <span style="font-size: large;">Spring Break--woohoo!!</span> so we took some time off to visit family. After the year we've had so far, it is even more important that we stay connected and we physically hug each other as often as possible. My house was a mess but the kids and I took a road trip knowing that the mess will be there when we return, family on the other hand, well, one never knows. <br />
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Here are some pretty or interesting views from our road trip.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLKz8fepiwmolBvgH3E5kfSxhewBQx2jDU9r-UqId6Her-WNz_NNE1Rdar4EpOMwOxLfjyuSJY3uXlLxueJDMVsw2GfSWj7ltgukv4IP2S0hnbYjmEzHxVr2cdunYSuCrMTP1FVzRM73Y/s1600/BlueBuilding.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLKz8fepiwmolBvgH3E5kfSxhewBQx2jDU9r-UqId6Her-WNz_NNE1Rdar4EpOMwOxLfjyuSJY3uXlLxueJDMVsw2GfSWj7ltgukv4IP2S0hnbYjmEzHxVr2cdunYSuCrMTP1FVzRM73Y/s1600/BlueBuilding.JPG" height="181" width="320" /></a></div>
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Interesting blue building in NYC</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEGSv3N_tMtUXYd6BQsgYziabjnzMpgqYlxPKf-EeiyXLoOjuFxFcMUcr_ifTnKeaV9pVMlg5Dh4Z46RKZa_kGEuM9GdLFAXVwulS8W1bKQr2tK-cIToGzo8n2_bXOTSEkqe_XHigiwzs/s1600/GWBNY.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEGSv3N_tMtUXYd6BQsgYziabjnzMpgqYlxPKf-EeiyXLoOjuFxFcMUcr_ifTnKeaV9pVMlg5Dh4Z46RKZa_kGEuM9GdLFAXVwulS8W1bKQr2tK-cIToGzo8n2_bXOTSEkqe_XHigiwzs/s1600/GWBNY.JPG" height="320" width="309" /></a></div>
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GWB</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgm6OKYyHjFQaavM48JXyLisOgm9j0ckPB0Kb-WrDrcD3egEqcq9t7JzjPexSYBFjNqHbS7XaqnxJk9m9y08H4_PM-Xjj1tCuEx01-YNQzrgxhblBODGu-CxlD89awFO7acKpNUpxRpshM/s1600/NYCskyline.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgm6OKYyHjFQaavM48JXyLisOgm9j0ckPB0Kb-WrDrcD3egEqcq9t7JzjPexSYBFjNqHbS7XaqnxJk9m9y08H4_PM-Xjj1tCuEx01-YNQzrgxhblBODGu-CxlD89awFO7acKpNUpxRpshM/s1600/NYCskyline.JPG" height="111" width="320" /></a></div>
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NYC Skyline from the GWB</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHYU3g8PJ4zgCKaJXgA9fgv3FIg1-VtNP0zqyNWBPpjF1D0yO4bY1rjnsKlstztf-gqpxDEfsIGePb1XaSrqBbRESpdvGA81Q0KKtcUFhy722Xvt8snxXVelJrNqUpD42cAI9zO3tCj24/s1600/USMCMuseum.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHYU3g8PJ4zgCKaJXgA9fgv3FIg1-VtNP0zqyNWBPpjF1D0yO4bY1rjnsKlstztf-gqpxDEfsIGePb1XaSrqBbRESpdvGA81Q0KKtcUFhy722Xvt8snxXVelJrNqUpD42cAI9zO3tCj24/s1600/USMCMuseum.JPG" height="211" width="320" /></a></div>
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National Museum of the Marine Corps, Quantico</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg32TiIxWWy6Hi0jRU0BiZMlV-_Z6asR8GlUVWewiqhfWpviHkRSVGFcpSqk0MRDvUVViJDp5zdo5WPN__0PwDqYifISdM-yjepkpbRmFwdyN15C5sYIJYes48dUaqPiyU0oH4Xcxr7Uus/s1600/IMG_5383.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg32TiIxWWy6Hi0jRU0BiZMlV-_Z6asR8GlUVWewiqhfWpviHkRSVGFcpSqk0MRDvUVViJDp5zdo5WPN__0PwDqYifISdM-yjepkpbRmFwdyN15C5sYIJYes48dUaqPiyU0oH4Xcxr7Uus/s1600/IMG_5383.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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Williamsburg Bridge</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHZLDeuHWMMwYJLkz96TOwh1xANN-vWAgyLKHuvjZeExQqae2-hLGlOjDkYPt3wBZRqcrdEQ7N9-mSTufILZzZNmXJOGmZCZ_cROWUuL_J5cJSiXCI-d1baQcBC6NrkWQxwO8eCjT2zhs/s1600/IMG_5384.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHZLDeuHWMMwYJLkz96TOwh1xANN-vWAgyLKHuvjZeExQqae2-hLGlOjDkYPt3wBZRqcrdEQ7N9-mSTufILZzZNmXJOGmZCZ_cROWUuL_J5cJSiXCI-d1baQcBC6NrkWQxwO8eCjT2zhs/s1600/IMG_5384.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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Not quite sure what's going on here but I believe these are apartments facing the East River</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwCiQAv7rDqNNr-q4vUgthBLvrgOmd4xQAHJm49k5TROeD8xbS6Hu6bveCA-83_u8_VjnJkBK-Nk6nUJBcMIiaXSx2hDB_2jgudU2nWMhJDSVatQRxZC1qU_sThkNGn7ppfOppagCfdxc/s1600/IMG_5479.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwCiQAv7rDqNNr-q4vUgthBLvrgOmd4xQAHJm49k5TROeD8xbS6Hu6bveCA-83_u8_VjnJkBK-Nk6nUJBcMIiaXSx2hDB_2jgudU2nWMhJDSVatQRxZC1qU_sThkNGn7ppfOppagCfdxc/s1600/IMG_5479.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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Mary Washington University, Fredericksburg</div>
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We covered a lot of miles in one week, but most important, we hugged a lot of people we love, not a text hug, but a real physical hug. I also realized I missed a few people along the way (<i>sorry Dan</i>) due to our short time in each place and conflicting schedules, but I hope to do it again soon. Totally worth the messy house.<br />
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Have a wonderful week everyone, go hug the people you love!<br />
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Terie<br />
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Sharing with Smiling Sally on <a href="http://smilingsally.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Blue Monday</a><br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07463266924643629828noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8735093463163706945.post-36818097337694231952015-01-01T09:33:00.001-05:002015-01-01T09:33:31.196-05:00New Year 2015-Focus on here and nowEach year we all celebrate the end of one era and the beginning of another with a bang. We dance, we eat, we drink, we stay up late and send messages to our loved ones far away. Even if we don't do all these things, we are always happy to toast and welcome the new year with the expectation that it will be better than the last and that we will be making changes to improve upon our bodies, minds, and attitudes.<br />
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This year it was difficult to celebrate the last week of the year. <i>On December 23rd 2014 seven of my family members were traveling from New York to Florida to celebrate the season. </i>Among them were my younger sister Clarabel, my older sister Alba and her husband Juan, their two kids Juan Carlos and Danielly, my aunt Maria and her son Luis.<br />
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You could not find a happier, funnier, more lively group of people with whom to spend the holidays.<br />
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<i>On this fateful day they were involved in a tragic car accident where of the seven, only three survived.</i> My older sister Alba and her kids Juan Carlos 23 and Danielly 19. My sister sustained a wrist fracture and knee injury, she will have a full recovery; Juan Carlos had a shattered hip and dislocated knee, he will also have a full recovery after 6-8 weeks and physical therapy. Danielly suffered a head injury that will require more extensive, long term care, therapy and a lot of time, patience, and dedication on the part of her caregivers. We are still praying that she will, in time, recover so that she may be able to continue her education and reach her career goals.<br />
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As for the deceased, <b><i>they are sorely missed</i></b>. I can't begin to describe the emptiness in our hearts. The desire to send them a text or a quick call to see what they're up to. It's hard to wrap my mind around the facts, it's hard to believe they are gone never to celebrate with us again.<br />
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I had the pleasure and amazing opportunity to visit with my little sister Clarabel this past October. She came to my home and stayed with us for a week of exercise, my crazy kids, fun in the town, and some quiet time just sharing life stories in general. I loved our time together and I am thankful we had this time and did not put it off to do "some day" because as we have learned this past week, some day sometimes doesn't ever come.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixtxaZ27s1OVUjfVDFDmX6fsCEhhLK2_FHK8D6erN3axAGVVdBzo4HIoSia44AQtxQY54ZRHRQKjdX17R3tnAEtIr4nopsg8BzoKjbCHWROHZeO6rZ8m2e3oExI6zq3kAPleXT_363UOQ/s1600/IMG_4015.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixtxaZ27s1OVUjfVDFDmX6fsCEhhLK2_FHK8D6erN3axAGVVdBzo4HIoSia44AQtxQY54ZRHRQKjdX17R3tnAEtIr4nopsg8BzoKjbCHWROHZeO6rZ8m2e3oExI6zq3kAPleXT_363UOQ/s1600/IMG_4015.JPG" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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In memory of my loved ones who are now angels in heaven I promise to focus more on the here and now and less on the "some day" that may never come. <br />
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The family has a hard road ahead, emotionally, financially, and physically. Recovering from this accident will not be easy but we are strong and have the support of our amazing community.<br />
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If you find it in you heart, please say a prayer, make a donation, and remember to always wear your seat belts, no matter what seat you happen to be in the vehicle.<br />
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<a href="https://www.giveforward.com/fundraiser/yf37/memorial-fund-for-4-family-members-lost-in-terrible-car-accident?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=graph&utm_campaign=vanity_page" target="_blank">Memorial Fund for a family gone too soon.</a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5_-PHngOZFYIS8Jrbbh4C3m6-EmRM5Z6g9E3Afmj2F__UkEgVT7251QILOWqZ6QVLqawhsyiMx0-JBNM6j9eeRfpb3BAdrUj7Qlvukx5LxAe0Y83gBPJX3WSpIUawmeNrjb-TV3wovag/s1600/IMG_4027.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5_-PHngOZFYIS8Jrbbh4C3m6-EmRM5Z6g9E3Afmj2F__UkEgVT7251QILOWqZ6QVLqawhsyiMx0-JBNM6j9eeRfpb3BAdrUj7Qlvukx5LxAe0Y83gBPJX3WSpIUawmeNrjb-TV3wovag/s1600/IMG_4027.JPG" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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Have a safe New Year!<br />
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TerieAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07463266924643629828noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8735093463163706945.post-83033144823275687112014-04-27T19:54:00.000-04:002014-04-27T19:54:07.004-04:00Blue Monday- Blue Heron in the LakeWe are finally out of winter weather and into spring and I could not be happier. SMILES each and everyday I see the sun or even the rain just as long as I'm not cold or scraping snow or ice off my windshield.<br />
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So much has happened, so much to share, so little time...<br />
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I've started walking around the lake more often these days and can't help but feel lost in the beauty of nature. There's always something new or different along the same paved path. These days I feel I need to walk around with my Nikon instead of just my iPhone camera. <br />
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On our walk today, my friend Wendy and I spotted a Blue Heron sitting along the side of the lake. Contemplating and taking in the evening sun. It was just beautiful. <br />
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Here he is meditating :-)<br />
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...and now showing off his wings!<br />
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It's a great day to share the blues with Smiling Sally and her crew!</div>
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<a href="http://smilingsally.blogspot.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="Smiling Sally" border="0" src="http://i276.photobucket.com/albums/kk27/Terrylee5151/BlueMonday.jpg" title="" /></a></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07463266924643629828noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8735093463163706945.post-35464278369339247122014-02-20T10:40:00.000-05:002014-02-20T10:40:10.147-05:00Home: new paint jobWe have lived in this house for a little over a year now and since moving in we've remodeled a bathroom, repainted just about every room in the house and rebuilt the deck. A lot of work. However, the part that leaves me feeling not so great are the main kitchen, family, and general living areas.<br />
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This is a split level with a sunken family room, an open kitchen with view to the family room and a really high ceiling in the upstairs hallway/landing. The walls seem to go from room to room to hallway with little to no distinct division. When I started painting I figured I could just take the color from one wall and felt like I had to keep going to the next. I did that and soon after realized that wasn't going to work for me. Visually it was not comforting to have everything in the same shade of green. <br />
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I love the green in the dining room but not the hallway and certainly not into the family room and all other walls ...UGH!!! So I decided to invest a little money had a consultant come tell me what I already knew. He said to neutralize as many of the walls as possible, build my own division of walls, and most important, paint your ceilings a bright white. Low ceilings make rooms feel smaller than they are. White flat paint will make the colors richer and the room will feel less small... hmmmm good idea.<br />
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I took his advice and decided to start with the ceilings. Oh My Goodness!! this is harder than painting walls. Yikes. But I do see the difference. Anyway... here's what I'm working on. I hope to keep posting as I paint and hope to get any tips you all may have.<br />
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This is the right side of the family room view from the kitchen. That wall will be neutral as well.</div>
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wall from the kitchen flowing into family room, color: butter yellow/keeping that color</div>
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upstairs and downstairs hallway, three of the family room walls and adjacent green wall will all be a neutral color, something called oyster shell from Behr, I think.</div>
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downstairs wall with fireplace and windows will be my accent wall, can't figure out what one color I will have in that room... love green but the room lacks natural light so have to be careful what I do there.</div>
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a brighter white on the ceiling... I know it almost looks the same as the old, trust me, it's not.</div>
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By the way, did I mention I don't like painting ceilings.</div>
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OK Off to finish that kitchen ceiling already. Wish me luck and feel free to throw in your two cents on one accent color for the family room.</div>
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Terie</div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07463266924643629828noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8735093463163706945.post-61736493224615922602013-12-22T09:19:00.002-05:002013-12-22T09:19:12.508-05:00Dominican Republic: experiencing Alzheimers<br />
It had been more than 8 years since I last visited the Dominican Republic, my birth country and about five years since I last saw my parents. As I write this I experience feelings of regret for not making more of an effort to see them sooner. With kids, military moves, and our busy American life it seemed as though time just flew by and every year there was another promise to go soon and that time came and went. Don't get me wrong, we talked on the phone often, but it's just not the same.<br />
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When we last visited my parents I noticed mom was forgetting simple recent events like the fact that she just served us coffee or breakfast. She would have mood changes from happy, elated to angry and aggressive. Immediately I thought "oh my gosh, I think she has the onset of dementia." That thought made me so sad but I did not say anything at the time. I'm not a doctor and my only experience was in working with others and watching them progress through this disease. I did suggest they take her to see her doctor and please mention all these symptoms, he might be able to help.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNjrKidq5WquygmRhc6JGaV7W6_3Kph_ypRv1vPRgRszpogMC0xOUOJoA5afq_rNELlsIIjY5ZQv-7a4azycSRaOqfobPAohA7tdm4fC8TE8QSLXIm4m7htL_0fmhao7IIzVdX4kOPpq8/s1600/IMG_5829.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNjrKidq5WquygmRhc6JGaV7W6_3Kph_ypRv1vPRgRszpogMC0xOUOJoA5afq_rNELlsIIjY5ZQv-7a4azycSRaOqfobPAohA7tdm4fC8TE8QSLXIm4m7htL_0fmhao7IIzVdX4kOPpq8/s1600/IMG_5829.JPG" height="150" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Blessed.</td></tr>
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When my dad last visited us which was a few years after our visit he told me she was really forgetful, repeating herself a lot. He did not know what to do or how to handle it. He thought she was going crazy "loca" he said. That's when I contact the <a href="http://www.alz.org/alzheimers_disease_1973.asp" target="_blank">Alzheimer's Association</a> and requested information in Spanish for him to read and learn about the disease. I explained she wasn't crazy and a lot of patience and personal care would be needed for her.<br />
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Fast forward to this trip. I decided to go by myself because, honestly, I did not know what to expect. I knew he had been sick and unable to walk on his own and of course her condition had worsen because one day I called and she was no longer able to talk to me on the phone, she did not know how to use the phone or who was on the other end of that call. That day I broke down crying and cried for a few days. I think I became slightly dehydrated in the process. Then my brother told me about his visit with her her and how she had no idea whom he was. He was also hurting. It is very painful to not be able to share new experiences or have a talk about hour family history anymore.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5uZqDq7ZJQ69My6Lwn_VgOBxx_BWKbcpQzS1Hno0hjaavL87jtKEWags71FEuLzXFEesKswE5Tr7aYDRdQUAE8YJUb7ZdvGx_47jgbX4SsU1McMUuaYvLIkOnZOl0U7TA0D574IZ4gOQ/s1600/IMG_5852.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5uZqDq7ZJQ69My6Lwn_VgOBxx_BWKbcpQzS1Hno0hjaavL87jtKEWags71FEuLzXFEesKswE5Tr7aYDRdQUAE8YJUb7ZdvGx_47jgbX4SsU1McMUuaYvLIkOnZOl0U7TA0D574IZ4gOQ/s1600/IMG_5852.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dad is just chillin'</td></tr>
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When I arrived she was sitting on the front porch, "la galeria" which faces the front yard and house entrance. My dad was sitting there along with their caregiver Natalia. I went to her, held her hands, gave her a kiss, a hug and she smiled. She said she's a pretty girl "muchacha muy linda" and just giggled like I was meeting a shy five year old for the first time. Once again, I tried not to cry but as you can imagine, it wasn't easy. She really did not know who I was and she did not know much about herself either. Based on the Alzheimer's web site she can be classified as Stage 6. I again hugged my dad and for what would probably be the 9th time in his life, he cried with me.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkh5SB2y1POD3qGjIe9shnCabMx8UzDYx2YC284COykN6O3wSOkCApYavLJcgW9h56xRc-NcyqhOO32a2kUpf7NL9eI7npYyBplQVnMYzO7_YqDc4uOwVPcm57uC-rWsSO-mHJM54u0VI/s1600/IMG_5929.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkh5SB2y1POD3qGjIe9shnCabMx8UzDYx2YC284COykN6O3wSOkCApYavLJcgW9h56xRc-NcyqhOO32a2kUpf7NL9eI7npYyBplQVnMYzO7_YqDc4uOwVPcm57uC-rWsSO-mHJM54u0VI/s1600/IMG_5929.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mom showing me the chickens in the yard.</td></tr>
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Once my crying was over I decided I needed to be strong. After all, in her absence of thought and consequence she really doesn't understand what all the crying is about. I needed to be strong for him because he does get it and although he is healthier now than he was a week or two ago, he is still recovering and healing. He walks a lot slower but still tries to do everything himself. He will salvage just about anything and find use for things most of us toss on a daily basis. He cleans the yard daily, walks laps around the house daily, eats well if someone is there to make sure he eats and is religious about taking his medication. He's also a little OCD about putting things in their place each and every time they are used.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja9g_PjfZtczRwOZC24UAidsUcU4MlCly5FK1kNMFTa63fUt-WQUY9tq9J9Hrbb8GMbLw6juK3Zqz6af9F6VZqovC_qHR167zbK4IYAm0WJlr5AkZOdrGPm0zocAkE9NGXNJo0tHA5tVY/s1600/IMG_5928.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja9g_PjfZtczRwOZC24UAidsUcU4MlCly5FK1kNMFTa63fUt-WQUY9tq9J9Hrbb8GMbLw6juK3Zqz6af9F6VZqovC_qHR167zbK4IYAm0WJlr5AkZOdrGPm0zocAkE9NGXNJo0tHA5tVY/s1600/IMG_5928.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Squeaker toys that entertain Mom.</td></tr>
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My mom had moments that made me super happy. She asked about my mother in law whom she always called the lady "la senora" and asked about the kids and my husband. That might have been a reflex reaction to something she always said to me when we talked on the phone but it was a precious moment for me. She began to say sweet things to me she only said when I was young and in my teens and occasionally she would tell me a story about something she knew, however the story was not in a recognizable order so I just smiled when she smiled. It made her happy to converse.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijCTFD-Cr4ehwrLOQjnFCItiZu1mDZgJu8H8Yfh3qgmLQpJYfyX45l8xTz0-lPHHfGOB0vtVfdl4Xd0piJPv6tkROLs94h78w1NkCe3YXxG_HHY03wYSSEhh1Ie90wp1gqrH8cTFfF-wY/s1600/IMG_5873.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijCTFD-Cr4ehwrLOQjnFCItiZu1mDZgJu8H8Yfh3qgmLQpJYfyX45l8xTz0-lPHHfGOB0vtVfdl4Xd0piJPv6tkROLs94h78w1NkCe3YXxG_HHY03wYSSEhh1Ie90wp1gqrH8cTFfF-wY/s1600/IMG_5873.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Eating our noon meal with Meena, their furry companion.</td></tr>
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Alzheimer's Disease is a sad for those of us watching it happen, but for her, well the fact is that each day is a new day and yesterday doesn't exist and if anything painful is happening she does not realize it and therefore does not suffer. She doesn't find it offensive to be bathed and cleansed by someone else, to be assisted to go places, to be placed in a safe area of the house to keep her from getting hurt, and to be provided with food someone else cooked, a task she mastered and was proud to be such a great cook in her time, yet now she was not allowed in the kitchen, for her own safety of course.<br />
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I love my mom. She's not my biological mom but she raised me as if she was. Always telling everyone about her little girl. She took pride in everything I did and I was proud to have been raised by such a loving, caring, compassionate woman. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-TrayrLCb00Agxxfg0_3Ekz0_FmJboGpy8l1ZFsbhrdQDppsATBQrZ0PURbuoJy0_nAktK-UACegFYgS2rL6n-_VvIDZwlMrknC59yTfoBpeFBv5C1mIuKRcKzDkVId2QgNfoZ4rIPbQ/s1600/IMG_5918.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-TrayrLCb00Agxxfg0_3Ekz0_FmJboGpy8l1ZFsbhrdQDppsATBQrZ0PURbuoJy0_nAktK-UACegFYgS2rL6n-_VvIDZwlMrknC59yTfoBpeFBv5C1mIuKRcKzDkVId2QgNfoZ4rIPbQ/s1600/IMG_5918.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Papi is 84 and still a ham.</td></tr>
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My trip to DR was more than just learning to be strong and learning about my mom's disease and helping my dad establish care and take care of other business. I did manage to find humor in their daily routines, we manged to laugh about a lot of things because there is no point in crying all the time. My dad does a great job helping her as needed and he is very patient with her. I trust she is in good hands with him and their caregiver Natalia. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_TAFklsXQDHlhtj77SGQr27LJGtdO2kzfmsmXgfLp96SZ3BaE2rPlCcZLrVoKc-GICg6uVe_ANgz_g9iNfpXthlUNTgXW9B47ffARnIRT6D9FD-3O7wfE09K5zc7JGF-t0qtYkhXkt7A/s1600/IMG_5944.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_TAFklsXQDHlhtj77SGQr27LJGtdO2kzfmsmXgfLp96SZ3BaE2rPlCcZLrVoKc-GICg6uVe_ANgz_g9iNfpXthlUNTgXW9B47ffARnIRT6D9FD-3O7wfE09K5zc7JGF-t0qtYkhXkt7A/s1600/IMG_5944.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Selfie with Mami. She's so sweet.</td></tr>
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If you believe someone in your life might be suffering the early stages of Dementia, please click here to go to the <a href="http://www.alz.org/alzheimers_disease_1973.asp" target="_blank">Alzheimer's website</a> to learn about the symptoms and what you can do to help prepare your family member and yourself for the long road ahead.<br />
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Take Care,<br />
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Terie<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07463266924643629828noreply@blogger.com0Dominican Republic18.735693 -70.16265099999998314.887923500000001 -75.32622499999998 22.583462500000003 -64.999076999999986tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8735093463163706945.post-47507242285196364692013-11-11T06:49:00.001-05:002013-11-11T06:49:26.235-05:00Veteran's Day - Thank you for your service!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07463266924643629828noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8735093463163706945.post-60355834573308681532013-10-09T18:43:00.000-04:002013-10-09T18:43:15.207-04:00She left my nest<br />
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My first born girl left the nest for the first time last August, when we dropped her off at school and she disappeared into the crowd. We were confused because all the new kids went into the auditorium and the parents went through some other door to sit and listen to the multiple welcome speeches that followed. Then the kids were dismissed into group sessions and parents were just dismissed. WOW! Don't I get a hug good bye :-(<br />
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We texted each other. She was so happy and we were so proud of her and happy that she was happy. But a little sad too. After all, she was the second out our four kids to leave the nest. On the bright side, I know she's safe and happy.<br />
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Our little Em has challenged my patience and had me questioning my parenting skills. I think that's supposed to happen at some point in our lives with at least one of our kids... I have four.<br />
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But most important she has managed to make us laugh when we least wanted to laugh. She's a natural artist with a smile that makes everyone smile back. She loves funny movies, sitcoms, and good books. She has a big heart and a genuine love for those around her. When she makes a friend, she's a friend for life.<br />
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I have to admit that it was a lot harder dropping her off this year as she begins her second year of college. She spent her summer at home, worked three jobs, spent quality time with her dad and siblings, met up with some friends, and occasionally forced me to watch her favorite shows because she thought we needed to laugh together. Yes, in the end I did.<br />
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Now we are settling into our new home, getting the second set of kids adjusted back in school and really missing both our older kids as they make their new lives without mom and dad. Well, physically, trust me, they both call or text enough to stay very active in our lives... THAT is something a truly treasure!<br />
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Can't wait to see what this year brings! We will be seeing them both again soon and spending more quality time with our first two treasures. I can't wait! Love my Em and I really, really miss being forced to watch funny shows or listen to her retelling that last book she read.<br />
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A great weekend is just ahead!!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07463266924643629828noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8735093463163706945.post-87895338039087915162013-07-26T08:42:00.000-04:002013-07-26T08:42:51.100-04:00Positive Attitude = Happier Life <br />
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You ever find yourself surrounded by negative people? Negative situations?</div>
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At work.</div>
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At the grocery store.</div>
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At the gym.</div>
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Sometimes, even at home.</div>
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Yes. We all face them and sometimes we just follow suit and fall into that negative rut that plague so many. </div>
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I'm a big believer in living as an <strong>optimist </strong>(with realism not too far behind). I have asked the pessimists in my life why they always thing the worst of things or the worst case scenario? They respond with <b>"this way I'm prepared for the worst and if something good happens then I'll be surprised." </b></div>
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WOW. That response has stuck with me because it is amazing that anyone can think like that. I see their point though. They are trying to avoid feeling disappointed. But, what's wrong with a little disappointment? <b> Aren't those the hurdles we must strive to jump every once in a while? </b></div>
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As an optimist I say everything will workout as it should or today is going to be a great day, regardless of how it started and it usually turns out that way. I find myself smiling more, getting less stressed over traffic issues, silly people, screaming kids at the market, etc. However, when things don't workout, even after I've worked myself up to thinking they will, I use those moments as challenges to make things better.</div>
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There's a theory about stress first identified by Dr. Susan Kobasa (1979) called the <span style="text-decoration: underline;">Hardiness Theory of Stress</span>. The theory has three basic principles:<em><strong><span style="color: #bf005f; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS';">Commitment, Control </span></strong></em>and <strong><span style="color: #bf005f; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS';">Challenge</span></strong>, also known as the three C's. Possessing the three C's makes one hardy.</div>
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One who is hardy will be <strong><em><span style="color: #bf005f; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS';">committed</span></em></strong> to what they are doing, act as if they can <strong><em><span style="color: #bf005f; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS';">control</span></em></strong> the outcome regardless of the changes, and use the change as a <strong><em><span style="color: #bf005f; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS';">challenge</span></em></strong> to improve their life. Those people are considered hardy and have been known to #1 manage stress better then most, #2 avoid the health effects of stress, #3 live a happier life.</div>
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"When I go to bed at night I already know how my day is going to be the next day. However, I have been known to oversleep, forget to turn on the alarm, the kids sleep right through their alarm, and I forgot to pack lunches the night before, etc. OK so things have taken a turn and my plan to have a great day has been challenged. Am I hardy enough to deal with this mess?</div>
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<span style="color: #00407f; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS';">I'd like to think I am, most of the time. I </span><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS';">commit</span><span style="color: #00407f; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS';"> myself to what I know I can and must do NOW (get everyone up and ready to go). I </span><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS';">control</span><span style="color: #00407f; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS';"> the outcome of this event (everyone will get to school, eventually- it's not the end of the world). I use the </span><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS';">challenges</span><span style="color: #00407f; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS';"> and be better prepared next time (pack lunches the night before, go to bed at a reasonable time).</span></div>
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<span style="color: #00407f;">No screaming, no anger, no fights. Just taking the time to do what needs to be done because no matter what I do, I can't turn back time. I can only work towards making this day a great day, regardless of the setbacks.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #00407f;">This rule also applies to my personal and professional health and fitness schedule. I have already been challenged one too many times with either the realization that I have a class to teach or a client to train and something got in the way of that. I've learned after enough of those hurdles to be prepared and plan in advanced, even if it means going to bed a little later, that gym bag is ready with everything from water to snacks, iPod and workout notes just in case. My clients will never see me sweat... or actually they do, they see me sweat a lot. </span></div>
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<br />A few quotes to get you thinking:</div>
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<span style="font-weight: normal;">“A pessimist sees the difficulty in every opportunity; an optimist sees the opportunity in every difficulty.”</span></h1>
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<tr><td colspan="2">~ Winston Churchill<br /><br /><table cellspacing="0" style="font-size: 12px; margin: 5px 0px 10px; width: 100%px;"><tbody>
<tr><td class="sqtdq" colspan="2" style="background-color: #edf1f7; padding: 5px;"><span class="sqq" style="color: #003399;">“To love what you do and feel that it matters how could anything be more fun?”</span></td></tr>
<tr><td colspan="2">~ Katherine Graham<br /><br /><table cellspacing="0" style="font-size: 12px; margin: 5px 0px 10px; width: 100%px;"><tbody>
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<span style="font-weight: normal;">“When you put faith, hope and love together, you can raise positive kids in a negative world.”</span></h1>
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<tr><td colspan="2">~ Zig Ziglar<br /><br />My favorite is one I used to sing to the kids on the way to school -<br /><div style="text-align: center;">
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So let the sunshine in</div>
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Face it with a grin</div>
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Smilers never loose</div>
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and frowners never win</div>
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So let the sunshine in</div>
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Face it with a grin</div>
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Open up your heart and let the sunshine in!</div>
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Until next time,</div>
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Terie</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07463266924643629828noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8735093463163706945.post-46267608764891172022013-07-22T21:12:00.000-04:002013-07-22T21:12:33.660-04:00Blue Monday - Our new pool<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This past week I will admit to feeling like we should have bought the house with the pool. I still think about that house and how awesome it would be to have a pool where the kids can go cool off and fun. But we did not choose that house because we realize the costs of maintaining a pool year-round to use it only 3 months out of the year. </div>
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Usually we go to community pools, the Army Base pool, and sometimes they go to the Recreation Center pool which is indoors. But it would be nice to just step outside and be within a few feet from the pool.</div>
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So we bought a pool. Ok so it's only a foot of water but we have A LOT of fun in this tiny body of water.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSt3wI5i9UMmSLjXtBp0_MQ390nCCdIk5WBYkabAqoFIMWFDnmFeXuH5KfpU_jd9xHzbG1KlEFsHAtSXjNwIE9lwuhR1-uYWbYkLExfWpxPKDGhcyrNo3IXUmEVyC5cNFphz69MxczTJo/s1600/995098_10201655475972687_563568718_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSt3wI5i9UMmSLjXtBp0_MQ390nCCdIk5WBYkabAqoFIMWFDnmFeXuH5KfpU_jd9xHzbG1KlEFsHAtSXjNwIE9lwuhR1-uYWbYkLExfWpxPKDGhcyrNo3IXUmEVyC5cNFphz69MxczTJo/s320/995098_10201655475972687_563568718_n.jpg" width="240" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7oT4JSuJFFblM4kaqqg_tve1Jfa9qH1_X0AAxJ2pnHvBIH0jFFnv0XC9EOvxUpQDp1__lds93nsSINEGiQQkRSI_iMlEfnswu0Taj56GCSa7eLpdXoQmtzy9UKWpdl1eH8_ZpJCa12T0/s1600/999689_10201655029641529_1861499376_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7oT4JSuJFFblM4kaqqg_tve1Jfa9qH1_X0AAxJ2pnHvBIH0jFFnv0XC9EOvxUpQDp1__lds93nsSINEGiQQkRSI_iMlEfnswu0Taj56GCSa7eLpdXoQmtzy9UKWpdl1eH8_ZpJCa12T0/s320/999689_10201655029641529_1861499376_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinb5LcY-J5qpON5SIQg4UrzvxfMcvXf_YgWskQKDqhhXyvyb2ekmifk0IbIHJCmbzqXdHjPkgkogi5aBJ4WjgbWA_FBA55UKJaNjWSfclsBu35Z1b9lc8p9DXMKGlzYFXuWD0MGnN4IbA/s1600/1069831_10201655029881535_1656640279_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinb5LcY-J5qpON5SIQg4UrzvxfMcvXf_YgWskQKDqhhXyvyb2ekmifk0IbIHJCmbzqXdHjPkgkogi5aBJ4WjgbWA_FBA55UKJaNjWSfclsBu35Z1b9lc8p9DXMKGlzYFXuWD0MGnN4IbA/s320/1069831_10201655029881535_1656640279_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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... and while it may not be a big, permanent pool with all the bells and whistles, the kids and the dog seem to really enjoy filling water balloons, blowing water shooters, and spraying each other with the water toys. After all the fun in the water they use whatever is left in the pool to water the plants in the garden and in the house.</div>
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Good times!</div>
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Terie</div>
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Sharing with Smiling Sally and my friends from <a href="http://smilingsally.blogspot.com/2013/07/blue-monday-blue-mobile-pet-grooming.html" target="_blank">Blue Monday</a>.</div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07463266924643629828noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8735093463163706945.post-91363615451400612482013-07-08T09:57:00.000-04:002013-07-08T09:59:38.660-04:00Blue Monday- Water Splash to Shining stars<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
So much to celebrate, I think I lost a week in the process...</div>
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First, celebrating the 11 years we've been blessed with Natalie. She had a pretty amazing birthday week with a visit to a Splash Playground and then more water fun at home with friends and family. </div>
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Followed a few days later by the Independence Day Celebrations. Blueberry and Strawberry Short Cake, White Chocolate Covered Strawberries and of course, fireworks! Yes we ate real food before dessert :-)</div>
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I hope everyone had a great time!</div>
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Sharing with Smiling Sally and her fans at <a href="http://smilingsally.blogspot.com/2013/07/blue-monday-water-pollution.html" target="_blank">Blue Monday</a>!</div>
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Enjoy your week,</div>
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Terie</div>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07463266924643629828noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8735093463163706945.post-12016666165779790802013-06-24T10:37:00.000-04:002013-06-24T10:37:27.456-04:00Blue Monday: Look Closely<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We have been working on our deck for a month now because the only time we could do any work is when he's not working and when it's not raining, sometimes the two don't coincide but finally we are done, except for staining. The orange, better known as "Cedar" color you see here is not at all what we wanted but I'm going to make it work...the stuff is way to expensive. I think it sets up a nice contrast against the freshly painted patio chairs.</div>
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Look closely and what do you see... little glass of wine waiting for me :-)</div>
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Of course, there are some finishing touches I'm still working on. Chimes, some potted plants and an umbrella to protect from too much sun or rain. I plan on using this outdoor space as much as I possibly can. It's my favorite place to read and relax.</div>
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Enjoy your week everyone!</div>
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Terie</div>
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<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8E_ERJLDZyBXZ8PIs_3slpcMf7TYozQAYQfzm4-IOHRhixkEza9B-uZ69pXUObw-c2oYCcD47xQKpB96dYGtugjgEau70k3T3WacFRqwAP2TK4ML79OqXfrdweUFLFWkU8SSSbL29e8c/s1600/bluemonday.jpeg" /></div>
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Sharing with all my friends at <a href="http://smilingsally.blogspot.com/2013/06/blue-monday-finding-blue-in-red.html" target="_blank">Smiling Sally</a></div>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07463266924643629828noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8735093463163706945.post-81479974041421027942013-06-10T15:08:00.000-04:002013-06-10T15:08:10.788-04:00Blue Monday: Charleston, SC<div class="mobile-photo" style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ1MZR_xgYoXUCDL3XB-hrV8n1dEtdR7yA8yeteAKzvsaL2Mz1JK2ysxfB_OvHuuyBlilEPzV8buCYBcZTkAJvTczCD-2tu9VR6dh1vDT86qfJQV44PMkNtlhgn_jDFQPWfH5Ba0OhOPo/s1600/photo+1-791596.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5887879150773239090" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ1MZR_xgYoXUCDL3XB-hrV8n1dEtdR7yA8yeteAKzvsaL2Mz1JK2ysxfB_OvHuuyBlilEPzV8buCYBcZTkAJvTczCD-2tu9VR6dh1vDT86qfJQV44PMkNtlhgn_jDFQPWfH5Ba0OhOPo/s320/photo+1-791596.JPG" /></a></div>
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Sharing some sky high photos from our mini-vacation in Charleston, SC during the Spoleto Festival USA 2013.</div>
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<a href="http://smilingsally.blogspot.com/2013/06/blue-monday-here-comes-bride-part-2.html" target="_blank">Blue Monday</a> is where the blues hang out... go see :-)</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07463266924643629828noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8735093463163706945.post-41255720273362475782013-06-08T13:54:00.001-04:002013-06-08T13:54:35.560-04:00A pink little bird house<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinFjUsxKXijOI22rc1PfKQHIPXqGXN3LtzJXPJFfP4A3uU_5XIoWxHcRYX5h5AJB61ctBNjNtQ4Di_iwFUBRHuE6w7ql8vqhnfp_TAw404iL69YncwIOVyql-cX_dNzs8MQYLRTRua0-E/s1600/birdhouse.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinFjUsxKXijOI22rc1PfKQHIPXqGXN3LtzJXPJFfP4A3uU_5XIoWxHcRYX5h5AJB61ctBNjNtQ4Di_iwFUBRHuE6w7ql8vqhnfp_TAw404iL69YncwIOVyql-cX_dNzs8MQYLRTRua0-E/s320/birdhouse.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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My daughter painted this little house when she was only four, in the fall, placed it outside and by spring this is what we could see. She loved pretending that this was a house in the woods and little families of frogs or ants or any critter would come to visit the little house.</div>
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Sharing with How Sweet the Sound on <a href="http://howsweetthesound.typepad.com/my_weblog/2013/06/pink-saturday-june-8-2013.html" target="_blank">Pink Saturday</a>!</div>
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Terie</div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07463266924643629828noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8735093463163706945.post-25980142578267124752013-06-07T08:20:00.002-04:002013-06-07T08:20:28.425-04:00It's Friday!!!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Charleston, South Carolina</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KIunQyqA_O4/UbCsR54P8qI/AAAAAAAAUEc/bSD9PKwIbSw/s1600/2013_+6_+6_11_34.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KIunQyqA_O4/UbCsR54P8qI/AAAAAAAAUEc/bSD9PKwIbSw/s320/2013_+6_+6_11_34.jpg" width="240" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-B7g2_6dDwV8/UbCsYyGuapI/AAAAAAAAUEk/7F2VBERW3ac/s1600/2013_+6_+6_11_35.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-B7g2_6dDwV8/UbCsYyGuapI/AAAAAAAAUEk/7F2VBERW3ac/s320/2013_+6_+6_11_35.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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It was a long, long trip with one teen, two younger kids and my best friend, but it was a ton of fun. I'm sure we spent more time in the car telling jokes, stories and attempting to sing songs we thought we knew then in the city of Charleston; however, the time we spend there was pretty fantastic. The weather was just perfect for walking around, the sky was blue and the kids behaved amazingly well.</div>
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Now back home where it has been raining on and off for over a month. On the bright side, the flowers are getting equal amount of sun and water and they are blooming and looking pretty.</div>
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Excellent day to stay home and relax, paint, relax... </div>
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Good Day to all!!</div>
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Sharing with <a href="http://lifeaccordingtojanandjer.blogspot.com/2013/06/fridays-fences-84.html" target="_blank">Friday's Fence</a> ~~ Enjoy!</div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07463266924643629828noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8735093463163706945.post-80394056049540182172013-05-13T10:23:00.001-04:002013-05-13T10:23:33.631-04:00Blue Monday: kids in the field<div>
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Walking the dog with the kids was so fun in this unkept field of weeds, made the animal in them come out and stalk me.</div>
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Sharing with Smiling Sally and friends on Blue Monday!</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07463266924643629828noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8735093463163706945.post-52977267005907168842013-04-22T11:32:00.000-04:002013-04-22T11:32:05.260-04:00Places around DC<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Before I share blue places I'd like to share my daughter's cause... please read below and support her by or share the page to get the word out. </span></div>
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<a href="http://earlymorningpeace.blogspot.com/2013/04/would-you-give-child-smile-if-you-could.html" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Would you give a child a smile if you could?</span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Support <a href="http://support.smiletrain.org/site/TR/AthleticsEvent/General?px=3390356&pg=personal&fr_id=1200" target="_blank">Emily's Smile Train</a> to help give a child a smile!! Thank You!</span></div>
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Now that we live in the DC Metro area I realize there is a lot to see and do and I need to do and and see as much as possible. It is so easy to get comfortable in one's place and postpone being a tourist in our own town, but this time I promised I would not let an event go by without investigating my options.<br />
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Museums, monuments, cherry blossoms, old buildings, old towns and new towns, FREE, inexpensive, and Oh My Word that's expensive...we have it all here in DC. So here are a few of our visits with lots of blue skies. Enjoy!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWgTTuMxp4_BtrZ9EG0NAEEso2-h5EMJi7CtVQW8N1DHLqIUa3Bl2nwmTo27xexh2DEr7aEbNSDxN-AWetEpRCBhxVAUUOoBrN2GKfcRs2n_BaHtEe2v-bZrEdlXTAmqKqabLg_Vx_yGQ/s1600/IMG_2467.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWgTTuMxp4_BtrZ9EG0NAEEso2-h5EMJi7CtVQW8N1DHLqIUa3Bl2nwmTo27xexh2DEr7aEbNSDxN-AWetEpRCBhxVAUUOoBrN2GKfcRs2n_BaHtEe2v-bZrEdlXTAmqKqabLg_Vx_yGQ/s320/IMG_2467.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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Beautiful Townhouse in the Dupont Circle area</div>
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Getting the mail seems like such a difficult task for a 6 year old :-)</div>
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Virginia Railway Express - Train dedicated to work week commuters</div>
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University of Mary Washington, Fredericksburg, VA</div>
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A jogging trail and a creek</div>
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Celebrating life at Westminster Choir College</div>
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National Museum of Art...that is one Giant door.</div>
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DC area building but can't recall what it is...</div>
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Ice Skating for the first time ever!</div>
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Cherry Blossoms</div>
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The U.S. Capitol</div>
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Sharing on <a href="http://smilingsally.blogspot.com/2013/04/blue-monday-restaurant-in-blue.html" target="_blank">Blue Monday</a> with <a href="http://smilingsally.blogspot.com/2013/04/blue-monday-restaurant-in-blue.html" target="_blank">Smiling Sally</a> and her guests!</div>
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<a href="http://smilingsally.blogspot.com/2013/04/blue-monday-restaurant-in-blue.html" target="_blank"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFmvUTeDvoIfKYLWcVTVeq0zD5A87B7OjC3zB6ryPdoh7tq-NbZazHy_TgmOgvO-2Ih_T-Pc9Y2wQEEcwOVoQh_uH2E9rgqp7NF6I2evEHhUBTKlKzC50UjIguPDyPPff4l0cYhqPZzdS3/s1600/download.jpeg" /></a></div>
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Proudly supporting Emily in her </div>
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<b><span style="color: #073763;">Running for Smiles</span></b> Campaign with <a href="http://support.smiletrain.org/site/TR/AthleticsEvent/General?px=3390356&pg=personal&fr_id=1200" target="_blank">SmileTrain</a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.smiletrain.org/athletics/athletics_promos/promo1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://www.smiletrain.org/athletics/athletics_promos/promo1.jpg" width="236" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://support.smiletrain.org/site/TR/AthleticsEvent/General?px=3390356&pg=personal&fr_id=1200" target="_blank">Give this child a chance at a normal life.</a></td></tr>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07463266924643629828noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8735093463163706945.post-71342909001830292582013-04-12T09:19:00.000-04:002013-04-12T09:19:26.164-04:00Would you give a child a smile if you could?<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/AVvXsEhiNuP0nKqp8P4uK8e1tHGfHLglUPnJft5AZeiLG_BtSgQHO4ritDVSo6lAcR_-1RPsWVBZ7WjcWaSv0BEP3XLreFfz8_NwmvGIwEwP_tqV78yNBKUdLq7Vetna8RGE2b5ADII7R1RoytM/s1600/Emily.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiNuP0nKqp8P4uK8e1tHGfHLglUPnJft5AZeiLG_BtSgQHO4ritDVSo6lAcR_-1RPsWVBZ7WjcWaSv0BEP3XLreFfz8_NwmvGIwEwP_tqV78yNBKUdLq7Vetna8RGE2b5ADII7R1RoytM/s320/Emily.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-size: medium;"><a href="http://support.smiletrain.org/site/TR/AthleticsEvent/General?px=3390356&pg=personal&fr_id=1200" target="_blank">Emily's Smile Train - Running for Smiles!</a></i></td></tr>
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This is my daughter Emily showing off her beautiful smile. <i>Hers was free, well except for the braces but that's another story. </i>She is in college studying Occupational Therapy.</div>
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Emily recently signed up to run the Marine Corps Historic Half Marathon. Emily is not a runner, although after this event she will most certainly qualify for that title. </div>
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But she isn't training and running for a title, she is doing it because<span style="color: #0b5394;"><b><i> she wants to give children born with a Cleft the ability to smile. </i></b></span></div>
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She signed up with <a href="http://support.smiletrain.org/site/TR/AthleticsEvent/General?px=3390356&pg=personal&fr_id=1200" target="_blank">Smile Train</a> to raise funds to<i><span style="color: #741b47;"> help at least one child smile for the first time</span></i> and for the rest of his/her life.</div>
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<b>We take smiles for granted and sometimes we go out of our way to avoid smiling. But I have learned that when we smile, even when we don't feel like it, our mood changes instantly and it changes how we are perceived by others.</b></div>
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Smiles warm the hearts of everyone around us. <b> See, smiling isn't just about us and how we feel, it's about how we make others feel. </b> Since I've been reading about these kids born with a Cleft Palate I realized that there are many times when I just take the fact that I CAN smile for granted. <b><i> Then I try to imagine having that gift taken away from me... it makes me sad to even think about it.</i></b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtaWneqPzyaEOIUGjOJ6vMIMcuxyfZxqrXywAEmnB-mUkBEwWaDD8G0tu8sEA6icv03PzP6tjDl9yN1iIoSEgz2hGtS8zyODofMJ6VNV_tKuyPVy4-uGOsAhW4ud4i94QnJKZxES7z0TU/s1600/erica-palomo-before-after+(1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="146" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtaWneqPzyaEOIUGjOJ6vMIMcuxyfZxqrXywAEmnB-mUkBEwWaDD8G0tu8sEA6icv03PzP6tjDl9yN1iIoSEgz2hGtS8zyODofMJ6VNV_tKuyPVy4-uGOsAhW4ud4i94QnJKZxES7z0TU/s320/erica-palomo-before-after+(1).jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #990000;">The kids need your help. <b> I hope you'll consider helping Emily reach and maybe even exceed her goals.</b> It doesn't matter how much you give,</span><span style="color: #0b5394;"><b> <a href="http://support.smiletrain.org/site/TR/AthleticsEvent/General?px=3390356&pg=personal&fr_id=1200" target="_blank">show your support</a> any way you can</b></span><span style="color: #990000;">, share her site with your friends and on your FaceBook page.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #674ea7;"><b><i>Imagine, for one moment, how that child will feel once he or she is able to smile! Just Imagine!</i></b></span></div>
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Thank You!!</div>
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Terie</div>
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<i>(Proud Mommy)</i></div>
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<i>If you missed the links above click here to be directed to her page:</i></div>
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<i><a href="http://support.smiletrain.org/site/TR/AthleticsEvent/General?px=3390356&pg=personal&fr_id=1200" target="_blank">Emily's Smile Train - Running for Smiles!</a></i></div>
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To learn more about the Smile Train organization, read the blog, see more before and after happy pictures click here: <a href="http://www.smiletrain.org/" target="_blank">SMILETRAIN</a></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07463266924643629828noreply@blogger.com0