tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-49151653557328062552024-03-14T13:12:15.408-05:00Revolving MarketRachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03754719314826604683noreply@blogger.comBlogger85125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4915165355732806255.post-30276199328657655182014-01-20T20:27:00.000-06:002014-01-20T20:27:04.286-06:00Roots and a New YearHappy New Year Friends. 2014 is here, in full swing. I must say every year continues to come to a close much quicker than the last. 2013 was filled with so many joys; new beginnings, friendships, babies, weddings, you know the whole kaboodle. Along with all these celebrations there always comes the tough times. In my case I was struggling with who I was and what exactly I was doing with my life. For only so long can one continue down the same path that essentially is leading nowhere. I could have created a wonderful life in Illinois doing things I loved but deep down in the pit of my heart I knew I wasn't meant to be there. Years down the road I would have regretted not taking an opportunity to spread my wings to fly away to a new place. So I did. I spread my wings and flew away. Flew away to God's country and far from the cornfields of Illinois. Don't take it the wrong way. It's not that I wasn't happy with my life in Illinois, because I had the best support system of family and friends a girl could ask for. I knew my town like the back of my hand. I had roots. Those roots were spread deep within my community. I felt comfortable.<br />
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So here I am, a few thousand miles away at the base of a mountain range. I love it, every day I am still working on my person and what exactly happiness is. But within 2013 I grew as a human being and did exactly what I had planned to do and that was start a new adventure. I have a feeling 2014 will be the best yet so be sure to stick around! Feels to good to be back in this place. I will try my best to keep it updated more regularly.<br />
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//on my window sill\\</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/77767438@N02/12059266154/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_6846 by revolvingmarket, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_6846" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5514/12059266154_b8d825ba70_c.jpg" height="534" width="800" /></a></div>
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//New to me vintage rug for my room\\ </div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/77767438@N02/12059246124/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_6849 by revolvingmarket, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_6849" src="http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2842/12059246124_8369461473_c.jpg" height="800" width="534" /></a></div>
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//this beaut mades its way all the way from Illinois in my carryon & caused us to get searched\\</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/77767438@N02/12059142263/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_6850 by revolvingmarket, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_6850" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5490/12059142263_b4f6e23a2c_c.jpg" height="534" width="800" /></a></div>
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//new sneaks just so happen to be my least favorite color EVER... but they are reflective... New motivation?\\</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/77767438@N02/12058847075/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_6852 by revolvingmarket, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_6852" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7332/12058847075_68c6eaf716_c.jpg" height="534" width="800" /></a></div>
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//ants on a log are the perfect midday snack, no judging\\</div>
Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03754719314826604683noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4915165355732806255.post-60614904631552184072013-12-10T21:35:00.001-06:002013-12-10T21:35:09.102-06:00::A Break::My apologies for being off the radar the last few weeks. I took a job in the middle of October but the official start date was the middle of November and ever since then I feel as though my life has been a whirlwind. From home study and testing, to Thanksgiving travel, packing for a month away from home, Christmas shopping, and then traveling to Atlanta for work I am exhausted.<br />
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Last week really was the mecca of all chaos as I thought my brain would never recover from the long days of cramming new information. Arriving to training on limited sleep was not ideal, throw in a time change and non existent sleep schedule which resulted in 16 hours of sleep over 5 days. Friday I honestly thought the best option would be to slice my head off and search for a new one.<br />
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After a weekend of relaxation, retail therapy, sushi and bonding with my new coworkers, the thick fog has finally lifted, all tests have been taken, and now my brain is back on straight. Information overload has been absorbed and processed. Today I felt like a brand new person and that I may actually know what I am talking about.<br />
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On that note posts will be very limited the next couple of weeks as I am extremely busy with work. Don't worry I will be back very soon! I am starting to get excited to be back in Illinois with my friends and family. I'm missing all my furballs, my hope is Jack James still remembers who I am after four months. My Idaho crew has been behaving but I sure do miss my three sidekicks. Hopefully everyone is getting close to being ready for Christmas. Christmas eve is only two weeks away! If you were asking I'll take a pair of these <a href="http://www.zappos.com/clarks-sage-copper" target="_blank">cheetah pumps</a> in a size 12! Happy Tuesday my friends!<br />
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<br />Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03754719314826604683noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4915165355732806255.post-77208988321057429722013-11-26T14:56:00.003-06:002013-11-26T14:56:49.288-06:00Into the Looking Glass We GoHello friends. Now it might look as I have forgotten about this space but . Let me fill you in on what has been going on around here. For those of you who are new around here, in July I quit my job and packed my bags to move from Illinois, west to Idaho. In the process my plans took a bit of a detour as I injured my back and was unable to travel in car for a long period of time. As much of a pain as it was (pun intended), it allowed me more time to spend with my family and friends, and reassured me my decision to relocate was indeed the right one.<br />
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Fast tracking a bit, I applied for so many stinking jobs it wasn't even funny. Especially when you put in all the time and effort to personalize your application, only to receive a computer generated, no thank you. I landed a few interviews and a couple had promise. When it rains, it pours. It was really interesting because the process felt a bit like deja vu (enter choosing my college after Parkland).<br />
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A quick run down of my deja vu, I was looking at 3 different schools: one was exactly what I wanted, a new, fast paced city on the east coast, beautiful old campus, great teammates, solid business school; the second was located a mile from the beach in Florida and my aunt was a stone throw away, descent volleyball program and business school; and the third was an absolute NO, my dad had graduated from there and wanted nothing more for me to follow in his footsteps and be able to cheer me on at every game. They had a strong conference and business school. The kicker was the east coast school played me dirty and didn't offer me until last minute. Florida beach looked really great after flying home in a blizzard but the school reminded me of a prison. Dad's alum was small and no one thought I would go, especially my father and later on I learned my teammates.<br />
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So who did I choose?<br />
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I chose my instinctual last choice after many pro's and con's list only to find it really was the best choice and I couldn't have made a better decision. I was officially a Purple ACE.<br />
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Back to the present job hunt. I had two interviews lined up. After the 1st interview I knew I belonged there. End of story. No need to fly all the way from Boise to Philadelphia for an interview. My mind was already made up. Long story short, I completely changed my mind on what I thought I wanted. I took the second position. I was very fortunate to be job searching for a month and a half before I found a job. (I don't count my down time rehabbing). The position just started last week with a home study program. In the meantime I took on a position at a clothing retail store to pass the time and earn some cash.<br />
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So there is it. A recap on why I have been absent. The past two weeks have been nuts! Looking back it has been a bit of a blur! My store had its official grand opening which meant lots of long days getting the store into visual perfection! Last monday my home study started which was a complete 180 from the creative styling I had been doing to studying the anatomy of the heart.<br />
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Photos are from a few things that were keeping me inspired. I grew tired of using a book as a coaster and I realized I had these beautiful tiles I purchased from Habitat for Humanity that I wasn't using. I have them strewn everywhere around my place and I must say I really like them! I've also been doing a lot of journal writing just to have a place to keep my thoughts as well as have a place to document my feelings down the road in the future. It's a place where I jot down ideas, emotions, stories, whatever is on my mind. I really recommend it, as I have gone back and read some of my entries from a few months ago and it's really refreshing to see exactly what was on my mind.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/77767438@N02/11073205814/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_6657 by revolvingmarket, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_6657" height="473" src="http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2816/11073205814_bc80156da9_c.jpg" width="800" /></a></div>
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The next month promises to be one full of new adventures, new people, lots of learning and hopefully a lot of fun! So glad to be back on the grind again! Can you believe Thanksgiving is upon us this week?<br />
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This is the first year I will be away from my family on Thanksgiving. Usually I am always together with my mom, dad, and grandmother with the exception of one year in college when I had conference tournament in Wichita Kansas. I plan on celebrating with my roommate, her fiancé, and his entire family. I will miss my own but I am excited to be sharing the holiday with a great group of people. I plan on eating my weights worth of Thanksgiving feast so I plan on being prepared with my expandable waisted pants and a long flowy tunic to conceal my thanksgiving food baby.So heres to starting new traditions with new friends!<br />
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What are your Thanksgiving traditions?Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03754719314826604683noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4915165355732806255.post-6714665736155063882013-11-18T13:03:00.002-06:002013-11-18T13:03:54.724-06:00SNAPSHOTS<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
When I first arrived in Idaho I was shocked how basically no one has basements. Born and raised in Illinois I've never lived in a home without one. Living on a hill in the country I've seen the winds whip around, swirling, low dangling clouds, storms coming up out of nowhere. You better believe I high tailed it into the basement. I never lived in fear of a tornado, I just knew they existed and could happen in a moments notice. It's always better to be prepared and respect a storm. Living in Idaho, thankfully we don't have to worry about tornados. But yesterday really put things into perspective as my family and friends had to endure a very trying day of tornado alley.</div>
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A quiet morning in the west soon turned into a devastating one for the Midwest. November tornados are very rare and yesterday proved to be the mecca of them all with 80 tornados being spotted, hundreds now homeless, thousands without power, and 6 having lost their lives. This storm hit close to home as many of my friends and family were in the line of impact. My best friends grandparents weathered the storm from their crawl space. When they emerged, the place they once had called home was completely destroyed. Thankfully they came out unscathed, their home destroyed, their possessions pretty much contained in the wreckage. Yesterday I had no idea what was occurring back home until I got on social media. I quickly texted many friends to find out everyone was safe.</div>
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Trees that were planted years ago and we watched grow were uprooted from the ground. Homes and businesses that took years to build destroyed in a matter of minutes. Lives once simple and uncomplicated now depend on the help of others. The thing I do know is in time of need people pull together and help one another out.</div>
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A few years ago, we had a November tornado scare. A small twister touched down between my neighbors homes, demolishing their barns, throwing the wreckage around like confetti. Our community of neighbors came together. Helped finished harvest, took in homeless animals, cooked meals, helped cleaning up the debris. Thankfully no one was injured, including animals. I have faith from that disaster the citizens of Illinois will pull together and help each other out!</div>
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We can't take anything for granted, in a matter of minutes our lives as we know it can change! Be sure to tell the ones you love, " I LOVE YOU" because it could be your last.</div>
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Sending my thoughts and prayers to everyone affected by yesterdays events.</div>
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**These are some random snapshots from around town last week**</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/77767438@N02/10928847656/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_6564 by revolvingmarket, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_6564" height="534" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7309/10928847656_936b4d75b0_c.jpg" width="800" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/77767438@N02/10928755425/" title="IMG_6627 by revolvingmarket, on Flickr"></a>Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03754719314826604683noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4915165355732806255.post-56923394463448085422013-11-08T16:39:00.000-06:002013-11-09T19:49:38.392-06:00My Daily Beauty Essentials<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/77767438@N02/10748490774/" title="Rachel's Beauty Favorites by revolvingmarket, on Flickr"><img alt="Rachel's Beauty Favorites" height="560" src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3701/10748490774_593b742eeb_c.jpg" width="800" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://www.sephora.com/ultra-repair-cream-P248407?skuId=1217744" target="_blank">[1] </a> <a href="http://www.sephora.com/product/productDetail.jsp?keyword=SMASHBOX%20Full%20Exposure%20Mascara%20P284701&skuId=1315902&productId=P284701&_requestid=158147" target="_blank">[2]</a> <a href="http://www.sephora.com/mia-skin-cleansing-system-P285163?skuId=1335355" target="_blank">[3]</a> <a href="http://www.amazon.com/MARC-JACOBS-Jacobs-Pomegranate-300ml/dp/B0038PY3GG" target="_blank">[4] </a> <a href="http://www.sephora.com/null-P384120?skuId=1567882" target="_blank">[5]</a> <a href="http://www.sephora.com/tinted-beauty-balm-spf-20-P303104?skuId=1392521" target="_blank"> [6]</a> <a href="http://www.sephora.com/blush-P2855?skuId=248930" target="_blank">[7]</a> <a href="http://www.sephora.com/chance-P138300?skuId=909093" target="_blank">[8] </a> <a href="http://www.sephora.com/shadow-insurance-P202625?skuId=1050616" target="_blank">[9]</a> <a href="http://www.sephora.com/naked-basics-palette-P376213?skuId=1458157" target="_blank">[10]</a><br />
(Scroll over numbers and click to find link)<br />
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I wanted to share with you my daily beauty essentials because let's be real, as women we are obsessed with buying new beauty products. I know I have an entire bag of makeup I purchased on a whim that I thought I needed. So I figure why not share the products I love that have been my standbys.<br />
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Keeping your face hydrated is the key beautiful skin. I have found a good cream which really works wonders. It took me some time to find this one as I hate when your face feels as though you've lathered a pound of lotion on. I also have sensative skin and this cured all my redness problems.The First Aid Beauty Cream is light but has the perfect amount of moisture to keep my skin glowing.<br />
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I used to be a drugstore mascara kind of girl until I found this Smashbox one at Ulta. It was on special for $10 bucks so I randomly tossed it into my basket. Ever since then I don't use anything else. It has great coverage and doesn't shed by the end of the day!<br />
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In March I was in Chicago visiting my lovely volleyball besties for a birthday party when I ran into a friend of theirs at a cocktail table. She worked for L'occitane and honestly had some of the most beautiful porcelain skin I had ever seen. Of course, Nicole and I had to ask what her secret was, which cream did we need to buy, blah, blah, the whole ten yards. Her recommendation was always wash your face at night and be sure to hydrate the skin. Her secret weapon, a Clarisonic. I had heard about them before but hadn't really given them much thought. (They are a little pricey) I let Nicole purchase her's first, so she could give it a whirl before I invested in my own. She raved about how great it worked and how her face felt so much cleaner. I pondered about another month and when I went into grab a mascara I ran into my trusted makeup advisor. Of course I had to ask his opinion and the rest is history. I love this thing. I only use it about once or twice a week but I can see great improvement in my complexion and my face feels much cleaner! I am still waiting for that porcelein skin....<br />
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Love the lightness of this Marc Jacobs spray. Randomly picked this up at TJ Max, unfortunately the scent is no longer current! What will I do when I run out???<br />
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I really didn't have a good regimen for every day face makeup until I started using a BB cream (beauty balm for all of you newbies). I would describe it as a cross between a cream and a foundation. It is very light and fresh feeling with a bit of coverage. It never feels greasy. I wear this everyday and apply with a brush.<br />
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Chanel Chance. My old standby. This is my go-to. Love this scent. I even got my mother stuck on it!<br />
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Usually when I head into Sephora for one thing I walk out with 2 or 3. I've tried numerous shadow primers but never really loved any of them so I gave up. I started applying my eye shadow on my lid naked. For a while I had a spurt where I didn't wear eye shadow at all unless it was a special occasion. I wore my BB cream, blush, eye liner, and mascara. By the end of the day I always had an eyeliner line in my crease where it had bled. Super frustrating, until I was recommended this shadow insurance. Problem solved and you don't even realize your wearing it.<br />
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Naked. This palette is awesome! Last year I stopped wearing shadow with shimmer in it almost all together. I experimented with a couple of other matte palettes but nothing came close to this one. The matte finish is beautiful and subtle. I can make my shadow dramatic or neutral. Can be used for everyday or as a showstopper on the weekends!<br />
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Update:: During a trip to Chicago when I was in high school I came across Nars blush, it is the only blush I have ever used. It's a peachy matte that could easily work for so many different skin tones.<br />
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I used to use Nars dark brown eye liner until I didn't want to pay $22 a pencil. I tested out many different ones and stumbled upon Sephora brand eye liner. Their hues have dark pigment and stay in place and have a great price tag, $9. I use dark espresso and egg plant!<br />
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So there you have it! My beauty essentials! I like to keep it simple but look polished and put together!<br />
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<br />Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03754719314826604683noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4915165355732806255.post-56317235222536774232013-11-04T10:22:00.000-06:002013-11-04T10:22:20.057-06:00In Bed with Brewster + Molly<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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There is no way I could keep these photos to myself. Every day these two blondes become more loving and affectionate to one another. Friday the pups decided it was a lazy morning. The two of them hopped in bed for a quite morning of napping. </div>
Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03754719314826604683noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4915165355732806255.post-75684062409206152432013-11-03T11:23:00.000-06:002013-11-03T11:23:38.627-06:00Mom Don't Judge Me<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I've always wondered what it would feel like to have dark hair. My entire life I've always been blonde. Not platinum blonde but a warm blonde. For years I had thought about taking the plunge but either my mom or my hair dresser talked me out of it. Or everyone else was doing it and I didn't want to follow the crowd. This year things transpired a little differently. On an educated whim, I booked an appointment. Last winter I had wanted to cut my long hair but could never pull the trigger. Then at the last minute when I was getting my hair done I changed my mind. I chopped off 8 inches. No big deal!! Usually I freak out if I get 2-3 inches cut off. This time was completely different. It was freeing. So come full circle and now you understand my quick thinking. I was able to get in quickly and my blonde hair is history!<br />
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Isn't this fur collar amazing? I picked it up at an antique shop in town and couldn't set it down! I've already worn it twice and have a feeling it is going to become a staple in my winter closet.<br />
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Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03754719314826604683noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4915165355732806255.post-86578535102042411332013-10-29T03:03:00.001-05:002013-10-29T03:03:45.142-05:00The Blondes:: A Love Affair<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The first time I laid eyes on Molly with my camera, the camera ate her up and she highly enjoyed having her photo taken. Those big brown smiling eyes just begged to be photographed. Things have changed drastically. She will not sit still long enough for me to get a proper photo of her. As soon as I have her seated ready for her moment she gets up to follow me the couple steps back. I've got many photos of her smiley tail wagging bum. The brown eyed photos are hard to catch. So far our recent shots have been when she is sleeping on my bed. Which I must admit is the cutest thing ever!</div>
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When Molly first showed up in Boise we had an interesting situation at the house. You see Brewster already had a girlfriend. Her name was Yaz. They would play occasionally if Yaz was in the mood. The day Molly came into the picture everything changed. Molly and Brewster must be soul mates. They are best friends and they are lovers. Yaz is now considered the third wheel, but they love her just the same. I have named Molly and Brewster "The Blondes". The Blondes go everywhere together. Its unusual for them not to be side by side. Hours upon hours a day they play with one another. Molly has that Energizer Bunny attitude about her. She is referred to as the shameless hussy from Kentucky in this household. She'll take whatever she can get. I must admit I have never seen a dog like her before. She would hump Brewster all day long if she could. But she doesn't hump any thing else besides dogs. She was spayed over a month ago. Does anyone know a cure for my cute street walker? </div>
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Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03754719314826604683noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4915165355732806255.post-33271502970593992872013-10-28T16:57:00.001-05:002013-10-28T16:57:04.418-05:00For the Love of Bloody Mary's:: Becoming Domestic, Sort OfThis weekend the strangest thing happened, I had a domestic moment. You know those moments where you decide you want to hone your grandmother's upbringing and buy a pressure cooker because you want to can something. That happened to me this weekend. I actually found it a little disturbing because it sparked a cooking frenzy. Never, ever would I have imagined myself owning a pressure cooker, now I do. Its the big daddy of all pressure cookers too. Massive in every way. On my way home with my new purchase my Mom called and I told her of my new purchase, in which she responded, "Rachel, be careful, read all the directions, pressure cookers can be really dangerous". Her scare tactics worked because I read the booklet three times and still felt like I needed a chaperone "just in case".<br />
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As a consolation my motive behind this canning/pickle frenzy was due to a 16 lb purchase of aspargus from Bountiful Basket. By the way, if you are not signed up, DO IT NOW! Every Tuesday you place your order for a basket. This basket includes fruits and veggies, but the best part is you have no idea what you will get, its a surprise!!! Saturday rolls around where you head to the pickup location. It's really reasonable and the loot lasts all week for a few people. On this particular occasion my roommate decided to order a side of asparagus. The side was 16lbs for a fraction of the cost. You can only eat asparagus for so long before you can no longer think of new dishes to try and tire of your old standbys. This is when Plan B went into effect. You see bloody Mary's are quite delicious especially when accompanied by a garnish of veggies. That is where my pickling/canning idea came about. All because of my love for bloody Mary's.</div>
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Pickling is actually very simple. I washed my asparagus and then snapped off the ends until they were tender. I picked up a mix of pickling spices from the local Winco.</div>
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<u>Asparagus Pickling Recipe</u></div>
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3 tbspn pickling spice </div>
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2 cups white wine vinegar</div>
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1 1/4 cup water</div>
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3 tspn koesher salt</div>
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1 large onion chopped</div>
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Bring to a boil, let simmer for 10 minutes.</div>
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While your pickling juice is brewing you have to immerse your jars into a hot water bath to cleanse them and also do the same with your lids and tops. I used pint & a half jars to accommodate lengthwise. I found the easiest way to fill my jars was to hold them sideways and fill as full as possible. Then I poured in my pickling mix, leaving a 1 inch space from the top. Taking tongs I placed the warm lid and screwed the lid on until the lid was secure but not too firm. I finished all jars and then moved onto my pressurizer. Each pressurizer is completely different. Mine doesn't have a gauge so it works a bit different. I placed my jars in the pressurizer, tightened the lid, vented out the air for 10 minutes and then processed my jars at 35 minutes at 15 psi. Be careful to let the pressurizer cool down slowly so you don't burn your self and you also run into problems with your jars breaking if they cool too quickly.</div>
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After my pickling affair I was starving. I had picked up some handmade dough from the grocery for pizza. I rolled it out and topped it with whatever I had laying around in the refrigerator. Recently I have been obsessed with ricotta. It is so delicious and has found its way into many recipes recently. Topped my pizza with tomato sauce, ricotta, sharp cheddar, red peppers, fresh basil, tomato slices, onion and minced garlic. Super easy and delicious.</div>
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A little Brewster behind the scenes blooper. He really wanted that pizza.</div>
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So far this fall I really haven't gotten into the spirit by cooking with pumpkin or apples. Since I was on a cooking rampage I thought why not make some pumpkin muffins. Really, really simple and very tasty recipe I made on the fly.</div>
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<u>Easy Pumpkin Muffins</u><br />
1 box white or yellow cake mix</div>
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1 large can of pumpkin puree</div>
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1 cup chopped walnuts</div>
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2 tspn vanilla</div>
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3 tbpsn nutmeg (or to taste)</div>
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3 tbpsn cinnamon (or to taste)</div>
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(The cinnamon and nutmeg were just estimations, as I like my pumpkin very spicy and flavorful)</div>
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Bake at 350 degrees for 20 minutes. Cool. Eat!</div>
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So there you have it, my weekend cooking spree! What new dishes are you cooking?</div>
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Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03754719314826604683noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4915165355732806255.post-38590249317965124052013-10-23T12:00:00.000-05:002013-10-23T12:00:00.188-05:00My First Trip to in the Mountains:: Driggs, Idaho<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Last month I traveled to Driggs, Idaho for a weekend in the mountains. I spent the weekend with friends enjoying each others company, eating home cooked meals and some delicious cocktails. The views were absolutely incredible and kept coming! We took the lift up Grand Targhee on the last day it was open for the summer season. Many people take the lift up to mountain bike down. Still something I have yet to try/understand. At least they didn't have to pedal to the top! When we reached the top the views were beautiful but I had no idea what awaited us around the corner, a basin leading up to the Tetons. The view was so unexpected and took your breathe away.</div>
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Hope you enjoyed, I'll leave you with the cuddliest teddy bear, Junior!</div>
Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03754719314826604683noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4915165355732806255.post-91930705241741251962013-10-07T15:14:00.000-05:002013-10-07T15:14:36.555-05:00Who Would Have Thought I'd Ever Live in a Squirrel Den:: The Before'sI wrote a long post this morning, thought I saved it and went to lunch. When I returned my post had completely disappeared, lovely. I've been off the grid the last week or so, a lot has been going on around here. I was in the mountains a couple weekends ago visiting with my roommates family, then the following weekend they came to visit us. Between the road trips, house guests (6 people, 6 dogs in total), there have been interviews, roommates who have moved out, Molly got spayed, and I started a design project on my new room. Life is good, I am really enjoying my time here in Idaho.<br />
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The past month I have been holed up in the guest room, in holding waiting for my room to be empty. Tuesday the day finally came and I quickly jumped on making leeway in my new home. The space looked worn and needed a bit of a facelift. I decided I wanted to go with darker grey walls, leave the ceiling white. Have you ever painted a room by yourself? It is a little more difficult than I thought. My new room is fairly large, 24x12 so painting the ceiling was an experience in itself. Once I got into a groove it wasn't too bad. Add in Carl Carlton blaring over Pandora and a beer in hand I made quick progress. I worked well into the morning, finished the entire room, desk, and dresser. When I woke in the morning to check my handy work I was a little disapointed the coverage wasn't as good as I remembered. Fresh eyes and some sunlight make all the difference. My hope is to be completely moved in by midweek. I'm really excited to get into my new space, its what I would call a mother-in-law suite. It sits on the back of the house, has its own small kitchenette, a walk in closet, and a bathroom.<br />
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I couldn't have been more welcoming to that closet. The past month I feel as though I have been living out of my suitcase. I had boxes stacked in the office with a majority of my clothes and it always seemed I needed what was in those boxes rather than what I actually had in my closet. I learned the hard way before an interview. Nice work appropriate clothing does not like being folded in a box for a long period of time. I often feel my life is very on point with my closet. If it is organized and clean so is my life. If it messy and unorganized it reflects my life is hectic and chaotic. So thankful everything is organized and I have enough space to see what is actually in there!<br />
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Follow me on my design journey. Here is the canvas I started with last Tuesday. My apologizes for bad photos and boxes shrewn everywhere. Meet your tour guide Brewster:<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/77767438@N02/10143438514/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_6297 by revolvingmarket, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_6297" height="800" src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3831/10143438514_395366bf74_c.jpg" width="534" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/77767438@N02/10143692413/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_6298 by revolvingmarket, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_6298" height="534" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7397/10143692413_1fcc85408b_c.jpg" width="800" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/77767438@N02/10143672263/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_6300 by revolvingmarket, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_6300" height="472" src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3671/10143672263_58c0e88f3d_c.jpg" width="800" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/77767438@N02/10143543375/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_6301 by revolvingmarket, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_6301" height="800" src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3762/10143543375_2ab0b94b1c_c.jpg" width="534" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/77767438@N02/10143548555/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_6304 by revolvingmarket, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_6304" height="534" src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3781/10143548555_ec70ed834e_c.jpg" width="800" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/77767438@N02/10143645316/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_6307 by revolvingmarket, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_6307" height="534" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7293/10143645316_a859eae01c_c.jpg" width="800" /></a></div>
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This room had been lived in by a boy who really didn't care much as to what the place looked like. As long as there was a bed, tv and couch he was set. I, on the other want to make it a relaxing oasis. I wanted the room to feel cozy and put together. I settled on Martha Stewart's "Grey Squirrel" and because of it now refer to my room as "the squirrel den." (Sorry for the quality this one was taken on my cell phone)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpRLCL9VYVBtoNVCJlRJ7mYnWdGXqb1iMDxhO1YaqoHpEUegW-eVvLD0I4x757MaGU-jVgbsMZs42B11H8INUKJANJoOb2OFZnrE6R7Yid3EGirISjUNCXdgiNlUU6hUnirkpWOzXG1E8/s1600/photo-3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpRLCL9VYVBtoNVCJlRJ7mYnWdGXqb1iMDxhO1YaqoHpEUegW-eVvLD0I4x757MaGU-jVgbsMZs42B11H8INUKJANJoOb2OFZnrE6R7Yid3EGirISjUNCXdgiNlUU6hUnirkpWOzXG1E8/s640/photo-3.JPG" width="478" /></a></div>
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I finished the paint all in one evening. I have been working on many small projects in the mean time. I've painted a desk, a dresser, some frames, and my current project is reframing some beautiful equestrian hunting etchings I found over the weekend. They are absolutely stunning and I couldn't pass them up. Such a great score! Since finding them I have had to re-edit my plans for the walls but they will fit in just perfectly. One next to the bed and the other to be determined. If it tells you anything about my plans before, I had a hand stitched tiger ready to go up on the wall in its place. </div>
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What do you think?</div>
Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03754719314826604683noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4915165355732806255.post-60049438241108358132013-09-17T17:55:00.001-05:002013-09-17T17:55:36.486-05:00Let's Play A Game<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/77767438@N02/9791501913/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_6134 by revolvingmarket, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_6134" height="800" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5548/9791501913_8e21b8f43f_c.jpg" width="534" /></a></div>
Can you guess the purpose of this eye sore? I mean piece of art? This contraption has been a recurring topic for all of us over the last few weeks. Originally when I visited Idaho there was an addition of a second stove pipe where this red contraption is mounted. Funny thing is that stove pipe stirred up a lot of controversy since it really wasn't the most pleasant thing to view when sitting on your back patio with a delicious beverage in hand. To our surprise a few months later, this beauty showed up.<br />
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So I am taking guesses as to what this thing really is? Please take a wild guess. Believe me. We have taken many.<br />
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For now we admire its awkward beauty and wonder, how the heck can we get this thing to go away without having a neighbor war. Or purchase a really big tree/bush. The later will be the approach we take unless anyone has any wonderful ideas!<br />
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Take a guess!<br />
What do you think it is?<br />
The more ridiculous the answer, the better.<br />
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I was pleasantly surprised.Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03754719314826604683noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4915165355732806255.post-28460741136690611282013-09-16T15:18:00.001-05:002013-09-16T16:23:52.636-05:00Safety First & A Belly Full of Muffins<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/77767438@N02/9776654192/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_1455 by revolvingmarket, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_1455" src="http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2833/9776654192_721b6d261f_c.jpg" /></a></div>
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I hope everyone had a wonderful weekend. I spent mine out at the shooting range taking a rifle and pistol class. When I first visited Boise I had the opportunity to dip my feet in rifle shooting by taking a weekend class. I learned safety and the basics behind shooting. The class I took this weekend was a step up from my first class. We did many of the same drills but added other components in to simulate real life events. Up until this point I really hadn't had much pistol training, just going out to the range with family and friends and learning on my own. I felt a huge confidence boost this weekend, now that I have learned the correct technique. I have been working really hard on keeping both eyes open when shooting and this weekend proved my hard work has been paying off. I never really caught myself with one eye closed and my accuracy is much more on point. I really enjoyed the dynamic of this co-ed class. We were a mixed group when it came to experience levels and I really think this added to the success of the class. Everyone was able to learn from one another and our instructor. </div>
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What exciting plans did you have this weekend?</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/77767438@N02/9775888881/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_6128 by revolvingmarket, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_6128" height="563" src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3786/9775888881_5df860fcab_c.jpg" width="800" /></a></div>
<span style="text-align: left;">The last few weeks I have been doing a lot more experimenting when cooking. Mainly trying new recipes that have stacked up over time. Avoiding my sweet tooth and baking obsession has been a little difficult but my waist line has thanked me. I did try these blueberry muffins which I found in blogland on Marshall's Abroad. Amanda recently posted this recipe and I couldn't find a way not to make them! These muffins are full of flavor and will not disappoint. I have this recipe saved in my stash as a keeper!</span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4s08S-G6fJTySXsbx6k6Jo9QU37cOj2vZQNVHSSkQQLTu3CFoZtd3ml7tBIsLRY8pEaENdf0-E225doMhmXZvE4vZlCvCFfjALzyerY5tqjBhuG5lqKz3Fw5CKtZRVJCRBA1zb2i_-xs/s1600/muffins2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4s08S-G6fJTySXsbx6k6Jo9QU37cOj2vZQNVHSSkQQLTu3CFoZtd3ml7tBIsLRY8pEaENdf0-E225doMhmXZvE4vZlCvCFfjALzyerY5tqjBhuG5lqKz3Fw5CKtZRVJCRBA1zb2i_-xs/s1600/muffins2.png" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo via <a href="http://www.marshallsabroad.com/2013/07/blueberry-lemon-yogurt-muffins-with.html?showComment=1379359059782#c6165588990608270495" target="_blank">Marshalls Abroad</a></td></tr>
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<b style="background-color: white; color: #685848; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20px;">Blueberry Lemon Yogurt Muffins with Cinnamon Sugar Topping</b></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: x-small;">(recipe via <a href="http://www.marshallsabroad.com/2013/07/blueberry-lemon-yogurt-muffins-with.html?showComment=1379359059782#c6165588990608270495" target="_blank">Marshalls Aboard</a>)</span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br style="background-color: white;" /></span></b><span style="background-color: white; color: #685848; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20px;">{makes about 1 dozen}</span></div>
<i style="background-color: white; color: #685848; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20px;"><br />
</i><span style="background-color: white; color: #685848; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20px;"></span><i style="background-color: white; color: #685848; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20px;">2 C fresh blueberries</i><br />
<i style="background-color: white; color: #685848; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20px;">1/2 lemon, squeezed juice + zest</i><br />
<i style="background-color: white; color: #685848; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20px;">1/2 C whole greek yogurt </i><br />
<i style="background-color: white; color: #685848; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20px;">1 1/2 C flour</i><br />
<i style="background-color: white; color: #685848; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20px;">1/2 C olive oil</i><br />
<i style="background-color: white; color: #685848; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20px;">1 egg</i><br />
<i style="background-color: white; color: #685848; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20px;">1 C raw sugar (I substituted brown sugar, still completely delicious)</i><br />
<i style="background-color: white; color: #685848; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20px;">1/2 teaspoon sea salt</i><br />
<i style="background-color: white; color: #685848; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20px;">1 tsp baking powder</i><br />
<i style="background-color: white; color: #685848; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20px;">1 teaspoon nutmeg</i><br />
<i style="background-color: white; color: #685848; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20px;">1 teaspoon vanilla extract</i><br />
<br style="background-color: white; color: #685848; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20px;" />
<b style="background-color: white; color: #685848; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20px;">Topping</b><span style="background-color: white; color: #685848; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20px;">: </span><br />
<i style="background-color: white; color: #685848; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20px;">1 tbs raw sugar</i><br />
<i style="background-color: white; color: #685848; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20px;">1 tsp cinnamon</i><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #685848; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20px;">Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #685848; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20px;">Whisk the egg with the olive oil and add in the greek yogurt. Stir in the flour, sugar, salt, baking powder, nutmeg and vanilla, until just combined. Be careful not to stir too much or your muffins may collapse once out of the oven! Gently fold in the fresh blueberries with the squeezed lemon juice and lemon zest. </span><i style="background-color: white; color: #685848; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20px;"> </i><span style="background-color: white; color: #685848; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20px;">Fill a greased muffin pan with the batter at about 3/4 full for each cup. Be generous as you sprinkle on the topping on each muffin, and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until you can place a toothpick in the middle of a muffin and it comes out dry. My muffin pan made 12; a reader said her's made 16. </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #685848; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20px;">Enjoy! These are so delicious!</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #685848; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; line-height: 20px;"><span style="font-size: large;">Be sure to Check out Amanda's Blog, <a href="http://www.marshallsabroad.com/" target="_blank">Marshall's Abroad</a>. </span></span></div>
Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03754719314826604683noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4915165355732806255.post-38930729433030004112013-09-11T12:54:00.000-05:002013-09-11T12:54:11.608-05:00Where Were You? September 11th, 2001?I can still remember exactly where I was and what I was doing on the morning of September 11th, 2001 when we recieved the news the Twin Towers had been attacked. I was in Mrs. Yount's 7th grade science class. We were working on homework when the principle came across the PA system to let us know about the planes crashing into the Twin Towers and a field in Pennsylvania. I remember clearly not exactly realizing its enormity and how our lives would change forever. As a 12 year old, I knew it was a devastating event with many lives lost but had no idea it would send life as we knew it into chaos.<br />
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Every channel on the tv was tuned into the coverage, every radio station was recapping the events, public transportation came to a halt, planes were grounded immediately, our world was put on hold as we watched the events take place and search for an answer. Who did this?<br />
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At a time when our economy was booming, we hit rock bottom. Everyone panicked. Grocery store shelves were empty. Cars piled up for blocks waiting to fill their tanks with fuel. Prices surged. People were stranded miles and miles from home. We were unsure of the unknown. American flags were seen every where. America pulled together. Thousands rushed to the aid of those in New York. Helping to remove the rubble to search for survivors and the remains of those lost on this horrible day.<br />
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As horrendous and monumental as this day was/is I AM PROUD TO BE AN AMERICAN. People came out of the woodworks to help others. As a nation we united to help heal our brothers and sisters who were devastated by this disaster. We were RESILIENT. We stood STRONG.<br />
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To those who lost someone that day, we will never forget. We will remember exactly how it felt to have our freedom compromised. To the men and women who risked their lives to save lives and fight for our country, you are hero.<br />
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Where were you when your heard the news of the attacks?Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03754719314826604683noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4915165355732806255.post-77079581591554058282013-09-10T12:06:00.003-05:002013-09-10T12:06:59.476-05:00Starting Fresh<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
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Hope everyone had a relaxing weekend spent with family and friends. It feels as though summer will linger just a bit longer. Back home in Illinois the temps have jumped up into the high 90's, I'm happy to report we have been blessed with middle 80's and it is absolutely perfect. I've been trying to get into a routine as of late, either taking the dogs for long hikes or riding my bike around town I am trying to be as active as possible. I've also immersed myself in practicing yoga as it has really helped strengthen my back and get me into the swing of things. One of the hardest realizations for me has been where my fitness level was to where it is now. Some tasks that used to be easy are now more challenging, thankfully I am making large strides. Slowly but surely I am toning up and getting blood pumping throughout my body. Another huge positive is now that I am back to working out I sleep so much better. Ever since I traveled west I wasn't sleeping well. That might have to do with two to a bed plus a dog or two. I was restless, couldn't get comfortable. That continued on once my mom had departed and I wasn't sure why. As I started becoming active again I could fall right asleep and slept through the entire night.<br />
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While I was recovering I wasn't eating like I normally would and was indulging in more ice cream than I would like to admit. Traveling west didn't help my diet either especially when you aren't cooking your own meals. Once I arrived in Boise my diet became a bit healthier but during the time my mom was staying in town I wanted her to experience the different restaurants. We indulged in good food and wine, bread from the farmer's market, local ice cream, homemade muffins and desserts. As my mom would like to say, "she is on vacation" and would like to enjoy her surroundings. I am quite happy that we did, its just my waist line that wishes otherwise. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.thefutureofhealthnow.com/discover/fohn.php?hop=lexxtech" target="_blank">Photo Via</a></td></tr>
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The past week my roommates and I decided it was time for us to support one another in creating a healthier lifestyle. We decided we would eat more salads and pack our meals with more vegetables. I also have to admit I am spoiled. We have a vitamix in the house. I have always had a blender crush and finally I have one at my disposal. It has been wonderful waking up in the morning throwing a bunch of veggies and fruits into it and boom, delicious green smoothie. I am trying to limit my dairy, processed grains/sugars and I must admit I feel so much healthier and have more energy. I still haven't been able to lose the coffee BUT I do not drink it everyday and limit myself to two cups. Which has also resulted in better sleeping patterns.</div>
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What are you doing to keep healthy?</div>
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Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03754719314826604683noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4915165355732806255.post-33078536383843497692013-09-06T16:52:00.003-05:002013-09-10T12:08:14.748-05:00Mo MollyAs you know a few weeks back when I was in Kentucky I adopted a dog from an unwanted home named Molly. She immediately came home to Illinois with me where she was greeted with lots of love from Jack James and my mom. My dad on the other hand was very upset that I had thought this was a good time to bring home a dog considering I would be moving 2000 miles away in a week. He also did not like the idea I was bringing her home into his house, but more importantly, "Jack James' Home". His first reaction was a little over kill, stating I needed to leave for Idaho once the weekend was over, once the intial shock wore off he was much more open to the situation.<br />
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Due to other circumstances I wasn't able to leave for another month. During that time he was definitely frustrated with me and my decision since the timing was off and both dogs were rambunctious. The day before I was set to leave I took Jack out for a run and when I returned my dad said he needed to talk with me. </div>
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At first I had no idea what he wanted to talk to me about but it seemed somewhat serious. Instead he wanted to inform me that Molly was staying in Illinois with him, my mom and Jack. The little stinker had weasled her way into his heart. While my mom was gone Molly went on a little vacation of her own staying with my good friends, Brandon and Jenny until my mom returned.</div>
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Over those two weeks I missed my smiley bundle of fur. Next Thursday she makes her way west with my roommate's parents and 3 other pooches. This little girl has won the hearts of so many and enjoys whatever moment she is in. I can't wait to have her back in my arms. </div>
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She'll have two other fur mates in Boise, Brewster, a golden retriever, and Yaz, a black lab who works as a service dog. </div>
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Check out this awesome post my friend Kelly put together documenting the <a href="http://kellygrain.wordpress.com/2013/08/23/the-chronicles-of-molly/" target="_blank">Chronicles of Molly</a>. She was the one who originally found/saved Molly!</div>
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<b>Update:: Scroll over Chronicles of Molly and click to get to Kelly's Link</b><br />
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Just a couple cute faces. </div>
Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03754719314826604683noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4915165355732806255.post-53004108779355787532013-09-04T14:17:00.001-05:002013-09-13T12:22:20.194-05:00Incredible Wonders of the World:: Yellowstone National ParkIf I were to have asked you, "If you could choose one of the most beautiful places on earth to visit, where would it be?" You might list off the beaches of some island or the architecture of Paris or somewhere abroad, but I doubt Yellowstone would come up. Have I always wanted to go? Absolutely, a trip to Yellowstone would be unlike any other trip I have taken but I doubt it would have been my first response if someone had asked me that same question. Knowing what I know now, I should have visited long before. Find the time and go. It is honestly one of the most beautiful and unique places on this planet. Within the confines of the park there are many different types of wildlife and ecosystems. Mountains, mud bathes, geysers, prairie, forrest, lakes, rivers, volcanos, you name it Yellowstone most likely has it. Such a stunning place, I wish we would have had more time there but I will be back for camping/ hiking trip soon.<br />
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Enjoy!<br />
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Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03754719314826604683noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4915165355732806255.post-7786899448277755242013-09-03T12:19:00.004-05:002013-09-03T12:19:41.183-05:00From the Flat Lands to the Mountainous Potato State: Part 1Where has summer disappeared to? It seems only yesterday we were kicking off summer by celebrating Memorial Day. So many wonderful memories were made this summer with great friends. Along with creating unforgettable memories, I knew I had do something for myself. I decided the time had come for me to quit my job and pack my bags. I've always lived in the Midwest and after having aspirations of moving elsewhere for the past few years I decided it needed to happen sooner than later. Thankfully I was able to spend a couple weeks catching up with family and friends before my new adventure was to take place. A week before my departure I threw my back out, so my plans of moving to Boise were put on hold a few weeks as I tried to recuperate. I spent a majority of my time trying to sleep away the pain and I must admit I watched TV shows I never knew existed. With the help of lots of rest, time, and physical therapy I was able to get back on my feet. Slowly over the past couple of months my back has healed and middle of August I was able to begin my new adventure to Boise, Idaho.<br />
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For now I will recap our first couple of days on the road.<br />
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My mom loaded up my car with no room to spare and together we headed west for a 5 day road trip. From the rolling hills of Iowa, to the luscious trees of Minnesota, to the mountainous fields of hay in South Dakota we traveled. We made a stop at the Corn Palace of Mitchell, South Dakota, a city building decorated differently year after year in corn husks. I wouldn't necessarily call it a show stopper but interesting none the less. Worth a stop? If your in the area take a drive by, no need to leave the car. The unfortunate part is everything is tourist oriented and very tacky. We didn't have any luck finding any good places to eat.<br />
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After we visited the Corn Palace we made our way west a few more hundred miles before we decided it was time to turn in for the night due to a rain storm. We found lodging in the town of Rapid City, South Dakota which is about 25 miles from the Black Hills, Mount Rushmore and Sturgis. We had planned on departing the week prior but my back wasn't ready to withstand the length of travel but it was a good thing as the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally was taking place. We arrived two days after the event had concluded and we saw many trailers and bikes heading home. </div>
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We woke up early the next morning, saw a bit of the town before heading out to Mount Rushmore. I can think of a few movies were the heads of Rushmore have taken part but until you actually see them in person you can not appreciate their beauty. The expanse of their size, life likeness, and accuracy at a time when this art form was done by using dynamite and hand chisels. </div>
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We finished touring the park and continued west, destination Cody, Wyoming. Our directions were quite direct, follow 90W. We could take the long way, 90W or we could take a short cut which would lead us into the scarcely populated dessert. During our drive we only saw one or two cars and a few ranches set back in the wilderness. I don't think I have ever been in such a desolate place that goes on for miles and miles. As you can imagine it was getting dark, we were getting hungry and tired and we didn't want to risk getting stranded in the middle of no where. The speed limits are high in this part of the country. We hadn't planned on stopping just making our way through the lonely dessert when we came upon a look out point. At the last minute we decided to stop so I slammed on my breaks and made the turn into the lookout area. If we had not stopped there was a very large buck with a massive rack standing a 100 yards down the road in prime position for us to hit him. Thankfully we decided to check out the views.</div>
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I'll be back with more from our adventures out west!</div>
Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03754719314826604683noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4915165355732806255.post-25327240945576583622013-08-21T13:08:00.002-05:002013-08-21T13:15:02.732-05:001st Annual Boat Races:: 2013<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
A few months back a group of friends and I were together when someone had the wonderful idea of a card board boat race in my friend, Lauren's backyard pond. We all gathered on a sunny Sunday morning to start constructing our boats, the only materials we were allowed were pieces of cardboard and a roll of duck tape. A few gathered massive amounts of cardboard from numerous sources and the building began! One thing that was noticed right away was the quality of the duck tape. If you are ever going to have your own card board boat be sure to use the real deal and extra strength tape. It makes all the difference in the world!</div>
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Each team had their own idea/ plan of what would be the best design to transport their two person boat across the pond and back. Others, like Lauren and myself designed as we went with no set plan. We set a time limit and all the teams went to work. Originally we weren't sure if we were going to build a boat, as Lauren was hosting the event and I was still recovering from my back injury. With lots of teamwork and rest we were able to get a boat together.</div>
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Muka guarding her territory while Riley took to the seas to prove he really was a water dog. He must have been in the water for over half the day, catching balls, entertaining himself by splashing and trying to catch the splash or by wading in the lily pads.</div>
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Each team had a little different design:<br />
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Matt & Jenna went with a banana shaped boat with higher walls<br />
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Brian used a wide boat with shorter walls and support bars<br />
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Scott & Amandine had a similar idea as Brian but a slimmer boat shape<br />
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Lauren & I had a completely different strategy: We angled the front of our boat and placed a rudder under the boat for support and had higher walls. We ran out of time (motivation) to complete the rear portion of our boat and settled with a flat panel.<br />
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We had our doubts on Matt & Jenna's boat being successful because it seemed their card board was not secure. As a side note: This race was Matt's idea and he had participated in a boat race before.<br />
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On your mark, get set,....... GO!!!!!!!!!<br />
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Lauren and I were certain our boat would be the best and make it to the other side of the pond before returning to the starting line. We were very mistaken. As soon as we set foot into our boat we started taking on water and never actually made it off shore. Our downfall was carelessly finishing the end of the boat. As quickly as we started taking water, we started taking in dogs too. We may not have left shore but we did laughs our heads off and the whole experience was completely worth it! I'm glad we shot for the stars and thought we had the winning boat! Maybe next time we will get some float time!<br />
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Two of the teams made it half way across the lake before their boats sank.<br />
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The winning boat on their way to shore!!!<br />
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Brian is Sexy and he knows it!!<br />
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The winning boat had an escort back to shore!<br />
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We had all had lots of laughs and plan on this being a regular summer event! Having a race under our belt, Lauren and I have plans to tweak our model to challenge the Jenna & Matt next year!</div>
Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03754719314826604683noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4915165355732806255.post-26587462578235835602013-08-01T12:45:00.000-05:002013-08-01T12:45:21.670-05:00Tour de Midwest:: Stage 3Once I had returned home from my whirlwind of a trip down to the hot and muggy land of Kentucky, I was greeted with a few hours of normalcy before my next adventure. Craving some endorphins, I headed to the gym to get in a quick workout before Molly and I traveled to Effingham for a girls weekend on the pond. What was supposed to be a refreshing workout at the gym soon turned into a thrown out back. As soon as I felt that small pull sensation in my lower back I knew what I would be in for. Lots of advil, some heat, rest, and the awkwardness of being a bent over hunchback. I knew I could handle it (as this had happened before a few months prior) so I packed my bags, threw Molly into the car and off we went to meet the other girls.<br />
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Saturday morning we had a grand surprise. The summer before when we visited, Jenny's father was more than pleased to show off his baby, a canary yellow Daytona. We begged and pleaded for him to fire up the engine and take us on a ride somewhere. Papa was happy to showcase his baby, but taking her out on the road was a different story. The car is in pristine condition after being restored to its original state. It's a rare occurrence for this beauty to be taken out to stretch her legs and when she is it's a sight to be seen!<br />
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Knowing the three of us had always wanted a ride, he let us accompany him on a ride around town on his way to a photo shoot for a friend. Thanks Papa Dan for allowing us the pleasure of experiencing such a beautiful and historical vehicle! Pictures are scarce from the weekend since I really wasn't in the mood for pictures but I was able to get a few of our Daytona adventures<br />
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We finished the rest of the weekend in the sun at the pond. Unfortunately my back became worse than I had expected and I had to be driven home while I laid in the backseat, praying for a quick arrival home. The last couple of weeks were extremely brutal as I couldn't really do much. Simple tasks such as sitting and walking were excruciating, I spent most of my time napping and watching tv while my back recouped. Thankfully the worst is over and slowly life is getting back to normal. I still have a bit of lean and haven't been able to get back exercising yet, besides stretching and my strength training for my back. I've never had such a debilitating injury before and let me tell you it isn't fun having to depend on others. We take for granted our health and being active. I can't wait for when I am strong enough to begin riding my bike regularly and being able to run! Thanks to Molly, Jenny, and her parents for being hostess' with the mostest, taking great care of me and making sure I was doing alright!<br />
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Big thanks to my momma for putting up with me these last couple of weeks and making sure I was comfortable.<br />
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Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03754719314826604683noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4915165355732806255.post-65572028429095722442013-07-25T08:00:00.000-05:002013-07-26T11:31:30.188-05:00Tour de Midwest:: Stage 2After a quick weekend up north I had a short turn around before I was headed back to my alma mater to visit my grandmother. I had an opportunity to catch up with a few old friends before I headed to Kentucky to catch up with my cousin Amy and her roommate Kelly. It just so happens this leg of the trip would change my life. Kelly had taken her dog Bela for a walk when a stray followed them home. She returned the dog to its fenced in yard where she preceded escaping again. Fearful she would get hit by a car she brought the stray dog home and called the owner. The owner had taken her from a friend who was moving into a new place that did not except dogs. Long story short, her new owner was not a nice man and she came to live with us for a few days. During those couple of days she won our hearts and before I knew it she was packed up in the car with the rest of my belongings headed home to Champaign. Say hello to Miss Molly!!<br />
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Kelly and I ventured west to catch up with my auntie and uncle. We visited for a short while over bbq and black cobbler. My aunt's gardens are beautiful and we had the opportunity to harvest some lavender! Lavender is one of my favorite scents!!! I'll let the photos speak for themselves!<br />
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How could anyone pass up this brown eyed beauty?</div>
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<br />Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03754719314826604683noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4915165355732806255.post-55819596826390722302013-07-24T12:17:00.000-05:002013-07-24T12:17:37.757-05:00Tour De Midwest:: Stage 1The last few weeks have been filled with lots of traveling and I have duped it "Tour de Midwest". Before I headed out, I celebrated the 4th of July by relaxing by the pool with some friends and viewing the fireworks from downtown. The start of my Tour de Midwest began with a trip to Chicagoland to pick up my good friend Lauren so we could make our way up north for a Baby-Q of another good friend, Carly. The Baby-Q was a great way for old friends to celebrate such an exciting event and was also a way for us to catch up. The last time all of us were together was at Carly's wedding last spring. We all ohhh-ed & ahhh-ed over her sweet little bump!<br />
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We couldn't be more excited for Baby Wike to Make her appearance!!!! Congrats Carly + James!Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03754719314826604683noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4915165355732806255.post-10804343045933637672013-07-23T18:12:00.001-05:002013-07-23T18:12:38.812-05:00Dry Tri-Shark 2013I pledged to blog every day in May and clearly that did not occur. The last couple months have kept me very busy, honestly the last thing on my mind was keeping up with the blog. I signed up for my first triathlon in Bloomington at the beginning of June but had to withdraw due to a thrown out back. I was disappointed I wasn't able to partake in the fun but was able to go and support my friends who were participating. They all did extremely well and I am so proud of them!<br />
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Second Place Relay Team--Team Beat Matt Fraiser!!</div>
Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03754719314826604683noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4915165355732806255.post-56817640123291763012013-05-05T12:48:00.002-05:002013-05-05T12:48:20.042-05:00Admiration is a Form of FlatteryFeliz Cinco de Mayo!! Day 5 of the <a href="http://storyofmylifetheblog.blogspot.com/2013/04/blog-every-day-in-may-challenge.html" target="_blank">challenge</a> is to publicly profess your love for a blogger friend. I am a blog-read-aholic at times, there are few ladies I am always excited to read who I admire for their inspiration. I wouldn't say we are friends but they are strong, beautiful every day women and I look up to them. Be sure to stop by their blogs!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJtvS-jrr_0Ah9S3Vq_tf-8lO1BXEzPcyGjtc6tUoi4PvJYPr7VJ7qVSSQaCsnCiL6vHRFzUbqXevCADwZNboVXjyfWOOezgqnqdltb11Ya6QHlmMDtTAgGdbbQmcbjDC1DB-HX3plXXU/s1600/katie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJtvS-jrr_0Ah9S3Vq_tf-8lO1BXEzPcyGjtc6tUoi4PvJYPr7VJ7qVSSQaCsnCiL6vHRFzUbqXevCADwZNboVXjyfWOOezgqnqdltb11Ya6QHlmMDtTAgGdbbQmcbjDC1DB-HX3plXXU/s640/katie.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.runningonhappiness.com/" target="_blank">//Katie\\</a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1ZzdxhFsgjrUZfOGci7SMYRHtwGCPriav9R0hyphenhyphenMuJSEUx-61C6t-NJJIVk5r17vLl83Y814UHPPSYedZAX3XpuRIUj78QHJXG761Y58MFecRiyCdeZUf8miAVhib17XJ8SPws-_sgqeI/s1600/nicole.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1ZzdxhFsgjrUZfOGci7SMYRHtwGCPriav9R0hyphenhyphenMuJSEUx-61C6t-NJJIVk5r17vLl83Y814UHPPSYedZAX3XpuRIUj78QHJXG761Y58MFecRiyCdeZUf8miAVhib17XJ8SPws-_sgqeI/s640/nicole.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.lamiavitablog.com/" target="_blank">//Nicole\\</a></div>
Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03754719314826604683noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4915165355732806255.post-84804251755477664722013-05-05T12:13:00.000-05:002013-05-05T12:13:20.688-05:00Pinned the Tail on the DonkeyThe topic of day 4 of <a href="http://storyofmylifetheblog.blogspot.com/search?updated-max=2013-04-29T14:06:00-05:00&max-results=5" target="_blank">Blog Every Day in May</a> is name your favorite quote and what you love about it. I could go on and on about some of my favorite quotes so today I will share my favorite quote that applies to me right now. A few months ago I went to Barnes & Noble, I was searching for a photography book and wandered my way into the life coaching books. Usually I steer clear of this section, it sort of freaks me out but on this particular day I was soul searching. As I scanned the book shelves, a book title really stood out to me, <u><a href="http://www.cherylrichardson.com/store/stand-up-for-your-life-introduction/" target="_blank">Stand Up for Your Life</a>.</u> I picked it up, briefly flipping through the pages. I couldn't get enough. I had to sit down. I read a good part of it for over an hour. At the time I was having a lot doubts about what my purpose was, where my life was headed, was I using my talents to their best abilities. For the longest time I was trying to find a way to sum it up, figure out how I was feeling, and finding a way to describe it. It was then I came apron these words that the skies parted ways and I had an AHA moment:<br />
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Those 8 words provided me with a moment of relief and an overwhelming amount of emotion. I am still trying to wrap my head around those words. It's so true though, the weight of potential is enormous. SO many people have it but have no idea what to do with it, myself included. Until you find what it is your excel at and a way to use it, you bear the weight on your shoulders. Potential is only potential, it is such a blessing if you put it to work but until you do something with it, it is a complete waste. I have been blessed to have many different talents but I am not using them to my best of my abilities. I bear the weight of wasting them every day, selling myself short. I need to take a chance, a leap of faith and do what I know I was meant to do.</div>
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So there you have it. My favorite quote. My biggest fear.</div>
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Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03754719314826604683noreply@blogger.com1