tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-60611856797690362222024-03-18T03:01:54.109-04:00Carolina DwellingIt is what it is. A collection of entries about my house, my cooking, my ideas, my projects, my travels, my family, my parties and really anything else that seems interesting, all somewhere in Carolina.Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15521422247915228188noreply@blogger.comBlogger121125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6061185679769036222.post-67385400895138115472010-12-02T15:54:00.004-05:002010-12-02T18:21:10.338-05:00Send. (50 Christmas Cards from Shutterfly)<div style="text-align: left;">My family did Christmas card erratically growing up, probably because I usually remember one of the three of us girls in tears before, during or after the “photo shoot.”</div><div><br />I do however love getting cards during the holidays. It is one of the few times a year I hope for something more that a bill in the mailbox. Last year I hung each card with a small ornament on the garland running up our stair case banister. I have also started bundling, then keeping cards by year incase I ever get a free moment to go back and take a look at who sent what over the years.<br /><br />I finally convinced J do get on board with producing our own Christmas card last year (in our 5th year of marriage). He came up with a creative picture plan, which was actually his idea. I think largely due to the compliment he received on his creativity and wit, I got him on board again for a 2010 Christmas card. Which is a great thing because of what <a href="http://www.blogger.com/www.shutterfly.com">Shutterfly</a> is offering to bloggers this year.<br /><br />I do most of my photo storage, picture printing and photobooks from <a href="http://www.blogger.com/www.shutterfly.com">Shutterfly</a>, I also recently ordered s few <a href="http://www.shutterfly.com/cards-stationery/thank-you-cards">personalized Thank You cards</a> with my name at the top (very trendy designs I might add). I have always been impressed by the quality and clarity of pics, projects, and price. So when the offered up 50 free cards to bloggers I jumped into looking at <a href="http://www.shutterfly.com/cards-stationery/christmas-photo-cards">these format</a>s (803 to be exact) for our 2010 card. I’m not sure what we will choose this year, but I am a big fan of some of these formats.</div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoavfxW8DUS5FS8uIJrYVN13zNqjGu0DLFLA-DXhD796cmGgyInl1QuRvZ110e2Zfo9mpPLlAHQJKhWxEhJVkCRxV7pe_QirFbdRNlECom_fgTxVeY9AHsg4ixGCWcUkYiU6FMky4GmEhq/s320/STATIONERYCARD_5x5-31046-2935-MERCHLARGE_FRONT-v1288741736000116313.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5546228609085633522" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 320px; " /></span></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#0000EE;"><br /></span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "></span><br /><a href="http://www.shutterfly.com/cards-stationery/cards-stationery/merry-blossoms-christmas-card?sortType=1&storeNode=93476">Merry Blossoms</a></div><div><a href="http://www.shutterfly.com/cards-stationery/cards-stationery/merry-blossoms-christmas-card?sortType=1&storeNode=93476"></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggHKpfeTG_vd0FDNr6FF9wKbo51xxMc1A4tDmZPefJgGNKZyjG6UNUAaPEeJazxPY0TQLd8o7QNyhyY9GvYsFJqk5kcdggxqQRelGqLue4XhDuvmO2pHmJl47DYWyJ0wW9v7vNPrCUKJR5/s320/STATIONERYCARD_5x5-31046-2561-MERCHLARGE_FRONT-v128103163500099587.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5546227843611638034" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 320px; " /></span></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#0000EE;"><br /></span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "></span><a href="http://www.shutterfly.com/cards-stationery/cards-stationery/modern-merry-squares-christmas-card?sortType=1&storeNode=93476">Modern Merry Squares</a></div><div><a href="http://www.shutterfly.com/cards-stationery/cards-stationery/modern-merry-squares-christmas-card?sortType=1&storeNode=93476"></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNrCJenkNORXIpJY6AnTotf71h-yf2ejnpQbhA0wKG-g4WLAEaT2yIf4clU_fRmWKs3s5UvK1IntjT3C0DgFu5fo4GWp9cQm3l3Huveks3GVtITykwVSOmNM8CDnEsp3E74mc4tPW7CVCG/s320/STATIONERYCARD_5x5-31046-2530-MERCHLARGE_FRONT-v1281031552000132680.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5546227833035605234" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 320px; " /></span></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#0000EE;"><br /></span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "></span><a href="http://www.shutterfly.com/cards-stationery/cards-stationery/merry-merry-swirl-christmas-card">Merry Merry Swirl</a></div><div><a href="http://www.shutterfly.com/cards-stationery/cards-stationery/merry-merry-swirl-christmas-card"></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgI045RY9BgHSfLSHkZsuv7uORLylSGSLX6Xaz17fR-Yx6_DlHB9Ruh5BGytpmP3b6DxAyf6bXQL8NSCuEYlrbi8-OXP2UmiRTvZuOR7k3IxfNE3kdiUlwVh_-w525AyGAXCGzA72KtPb9/s320/STATIONERYCARD_5x5-31046-2314-MERCHLARGE_FRONT-v1281031461000175101.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5546227824807208978" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 320px; " /></span></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#0000EE;"><br /></span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "></span><a href="http://www.shutterfly.com/cards-stationery/cards-stationery/charming-dotted-ribbon-christmas-card">Charming Dotted Ribbon</a><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVj6Kpxmq2RRHESB1rmFFcrl-aawi2ZQSpn-hqfJseU0I7euUawyHk_Usl3BoVshs_PqOzUXdWRBQTh36jqfvGXcQmL7i43wB-2uxwo_zvTWWORL7fPi0cHrnmXE0Ry3ulyQWo6msh2JT1/s320/PHOTOCARD-103-4290-MERCHLARGE_FRONT-v1282092146000112108.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5546227830176069970" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 230px; " /></span><a href="http://www.shutterfly.com/cards-stationery/cards-stationery/traditional-damask-red-christmas-5x7-photo-card-5x7-photo"></a></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><br /></span></div><div><a href="http://www.shutterfly.com/cards-stationery/cards-stationery/traditional-damask-red-christmas-5x7-photo-card-5x7-photo">Traditional Damask Red</a><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHBfdux1JZ7JGw4u7uRdpHwuOGnFrMPZqNuFgP5GNIkciUOUXtu9FbRVNwRtT5JcjQspbqeZDYPGbL5TPmwdCKOztkWrYi894X2R888lNUcaEsblfr8RKOiqDwH6M4nKKHGgrospIaTI_p/s320/STATIONERYCARD_FOLDED_5x7-27107-2769-MERCHTHUMB-v128096290900016664.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5546227846560751442" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 164px; height: 118px; " /></span><a href="http://www.shutterfly.com/cards-stationery/cards-stationery/vintage-village-holiday-5x7-folded-card?fg=64&sortType=1&storeNode=93476"></a></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><br /></span></div><div><a href="http://www.shutterfly.com/cards-stationery/cards-stationery/vintage-village-holiday-5x7-folded-card?fg=64&sortType=1&storeNode=93476">Vintage Village</a><br /><br />I could go on but seriously I’m running out of room here. I also think there are several <a href="p://www.shutterfly.com/cards-stationery/holiday-cards">here</a> that could sent well into the New Year if you just can’t fit it in before Dec. 25th.<br /><br />P.S. SP there is also a <a href="http://www.shutterfly.com/cards-stationery/cards-stationery/christmas-letter-christmas-card-5x7-flat">Letter Card on Shutterfly </a>that lets you combine a short update with a photo card.<br /><br />P.S.S If you are interested in taking advantage of the 50 cards check out the notice the <a href="http://blog.shutterfly.com/5358/holiday2010-blog-submission-form/">Shutterfly posted here</a> and get started. </div>Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15521422247915228188noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6061185679769036222.post-47852484614074545462010-11-29T09:24:00.002-05:002010-11-29T09:45:51.110-05:00Eat.We still have several pounds of turkey left over from Thursday, but after last night's dinner the fridge is a bit lighter. I made turkey paninis, quick and easy.<br /><br />Two slices of bread (anything would probably due, just make sure it can with stand panini pressing)<br />Cream cheese, though I may use white cheddar next time<br />Rubbed sage<br />Turkey leftovers<br />Cranberry sauce leftovers<br /><br />Butter one side of the bread and spread cream cheese or cheese slices over the other side. Place buttered side down in grill pan lightly sprayed with olive oil. Spoon cranberry sauce on top of cheese then add turkey slices. Lightly spread second slice of bread with cheese and then top the sandwich. <br /><br />Since I was not using a panini press, I placed a heavy pan weighted with cans to smush (yes, technicaly term) the sandwiches. As they began to make grill marks on the bottom and melt the cheese I flipped the sandwich for a few minutes to toast the second side.<br /><br />Thats it!Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15521422247915228188noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6061185679769036222.post-11809223401944950682010-11-27T08:47:00.003-05:002010-11-27T09:16:31.289-05:00Eat.This was the theme of the weeks as I hosted Thanksgiving for the first time atour house. All went well and all together it was really not as stressful as some make it out to be. Here are a few things that I think made it easy.<div>1)Shop gradually. I generally knew what out menu would be and what I would need. It meant that I could take advantage of sale items (think turkey for $.39 per lb) when I saw them and shop at a variety of places for what I needed (BJ's, Trader Joe's, HT) just on regular errands during the month.</div><div>2) Stash the non perishable Turkey Day goods out of your kitchen as you stock up. My mom always did this and I never really understood why, but it makes it easy to see what you have and what you are missing and ensures that nothing gets used between the time its purchased and the big day. </div><div>3)Prep as much as you can as early as you can. I am not advocating cooking/freezing things weeks ahead and using the microwave, but consider what can be completed or partially prepped a day or two before. By the time I hit the sack Wednesday night the table was set, mydesserts were complete, cranberry chutney in the fridge, and sweet potatoes ready for marshmellows then the oven. Before my family arrived, well before our meal time the rest of my veggies were ready for the oven and potatoes diced and waiting on water.</div><div>4)I was a tad worried about everything being ready at the same time, something I am not great at the other 364 days out of the year, especially with a 22lb turkey taking up most of the oven. This is what worked for me. All of our side dishes were ready for the oven when the turkey came out to rest. By the time the bird was ready for carving the dishes were also ready for the table. Hopefully it works that well next time:)</div><div style="text-align: center;"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 152px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjl6UZBWwDgNx__oonsbSMlgbh8f3WtHUBRky7woKfDxzBCDyWeLfOcZx2r7ik7JYDAHrBSTOYV4LOaQenpCwVFbHAF8J5PPrpxcHu0VUQuxoLuiXagejbqf5xwm-0XRQCxzIJCfdiXW_9D/s200/149055_464282384219_668914219_5889617_8132532_n.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5544232715883940802" /></div><div style="text-align: center;">I promise I am not a confused as I look. Now what to do with the 15 or so lbs of turkey left in my fridge.</div><div><br /></div>Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15521422247915228188noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6061185679769036222.post-21361128381155257662010-11-23T09:00:00.004-05:002010-11-23T09:58:32.606-05:00Live.Humm, its been a while, but I do have an excuse.<br /><br />So shortly after we returned from this...<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKgSLtCXVJlv4BQw7GtKhPnICH_RH7ExksLgOaCIoRfKY-IvSNYfxy5r5dOolqeRQhBCK9_-DKboTBqPxr1oVgtjXmTmu7ZiN0b174GOPS-WCejac01hFgMjvsSq1cFOX6VS2M1srwosGT/s1600/untitled.bmp"><img style="WIDTH: 200px; HEIGHT: 112px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5542746984507058674" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKgSLtCXVJlv4BQw7GtKhPnICH_RH7ExksLgOaCIoRfKY-IvSNYfxy5r5dOolqeRQhBCK9_-DKboTBqPxr1oVgtjXmTmu7ZiN0b174GOPS-WCejac01hFgMjvsSq1cFOX6VS2M1srwosGT/s200/untitled.bmp" /></a><br /><br /><br />(An amazing 7 days in the San Fran/Sonoma Wine County area).<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />We found out we needed to start reading this...<br /><a href="http://www.my-family-fun.com/pictures/parents-magazine-infant-1.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 360px; HEIGHT: 480px; CURSOR: hand" border="0" alt="" src="http://www.my-family-fun.com/pictures/parents-magazine-infant-1.jpg" /></a>.<br /><br /><br />So the last several months, you see, have been dedicated to sleep (while I can), and strollers searching (not to mention car seats, bottles).Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15521422247915228188noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6061185679769036222.post-18115002451008580532010-07-08T11:04:00.003-04:002010-07-08T11:12:16.735-04:00Read.Need a good beach read?<br /><p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixiqvvG8okm3VBipqms_aDX4n0U2SQ-sOPDSscUKY2nc3pXRbukLwL3wL4bQkr4rzveBfhhzqBjK3_s5IQFK3kOpdFXvbnXPbel-NzQvxXp_0qyRYGt5wUcow-7bGUrT8FvVON2FZ3YSi3/s1600/Castaways_1681X2544.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 130px; HEIGHT: 200px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5491552508609162626" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixiqvvG8okm3VBipqms_aDX4n0U2SQ-sOPDSscUKY2nc3pXRbukLwL3wL4bQkr4rzveBfhhzqBjK3_s5IQFK3kOpdFXvbnXPbel-NzQvxXp_0qyRYGt5wUcow-7bGUrT8FvVON2FZ3YSi3/s200/Castaways_1681X2544.jpg" /></a></p><div><br /></div><div align="center">The Castaways by <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">Elin</span> <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">Hilderbrand</span>.</div><div><br /></div><div align="center"></div><div><br /></div><div align="left">Or maybe something a little more thought provoking (and a little creepy)?</div><p align="center"><a href="http://kennebunkfreelibrary.files.wordpress.com/2009/10/her-fearful-symmetry.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 330px; HEIGHT: 500px; CURSOR: hand" border="0" alt="" src="http://kennebunkfreelibrary.files.wordpress.com/2009/10/her-fearful-symmetry.jpg" /></a></p><div align="center">Her Fearful Symmetry by Audrey <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-error">Niffenegger</span><br /></div><div><br /></div><div></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div></div><div><br /></div><div><br /><br /></div><div><br /></div><div></div>Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15521422247915228188noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6061185679769036222.post-32790764098933766302010-06-24T09:01:00.003-04:002010-06-24T09:19:06.061-04:00See.California, at least we will towards the end of the summer.<br /><br /><div><div>We have a trip planned later this summer to spend some time in San Francisco and <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">Sonoma</span> County and after much stalking of plane tickets and emailing of lodging rentals, I am happy to report that we have booked a late afternoon flight west followed by a night in the city, 4 nights is a cute cottage near <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">Sonoma</span> and a one night stay in a B&B a little farther north all before heading back to reality a week later.</div><div><br /></div><p align="center"><a href="http://slowmuse.files.wordpress.com/2009/10/image.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 443px; HEIGHT: 344px; CURSOR: hand" border="0" alt="" src="http://slowmuse.files.wordpress.com/2009/10/image.jpg" /></a></p><p align="center"><a href="http://images.frontdoor.com/FDOOR/0-City-Pages/Sonoma/Sonoma-Country-2619.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 852px; HEIGHT: 563px; CURSOR: hand" border="0" alt="" src="http://images.frontdoor.com/FDOOR/0-City-Pages/Sonoma/Sonoma-Country-2619.jpg" /></a></p><div>As the designated trip planner I am feverishly gathering all I can about the must see places (read wineries) to visit (read drink) and a few things to keep us busy in San <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">Francisco</span> as well. Suggestions welcome.</div><div> </div><div>We are again planning to travel with companions, my sister is one of them, though I am sad to say not the ones we started thinking about this trip with:(You know who you are and we will totally miss you).</div></div>Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15521422247915228188noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6061185679769036222.post-18362102881928277032010-06-21T13:43:00.000-04:002010-06-21T14:28:03.724-04:00Eat.Homemade peach ice cream.<br /><div><div> </div><div>JC swipped my parents old icecream maker when we were home for Father's Day and promptly put it to use.</div><div> </div><div>It took a little trial and error to get it churing, but I no time at all we were enjoying the fruits of his labor. And I each time he fiddled around with the machine to keep it moving couldn't help being transported back to about age 8, sitting on our back deck with my dad doing the same thing. </div><div> </div></div><div><p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnEu61eit3d9DSNavapL9i_wcYb2rh6Vd4pYz_GbO1yzaLCz86EmhfJx4JY6uDm4PaSYhlKUcmQpJBIqNemIfvAiEwBOveaxYpFgncOnkF8zUq9V-U-QnaA7ooRftmvG7juLe1aVJGZuyO/s1600/IMG_0002.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 240px; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5485293666124375650" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnEu61eit3d9DSNavapL9i_wcYb2rh6Vd4pYz_GbO1yzaLCz86EmhfJx4JY6uDm4PaSYhlKUcmQpJBIqNemIfvAiEwBOveaxYpFgncOnkF8zUq9V-U-QnaA7ooRftmvG7juLe1aVJGZuyO/s320/IMG_0002.JPG" /></a></p><div><br /></div><p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTzQ_LyhNgpPR0o6ojBRmvyuxC7TbhFI-VmpQXXpAaC9I1n5ITIbafPyWuNJrriYu3te8xyzcqBnfDQxHcELnAPuCmPYtNwNby-PSl5jVr-FjGgWwIakTcFIQmpQ_LK-jspGw81JxvLuPp/s1600/IMG_0004.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 240px; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5485293655587484306" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTzQ_LyhNgpPR0o6ojBRmvyuxC7TbhFI-VmpQXXpAaC9I1n5ITIbafPyWuNJrriYu3te8xyzcqBnfDQxHcELnAPuCmPYtNwNby-PSl5jVr-FjGgWwIakTcFIQmpQ_LK-jspGw81JxvLuPp/s320/IMG_0004.JPG" /></a></p><div>We spent the rest of last night trying to figure out more flavor combos for next time.</div></div>Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15521422247915228188noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6061185679769036222.post-54837122000296877572010-06-19T11:04:00.001-04:002010-06-19T11:04:00.209-04:00Do.Something I really need to be doing is getting back focused on the inside of our house. As Spring (and now summer) came we have spend most of our time and work (with the exception of one major cleaning spree) out of the house leaving several unfinished parts of certain rooms. <div><div><br />The first thing that I have to find the time to work on is our family room. After this inspiration picture a few months ago I rearranged our furniture which involved moving our kitchen table into the family room as a side table. And yes this means I am on the hunt for a kitchen table.</div><div><br /></div><p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSU67cn43eAXfmQmFLmAXhntNTIgR2HU9pPzPM5fYVzu3w6aKPE77nsLRPrld5JdTGbf4IzStoKV0tdG8LJsg_9LrUDlrFoqnLktDwjzXtax4TgHRnrFqew6AmIuWHc1cHzRaHoBNBOMXv/s1600/family-room-l%5B1%5D.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5481543386468071058" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSU67cn43eAXfmQmFLmAXhntNTIgR2HU9pPzPM5fYVzu3w6aKPE77nsLRPrld5JdTGbf4IzStoKV0tdG8LJsg_9LrUDlrFoqnLktDwjzXtax4TgHRnrFqew6AmIuWHc1cHzRaHoBNBOMXv/s400/family-room-l%5B1%5D.jpg" /></a></p><div align="center"> <span style="font-size:78%;">From <a href="http://blog.urbangrace.com/">Urban Grace Interiors</a>/<a href="http://www.blogger.com/www.southernliving.com">Southern Living<br /></a></span><br /></div><div>Which left a blank wall at our stairs, so I decided to shoot for this look (top left pic).</div><div><br /></div><p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZn64pGg1sBxab3M6kJgBFL2IRERPs4qd28wLj2rgxJc1Yft5WH3PNfej-slPQzd1ThaMorUDGcau3bO2zy4RN1OaA4C5E2MWoT0og2JsUBETZGr7BI3q_vM2zeJ5CbtX-FvxUdan6Upq8/s1600/urbangrace1+003_thumb%5B11%5D%5B1%5D.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 255px; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5484108699388515858" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZn64pGg1sBxab3M6kJgBFL2IRERPs4qd28wLj2rgxJc1Yft5WH3PNfej-slPQzd1ThaMorUDGcau3bO2zy4RN1OaA4C5E2MWoT0og2JsUBETZGr7BI3q_vM2zeJ5CbtX-FvxUdan6Upq8/s320/urbangrace1+003_thumb%5B11%5D%5B1%5D.jpg" /></a></p><div align="center"><span style="font-size:78%;">From <a href="http://blog.urbangrace.com/">Urban Grace Interiors</a>/<a href="http://www.blogger.com/www.southernliving.com">Southern Living</a></span></div><div><br /></div><div>My DIY version of this table couldn't get close to the lines I wanted with the skit and its right in front of our air conditioning vent so the whole think sucks in when the air comes back on. Our <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">HVAC</span> friend also did not give my table very good reviews for <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">HVAC</span> <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">efficientcy</span>.</div><div><br /></div><p align="left">So back to square one. I think I need to find a sofa or occasional table that I like and go from there. Something like this. I still love the gallery wall, but maybe now with black and white family pics in stead of just prints.</p><p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6fA_IbVHtnszvybUiLoOawFGLhpzD6kpJ0Cja54OzNtHzkeO63ynXNqJAWaRSzK1woyKbzvA4FYjwMvuuVWXYkJfki3NTcCEpUpVrZAmviRmJ4BeoiGdcCqgqv530VzNk0ny6m3QQAT5p/s1600/Samantha+Pynn+photo+by+Virginia+Macdonald%5B1%5D.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 291px; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5481543390609737522" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6fA_IbVHtnszvybUiLoOawFGLhpzD6kpJ0Cja54OzNtHzkeO63ynXNqJAWaRSzK1woyKbzvA4FYjwMvuuVWXYkJfki3NTcCEpUpVrZAmviRmJ4BeoiGdcCqgqv530VzNk0ny6m3QQAT5p/s400/Samantha+Pynn+photo+by+Virginia+Macdonald%5B1%5D.jpg" /></a></p><div align="center"> <span style="font-family:arial;font-size:78%;">From </span><a href="http://www.samanthapynn.com/"><span style="font-family:arial;font-size:78%;">Samantha <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-error">Pynn</span></span></a><br /></div></div>Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15521422247915228188noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6061185679769036222.post-40515030288312845412010-06-18T09:25:00.005-04:002010-06-18T09:33:06.918-04:00Buy.Apparently <a href="http://www.blogger.com/www.talbots.com"><span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">Talbots</span></a> is cool again...<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBxlnBkXow9KWHOP00wDYlqvZ7gXXeqABxWnrDJ9iFiN1q2_tXL0p7ou7JAfF_SLHiQWfK-WYuNljw2zblPYUz3Y56ipGKO7ZNI3neahOHbpSUNlj94X2Jv3i0TH2vk_vLDZ1AewmnaOPC/s1600/Talbots1%5B1%5D.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 320px; HEIGHT: 218px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5484105192951608962" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBxlnBkXow9KWHOP00wDYlqvZ7gXXeqABxWnrDJ9iFiN1q2_tXL0p7ou7JAfF_SLHiQWfK-WYuNljw2zblPYUz3Y56ipGKO7ZNI3neahOHbpSUNlj94X2Jv3i0TH2vk_vLDZ1AewmnaOPC/s320/Talbots1%5B1%5D.jpg" /></a><br /><div><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSkpzhDNIvh33OTzY62ycwwuAvw9M5dfiH-z1B2foPfndDcidCWwhdc-dJBIIaK8vzFwpnQU8M3x6kmJB7_hvOLbETgHuY_S1jFfdFbyb5F16Tof0HBnkjsAEzu_rTHJBCo6s6hddyDVN-/s1600/Talbots%5B1%5D.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 320px; HEIGHT: 221px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5484104547700835298" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSkpzhDNIvh33OTzY62ycwwuAvw9M5dfiH-z1B2foPfndDcidCWwhdc-dJBIIaK8vzFwpnQU8M3x6kmJB7_hvOLbETgHuY_S1jFfdFbyb5F16Tof0HBnkjsAEzu_rTHJBCo6s6hddyDVN-/s320/Talbots%5B1%5D.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX7WaQLg1b06Y_1K364fK3yH0KLAudUMdQUL62J7_0XQfhalP4SEGi0FDWXdpnULGAWjEP-GElnPASpMIYjjDqFKeDTDLVpgW0oJswRVx-bxbKwbbAtr5zpUTPorjnjzkEmA5ZGBvlBdVc/s1600/Talbots3%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 320px; HEIGHT: 218px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5484104540168468930" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX7WaQLg1b06Y_1K364fK3yH0KLAudUMdQUL62J7_0XQfhalP4SEGi0FDWXdpnULGAWjEP-GElnPASpMIYjjDqFKeDTDLVpgW0oJswRVx-bxbKwbbAtr5zpUTPorjnjzkEmA5ZGBvlBdVc/s320/Talbots3%5B2%5D.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpldUDIoEi6BwBNHEzK4tKECkYN3blnlJvqcMLgxEVV5NX-QiVjxyyELDoH2NVKqctftld5_q9Uvt64Radbg5z0OuZ4hBsnKJ9ybl7bTnA4MnzWN5PHxXCyu9jBvtvkbgEktoHf36my4xx/s1600/Talbots2%5B1%5D.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 320px; HEIGHT: 218px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5484104532700312130" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpldUDIoEi6BwBNHEzK4tKECkYN3blnlJvqcMLgxEVV5NX-QiVjxyyELDoH2NVKqctftld5_q9Uvt64Radbg5z0OuZ4hBsnKJ9ybl7bTnA4MnzWN5PHxXCyu9jBvtvkbgEktoHf36my4xx/s320/Talbots2%5B1%5D.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><br />Or I am getting old.</div><div> </div><div><span style="font-size:78%;">Images from <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">Talbots</span> June Style Book.<br /></span></div><div></div></div></div></div>Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15521422247915228188noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6061185679769036222.post-47659364815413676872010-06-15T10:38:00.005-04:002010-06-15T11:40:25.157-04:00Live.The summer issue of the online mag <a href="http://southernflourish.com/">Southern Flourish </a>is out today (which I have posted about <a href="http://carolinadwelling.blogspot.com/2010/03/southern-flourish.html">before</a>). I only clicked through a few pages before I was being inspired by quotes and scribbling notes from ads and articles. A few <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">pieces</span> of advice that resonated as I read through the articles (which are all great).<br /><p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTB4WLLaVwyGlYBICWS3kG3_lBXw387NxAq8_ZCseydmuaFvBB4I8kaAUnVBs7bZ5Y4twCejL1z3E3yGU0s7UJsIXlHmBcu5bZawD9UcWwFHay4mxDvm8-M7x7fhBuC4glSYRrmdc3cF6s/s1600/Summer2010Cover_Web%5B1%5D.png"><img style="WIDTH: 190px; HEIGHT: 247px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5483024858675530322" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTB4WLLaVwyGlYBICWS3kG3_lBXw387NxAq8_ZCseydmuaFvBB4I8kaAUnVBs7bZ5Y4twCejL1z3E3yGU0s7UJsIXlHmBcu5bZawD9UcWwFHay4mxDvm8-M7x7fhBuC4glSYRrmdc3cF6s/s320/Summer2010Cover_Web%5B1%5D.png" /></a></p><em>Be really aware of when you feel great. Your compass for your life is your feelings. If you are doing something that really brings joy into your life take note of that."</em> -Carrie McCarthy, interviewed for "What's your statement?" The article <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">highlights</span> her <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">endeavor</span> to help people find their "Style Statement," a two word <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">statement</span> that defines your authentic self. Now I am wondering what my style statement is?<br /><br /><em>"It was so liberating to answer the questions based on dreams rather than budgets. I think we all live trapped by what we <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_4" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">perceive</span> is within reach."</em> -Lesley Graham, Typically Southern Section Editor for Southern Flourish after discovering "Timeless <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_5" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">Bohemian</span>," her Style Statement. <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_6" class="blsp-spelling-error">Umm</span> yeah...<br /><br /><em>"Just like people, it seems that rooms naturally evolve over time."</em> -Paloma Contreras, La <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_7" class="blsp-spelling-error">Dolce</span> Vita on sharing her favorite room. I like this, it makes your home seem more organic and reminds me is OK to constantly want to rearrange our furniture.Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15521422247915228188noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6061185679769036222.post-56903437421441914302010-06-13T15:54:00.000-04:002010-06-13T15:54:00.689-04:00Read.This blog I stumbled upon is truely beautiful whether you are a mom, have a mom or just think you might want to be a mom someday.<br /><br /><p align="center"><a href="http://www.prudentadviceformybabydaughter.com/"><img style="WIDTH: 400px; HEIGHT: 137px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5481531600190585234" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBlcrQabLCKDMIeHqvoclDAMQlvth9I6gLEVBkbAu8xwqq1jSG7SBL4-pOwVTY2xUshIaR0qsFt4cJBtAGXO2kPWj-QvQKjUjk1n_ac2k_stxh2iw5oQZL1VGe9sYyEQFPzMrGjI1VELM4/s400/PrudentAdviceHeader012710.png" /></a></p><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2yOKgdeaHDu0ifOJi43MlMjDbXDfrDojx2nJWvG_4VbzYn8VtinL6nNbYdT8YFUZiv2n0NGh2EmEieBzC9vb_yFr-LjeFOKLVFWaFBhqwMzbcNJOh_a9jsCscJHT3GDGFdMbqzg2KOrb8/s1600/PrudentAdviceHeader012710.png"></a></p>Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15521422247915228188noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6061185679769036222.post-30520293773823229462010-06-11T09:53:00.000-04:002010-06-11T09:53:00.317-04:00Buy.I was on the hunt for comfortable and cute pants for a plane ride to and from the West Coast this summer and found the J. Crew Minnie Pant. I am still not sure they meet my comfort factor for a 6 hour overnight flight home, but very cute for work or weekend Spring to Fall. <div><a href="http://preppywhale.net/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/minniepant2.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 404px; HEIGHT: 402px; CURSOR: hand" border="0" alt="" src="http://preppywhale.net/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/minniepant2.jpg" /></a></div>Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15521422247915228188noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6061185679769036222.post-84424903370677918052010-06-10T09:44:00.001-04:002010-06-10T09:44:00.609-04:00Read.I did not like Harry Potter (gasp) and barely made it through the first Twilight book (only because it was book club selection), but this vampire novel has me a wee bit interested.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGV_eXXw4hPjX3IGM04bK4mseZptmSc8ienRC4Gkkx2ktywwnBAeUY4TMhPyswx_EnUxxMFjqz3IH7lexnvz1xz5FovyjYxmC7CaqYvpAGob4uj2CD5g0YvkrodS-GsP5FPZKtvaMCwInt/s400/Blood+Oath.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 265px; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGV_eXXw4hPjX3IGM04bK4mseZptmSc8ienRC4Gkkx2ktywwnBAeUY4TMhPyswx_EnUxxMFjqz3IH7lexnvz1xz5FovyjYxmC7CaqYvpAGob4uj2CD5g0YvkrodS-GsP5FPZKtvaMCwInt/s400/Blood+Oath.jpg" /></a><br /><br />Read a full summary from <a href="http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=127540813&ft=3&f=1008,1045,1047,1048,1137,1141">this NPR story</a>, but basically it sounds like 400 pages of True Blood, meets historical fiction, meets Tom Clancy.Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15521422247915228188noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6061185679769036222.post-17436248260907203062010-06-09T15:21:00.000-04:002010-06-09T15:21:00.479-04:00Tell.I interrupt regularly scheduled posting to share another Carly escapade.<div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhduZYBQW2kRdrHDi48qAIuN1LIbnEm4euQ-c2DPxG7Far_GHrEOEDOuQaXEJnVvs2orXIDTz86XBfTbp2pkgBVj53Frbe1lbtynwOnpxninjXtdmj3YAGVDNpDqOgtsWVR_4XoxgGMM83E/s200/IMG_3186.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5480516942199847122" /></div><div>J left her as usual on her ottoman with her morning treat. When I got home she was no where to be found. Scary since she normally at least looks up from the couch when you walk in the door. Until I noticed our master bathroom door was shut. There she was locked in the bathroom. I have no idea for how long--though it was long enough to dig all of our dirty clothes out of the closet and make a dog bed.</div><div><br /></div><div>As for the picture--yes our dog is wearing slippers, got to keep things fun.</div><div><br /></div>Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15521422247915228188noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6061185679769036222.post-56508981100471645302010-06-08T11:29:00.005-04:002010-06-08T17:21:34.571-04:00Eat.<div>Well not eat, but last weekend we did drink lots of wine at a local wine festival, featureing mostly local vineyards. Since felt like it was about 100 degrees outside it was a little hard to enjoy the reds, and some of my favorites (oddly enough) were the fruity wines. My own awards from the show:</div><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold; ">Most Creative Flavor:</span><br /><br />Hummingbird Wine from <a href="http://www.southerncharmwinery.com/">Southern Charm Winery</a><br /><br /><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 114px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZXmYUoW-vUfSEN9H3ITyRroUnuByj8C3x19ZnJhZlJxabvSjM1-XI_-2u-kx9klqOBkSuivrfhzO281fzVJcr1IIYWD1LPYBh9XQJznPaKroZPMYyrGk9VplaXITZgw_Y50w_j2JEXSK1/s200/scw-logo-black2.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5480515557767578290" /><br /><div><br /></div><div>"A sweet wine (very) made with honeydew, kiwi and <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">juicy</span> melon flavors. It's the perfect way to enjoy those summer sunsets."</div><br />Notes: It's crazy to think you actually drinking wine and all of the fruit flavors are very present. Unique and memorable. <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">Definitely</span> a summer patio wine for sharing, a whole bottle may make you feel like you have eaten and entire bag of jolly ranchers.<br /><br /><div> </div><div><strong>Up-and-coming wine/grape to watch:</strong></div><br /><div> </div><div>Euphoria from Skull Camp Wine/Round Peak Vineyards </div><div><br /></div><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 144px; height: 96px;" src="https://www.roundpeak.com/review/img/skull-camp-wines.gif" border="0" alt="" /><div><br /><div> </div><div>"It's what comes after anitticipation. Slightly sweeter white wine with grapefruit and pear aromas."</div><br /><div> </div><div>Notes: This is a light blend apparently using the Traminette grape, which is new to me but something I will be on the lookout for (we had another Traminette wine at the festival).</div><br /><div> </div><div><strong>Now planning tasting trip to:</strong> </div><br /><div> </div><div><a href="http://www.uwharriemountainswinetrail.com/">Uwharrie Mountains Wine Trail</a> to visit <a href="http://www.osvwinery.com/">Old Stone Vineyards</a>, <a href="http://www.uwharrievineyards.com/">Uwharrie Vineyards</a>, <a href="http://www.dennisvineyards.com/">Dennis Vineyards</a> and <a href="http://www.stonymountainvineyards.com/">Stony Mountain Vineyards</a>.</div><br /><div> </div><div>We had a great taste of what was to come.</div><div> </div></div>Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15521422247915228188noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6061185679769036222.post-75166966933730468162010-06-07T09:06:00.000-04:002010-06-07T09:16:50.822-04:00Do.I think you should treat yourself by bringing fresh flowers into your office at work.<br /><p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDpYcY5HOrJb5bqht1VwJT8kltdsePidw6waxIkJcdjHzjssHT77U1wMXuTyjnapIRxPlCx0LK9Uktfbux7V90NwoLxH3hYtlVQuAzhCRJAZt9L7nPviEsZZbRXQficMSJbztrzgKy09uQ/s1600/IMG_0303.JPG"><img style="WIDTH: 150px; HEIGHT: 200px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5480019091766795186" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDpYcY5HOrJb5bqht1VwJT8kltdsePidw6waxIkJcdjHzjssHT77U1wMXuTyjnapIRxPlCx0LK9Uktfbux7V90NwoLxH3hYtlVQuAzhCRJAZt9L7nPviEsZZbRXQficMSJbztrzgKy09uQ/s200/IMG_0303.JPG" /></a></p>Today I have one single hydrangea snipped from our bush at home as I left this morning.<br /><br />Seriously it will make your work day much happier:)Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15521422247915228188noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6061185679769036222.post-51269578955573788132010-06-04T07:04:00.000-04:002010-06-04T11:50:30.806-04:00Do.Our city is <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">beginning</span> an expanded recycling program this July. We do a lot in our house to be more green, but it got me thinking how much more we can (<span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">easily</span>) do. <div></div><div>I hope that by the time the program (with our much bigger bin) starts in July we will be taking out more recycling than trash. Here is how:</div><div></div><div>1)With mailer about the new program I realized that we can recycle more things so with the program expansion (juice cartons-<span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-error">yay</span>!) and some because I never really looked at the original list (junk mail). </div><div></div><div>PS The fact that the program was announced via mailer, that then became junk mail was not lost on me, but at least I now knew it could be recycled.</div><div></div><div>2)Compost. I made a bin using <a href="http://www.younghouselove.com/2008/08/younghouselovedotcompost/"><span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-error">YHL's</span> instructions</a>. But here is another hint: I keep a plastic dog treat container in the freezer to collect scraps so I am not making daily trips out to the bin. By keeping it in the freezer the smell is contained.</div><div></div><div>3)Paper products. I try not to use them. When we sit down for dinner we use casual cloth napkins and I go to rags before paper towels for clean up. I will admit to falling in love with the disposable wipes for counter clean up, but Clorox <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_4" class="blsp-spelling-error">Greenworks</span> are <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_5" class="blsp-spelling-error">compostable</span>. </div><div></div><div>Other clever reuse ideas saving even recyclable items from the curb.: If you find yourself with a plastic, disposable water bottle fill it back up and freeze it at as cooler ice pack. It won't leak like ice, its reusable and if it gets lost no worries. Use old newspapers as a <a href="http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/602171/how_to_recycle_newspapers_for_a_weed.html">weed barrier</a>. </div><div></div><div></div>Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15521422247915228188noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6061185679769036222.post-3195572979993630842010-05-29T10:53:00.001-04:002010-05-29T10:53:00.330-04:00Buy.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-zMOtcVRKzxd_-haAiYQ3c5SNXXcnri1G3VEXAw3M2KGXug4L-_aDpnL2z-_1Gs8ASrRloJSH7U76G7TzWINmw5g_EI_xoP6iYJmiTOhKEAgVunfObpDAjEZkoGBzb8lsiNvEYeAYG4Fc/s1600/popup_hannah_cal_12.jpg"></a> I don't even want to wait until 2011. To bad I have graduated to a smart phone calendar because I love the calendar book/planner, but I think the desk calendar will brighten up my office nicely.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.linneadesign.com/_calendars/index.php#">2011 Linnea Design Calendar<br /></a><br /><br /><br /><br />I love, love, love July, August and October.Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15521422247915228188noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6061185679769036222.post-79600644724622396752010-05-28T10:36:00.000-04:002010-05-28T10:36:00.228-04:00Live.<div style="text-align: left;">It's Friday and several weeks ago I institued Friday night wine and cheese on our patio for me and JC.</div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 500px; height: 333px;" src="http://atyourrequest-va.com/thewineyfoodie/wp-content/uploads/2009/05/wine-and-cheese.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /> <div><br /></div><div>This decree accomplished several things:<div>1-Before Friday Wine and Cheese a typical Friday at home would be scrounging for dinner and aimlessly flipping the TV channels. Did it take brain power--no; did it get a little stale--yes.</div><div>2-It slowed us down just a bit and got outside for just a few hours, even during allergy season.</div><div>3-It has been a great time for uninterrupted chatting with the hubby. It's amazing what you talk about when the conversation doesn't revolve around which DVRed show to watch next.</div><div>4-It creates ready-made, pre-planned, easy dinners. I have zero modivation for Friday night cooking, and I like to cook. Wine and cheese for dinner means just a little advanced planning and prep, then lots of pouring and snacking. (Honestly this one is probably my favorite).</div><div><br /></div><div>So here are the rules:</div><div>1-Choose an evening that you want to claim for yourself (or at least mostly for yourself). I picked Friday for a number of reasons.</div><div>2-Choose 1 easy, standard menu that you can enjoy each week (beverages optional). Try to pick a meal that doesn't involved lots of shopping for random items, major prep work and can be eaten whenever every you want. It's patio wine and cheese for us through the summer, but I am thinking make your own pizza and a movie (also with wine) this winter. </div><div>3-Choose a spot that is not where you normally eat or spend your at home time. So probably some where other than the kitchen table or couch. Picnic outside or eat in the dining room, just because it's your day and it's a little special.</div><div>3-Be flexible. The idea is to create a ready made plan of relaxation to fill up an otherwise uneventful evening. If social plans or work get in the way every once in a while, no worries there is always next week. </div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div></div></div></div>Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15521422247915228188noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6061185679769036222.post-67118330900061570912010-05-25T11:13:00.002-04:002010-05-25T11:13:00.113-04:00Read.For anyone who wants a bi-monthly reminder about all of the culture, design, architecture, food, liturature, and people that make up the New South. <div></div><div>The most recent issue highlighted several small southern towns for live, work and play; a beautifully written article by Tom Brokaw about his beloved lab bird dogs; and something for specifically for you NYC folks.</div><div></div><div>If you are not quite up for another magizine subscription, at least wander through the <a href="http://gardenandgun.com/">website</a>.<br /></div><p align="center"><a href="http://www.foliomag.com/files/images/garden_and_gun_oyster.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 403px; HEIGHT: 461px; CURSOR: hand" border="0" alt="" src="http://www.foliomag.com/files/images/garden_and_gun_oyster.jpg" /></a></p><div>Disclaimer: There are sporting, often hunting, realted articles, which is not exactly my cup of tea, but the rest of the magazine is worth it. </div><div></div>Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15521422247915228188noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6061185679769036222.post-8896656736761962562010-05-24T10:30:00.002-04:002010-05-24T11:07:24.495-04:00Eat.Simple summer grill menu. Few ingredients, quick prep, easy clean up.<br /><br />1.<a href="http://barbecue-picnic-foods.suite101.com/article.cfm/grilled_garlic_shrimp_kabobs_recipe">Grilled Garlic Shrimp Skewers</a>-Use fresh garlic. It's totally what makes this work.<br />2.<a href="http://find.myrecipes.com/recipes/recipefinder.dyn?action=displayRecipe&recipe_id=1108219">Grilled Pork Skewers</a>-<span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">Pre</span>-slice the tenderloin before tossing it in the marinade. Skewer the slices just like the shrimp. This also makes a great sandwich.<br />3.<a href="http://find.myrecipes.com/recipes/recipefinder.dyn?action=displayRecipe&recipe_id=1879943"><span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">Basmati</span> Rice and Black-Eyed Peas</a>-Get the rice cooked even before the grill goes on, then add the peas, lemon and onion. Everything will stay warm (an require no attention from you) while your meat is cooking.<br />4. Grilled tortillas with hummus-We actually had a baked version, but I think if you brush a little Olive Oil on a flour tortilla and toss it (both sides) on the grill for a few minutes, the top hummus it would be awesome.Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15521422247915228188noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6061185679769036222.post-50696269274467309862010-05-22T10:10:00.000-04:002010-05-22T10:10:00.175-04:00Buy.I am loving this update to my accessory wardrobe this summer.<div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 440px; height: 518px;" src="http://highfashion4less.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/bfwatch_6455.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></div><div><br /></div><div>Following the <a href="http://www.anewmode.com/fashion-style/worthy-investment-boyfriend-watch/">boyfriend watch trend</a>, I have been wearing this one as a watch/bracelet for a few months now to try and "trend up" my work wardrobe. At $14.99 it goes in the trendy, cheap and functional categories. Plus is makes me feel just a little bit fancy. So not a bad impulse buy.</div></div>Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15521422247915228188noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6061185679769036222.post-27564403267891302852010-05-20T15:15:00.003-04:002010-05-20T15:42:43.428-04:00See. Do. Eat. Read. Live. Buy. Write.So I mentioned a gimmick in my last post, with the title as a hint. I hope that I came up with something that will keeping me writing on a diverse group of topics and keep blogger block away for at least a while.<br /><br /><br /><p align="center"><a href="http://www.cartoonstock.com/lowres/shr0411l.jpg"><img style="WIDTH: 313px; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" border="0" alt="" src="http://www.cartoonstock.com/lowres/shr0411l.jpg" /></a></p><br /><br />Here is the plan. I have picked 7 fairly broad verbs that pretty much explain how I spend my non-work life. 7 verbs for 7 days of the week, with the idea that each day gets "assigned" as topic to blog about. Here is what you have to look forward to...<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><strong>See:</strong> Notes about my actual travel, plans to travel, or hopes to travel.<br /><br /><br /><strong>Do:</strong> I'm thinking this stays a fairly broad topic and notes things to do (of that I did) because they are cool, nice, good.<br /><br /><br /><strong>Eat:</strong> Pretty self-<span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">explanatory</span>. Good food, beverage, <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">recipe</span> <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-error">ect</span>. that I want to share.<br /><br /><br /><strong>Read:</strong> Suggested reading lists and reviews of what I have read or am reading.<br /><br /><br /><strong>Live:</strong> Another broad topic focusing on general life stuff that doesn't fit in any other category.<br /><br /><br /><strong>Buy:</strong> Products with reviews or purchases to share.<br /><br /><br /><strong>Write:</strong> I challenge myself to add one semi-creative, hopefully entertaining writing post per week.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Now two disclaimers:<br /><br /><br />1-I reserve the right to add or take away a verb as it fits what I want to post about. We all need a little <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">excitement</span> to look forward to, right?<br /><br /><br />2-With this new format comes the end of corny post titles. All you are getting is the verb title to give you a clue where I am heading--you can make up the rest.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Stick with me, comment often.Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15521422247915228188noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6061185679769036222.post-47116632453350510772010-05-20T10:36:00.002-04:002010-05-20T10:50:20.538-04:00Revise103 posts later (this makes 104) and several busy months off I have come to several conclusions.<br /><br />1)I really enjoy blogging, but sticking with just home decor stuff is not really keeping the pages full.<br />2)I need a gimmick, something to keep the blogger block away--even in the busy months.<br />3)I may have found my gimmick, so stick with me to see where this all goes. Hint: it involves me not having to come up with post titles, <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">yay</span>!!<br />4)I make no promises about pictures on lengths of posts. Let's just shoot for new, diverse content each day.<br />5)I am not a tech person, but for the last 12 hours have been obsessing over the new Droid Incredible by Verizon, that and actually having I<span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">nternet</span> on my phone. Really, am I that girl?<br /><br />So stay tuned for some revision, a new look, and regular posting--at least through the summer. I promise to try to keep you entertained.Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15521422247915228188noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6061185679769036222.post-22595639972239800022010-04-25T20:09:00.003-04:002010-04-25T20:25:56.312-04:00And she is off...This is our dog Carly.<br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIBybNXRFRehf4aOqpMai291IdLNFHjsQtbYykd73_YnLby98-LGWhsrJOGdmOhRRJLlVBi_-PGrPvnm5qjNHzMuo5DAiX32dDIqQGQ-d56ETwjnwGdTHdiEZ3WGGQPqLA9h1S9fw7pYAd/s1600/IMG_3200.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIBybNXRFRehf4aOqpMai291IdLNFHjsQtbYykd73_YnLby98-LGWhsrJOGdmOhRRJLlVBi_-PGrPvnm5qjNHzMuo5DAiX32dDIqQGQ-d56ETwjnwGdTHdiEZ3WGGQPqLA9h1S9fw7pYAd/s320/IMG_3200.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5464232947172038306" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">This is an example of one of our folding sports chairs that I was sitting in this afternoon. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 168px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVVJj4WjMxo-D0d2N1YJ7WstG5VvWoWw4Awy_N-bjhbitMwsFGUn73wS7kwUb4mz9SxKXGqixxPNMZBGwjfXLKZAwQnphUy6bCKWO-zHYUFv8HtacmBKvrL831wmwHuXVtaxRiZ4xoPmP4/s200/265621567.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5464234560040535890" /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Sadly, what I do not have it a video of our dog Carly running around three houses in our neighborhood dragging our red folding chair behind her. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">I hooked Carly's leash to the chair, then got up. Yeah, we won't do that again.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Nice post of return on don't you think? Anyone still out there?</div>Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15521422247915228188noreply@blogger.com3