tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35682151398805040412024-03-13T00:30:40.679-04:00Being VivaciousAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06104733847747566643noreply@blogger.comBlogger37125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3568215139880504041.post-5947911903918022112013-01-07T20:48:00.000-05:002013-01-07T20:48:11.623-05:003 Silly Things That Keep Me Motivated To Work Out
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</span><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;">Funny story…<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;">I was planning on doing this post about things that give me
an extra boost of motivation to workout which in itself motivated me to kick
butt at the gym last night. I did some really intense intervals on the
treadmill. In the past intervals have really helped me with increasing my running
speed, which is something I have recently wanted to focus on again.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;">Then maybe five minutes after getting home I RAMMED my knee
into the corner of my coffee table. And I mean RAMMED. Luckily I could bend it
after a while and nothing felt like it snapped (which honestly surprised me
because I RAMMED it) but that sucker swelled up like a balloon. Nothing some
frozen veggies couldn’t fix, but just enough to keep me from the gym for a few
days. Ugh.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CjC7nFd51mQ/UOt4l4JWD7I/AAAAAAAAAnU/-_9Uvg3eNQ8/s1600/motivate1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CjC7nFd51mQ/UOt4l4JWD7I/AAAAAAAAAnU/-_9Uvg3eNQ8/s1600/motivate1.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;">Luckily this morning when I woke up I was pleasantly
surprised that it was only a little bit sore and nicely black and blue. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;">Anyways… onto what I had planned on writing about:<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;">I find with fitness only 10% of the challenge is the actual
workouts. The remaining 90% is in keeping motivated.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;">While I like to think that the elusive concepts of “being
healthy” and “taking care of myself” <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>are
my core motivators, I find more times than not it is the little things that
keep me enthusiastic about hitting the gym.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;">Here are three things that have been working like a charm
for me lately.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;"><strong>#1 Cute Workout “Stuff”<o:p></o:p></strong></span></span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ww3a3nYb0sY/UOt4sjeMKxI/AAAAAAAAAnc/j1m7o0bFwoI/s1600/motivate2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a> </div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sG64XsfRzNY/UOt6rUszm9I/AAAAAAAAAoM/VYOpfuwZEl8/s1600/motivate2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sG64XsfRzNY/UOt6rUszm9I/AAAAAAAAAoM/VYOpfuwZEl8/s1600/motivate2.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;">A sleek new water bottle, some new running shoes with funky
laces, or my personal current favorite some super cute sports bras. I got these
for Christmas, and yes that top one is indeed SPARKLEY.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;"><strong>#2 A New Playlist<o:p></o:p></strong></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;">I love having new music to work out to. Putting together a
new combo of old favorites or buying a new album always gets me nice and
excited. I am a weirdo and typically prefer more easy going calm songs when I
am working out over the typical “Eye of the Tiger,” and here are some that I
have been loving for the gym:<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;">Near To You, A Fine Frenzy<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;">You’re Gonna Make Me Lonesome, Miley Cyrus<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;">Today, Joshua Radin<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;">Your Body Is a Wonderland, John Mayer<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;"><strong>#3 Having a treat waiting at home for me<o:p></o:p></strong></span></span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-S5fHPOXFrZI/UOt6a4AoV9I/AAAAAAAAAoE/gfXDFyGtgxs/s1600/motivate3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-S5fHPOXFrZI/UOt6a4AoV9I/AAAAAAAAAoE/gfXDFyGtgxs/s1600/motivate3.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">It is no secret that I love tea </span><span style="font-family: Wingdings; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;"><span style="mso-char-type: symbol; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;">J</span></span><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> So a big glass of iced tea is
the perfect thing for me when I am done sweating. I have been brewing some
before I leave for the gym to pop into the fridge so that it is nice and cold
when I get back. It gives me a tangible short term sense of accomplishment for
working out which is always a great motivator. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;">-Brooke<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></div>
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<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">What silly little things
keep you motivated to work out?<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06104733847747566643noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3568215139880504041.post-88717843333253557152013-01-06T17:33:00.002-05:002013-01-06T17:33:08.269-05:00Gingerbread Pancakes
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<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: large;">Hello all. I hope everyone had a good weekend. This is a new
recipe I tried on Saturday morning for gingerbread pancakes that I figured I
would share because it was so so delicious. </span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dXOV_7A8XWc/UOn7WUx4E8I/AAAAAAAAAmc/IAp4UP0v5QY/s1600/gb1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dXOV_7A8XWc/UOn7WUx4E8I/AAAAAAAAAmc/IAp4UP0v5QY/s1600/gb1.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;">This recipe has no butter or oil in it and it still manages
to taste nice and rich thanks to the molasses and Greek yogurt. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;">1 ½ cups flour<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;">1 teaspoon baking soda<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;">¼ teaspoon salt<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;">½ teaspoon ginger<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;">1 teaspoon cinnamon<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;">1 egg<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;">1 ¼ cups milk<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;">¼ cup molasses <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;">2 tablespoons Greek yogurt<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;">These amounts will make you around 8 pancakes depending on
how large you make them.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;">Combine all the dry ingredients in a small mixing bowl, and
combine the wet ingredients into a large mixing bowl . Add dry ingredients little
by little into the wet.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: large;">The batter smells absolutely HEAVENLY even before it is
cooked.</span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3Ppj6tEMP1w/UOn7dHXsGII/AAAAAAAAAmk/KIT4b5pcSRE/s1600/gb2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3Ppj6tEMP1w/UOn7dHXsGII/AAAAAAAAAmk/KIT4b5pcSRE/s1600/gb2.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span> </div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: large;">Set your burner to medium heat to cook these. It took me a
few tries to get the cooking quite right but just keep in mind that these are
quite dense pancakes so they need to be cooked long enough to get the centers
fully cooked. However, the heat needs to be gentle enough so as not to burn the
outside. </span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5GdfA0s7dgs/UOn7hSbpwoI/AAAAAAAAAms/sh58-UPO0U0/s1600/gb3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5GdfA0s7dgs/UOn7hSbpwoI/AAAAAAAAAms/sh58-UPO0U0/s1600/gb3.JPG" height="222" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: large;"><o:p></o:p></span> </div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;">I ate mine plain with some fresh strawberries on the side and
it was delicious that way, but the gingerbread flavor in this is mild enough that
syrup or peanut butter would be yummy on top. I also think for a treat mixing
in some semi-sweet chocolate chips would be delish.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;">Once again, I hope everyone had a great weekend and is
enjoying the New Year thus far!<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;">-Brooke<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06104733847747566643noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3568215139880504041.post-39784264614441613632013-01-04T16:47:00.002-05:002013-01-04T16:47:14.079-05:00Five Friday Favorites 1/4<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span> </div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;"><strong>After Eight Mints<o:p></o:p></strong></span></span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RDplFp4403s/UOdNyOAB3VI/AAAAAAAAAl0/RlXVGTIvPfA/s1600/fff6.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RDplFp4403s/UOdNyOAB3VI/AAAAAAAAAl0/RlXVGTIvPfA/s1600/fff6.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;">I mentioned these in my last post, and I’ll mention them
again. Yep. They really are THAT good. They are dark chocolate and mint and are
perfect for when I am craving something sweet.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;"><strong>My Fish Cup<o:p></o:p></strong></span></span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NqhkBvrZ5QM/UOdNM_RxkrI/AAAAAAAAAlE/U6cyFA4TZS4/s1600/fff1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NqhkBvrZ5QM/UOdNM_RxkrI/AAAAAAAAAlE/U6cyFA4TZS4/s1600/fff1.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;">This I bought for Michael for Christmas because I wanted it.
I think this is hysterical. The only kicker is when I drink anthing besides
plain old water the fish look like they are swimming in a very dirty tank.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></div>
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</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;"><strong>Jasmine Tropica Tea Blend<o:p></o:p></strong></span></span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ju-8cDDemoI/UOdNTbAieoI/AAAAAAAAAlM/V_0_mLEfJ2s/s1600/fff2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ju-8cDDemoI/UOdNTbAieoI/AAAAAAAAAlM/V_0_mLEfJ2s/s1600/fff2.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xSi7xeYiAp8/UOdNYfU770I/AAAAAAAAAlU/SRp8mKeqNnI/s1600/fff3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xSi7xeYiAp8/UOdNYfU770I/AAAAAAAAAlU/SRp8mKeqNnI/s1600/fff3.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;">Aka: The perfect thing to drink out of my fish cup. This is
a Teavana tea that I got during their after Christmas Sale in a set. It is
easily my favorite of them. It smells like a sweat perfume and has a really
light fruity taste. I used to prefer my Candy Cane Lane tea hands down to
everything and thought I would never find another love… but this stuff is so
nice.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;"><strong>Aveeno Ultra-Calming Daily Moisturizer<o:p></o:p></strong></span></span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-65aPUSMxLgU/UOdNkxRm4dI/AAAAAAAAAlk/ojtY9Jwr8gg/s1600/fff7.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-65aPUSMxLgU/UOdNkxRm4dI/AAAAAAAAAlk/ojtY9Jwr8gg/s1600/fff7.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;">I have really sensitive dry skin that the cold New England
winter weather takes a beating on each year. This stuff really does the trick for me. No flakey skin here! An added
bonus is that it has spf built right into it. Usually facial lotions with sunscreen in
them get really greasy but that is not the case with this one. Oh, and it is all natural.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;"><strong>Journaling<o:p></o:p></strong></span></span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-noVIoAmdy0g/UOdNo4bk52I/AAAAAAAAAls/Wa-MYTBsJs4/s1600/fff5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-noVIoAmdy0g/UOdNo4bk52I/AAAAAAAAAls/Wa-MYTBsJs4/s1600/fff5.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;">I find writing to be a fantastic release for difficult
emotions. It is really satisfying to spill them onto the page and then have the
ability to shut the journal and walk away. I used to not “know” how to journal.
I would start and then stop because I felt like I was doing it “wrong” or it
would simply turn into a list of things that I did each day. I find it much easier
to go into it answering the question “How do I feel?” That is my magic question
that makes me write and write and write. I could probably go all day long if I
let myself.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: large;"> </span></o:p></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;">I hope everyone had a good week, and has an even better
weekend!</span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;">-Brooke </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;"></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;"><em>What are some of your favorite things lately?</em></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;"><em>Any fun weekend plans?</em></span></span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06104733847747566643noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3568215139880504041.post-2904175857228927232013-01-02T20:02:00.002-05:002013-01-02T20:02:19.517-05:00Curbing My Nighttime Cravings
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;">Hey, remember how my New Year’s resolution was to cook from
home more often?<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;">Well tonight I burned my mixing spoon because I left it on
the stove top over a burner on high. Oopsies.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-g28Q_OlcTBY/UOTXJlKZymI/AAAAAAAAAjs/ilNu2zjkJOU/s1600/curb5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-g28Q_OlcTBY/UOTXJlKZymI/AAAAAAAAAjs/ilNu2zjkJOU/s1600/curb5.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-G4FfqBWzlhQ/UOTXNP_VpYI/AAAAAAAAAj0/Ml5MVytqqFk/s1600/curb6.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-G4FfqBWzlhQ/UOTXNP_VpYI/AAAAAAAAAj0/Ml5MVytqqFk/s1600/curb6.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;">So far this is going well…<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;">Anyway, I have mentioned before that I am a horrible night
snacker. I will do really well all day, and then boom, come eight o’clock it is
time for nachos and popcorn galore. Ok, not every night, but it is definitely a
habit of mine that I am trying to keep under control. Here are a couple things
that have been working for me:</span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aiW6BUoPPyE/UOTXEnlLN6I/AAAAAAAAAjk/iP8nc5U37K8/s1600/curb4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aiW6BUoPPyE/UOTXEnlLN6I/AAAAAAAAAjk/iP8nc5U37K8/s1600/curb4.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"></span> </div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;">Fresh Fruit<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;">If I am going to snack at night, at least it can be something
healthy that isn’t too heavy in my belly. I buy the pre-cut fruit salad from
the grocery store because it makes it more “snackable” to me. It is easy to
grab and eat and I know myself well enough to say that I will always pick fresh
fruit over junk food so long as there is no extra work for me.</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;"><o:p></o:p></span></span> </div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9oV7FCtVLlY/UOTXXxzFaGI/AAAAAAAAAj8/U1T8LSwa_jQ/s1600/curb1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9oV7FCtVLlY/UOTXXxzFaGI/AAAAAAAAAj8/U1T8LSwa_jQ/s1600/curb1.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aC59S9gAZdY/UOTXcWjfspI/AAAAAAAAAkE/e6NA5GIW3xM/s1600/curb2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aC59S9gAZdY/UOTXcWjfspI/AAAAAAAAAkE/e6NA5GIW3xM/s1600/curb2.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;">These Yummy Mints<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">I had never heard of these until recently, but there are
basically a slim square shaped York. I love anything mint so one of these guys
satisfies my sweet tooth perfectly. Just enough to hit the craving </span><span style="font-family: Wingdings; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;"><span style="mso-char-type: symbol; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;">J</span></span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4URMUpyfJFA/UOTXm4Qa7DI/AAAAAAAAAkM/Je8aIi-bnyM/s1600/curb7.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4URMUpyfJFA/UOTXm4Qa7DI/AAAAAAAAAkM/Je8aIi-bnyM/s1600/curb7.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0AtxNoCD63o/UOTXsQLIPLI/AAAAAAAAAkU/mv42JMHjmsU/s1600/curb8.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0AtxNoCD63o/UOTXsQLIPLI/AAAAAAAAAkU/mv42JMHjmsU/s1600/curb8.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;">Tea<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;">For Christmas one of my presents was a tea maker and I have
been LOVING it. I found a few delicious fruity blends, like this pineapple one from Teavana,
that have been great. Tea is my choice night time drink because it is nice and
light.</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;"><o:p></o:p></span></span> </div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gfJuqSVJDTc/UOTXwkGeizI/AAAAAAAAAkc/9UgzQW5f8_k/s1600/curb3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gfJuqSVJDTc/UOTXwkGeizI/AAAAAAAAAkc/9UgzQW5f8_k/s1600/curb3.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;">Philosophy Soaps<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;">And when all else fails...I love these because they come in so many delicious dessert
flavors and are a completely guilt-free way of indulging. Seriously, they smell just like what they say they will. They are expensive for
body wash in my opinion, but I find that TJ Maxx carries them all the time at
good discounts so that’s where I get mine.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;">And that’s everything!<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">I hope 2013 is serving everyone well thus far and only
continues to get better </span><span style="font-family: Wingdings; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;"><span style="mso-char-type: symbol; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;">J</span></span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;">-Brooke<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06104733847747566643noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3568215139880504041.post-12982956235342057952013-01-01T11:16:00.000-05:002013-01-01T11:16:21.988-05:00New Year's Eve<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; font-size: large;">I had a quaint night in for New Year's Eve this year. Michael picked up a TON of stuff from the dollar store like noise makers and confetti guns and we ate ice cream and cupcakes. Michael's parent's dog, Jamie, also spent the evening with us. We made sure she had fun.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS; font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; font-size: large;">Here are some photos from the night:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS; font-size: large;"></span><br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yduWLpOvScA/UOMK4larDjI/AAAAAAAAAiI/soKNkffckd8/s1600/ny5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yduWLpOvScA/UOMK4larDjI/AAAAAAAAAiI/soKNkffckd8/s1600/ny5.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rDKYGGyUo3E/UOMLAbXBVhI/AAAAAAAAAiQ/H7IxbiE2XAc/s1600/ny3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rDKYGGyUo3E/UOMLAbXBVhI/AAAAAAAAAiQ/H7IxbiE2XAc/s1600/ny3.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sNhSOuGmXL8/UOMLPHzFPmI/AAAAAAAAAio/FWU4vLi1NKI/s1600/ny6.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sNhSOuGmXL8/UOMLPHzFPmI/AAAAAAAAAio/FWU4vLi1NKI/s1600/ny6.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NKVukj3sgo0/UOMLFZvtmCI/AAAAAAAAAiY/Z3II4JFxi5Q/s1600/ny8.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NKVukj3sgo0/UOMLFZvtmCI/AAAAAAAAAiY/Z3II4JFxi5Q/s1600/ny8.JPG" height="320" width="257" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EdZNvUC9RRU/UOMLJW6ctOI/AAAAAAAAAig/9U0OX5AX6q8/s1600/ny7.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EdZNvUC9RRU/UOMLJW6ctOI/AAAAAAAAAig/9U0OX5AX6q8/s1600/ny7.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KjdreuEZvw8/UOMLWAJnddI/AAAAAAAAAiw/bjfW6O8YWWw/s1600/ny2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KjdreuEZvw8/UOMLWAJnddI/AAAAAAAAAiw/bjfW6O8YWWw/s1600/ny2.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ND4uhhW9qwY/UOMLipPFIoI/AAAAAAAAAjA/_UuMQLDLs8I/s1600/ny4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ND4uhhW9qwY/UOMLipPFIoI/AAAAAAAAAjA/_UuMQLDLs8I/s1600/ny4.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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(2013 is VERY exciting)</div>
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</div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS; font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS; font-size: large;">I hope everyone enjoyed their New Year's Eve!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS; font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS; font-size: large;">-Brooke</span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06104733847747566643noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3568215139880504041.post-65356194894233641702012-12-31T16:06:00.004-05:002012-12-31T16:06:56.168-05:00New Year's Resolution
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;">Happy New Year!<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;">I have never set a formal “resolution” before which is odd
because I am always one for setting focused personal goals. But hey, there’s a
first time for everything right?<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;">This year I will cook at home. Yep. That’s right. From-scratch
cooking as much as possible. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: large;">The past few months I have gone through phases of regularly
cooking meals, but I want to be more consistent with it. Mind you, I dine in most
every day of the week already, but I have a hard time considering my phases of
cooking waffle mix and cheese quesadillas “cooking.”</span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HPCSAVR9yY8/UOH9753VuhI/AAAAAAAAAhE/C04fSXr8y5Q/s1600/cooking3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HPCSAVR9yY8/UOH9753VuhI/AAAAAAAAAhE/C04fSXr8y5Q/s1600/cooking3.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span> </div>
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;">For Christmas I got this awesome meal planner that I have
loving which has been the biggest help in getting me started.<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;">But I also got some new mixing bowls, a recipe box and
recipe cards, cook books, and an adorable set of measuring spoons. So I am
pretty much set to go!<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7SpwNh9JdMo/UOH-BvvL4xI/AAAAAAAAAhM/6vZEVUY2ibk/s1600/cooking4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7SpwNh9JdMo/UOH-BvvL4xI/AAAAAAAAAhM/6vZEVUY2ibk/s1600/cooking4.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-p-vX9ldk6C4/UOH-H990D2I/AAAAAAAAAhU/tA3PE7IaV_c/s1600/cooking5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-p-vX9ldk6C4/UOH-H990D2I/AAAAAAAAAhU/tA3PE7IaV_c/s1600/cooking5.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8vM0317nE_s/UOH-Op1F22I/AAAAAAAAAhc/QCS2XQwjDj4/s1600/cooking1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8vM0317nE_s/UOH-Op1F22I/AAAAAAAAAhc/QCS2XQwjDj4/s1600/cooking1.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-koGBfpzPAXA/UOH-S99lv4I/AAAAAAAAAhk/xlqeEh1XSE8/s1600/cooking2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-koGBfpzPAXA/UOH-S99lv4I/AAAAAAAAAhk/xlqeEh1XSE8/s1600/cooking2.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;">Wish me luck!<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;">I hope everyone has a wonderful New Year.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;">-Brooke<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06104733847747566643noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3568215139880504041.post-16149046521192974912012-12-30T19:15:00.004-05:002012-12-30T19:15:57.962-05:00Use Up Your Cold Cuts!: Creamy Turkey Pasta
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;">I hope everyone had a great holiday. I haven’t posted in a
while beacause I have been having my own great holiday and finishing up my finals for school.
Phew. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;">But I am back.</span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;">Michael and I got a bunch of new cook books for Christmas
which I spent some time flipping through, getting inspiration, this morning
to plan the week’s meals. And tonight’s dish was a creamy turkey pasta!<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DpibtYoKPxM/UODW5ih8z3I/AAAAAAAAAfo/XxGXr511_hk/s1600/pasta7.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DpibtYoKPxM/UODW5ih8z3I/AAAAAAAAAfo/XxGXr511_hk/s1600/pasta7.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></span></a></div>
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</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;">This recipe turned out delicious and uses cold cut turkey
(you can use whatever type you prefer, however) which is really great for if you
have some meat from the deli that is about to go bad. The cream sauce also
tasted deceptively fatty, but was actually made with all skim milk and a small amount
of margarine.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: large;">Start cooking up your pasta first thing. I used bow ties
because it was what I had in my cabinet, but use whatever you want. I always
like fettuccini with cream sauces because it holds on to just the right amount
of sauce in my opinion. The rest of this recipe is cooking the sauce for half a
box of bowtie pasta. </span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3fRPmVcMTD0/UODXCYpPf4I/AAAAAAAAAfw/Pyp29zR3GUw/s1600/pasta1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3fRPmVcMTD0/UODXCYpPf4I/AAAAAAAAAfw/Pyp29zR3GUw/s1600/pasta1.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></span></a></div>
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</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;">I will preface the rest of this by saying I did not use
precise measuring at all, but I have guestimates of about how much I used. You’ll
be able to “feel” when you have enough of everything. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;">I melted 1.5-2 tablespoons of margarine into a large sauce pan
on low heat and then tossed in about the same amount of jarred minced garlic. Fresh garlic would also work but if you use
fresh you won't need as much for the same punch of flavor. Melt
the two until they are evenly mixed.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_P6fL34ONqI/UODXGw0GAAI/AAAAAAAAAf4/zDuf1IpHte8/s1600/pasta2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_P6fL34ONqI/UODXGw0GAAI/AAAAAAAAAf4/zDuf1IpHte8/s1600/pasta2.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></span></a></div>
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</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: large;">I added my flour 1 teaspoon at a time until the mixture in the
saucepan took on a paste-like texture.</span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7ZfSdeE9dbA/UODXRRyFveI/AAAAAAAAAgA/EoYQ0qthRn0/s1600/pasta3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7ZfSdeE9dbA/UODXRRyFveI/AAAAAAAAAgA/EoYQ0qthRn0/s1600/pasta3.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: large;"><o:p></o:p></span> </div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;">Add about a half cup of milk to that and slowly stir until
everything melts together. The mixture will once again return to a paste
consistency as the milk heats up. Make sure the heat is nice and low and keep adding
milk until you get a creamy consistency that is to your liking.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3MyfMxmI_ms/UODXWf9CTQI/AAAAAAAAAgI/dq7soVFukms/s1600/pasta4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3MyfMxmI_ms/UODXWf9CTQI/AAAAAAAAAgI/dq7soVFukms/s1600/pasta4.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></span></a></div>
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</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;">I sliced up about five slices of cold cut turkey roughly
into strips.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-V06FK8O39pM/UODXgWHfrPI/AAAAAAAAAgQ/wYhuEP3nS_Y/s1600/pasta5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-V06FK8O39pM/UODXgWHfrPI/AAAAAAAAAgQ/wYhuEP3nS_Y/s1600/pasta5.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></span></a></div>
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</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I dumped the turkey
right into the sauce pan along with some dried basil and parsley.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-84vMSsK0L_c/UODXkrmyOFI/AAAAAAAAAgY/14hIs5axLDk/s1600/pasta6.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-84vMSsK0L_c/UODXkrmyOFI/AAAAAAAAAgY/14hIs5axLDk/s1600/pasta6.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></span></a></div>
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</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;">Strain the pasta really well and dump it into the sauce pan
and stir it in with the sauce.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;">And then it is ready to go!<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DpibtYoKPxM/UODW5ih8z3I/AAAAAAAAAfo/XxGXr511_hk/s1600/pasta7.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DpibtYoKPxM/UODW5ih8z3I/AAAAAAAAAfo/XxGXr511_hk/s1600/pasta7.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></span></a></div>
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</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;">This recipe went over very well so I will definitely make
again. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;">I love the idea of using cold cuts in this because it is such a
simple way of incorporating some protein in with a pasta dish. Also, how many
times do you find yourself tossing away expensive deli meat because you didn’t
finish it quickly enough. Uhm, me. All the time. I will for sure think of this
dish if I have some lunch meat approaching its expiration date.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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</span><br />
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<o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: large;"> (PS The Christmas Pig had a very nice holiday as well. She has been LOVING the snow here in New England.)</span></o:p></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rV6Gbr3ppoY/UODX--BQj6I/AAAAAAAAAgg/zBAiu69ndtw/s1600/pig.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rV6Gbr3ppoY/UODX--BQj6I/AAAAAAAAAgg/zBAiu69ndtw/s1600/pig.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></span></a></div>
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<o:p><span style="font-size: large;"></span></o:p> </div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Have a fantastic New Year everyone :)</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; font-size: large;">-Brooke</span><br />
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<o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06104733847747566643noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3568215139880504041.post-62465273425609622312012-12-05T12:56:00.002-05:002012-12-05T12:56:49.111-05:00A Night for Myself and the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show <span style="font-family: Calibri;">I designated last night as a “me night.” Yep, a big night in for me, myself, and I. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I painted my nails and then curled up with my Anthropologie catalogue and a snack while I waited for the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show to start. </span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XZgYRJzyNjs/UL-Kq1dcAvI/AAAAAAAAAe8/obRJj48agcg/s1600/me6.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XZgYRJzyNjs/UL-Kq1dcAvI/AAAAAAAAAe8/obRJj48agcg/s1600/me6.JPG" height="320" nea="true" width="240" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pL3Ac-kIecM/UL-KAJTVqEI/AAAAAAAAAek/2FqOA3cVdu8/s1600/me2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pL3Ac-kIecM/UL-KAJTVqEI/AAAAAAAAAek/2FqOA3cVdu8/s1600/me2.JPG" height="320" nea="true" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I love Anthropologie to death, and any chance I get to gawk, be it in the store itself or just a catalogue, I happily take. </span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vIe-UIXiqkM/UL-JDrdiw4I/AAAAAAAAAd8/DNfArvBdkg8/s1600/me1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vIe-UIXiqkM/UL-JDrdiw4I/AAAAAAAAAd8/DNfArvBdkg8/s1600/me1.JPG" height="320" nea="true" width="240" /></a></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Those! Those right there at the top of the tree shape! I want those measuring spoons! They really do have the cutest kitchen items.......</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Now, my biggest healthy eating weakness is late night snacking. I have no problem eating healthy during the day, but for some reason once it gets dark outside I have no problem taking down half a bag of chips and chowing down on candy. </span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UkmNIe0DxJY/UL-JN9aZ6iI/AAAAAAAAAeI/cmySN7EaNg8/s1600/me4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UkmNIe0DxJY/UL-JN9aZ6iI/AAAAAAAAAeI/cmySN7EaNg8/s1600/me4.JPG" height="320" nea="true" width="240" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-U-GunhV4PS8/UL-JStPlhgI/AAAAAAAAAeQ/pHfzgdpe9BY/s1600/me5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-U-GunhV4PS8/UL-JStPlhgI/AAAAAAAAAeQ/pHfzgdpe9BY/s1600/me5.JPG" height="320" nea="true" width="240" /></a></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Lately I have been trying my hardest to break this habit. Last night I had some fresh fruit (always a good substitute for junk food in my book because it tastes better anyway) and a cup of hot coco, which is not TOO bad, to satisfy my need for chocolate. This successfully kept me from attacking the junk food hiding in the cabinet in the kitchen. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KctuHGnBLAA/UL-JxCN0_yI/AAAAAAAAAec/jLXwoje8anM/s1600/victoria-secret-angels-victoria-secret-fashion-show.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KctuHGnBLAA/UL-JxCN0_yI/AAAAAAAAAec/jLXwoje8anM/s1600/victoria-secret-angels-victoria-secret-fashion-show.jpg" height="251" nea="true" width="320" /></a></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">And as for the Victoria’s Secret Fashion show, I had never actually watched the thing before but got curious this year. I’m not quite sure my opinion on it. While it was a bit absurd and nothing more than a blatantly massive advertisement, I was quite entertained with it. There were Cirque performers, TONS of glitter, musical performances, and the crazy outfits were actually pretty fun.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">In any case, I highly recommend anyone who hasn’t taken a night to themselves lately to do it. I woke up this morning well rested and ready to go, and I have been virtually stress-free all day. There is something about taking the time to focus on just myself and silly girly things that makes me almost giggly.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">So, curl up with your favorite chick flick, give yourself an at home pedicure and face mask, or read your favorite book; whatever YOUR favorite things are, and have yourself a “me night.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Also, what do you do to keep yourself from late night snacking?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">-Brooke<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06104733847747566643noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3568215139880504041.post-16336804987640382672012-12-04T19:35:00.007-05:002012-12-04T19:35:55.435-05:00Fondue Tuesday
<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: large;">Who doesn’t love fondue?</span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cOc7sj-WOSo/UL6VzgMpRQI/AAAAAAAAAdA/c1CRRCul19I/s1600/fondue5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cOc7sj-WOSo/UL6VzgMpRQI/AAAAAAAAAdA/c1CRRCul19I/s1600/fondue5.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span> </div>
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;">I happen to highly recommend anyone who does not yet own a
fondue pot to get one because they are just too much stinking fun.<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: large;">But before I get to that…</span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--a_nP5oUCGA/UL6VmrShHRI/AAAAAAAAAcw/eiiP523ZLac/s1600/fondue1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--a_nP5oUCGA/UL6VmrShHRI/AAAAAAAAAcw/eiiP523ZLac/s1600/fondue1.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span> </div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">For lunch today I had Subway. My favorite of the moment is
turkey with provolone toasted with lettuce, tomatoes, onions, and the red wine
vinegar sauce.<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;">On my way home at the end of the day I decided to treat
myself to some of my favorite things: nail polish and lip stick! The nail
polish is Essie’s <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Marathin. </i>I LOVE
the color and the name only makes it even cuter. The lipstick is by L’oreal in </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-size: large;">Fairest Nude.</span> </i><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-swiZirQCsx4/UL6VtZFzYKI/AAAAAAAAAc4/ytvG6UrTm80/s1600/fondue4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-swiZirQCsx4/UL6VtZFzYKI/AAAAAAAAAc4/ytvG6UrTm80/s1600/fondue4.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;">I justified my purchases by limiting myself to neutral
colors that I will theoretically get the most use out of. Hey, it is always
good to treat yourself.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;">And now onto the fondue…<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">You can put in whatever you want as far as spices
and cheeses go, but the base stays pretty much the same: <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">One bag of cheese per ¾ cups white wine.</i> </span><span style="font-family: Calibri;">First boil the wine, and then slowly add the cheese until it
is the desired thickness.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UfUnfSIVRgM/UL6WIXRuShI/AAAAAAAAAdI/RSXTcZqLc4s/s1600/fondue3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UfUnfSIVRgM/UL6WIXRuShI/AAAAAAAAAdI/RSXTcZqLc4s/s1600/fondue3.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;">Then add the flavoring. This has about 2 tablespoons of
balsamic vinegar, a heaping tablespoon of garlic, and three or four shakes of
nutmeg. (this is for 1 ¼ cups of wine and two bags of cheese. Mike and I made
more than we could possibly eat… oops)<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ezP1ZU3w_l4/UL6WNcunD0I/AAAAAAAAAdQ/7QXhWcQl1TE/s1600/fondue2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ezP1ZU3w_l4/UL6WNcunD0I/AAAAAAAAAdQ/7QXhWcQl1TE/s1600/fondue2.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;">Chop up some veggies and bread to dip in and enjoy! (My favorite is broccoli)<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cOc7sj-WOSo/UL6VzgMpRQI/AAAAAAAAAdA/c1CRRCul19I/s1600/fondue5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cOc7sj-WOSo/UL6VzgMpRQI/AAAAAAAAAdA/c1CRRCul19I/s1600/fondue5.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;">Fondue is a great and fun dinner option. Plus, it is really
easy to make reasonably healthy if you use low fat cheese and pick healthy options
for dipping like whole grain breads, apples, and vegetables. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;">AND I think that a fondue pot is a great holiday gift idea
for that person on your list who has <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">everything.<o:p></o:p></i></span></span></div>
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</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;">I hope you had a good Tuesday!<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;">-Brooke<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06104733847747566643noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3568215139880504041.post-68053100165254384912012-12-03T20:36:00.000-05:002012-12-03T20:36:06.294-05:00Getting in the Spirit<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; font-size: large;">Tis the Season! Michael and I got ready for the holidays this weekend! But first, our tree decorating fuel was some awesome burritos from this burrito bar we found. You heard me right. Burrito bar. I got pulled chicken with spinach and mango salsa.</span> </div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mh3a5RinadA/UL1Srjf0z7I/AAAAAAAAAcQ/40wZ8WGHQk4/s1600/burrito.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mh3a5RinadA/UL1Srjf0z7I/AAAAAAAAAcQ/40wZ8WGHQk4/s1600/burrito.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; font-size: large;">And it did not disappoint.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS; font-size: large;"></span> </div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Oi6mgt1HJYk/UL1RdB4K1dI/AAAAAAAAAcI/ybkQgE8rTPo/s1600/xmas10+-+Copy.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Oi6mgt1HJYk/UL1RdB4K1dI/AAAAAAAAAcI/ybkQgE8rTPo/s1600/xmas10+-+Copy.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; font-size: large;">Michael is ready to go!</span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9PdUIN0Y_gA/UL1LW2a2NEI/AAAAAAAAAbA/0ithzLj-i-Q/s1600/xmas3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9PdUIN0Y_gA/UL1LW2a2NEI/AAAAAAAAAbA/0ithzLj-i-Q/s1600/xmas3.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--PGZKJzzph4/UL1LjV3qT7I/AAAAAAAAAbQ/FpQw4WqhS5M/s1600/xmas5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--PGZKJzzph4/UL1LjV3qT7I/AAAAAAAAAbQ/FpQw4WqhS5M/s1600/xmas5.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zE81cwl2V08/UL1Lb1yCywI/AAAAAAAAAbI/vAZz8gj7-do/s1600/xmas4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zE81cwl2V08/UL1Lb1yCywI/AAAAAAAAAbI/vAZz8gj7-do/s1600/xmas4.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rmFyKtlnD9s/UL1L7DfqDFI/AAAAAAAAAbg/dPji5CxciGc/s1600/xmas8.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rmFyKtlnD9s/UL1L7DfqDFI/AAAAAAAAAbg/dPji5CxciGc/s1600/xmas8.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JcTK4mQWqBA/UL1LRIUkkJI/AAAAAAAAAa4/9BE9iztfpaI/s1600/xmas2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JcTK4mQWqBA/UL1LRIUkkJI/AAAAAAAAAa4/9BE9iztfpaI/s1600/xmas2.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; font-size: large;">Happy Holidays Everyone :)</span></div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06104733847747566643noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3568215139880504041.post-10135272904225400082012-12-02T22:29:00.001-05:002012-12-02T22:42:59.056-05:00Holiday Party?!<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: large;">The holidays are here. Thanksgiving has passed, snow has
fallen, trees are up. Yep. There’s no denying it. I have been trying to calm
myself down and enjoy the mood a little bit but holy cow has it been a crazy
few days.</span><br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-H3lox_Sg0YU/ULwarYE4coI/AAAAAAAAAZg/fOE7CtRUcsc/s1600/party3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-H3lox_Sg0YU/ULwarYE4coI/AAAAAAAAAZg/fOE7CtRUcsc/s1600/party3.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;">I may have mentioned before that Michael, my boyfriend, owns
a gallery and artisan store. In any case, last night (Saturday) he was throwing
a massive Christmas Party at his place and we were both working our tails off
to get ready.<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;">I will take a moment to say, I am not the best at parties. I
get so nervous in big groups of people that I usually end up leaving early, not
because the host did a bad job, but because I get overwhelmed. That being said,
the idea of being the actual host (of sorts) was making me even more freaked
out. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;">Anyway…<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;">We were at the store until late late late Friday night
getting everything all set so we didn’t have to deal with it the day of, and
ended up getting takeout Mexican food from this really authentic a place down
the street that we like. We had a feast of sorts because the food is really
good there. We shared nachos and then I tried my first ever chicken tamale and
then also had a delicious enchilada which had some sort of tasty lime sauce all
over it. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rK7baxdkUMA/ULwaMnwq-2I/AAAAAAAAAZQ/7eeWENHa7ms/s1600/party1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rK7baxdkUMA/ULwaMnwq-2I/AAAAAAAAAZQ/7eeWENHa7ms/s1600/party1.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-H97F9WkNtzE/ULwaV6YeHFI/AAAAAAAAAZY/dBoZj3XJFWI/s1600/party2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-H97F9WkNtzE/ULwaV6YeHFI/AAAAAAAAAZY/dBoZj3XJFWI/s1600/party2.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;">If you have never tried non-americanized Mexican food, I
highly suggest trying some. Honestly, I find it tastes a lot like comfort food
in that it is easy to enjoy and fills you right up.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Saturday morning there was SNOW! I was quite excited, and so
was Petunia the Christmas Pig. The perfect setting for a Christmas Party </span><span style="font-family: Wingdings; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;"><span style="mso-char-type: symbol; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;">J</span></span></span><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZKC_7I5Twpw/ULwa6r4v7JI/AAAAAAAAAZo/KH6MEDXt0GU/s1600/party4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZKC_7I5Twpw/ULwa6r4v7JI/AAAAAAAAAZo/KH6MEDXt0GU/s1600/party4.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span> </div>
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;">The store was open all day so Mike and I had to run back and
forth to make sure we both had time to get dressed, while still keeping one of
us at the store for customers etc. Phew. I ended up getting all ready in about
20 minutes and was really proud of my speed, but then ended up allllmmmoooost wiping
out on the ice getting back into my car.</span> </span><br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UVv08sg9KWc/ULwbd1rrUXI/AAAAAAAAAZw/rdEyfgHiv5k/s1600/party5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UVv08sg9KWc/ULwbd1rrUXI/AAAAAAAAAZw/rdEyfgHiv5k/s1600/party5.JPG" height="320" width="123" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;">In any case, the party went great! There was a banjo/
mandolin player, really delicious food, and tons and TONS of people.</span> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-I0Mo8yGt0gg/ULwbofcOS7I/AAAAAAAAAZ4/Ccm0xbbrd2Y/s1600/party6.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-I0Mo8yGt0gg/ULwbofcOS7I/AAAAAAAAAZ4/Ccm0xbbrd2Y/s1600/party6.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JvV1GBOL-Pk/ULwb6VlR88I/AAAAAAAAAaA/ls0cxz1z5c0/s1600/party7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JvV1GBOL-Pk/ULwb6VlR88I/AAAAAAAAAaA/ls0cxz1z5c0/s1600/party7.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: large;">The downtown lit up its Christmas lights the same night so
there were plenty of people on the streets to begin with, but Michael estimated
that there were around 500 people through the door.</span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hXsT4oxIY1k/ULwcSGJYbKI/AAAAAAAAAaQ/uYpff9Py81c/s1600/party9.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hXsT4oxIY1k/ULwcSGJYbKI/AAAAAAAAAaQ/uYpff9Py81c/s1600/party9.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tgFiL4POwCY/ULwcI6kZZeI/AAAAAAAAAaI/RuCioX7NmGo/s1600/party8.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tgFiL4POwCY/ULwcI6kZZeI/AAAAAAAAAaI/RuCioX7NmGo/s1600/party8.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;">We were hoping for a good turnout, but my goodness… we didn’t
expect THAT many. Luckily food didn’t run out... I was getting kind of worried
about that but the food BARELY made it. Phew.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-O_8p2n-O-eM/ULwcdQLroDI/AAAAAAAAAaY/b3hn9xJIuRk/s1600/party10.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-O_8p2n-O-eM/ULwcdQLroDI/AAAAAAAAAaY/b3hn9xJIuRk/s1600/party10.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;">It was a really great night. My feet hurt so bad from being
in heels for so long, but other than that it was a success!<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;">I hope everyone is having a nice start to their holiday
seasons. If you are hosting your own holiday party any time soon, best of luck
to you!<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;">-Brooke<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
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<o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06104733847747566643noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3568215139880504041.post-55877528702953432272012-11-28T13:52:00.005-05:002012-11-28T13:52:54.356-05:00Things that have been making me happy...<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Life is all about the little happy things that make your days brighter. So without further ado, here are a few things that have been making my days brighter recently…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tItQ0ncxWls/ULZc-yHuL7I/AAAAAAAAAYQ/Rbt-mpG1boo/s1600/happy4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tItQ0ncxWls/ULZc-yHuL7I/AAAAAAAAAYQ/Rbt-mpG1boo/s1600/happy4.JPG" height="240" tea="true" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">The Half Way Café<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">This little restaurant is in downtown Maynard, MA (if anyone is familiar with the area?) and I cannot get over how delicious every single thing on the menu is. I honestly don’t feel the need to ever go to any other restaurant so long as this place is open. Every month they rotate the menu and an entre is only 8 bucks. Seriously? Seriously. And its all made fresh. Here are my three favorites, all on one plate of deliciousness: Apple Smoked Wings, Nachos, and Fried Pickles. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FEmVLev72kE/ULZdFKsi6iI/AAAAAAAAAYY/T93wZPP5wag/s1600/happy5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FEmVLev72kE/ULZdFKsi6iI/AAAAAAAAAYY/T93wZPP5wag/s1600/happy5.JPG" height="240" tea="true" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Christmas Pig<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I cannot stand how much I love this pig. It always puts a smile on my face when I see her all lit up at night time outside. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7WlDL9cglm0/ULZdNJC0ITI/AAAAAAAAAYg/mBoi4Iddp7Q/s1600/happy3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7WlDL9cglm0/ULZdNJC0ITI/AAAAAAAAAYg/mBoi4Iddp7Q/s1600/happy3.JPG" height="240" tea="true" width="320" /></a><o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">This Guy<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">For assembling my Christmas pig (amongst other things)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KAZvu0Q4GBg/ULZdSPePCgI/AAAAAAAAAYo/gbCk37xLtWY/s1600/happy1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KAZvu0Q4GBg/ULZdSPePCgI/AAAAAAAAAYo/gbCk37xLtWY/s1600/happy1.JPG" height="320" tea="true" width="240" /></a><o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Italian Soda<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Michael and I drink these things constantly. I always try the crazy flavors… he just gets cherry every time. My most recent favorite is peppermint.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JKc1itIE3Rc/ULZdW9x4FLI/AAAAAAAAAYw/WGtnFkwvYo0/s1600/happy2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JKc1itIE3Rc/ULZdW9x4FLI/AAAAAAAAAYw/WGtnFkwvYo0/s1600/happy2.JPG" height="320" tea="true" width="203" /></a><o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Wooden iPhone Case<br />Is this not the classiest iPhone case you have ever seen? It’s all inlaid wood and lined with get this… velvet. I picked this up at HomeGoods for only ten bucks and have been loving it.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Being done with my Business Plan!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I had to write up a business plan for school and finally finished that thing… phew… I have been working on it since September so it is a big relief to see all 23 pages neatly clipped together under the nice pretty cover page. I am passing it in this afternoon and can’t wait to get it off my hands.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Hope everyone is having their own happy end-of-November</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">-Brooke <o:p></o:p></span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06104733847747566643noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3568215139880504041.post-3303988023987432082012-11-27T11:16:00.001-05:002012-11-27T11:16:35.532-05:00Inside-out Turkey Burgers<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Gosh. I have been so bad with my eating and working out since Thanksgiving. I ate out far more than I’d care to admit and abandoned the gym for about five days. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Last night I decided it was time to get back to being better again so I cooked up some inside out turkey sliders (inspired by a similar recipe in the cook book <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">The Best of Clean Eating 2. </i>These cook books are a great gift idea. There are lots of great ideas in them for EASY healthy meals.) and then I went for a solid work out at the gym. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WnClCk0VhZA/ULTlXjE4mMI/AAAAAAAAAWw/mSqqwMikGBw/s1600/turkey4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WnClCk0VhZA/ULTlXjE4mMI/AAAAAAAAAWw/mSqqwMikGBw/s1600/turkey4.JPG" height="320" tea="true" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">But first, meet my new favorite thing, my Christmas pig! Pigs might just be my favorite thing in the world and when I saw this thing at Kmart, I needed to get it. I couldn’t stop laughing while Michael set it up. Just figured I’d share </span><span style="font-family: Wingdings; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;"><span style="mso-char-type: symbol; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;">J</span></span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LOL2AoN6rNI/ULTljHDOBUI/AAAAAAAAAW4/UUqATm3_mZM/s1600/turkey6.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LOL2AoN6rNI/ULTljHDOBUI/AAAAAAAAAW4/UUqATm3_mZM/s1600/turkey6.JPG" height="320" tea="true" width="240" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AGIEDgEbTiM/ULTlneAjChI/AAAAAAAAAXA/3bhU7VyMAKA/s1600/turkey7.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AGIEDgEbTiM/ULTlneAjChI/AAAAAAAAAXA/3bhU7VyMAKA/s1600/turkey7.JPG" height="320" tea="true" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Wingdings; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;"><span style="mso-char-type: symbol; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;"></span></span><o:p><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Laughing SO hard. It even has its own little red scarf</span></o:p></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-spNeo3RebJw/ULTl6YyUuZI/AAAAAAAAAXI/n5seQ18DlHk/s1600/turkey+8.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-spNeo3RebJw/ULTl6YyUuZI/AAAAAAAAAXI/n5seQ18DlHk/s1600/turkey+8.JPG" height="240" tea="true" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Now… onto turkey burgers.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Preheat the oven to 425.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Cut some cheddar cheese into cubes.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I used one pound of lean ground turkey and added some salt, pepper, and garlic powder.</span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-chwsSSLEasA/ULTmEBMpq0I/AAAAAAAAAXQ/ZAcISBMs4Gc/s1600/turkey1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-chwsSSLEasA/ULTmEBMpq0I/AAAAAAAAAXQ/ZAcISBMs4Gc/s1600/turkey1.JPG" height="320" tea="true" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Divide the turkey into eight pieces and then make a divot in each ball to put in a cube of cheese. Don’t do too much cheese or it will spill out of the burger while it cooks. Then ball them up like the one in the bottom right corner.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Cook them for about 6 minutes and then flip them over and cook for another five minutes or so. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Now this is where my dinner turns into kind of a fail. I had wanted to make a honey mustard sauce, but realized there was no mustard in the fridge. Instead I mixed some BBQ sauce and raw honey to make honey BBQ instead. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I would have put on a tomato and a leaf of lettuce or spinach but oops… don’t have any of that in my fridge either…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5eH8q36LrA0/ULTmaigJLcI/AAAAAAAAAXY/_lsGTQSGl0c/s1600/turkey2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5eH8q36LrA0/ULTmaigJLcI/AAAAAAAAAXY/_lsGTQSGl0c/s1600/turkey2.JPG" height="320" tea="true" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">So these went with just a drizzle of sauce on a potato roll. And I am now planning my next trip to the grocery store. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Since I had no vegetables to speak of I ultimately served this with some fresh fruit instead. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Thanksgiving seriously put me in a funk didn’t it… </span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VMJAe90Hi5w/ULTmqMGgeFI/AAAAAAAAAXg/eg5rdg1ejkk/s1600/turkey3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VMJAe90Hi5w/ULTmqMGgeFI/AAAAAAAAAXg/eg5rdg1ejkk/s1600/turkey3.JPG" height="240" tea="true" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">The burgers were delicious though. Cooking them with the cheese inside made them incredibly moist.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">At the end of the night I hit the gym. I was really energetic which surprised me. I ran faster than I can remember ever running in a while which thrilled me. I also did some weight machines and I must have worked myself hard because I have a nice sore bum this morning. I was thrilled to see fresh rasperries in the fridge when I got home. Those made for a perfect night time snack.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I hope everyone is doing well and getting back into the groove of things after Thanksgiving </span><span style="font-family: Wingdings; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;"><span style="mso-char-type: symbol; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;">J</span></span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">And I also hope you are excited about it being the holiday season now!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">-Brooke</span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06104733847747566643noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3568215139880504041.post-38551346492782260782012-11-23T12:18:00.002-05:002012-11-23T12:18:47.614-05:00Thanksgiving Eve and A Roasted Pepper Bruschetta Recipe!<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Hello everyone. I hope you all had a great Thanksgiving!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I figured I’d give a quick wrap up of what I was up to for the holiday as well as an easy recipe that my boyfriend and I whipped together to be part of the Thanksgiving spread. </span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XEi3DVx1jtc/UK-vYTneBFI/AAAAAAAAAWM/AF1ksdElCR4/s1600/thanks7.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XEi3DVx1jtc/UK-vYTneBFI/AAAAAAAAAWM/AF1ksdElCR4/s1600/thanks7.JPG" height="240" rea="true" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">The night before Michael and I decided to go out and have a fun little "Thanksgiving Eve" date of sorts. I forgot to take photos of dinner, but we went to our favorite gourmet pizza place for, get this, clam pizza and bacon buffalo pizza. And yes, it was delicious.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Afterwards we drove over to downtown Concord, MA if anyone is familiar with the area. The Mainstreet Café has live music every night and makes really REALLY good Italian sodas in crazy flavors like pumpkin spice and chocolate so it is always a fun stop to make at night. I got a hazelnut Italian soda which I actually quite liked at first, but it got a tad bit too sweet for me over time.</span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WcOAE3l4J08/UK-u6h7xH3I/AAAAAAAAAVk/q9WEtH19Qzk/s1600/thanks.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WcOAE3l4J08/UK-u6h7xH3I/AAAAAAAAAVk/q9WEtH19Qzk/s1600/thanks.JPG" height="320" rea="true" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Before we left we bought some ENORMOUS cupcakes to bring home with us. Because who doesn’t love cupcakes at midnight? </span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4wiJxcnPEcc/UK-vAUBYwCI/AAAAAAAAAVs/C0cJZ4e4_0A/s1600/thanks2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4wiJxcnPEcc/UK-vAUBYwCI/AAAAAAAAAVs/C0cJZ4e4_0A/s1600/thanks2.JPG" height="240" rea="true" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">My red velvet one was delish </span><span style="font-family: Wingdings; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;"><span style="mso-char-type: symbol; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;">J</span></span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">So now on to Thanksgiving, Michael and I were responsible for bringing an appetizer. We found a jar of roasted peppers in the cupboard and decided that we’d make some bruschetta with them. It was incredibly yummy and simple simple simple to whip up.</span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LQGV_jzz1no/UK-vReWcYxI/AAAAAAAAAWE/StQofF9bMDw/s1600/thanks4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LQGV_jzz1no/UK-vReWcYxI/AAAAAAAAAWE/StQofF9bMDw/s1600/thanks4.JPG" height="320" rea="true" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">We sliced a baguette into ¼ inch slices and then laid them out on a baking sheet.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Strain and slice up the entire jar of peppers. Yes, they look a little less than appetizing like this haha.</span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-syx1CLWTdkk/UK-vMs5qRMI/AAAAAAAAAV8/W0W2DArraK8/s1600/thanks5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-syx1CLWTdkk/UK-vMs5qRMI/AAAAAAAAAV8/W0W2DArraK8/s1600/thanks5.JPG" height="320" rea="true" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Put some peppers onto each slice of baguette then s</span><span style="font-family: Calibri;">prinkle shredded mozzarella over the peppers.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Bake for 10-15 minutes or until the cheese melts at 350 in the oven.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">These were surprisingly fantastic for such an easy rendition of bruschetta. We will be making them again I think.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">(I didn’t get a chance to take a photo of the finished cooked appetizers because everyone already ate them up before I remember)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Once again, I hope everyone had a great holiday and ate to their heart’s desire.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">-Brooke<o:p></o:p></span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06104733847747566643noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3568215139880504041.post-5349331011028339162012-11-21T13:10:00.001-05:002012-11-21T13:10:32.329-05:00Turkey Taco Sandwich Wrap<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I don’t know about you guys, but I pretty much eat the same old thing for lunch each day I have to pack myself one. My lunch of choice: turkey and provolone sandwich with a bottle of water and some sort of snacky something. This morning I was finally feeling creative enough while making my lunch to come up with something new.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">A taco sandwich wrap of course!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">It actually turned out quite tasty and was a welcome change for lunch this afternoon. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I layered onto a wrap sliced turkey, my favorite salsa of the moment (peach. Yum), shredded cheese, and light sour cream. I would have added some lettuce but I didn’t have any.</span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-W4lZmgcjdmI/UK0YqRB5yGI/AAAAAAAAAVA/iygZsYFU61k/s1600/photo_2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-W4lZmgcjdmI/UK0YqRB5yGI/AAAAAAAAAVA/iygZsYFU61k/s1600/photo_2.JPG" height="320" rea="true" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I couldn’t help but laugh at myself as I popped this bad boy into my lunch box, but it is good to have a bit of fun sometimes.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Speaking of fun snacks, this is a total side thought but has anyone ever tried Oreos with peanut butter? Well, I never had until recently and man is it good. I seriously have to contain myself every time I pass the box of Oreos because otherwise I WILL eat twenty of them in the course of a day. It tastes like those Peanut Butter Patty cookies from when I was a Girl Scout which were always my favorite. </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wW0DqjWahYQ/UK0Y85C6hjI/AAAAAAAAAVI/zd5F-gaDyE8/s1600/photo_1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wW0DqjWahYQ/UK0Y85C6hjI/AAAAAAAAAVI/zd5F-gaDyE8/s1600/photo_1.JPG" height="320" rea="true" width="240" /></a></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">If you haven’t tried it, you MUST. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">That’s all for today. I hope everyone has a happy Thanksgiving!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">-Brooke<o:p></o:p></span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06104733847747566643noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3568215139880504041.post-49984515533709341712012-11-17T15:47:00.001-05:002012-11-17T15:47:26.682-05:00Keeping my Purse Organized<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">The biggest thing that gets in the way of my personal
ability to have a stress-free, happy day is clutter. I don’t know why, but any
sort of mass of “stuff” makes me want to scream at the top of my lungs. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Hmmm… I’m a woman… hmmm… what do I carry with me every
single day every place I go that always seems to somehow turn into a mass of
clutter… Hmmmmm<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I HATE having a cluttered up purse. Who doesn’t really? But
let’s face it, no matter what we do, our purses always turn into a bottomless
abyss of gum wrappers, receipts, Chapstick, hair ties, headphones and who knows
what else.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ykKCliqyKuw/UKf11g7x_HI/AAAAAAAAATs/mdwh9HeS-pI/s1600/purse.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ykKCliqyKuw/UKf11g7x_HI/AAAAAAAAATs/mdwh9HeS-pI/s1600/purse.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Here is how I organize my purse to at least slow the process
of having it turn into a hot mess.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">First things first, I love big bags. The problem is, the
deeper they get the more and more difficult it gets to keep that sucker
organized. I was psyched when I found the purse I have right now because it is
nice and roomy, but the bottom is shallow enough that I can easily see
everything inside when I open it up because nothing piles on top of each other.
</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-35lbxtEvWPA/UKf2AwOCV3I/AAAAAAAAAT0/_RlW2f3kpx8/s1600/purse2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-35lbxtEvWPA/UKf2AwOCV3I/AAAAAAAAAT0/_RlW2f3kpx8/s1600/purse2.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I always always always carry around my lovely day planner. I
am a mess without having a place to keep track of all my homework
assignments, appointments, events, etc.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-V9OaVXc0kXk/UKf2aUgzR8I/AAAAAAAAAT8/5F1H-DW-Sq4/s1600/purse5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-V9OaVXc0kXk/UKf2aUgzR8I/AAAAAAAAAT8/5F1H-DW-Sq4/s1600/purse5.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">A main rule that I try and live by is keeping everything in
some sort of smaller container within my bag because having loose things floating
around in your purse is a sure fire way to end up with a disaster.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I keep all my chapstick, lip stick, bobby pins, hand cream,
and that type of stuff in my little makeup bag. I also LIMIT myself to what can
fit into the tiny pouch. Otherwise, I will INDEED get carried away. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eK1-RNIawM8/UKf2hNcQF1I/AAAAAAAAAUE/Le-iXeot6Ls/s1600/purse4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eK1-RNIawM8/UKf2hNcQF1I/AAAAAAAAAUE/Le-iXeot6Ls/s1600/purse4.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I also have a little tiny pencil case that I fit all my
writing utensils in. Emphasis on TINY. Like the makeup bag, I otherwise WILL get
carried away.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-q1yOzfm9QFM/UKf2lXCUVdI/AAAAAAAAAUM/JMmotuAX_fM/s1600/purse3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-q1yOzfm9QFM/UKf2lXCUVdI/AAAAAAAAAUM/JMmotuAX_fM/s1600/purse3.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Yes, my wallet is kinda massive. But I keep quite a bit of
stuff in that sucker. I have a special spot for ALL gift cards and a special
spot for ALL coupons on top of just a cash and card slot. I am much more likely
to use a coupon or gift card if I know that I have all of mine on my person because
it makes me think to look for them when I am at a store. </span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kWxZeWQ_BKk/UKf3LVXwROI/AAAAAAAAAUc/KlhxHcB7W9Q/s1600/purse7.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kWxZeWQ_BKk/UKf3LVXwROI/AAAAAAAAAUc/KlhxHcB7W9Q/s1600/purse7.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
</div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I keep my keys on my blue looped key chain. I like this one
because 1.) It is long and bright blue so I can always find my keys in my
purse. 2.) I can loop it onto my wrist if my hands are full. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">My boyfriend is an
artist and owns an artisan gift store which is where I picked up this
particular key chain, but I have seen this type of thing all over the place. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pMq9Qo8gWBE/UKf2uRMSsMI/AAAAAAAAAUU/KbETRI_VFTE/s1600/purse6.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pMq9Qo8gWBE/UKf2uRMSsMI/AAAAAAAAAUU/KbETRI_VFTE/s1600/purse6.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
</div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Annnnnnnnnnnnddddd my phone just goes right in the inside pocket
in my purse.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Tah Dah!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">That's how I avoid acquiring a crazy mess of a purse and
hopefully this helps you out with getting some ideas. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">What do you do to keep your purse organized?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">-Brooke<o:p></o:p></span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06104733847747566643noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3568215139880504041.post-10999977507210670202012-11-15T13:36:00.002-05:002012-11-15T13:41:35.356-05:00MORE Healthy Date Ideas!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-b1XOmEGXKJQ/UKU1eYK9XOI/AAAAAAAAASw/vQMz4rVplYI/s1600/bear-mountain-appalachian-trail-ny3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-b1XOmEGXKJQ/UKU1eYK9XOI/AAAAAAAAASw/vQMz4rVplYI/s1600/bear-mountain-appalachian-trail-ny3.jpg" height="191" rea="true" width="320" /></a></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Hike Up a Mountain<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">You get a great workout and a wonderful sense of accomplishment at the end. Accomplishing something with someone makes you that much closer to them. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QU4zCRlDaoM/UKU1wKaPTyI/AAAAAAAAAS4/lbbmb2gSFQs/s1600/quaint-downtown-portsmouth.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QU4zCRlDaoM/UKU1wKaPTyI/AAAAAAAAAS4/lbbmb2gSFQs/s1600/quaint-downtown-portsmouth.jpg" height="239" rea="true" width="320" /></a></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Walk a Downtown<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I personally love getting a taste of a community’s unique personality. You get to check out the quaint and quirky stores, and try out some new restaurants. What’s not to love? <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jdaMKvY1N3U/UKU2DOmGe2I/AAAAAAAAATA/VWclrGudwZ8/s1600/whatTOdo-Toronto-Kite-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jdaMKvY1N3U/UKU2DOmGe2I/AAAAAAAAATA/VWclrGudwZ8/s1600/whatTOdo-Toronto-Kite-2.jpg" height="320" rea="true" width="320" /></a></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Fly a Kite<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">You get the exercise of running around, and it is just such a “happy” thing to do on a nice day. Perfect for a date in my opinion, even if it is a bit cliché. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8dtWvVf3Ni4/UKU2XIPtwDI/AAAAAAAAATI/f9xaMYB82hQ/s1600/A%2520couple%2520lesson.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8dtWvVf3Ni4/UKU2XIPtwDI/AAAAAAAAATI/f9xaMYB82hQ/s1600/A%2520couple%2520lesson.jpg" height="320" rea="true" width="252" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Take a Pottery Class<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Or any sort of art class. It is good to get a bit creative sometimes, and learn to laugh even if you aren’t perfect at it. Trying something new together is always a great thing.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-du0mQ3PXszQ/UKU29QKjgNI/AAAAAAAAATQ/BtqHU0oEqRo/s1600/couple-workout-gym-120525.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-du0mQ3PXszQ/UKU29QKjgNI/AAAAAAAAATQ/BtqHU0oEqRo/s1600/couple-workout-gym-120525.jpg" height="215" rea="true" width="320" /></a></div>
</div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Go to the Gym<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">My boyfriend does not like the gym at all, but if you and your partner both enjoy going, why not go together! I saw a couple at my gym the other day and they were having a great time.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Here is a link to my last list of healthy date ideas:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><o:p><a href="http://beingvivacious.blogspot.com/2012/10/what-are-some-healthy-date-ideas.html">http://beingvivacious.blogspot.com/2012/10/what-are-some-healthy-date-ideas.html</a></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Hope you enjoyed!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">-Brooke</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: xx-small;">links to all photos:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: xx-small;"><o:p><a href="http://www.harrimanhiker.com/2011/04/bear-mountain-short-hike.html">http://www.harrimanhiker.com/2011/04/bear-mountain-short-hike.html</a></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: xx-small;"><o:p><a href="http://delbloggolo.blogspot.com/2011/03/its-lonely-in-portsmouth.html">http://delbloggolo.blogspot.com/2011/03/its-lonely-in-portsmouth.html</a></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: xx-small;"><o:p><a href="http://www.whattodotoronto.com/blog/2011/09/how-to-get-your-date-soar/couple-kite-flying/">http://www.whattodotoronto.com/blog/2011/09/how-to-get-your-date-soar/couple-kite-flying/</a></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="http://www.lakesidepottery.com/Pages/Private-lessons-sculpting-pottery.html"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">http://www.lakesidepottery.com/Pages/Private-lessons-sculpting-pottery.html</span></a><br />
<br /><a href="http://www.myhealthnewsdaily.com/3170-exercise-diet-weight-loss-tips.html"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">http://www.myhealthnewsdaily.com/3170-exercise-diet-weight-loss-tips.html</span></a></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06104733847747566643noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3568215139880504041.post-30472262659612629502012-11-11T17:42:00.001-05:002012-11-11T17:42:27.409-05:00Balsamic Vegetable Crepes<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JvYl2g09ykc/UKAm49_us6I/AAAAAAAAAQw/H2HlvP0H1O0/s1600/photo+2+(3).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I have never made crepes before in my life. I love them to
death but had never tried to make them myself. I guess I just figured that they’d be super
tricky or something? <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mPCyjLnVTog/UKAoBhuL41I/AAAAAAAAARI/Jypp3r4ljlQ/s1600/photo+2+(3).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mPCyjLnVTog/UKAoBhuL41I/AAAAAAAAARI/Jypp3r4ljlQ/s1600/photo+2+(3).JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
I<span style="font-family: Calibri;">n any case, I tried my hand at it this afternoon for lunch
and woah were they good. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<u><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Crepe<o:p></o:p></span></u><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">1 Cup flour</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">2 Eggs</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">½ Cup milk</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">½ Cup Water</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">¼ Teaspoon Salt</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">2 Tablespoons Margarine<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pkKHaE60BPA/UKAoEIGrJRI/AAAAAAAAARQ/BUiRxxuG9ss/s1600/photo+1+(2).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pkKHaE60BPA/UKAoEIGrJRI/AAAAAAAAARQ/BUiRxxuG9ss/s1600/photo+1+(2).JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></div>
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Mix all the ingredients really well. Try and get all the
clumps out.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span id="goog_1242896741"></span><span id="goog_1242896742"></span><o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Heat up a pan or griddle to medium heat. Make sure you oil
the pan first to keep the pancakes from sticking because they will be quite
thin.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Poor your batter onto the pan and use your utensil to spread
it out thin. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NpJ-wrKFdxc/UKAoHVF-yxI/AAAAAAAAARY/lXyIwYh6le0/s1600/photo+1+(3).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NpJ-wrKFdxc/UKAoHVF-yxI/AAAAAAAAARY/lXyIwYh6le0/s1600/photo+1+(3).JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Let it cook for a minute or to. The top side of the pancake
will get a bit darker as it cooks. When the whole top has changed, it is time
to flip. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Cook the other side for a minute and then it is done.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jDvD8UYOagk/UKAoLstUKaI/AAAAAAAAARo/zHkwWjy45hE/s1600/photo+2+(2).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jDvD8UYOagk/UKAoLstUKaI/AAAAAAAAARo/zHkwWjy45hE/s1600/photo+2+(2).JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><u>Dressing</u> (I didn’t really measure any of these
ingredients…)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Balsamic Vinegar<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Olive Oil<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Garlic Powder<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Black Pepper<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Salt</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span> </div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><o:p><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-p7cfEEXGWE4/UKAoJnZ6Q6I/AAAAAAAAARg/KAfRQudmT80/s1600/photo+2+(1).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-p7cfEEXGWE4/UKAoJnZ6Q6I/AAAAAAAAARg/KAfRQudmT80/s1600/photo+2+(1).JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I used a frozen mix of veggies from the grocery store for
time’s sake. I heated them up in the microwave and then tossed them in the
dressing. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6-ncd6ob8B4/UKAoOa_6gII/AAAAAAAAARw/tf65RWWcPI4/s1600/photo+3+(1).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6-ncd6ob8B4/UKAoOa_6gII/AAAAAAAAARw/tf65RWWcPI4/s1600/photo+3+(1).JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I laid a slice of provolone cheese onto the crepe first and
then the veggies and left the pancakes on the stove top to help melt the
cheese.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BbRnGFIHCeY/UKAoRqOpE0I/AAAAAAAAAR4/3q1yH25IJ_I/s1600/photo+3+(2).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BbRnGFIHCeY/UKAoRqOpE0I/AAAAAAAAAR4/3q1yH25IJ_I/s1600/photo+3+(2).JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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</div>
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">And there you go! I can’t wait to try this with different
fillings or maybe doing some sweet dessert crepes. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mPCyjLnVTog/UKAoBhuL41I/AAAAAAAAARI/Jypp3r4ljlQ/s1600/photo+2+%25283%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mPCyjLnVTog/UKAoBhuL41I/AAAAAAAAARI/Jypp3r4ljlQ/s1600/photo+2+%25283%2529.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Hope everyone is having a nice holiday weekend </span><span style="font-family: Wingdings; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;"><span style="mso-char-type: symbol; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;">J</span></span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">-Brooke<o:p></o:p></span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06104733847747566643noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3568215139880504041.post-23357756158621607322012-11-08T12:25:00.001-05:002012-11-08T12:25:51.342-05:00Stressed Lately? How to fix it. <div class="MsoNormal" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Is it just me or is the approach of the holiday season for some reason incredibly stressful?</span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hF0GhvuuudU/UJvnWPS7-EI/AAAAAAAAAPg/5PIJsyi16PI/s1600/stress.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hF0GhvuuudU/UJvnWPS7-EI/AAAAAAAAAPg/5PIJsyi16PI/s1600/stress.bmp" rea="true" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Well, I can at least speak for myself and say that my stress has been through the roof lately and it is not so much fun. Who knows, maybe I'm crazy.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I think that knowing healthy methods of stress management is such an important life skill to have. I figured I’d share some things that work for me when it comes to stress management.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;"><strong>Make A To-Do List.</strong></span></span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3FSnCFd36Bs/UJvnxbSUUAI/AAAAAAAAAPo/Tjp4UQQsuzY/s1600/to-do-list.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3FSnCFd36Bs/UJvnxbSUUAI/AAAAAAAAAPo/Tjp4UQQsuzY/s1600/to-do-list.jpg" height="320" rea="true" width="299" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">More times than not, you don’t actually have as much to do as you thought once you can see it visually lined up. Better yet, you get satisfaction of crossing things off and making things slowly even less overwhelming.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;"><strong>Go To The Gym</strong></span></span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ukaZpe5RIDI/UJvoST3ulHI/AAAAAAAAAPw/nB9vSY_V_R4/s1600/Gym-Bags.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ukaZpe5RIDI/UJvoST3ulHI/AAAAAAAAAPw/nB9vSY_V_R4/s1600/Gym-Bags.jpg" height="320" rea="true" width="318" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">For me, the gym is my “me space.” I go for myself and love the feeling of finishing a really good workout and having sweat drip off my forehead. That sense of accomplishment is the best form of stress relief for me. </span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: large;"><strong>Light A Candle</strong></span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-A9Tl0fOAcCc/UJvo7ndiM6I/AAAAAAAAAP4/uv_UQgGYOUs/s1600/img_0909.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-A9Tl0fOAcCc/UJvo7ndiM6I/AAAAAAAAAP4/uv_UQgGYOUs/s1600/img_0909.jpg" rea="true" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">When I am doing school work, or need to focus on anything for that matter, candles are a huge help for me. I don’t know why, but my goodness my attention span sky rockets when I have a lit candle near me. Try it out, I swear that there is something to it.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong><span style="font-size: large;">Treat Yourself to Some Spa Time</span></strong></span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XAMYTxaibPQ/UJvpltYnEbI/AAAAAAAAAQA/BDqeRPDZpWQ/s1600/101.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XAMYTxaibPQ/UJvpltYnEbI/AAAAAAAAAQA/BDqeRPDZpWQ/s1600/101.jpg" height="240" rea="true" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Give yourself a quick pedicure or face mask (check out my post to see how you can make your own masks here: <a href="http://beingvivacious.blogspot.com/2012/11/homemade-face-masks.html">http://beingvivacious.blogspot.com/2012/11/homemade-face-masks.html</a> ). Pampering yourself is the perfect way to remind yourself that you matter and also makes it that much easier to take a deep breath.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;"><strong>Take A Shower</strong></span></span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-o7NXlWeDsq4/UJvqPytllOI/AAAAAAAAAQI/DoE_g_n83XE/s1600/esthet-gal5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-o7NXlWeDsq4/UJvqPytllOI/AAAAAAAAAQI/DoE_g_n83XE/s1600/esthet-gal5.jpg" rea="true" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I am reminded of my final exam week my sophomore year of high school. I have never been more stressed out in. my. life. I can only laugh looking back at how silly it was, but that being said, the only thing that calmed me down was taking hot showers. I took about three or four a day for the entire week. A bit excessive for sure, but I find that a hot shower or bath is still something that helps melt my stress away. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong><span style="font-size: large;">Sing a Song</span></strong></span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Uym22I_7nFA/UJvrEAPTbmI/AAAAAAAAAQQ/VEmVQMBitY8/s1600/mqdefault.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Uym22I_7nFA/UJvrEAPTbmI/AAAAAAAAAQQ/VEmVQMBitY8/s1600/mqdefault.jpg" rea="true" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">This is going to be the dorkiest admission ever. Go onto Youtube and search for a karaoke version of your favorite song, and belt it out. Anything by Taylor Swift is <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">always </i>a great option. It’s the perfect way to fit four minutes of pure, unadulterated FUN into your day. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Those are pretty much all of my go-to things when I am feeling stressed out. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">What works for you? <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">-Brooke<o:p></o:p></span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06104733847747566643noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3568215139880504041.post-72188634246349998662012-11-06T11:38:00.004-05:002012-11-06T11:38:35.839-05:00Birthday Cake Pancakes<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uouZZRrnqvY/UJk7rSXBKaI/AAAAAAAAAOc/DXxbi4qHyX4/s1600/photo_4%5B1%5D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uouZZRrnqvY/UJk7rSXBKaI/AAAAAAAAAOc/DXxbi4qHyX4/s1600/photo_4%5B1%5D.JPG" height="320" rea="true" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I’m not even going to pretend that this is a healthy recipe by any means, but I made this birthday breakfast treat a few weeks ago when I was celebrating a special someone’s birthday. It is too easy to be true and adds a special touch to a birthday breakfast. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Mix up your favorite box cake mix. I chose chocolate devil’s food cake.</span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PrZ8MPNtW3o/UJk8FhpOzdI/AAAAAAAAAOo/OCmemZe3Vho/s1600/photo_1%5B1%5D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PrZ8MPNtW3o/UJk8FhpOzdI/AAAAAAAAAOo/OCmemZe3Vho/s1600/photo_1%5B1%5D.JPG" height="320" rea="true" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Heat up a pan or griddle on your stovetop. Make sure it is very VERY low. These burn really easily. I burned about 4 before finally getting my pan at a low enough heat. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Poor the batter onto the pan. Keep in mind that it is runnier than most pancake batters so it spreads out quickly. </span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cF0aKHgR38M/UJk8Ou2WeGI/AAAAAAAAAO0/DZP90AtOLw0/s1600/photo_2%5B1%5D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cF0aKHgR38M/UJk8Ou2WeGI/AAAAAAAAAO0/DZP90AtOLw0/s1600/photo_2%5B1%5D.JPG" height="320" rea="true" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">There won’t be popping bubbles to help you know when to flip, but you will need to cook it about 2 minutes before flipping. The pancake will be pretty delicate so flip it gently and carefully.</span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Mt6w7z6kpvw/UJk8XYABryI/AAAAAAAAAO8/bkTxPhopu8s/s1600/photo_3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Mt6w7z6kpvw/UJk8XYABryI/AAAAAAAAAO8/bkTxPhopu8s/s1600/photo_3.JPG" height="320" rea="true" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Cook it for another 1-2 minutes and then it is ready to go. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Add a couple candles, and you have a yummy birthday cake pancake! </span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uouZZRrnqvY/UJk7rSXBKaI/AAAAAAAAAOc/DXxbi4qHyX4/s1600/photo_4%255B1%255D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uouZZRrnqvY/UJk7rSXBKaI/AAAAAAAAAOc/DXxbi4qHyX4/s1600/photo_4%255B1%255D.JPG" height="320" rea="true" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Try this out as a fun “something different” for a special occasion or birthday. I will definitely be doing this again because it was so quick and simple. And c'mon, who can argue with cake for breakfast??</span></div>
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-Brooke</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06104733847747566643noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3568215139880504041.post-45195115889704129202012-11-04T12:26:00.003-05:002012-11-04T12:26:54.982-05:00Homemade Face Masks?
<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I have been known to adore face masks… </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">It is so easy to just
go to the store to pick one up without realizing that you have in your kitchen
PLENTY of ingredients that can do the same thing.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SmWdLIPSeS4/UJalTF765YI/AAAAAAAAANU/s4npUggMdD8/s1600/facemask.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SmWdLIPSeS4/UJalTF765YI/AAAAAAAAANU/s4npUggMdD8/s1600/facemask.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Here is a list of homemade face mask ingredients and their
skincare benefits:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Apple Cider Vinegar- decrease redness and helps heal
blemished<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Avocado- Anti aging<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Banana- moisturizing and smells nice<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Baking Soda- Fights acne<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Cloves- Antibacterial and antifungal<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Cucumber- Natural toner<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Egg Whites- Smoothing and tightening<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Egg Yolk- Reduces oil and bacteria and keeps pores unclogged<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Honey- Soothing, moisturizing, and antibacterial<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Lemon juice- Rich in acids that help exfoliate skin<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Nutmeg- treating acne scars and blemishes, anti-inflammatory
properties<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Olive Oil- Very moisturizing<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Yogurt- Moisturizes and soothes<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">The one I mixed up for my dry acne prone skin was with
honey, lemon juice, and nutmeg. (it smelled and tasted pretty good) I was
admittedly hesitant about slapping this stuff on my face, but let me just say
that honey is by far the most soothing thing I have ever put on my skin, and my
mask left my skin feeling so smooth and surprisingly CLEAN. (I was scared it
would clog my pores…)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span> </div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1Dx9smHo6fo/UJak_Dv40NI/AAAAAAAAANM/oRXUAOR2lTE/s1600/photo+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1Dx9smHo6fo/UJak_Dv40NI/AAAAAAAAANM/oRXUAOR2lTE/s1600/photo+2.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span> </div>
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">So, this gets a big giant thumbs up from Brooke!<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Mix up your own set of ingredients for your skin and see how
it works for you </span><span style="font-family: Wingdings; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;"><span style="mso-char-type: symbol; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;">J</span></span></div>
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-Brooke</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06104733847747566643noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3568215139880504041.post-85025779188824627222012-10-31T13:11:00.003-04:002012-10-31T13:11:22.373-04:00"Brain Fitness"
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I</span><span style="font-family: Calibri;">t is easy to exclusively associate the word “fitness” with
physical activities like running and biking. However, I have recently been
reading up on the concept of “brain fitness,” and I have been finding it quite
intriguing.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1ch2dV5aABY/UJFbVpYntPI/AAAAAAAAAMk/vGw7npK7SRU/s1600/brainfit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1ch2dV5aABY/UJFbVpYntPI/AAAAAAAAAMk/vGw7npK7SRU/s1600/brainfit.jpg" height="320" width="265" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">When you work out your body you push your muscles to their
limit on a regular basis so that they slowly get toned up and are capable of
more and more. Well, this same exact concept holds true for your brain. Mental “workouts”
with crosswords or Sudoku puzzles challenge your thinking and over time can
make your brain sharper. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">While you get the immediate mild mood boost from the sense
of accomplishment after completing a puzzle, an exercised brain over time also has
a better memory, is a faster decision maker, and is more capable of maintaining
focus. Cool huh. </span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vNMMHkF4jGg/UJFboMA6eoI/AAAAAAAAAMs/CctoayW3APw/s1600/sudoku_generator.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vNMMHkF4jGg/UJFboMA6eoI/AAAAAAAAAMs/CctoayW3APw/s1600/sudoku_generator.jpg" height="188" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span> </div>
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Keeping your brain sharp also has more tangible health
benefits in the long term including warding off dementia and Alzheimer’s.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I personally am partial to my nice little Sudoku app on my
iPhone, but there are plenty of online sources for brainteasers and puzzles to
keep your brain in shape. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Here are a few articles I found online about this if you are
interested in further reading:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="http://www.positscience.com/why-brainhq/effective-brain-training/12-benefits-of-brain-fitness"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Calibri;">http://www.positscience.com/why-brainhq/effective-brain-training/12-benefits-of-brain-fitness</span></a><o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="http://health.howstuffworks.com/human-body/systems/nervous-system/brain-teasers-and-mind-games.htm"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Calibri;">http://health.howstuffworks.com/human-body/systems/nervous-system/brain-teasers-and-mind-games.htm</span></a><o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="http://www.daisybrains.com/blog/brain-teasers/more-please-why-our-brains-cant-seem-to-get-enough-of-brain-teasers-and-logic-puzzles/"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Calibri;">http://www.daisybrains.com/blog/brain-teasers/more-please-why-our-brains-cant-seem-to-get-enough-of-brain-teasers-and-logic-puzzles/</span></a></div>
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-Brooke<o:p></o:p></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06104733847747566643noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3568215139880504041.post-91405668653883707162012-10-30T16:24:00.002-04:002012-10-30T16:24:43.784-04:00Hurricane Sandy
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Well, Hurricane Sandy came… and now I have no power </span><span style="font-family: Wingdings; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;"><span style="mso-char-type: symbol; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;">L</span></span><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">All in all where I live did not get hit that hard in comparison to many other places. I drove around town and concluded that the
400 foot stretch of road right in front of where I live was the worst hit of
the entire town. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">A huge tree fell across the main road and yanked out all the
power lines. Then the electric box blew up and was spewing sparks all over the
road. Luckily no one was hurt, and like I said most of the rest of the town
looks fine this morning.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Here is my list of activities for when the power goes out!</span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nKnXZ5A2Szo/UJA1ZMBvpnI/AAAAAAAAAL0/rnVNqN6_Svo/s1600/NailPolish_291_20080815-154900.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nKnXZ5A2Szo/UJA1ZMBvpnI/AAAAAAAAAL0/rnVNqN6_Svo/s1600/NailPolish_291_20080815-154900.jpg" /></a><span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Paint your nails</span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PXKFaSRZa8I/UJA15l8WpaI/AAAAAAAAAL8/lmQpsE385s4/s1600/reading.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PXKFaSRZa8I/UJA15l8WpaI/AAAAAAAAAL8/lmQpsE385s4/s1600/reading.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Read a book<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span> </div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-quO0a2icXsY/UJA2Wb_FicI/AAAAAAAAAME/aaWDPnUntYo/s1600/boardgame.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-quO0a2icXsY/UJA2Wb_FicI/AAAAAAAAAME/aaWDPnUntYo/s1600/boardgame.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">P</span><span style="font-family: Calibri;">lay a board game<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Kdk94DXjU9U/UJA3V2Xmb_I/AAAAAAAAAMM/q7Yp60wHCBc/s1600/nstar.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Kdk94DXjU9U/UJA3V2Xmb_I/AAAAAAAAAMM/q7Yp60wHCBc/s1600/nstar.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Stare out the window and wait for the Nstar truck to show
up.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Good Luck to anyone who has any damage from the storm and I
hope you all stayed safe.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">-Brooke<o:p></o:p></span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06104733847747566643noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3568215139880504041.post-88322631056729062472012-10-25T13:33:00.002-04:002012-10-25T13:33:23.762-04:00Healthy Halloween Candy??<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">More like healthiER Halloween candy. Let’s get real. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">We all know that we will be having our fair share of candy. Here is what I came up with after a bit of research as far as what choices are “less bad” than others. </span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-U_BpHxbvb6I/UIl1wGBKqmI/AAAAAAAAAKo/Ln240NY_Q8c/s1600/3muske.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-U_BpHxbvb6I/UIl1wGBKqmI/AAAAAAAAAKo/Ln240NY_Q8c/s1600/3muske.jpg" height="320" oea="true" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">3 Musketeers. The filling is lighter than most other chocolate bars, so the calorie and fat count is slightly lower. They also make these in the tiny square size, which lets you have the yummy treat, without over doing it. </span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2Pe3h3Tbny4/UIl2GBVO9YI/AAAAAAAAAK0/GBClIXmdTAA/s1600/m_and_m_finsize.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2Pe3h3Tbny4/UIl2GBVO9YI/AAAAAAAAAK0/GBClIXmdTAA/s1600/m_and_m_finsize.jpg" oea="true" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Peanut M&Ms. The peanuts take up a good portion of the volume of the candy and contain as much protein as any other peanut. </span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--SpAIIwhQio/UIl2Si7dMKI/AAAAAAAAAK8/-8R2hwhME3c/s1600/hespdacabar3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--SpAIIwhQio/UIl2Si7dMKI/AAAAAAAAAK8/-8R2hwhME3c/s1600/hespdacabar3.jpg" oea="true" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Hershey’s Special Dark. Dark chocolate has less fat than milk chocolate. Plus it’s packed with vitamins and minerals. </span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cm5iZ2GdCCM/UIl2fcV7-NI/AAAAAAAAALI/T3udNkMI2JI/s1600/payday.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cm5iZ2GdCCM/UIl2fcV7-NI/AAAAAAAAALI/T3udNkMI2JI/s1600/payday.jpg" oea="true" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Pay Day. I happen to LOVE these. Once more, much of the volume of the bar is made up of plain old peanuts and there isn’t any chocolate which is one of the main sources of fat and calories in most other candy bars.</span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GNgea92BmTY/UIl2t9NtNdI/AAAAAAAAALQ/y5dXh4sJyVI/s1600/smarties%2520candy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GNgea92BmTY/UIl2t9NtNdI/AAAAAAAAALQ/y5dXh4sJyVI/s1600/smarties%2520candy.jpg" height="219" oea="true" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Smarties. One roll of these has only 25 calories and no fat. No complaints here.</span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Hm1pqtLCjk0/UIl3CxNWgOI/AAAAAAAAALY/eAl3u1Km1uw/s1600/york.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Hm1pqtLCjk0/UIl3CxNWgOI/AAAAAAAAALY/eAl3u1Km1uw/s1600/york.jpg" height="320" oea="true" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">York Peppermint Patty. These are lower in fat than most other chocolate bars. The outer shell is also dark chocolate which is an added plus.</span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4d87zBnP6qQ/UIl3Sbxkh-I/AAAAAAAAALg/BMEDQv2YT8k/s1600/starburst.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4d87zBnP6qQ/UIl3Sbxkh-I/AAAAAAAAALg/BMEDQv2YT8k/s1600/starburst.jpg" height="320" oea="true" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Starburst. A single square piece has only 15 calories and is fat free and a serving size has about HALF the sugar of a serving of skittles. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">So that's just some food for thought. No need to avoid candy like the plague! Happy Halloween!</span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06104733847747566643noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3568215139880504041.post-82830741671785925582012-10-24T11:39:00.001-04:002012-10-24T20:22:12.181-04:00Feeling down? Simple ways to cheer up.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QU-TMgNHIEw/UIgIucbdTQI/AAAAAAAAAJY/JB91qTMezxI/s1600/cleaning.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="211" oea="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QU-TMgNHIEw/UIgIucbdTQI/AAAAAAAAAJY/JB91qTMezxI/s1600/cleaning.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Clean up. It takes a certain amount of focus, but also is very rewarding when you finish. It is good to have a sense of control of your surroundings, but I also find I get quite proud of myself when I can maintain a nice clean space.</span><br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gGwOt5t5QKA/UIgI9TEAU8I/AAAAAAAAAJg/F9W3llk3PuE/s1600/giftgiving.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" oea="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gGwOt5t5QKA/UIgI9TEAU8I/AAAAAAAAAJg/F9W3llk3PuE/s1600/giftgiving.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Give someone a gift. Someone you rrreeeaaaalllllly love and care about. Get them something they aren’t expecting and that you know will put a smile on their face. </span><br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eU_CtGcfGvg/UIiGGzLBf3I/AAAAAAAAAKU/hFclGy2CR24/s1600/blended-flower-bouquet_300.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eU_CtGcfGvg/UIiGGzLBf3I/AAAAAAAAAKU/hFclGy2CR24/s1600/blended-flower-bouquet_300.jpg" width="268" /></a></div>
<br />Buy yourself flowers. Treat yourself for once! Pick the prettiest ones in the store and plant them right in the middle of your dining table so you can see all the bright happy colors.</span><br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ib62O6YR7Jk/UIgKDfwjqOI/AAAAAAAAAJo/4VMzbFwTdGQ/s1600/walking.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" oea="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ib62O6YR7Jk/UIgKDfwjqOI/AAAAAAAAAJo/4VMzbFwTdGQ/s1600/walking.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />Take a walk. And really notice everything about your surroundings. When you are more attentive like this the world looks so much more beautiful.<br />
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<br />Make a schedule. If you have a seemingly impossible amount to do, break it down into smaller pieces and stick to it. You can do it. <br />
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<br />Cook some really complicated fancy food. Take a lot of time and care putting it together and make sure it looks stunning on the plate. Heck, take a photo and share it with all your friends so you can be as proud as possible of your work. <br />
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<br />Do yoga. Or any sort of slower exercise requiring a lot of focus. Exercise releases happy endorphins, and yoga is calming. This is a great combination for turning up your mood. <br />
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Hope this list is helpful. What do you do when you are feeling down to cheer yourself up?<br />
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-Brooke</span><br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06104733847747566643noreply@blogger.com0