tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-45966052746486519552024-03-06T12:01:31.830-08:00Pink ArgyleGirly, geeky, and arty things I like.Mohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07021751664110443351noreply@blogger.comBlogger645125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4596605274648651955.post-55542971043166211492013-01-20T15:34:00.000-08:002013-01-20T15:36:23.700-08:00Shopping for Hawaii with Funny Face<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheVjqVfNAL0TBgJ4a-9Va4OgJnMAT-VgynRAtZEeHe6re9L3tDPLqjjFDm-X_jXkENvhH27xdigFD_pyrW4jdmEVAt8gCCl8yIqYVkT83pKKz4Yp0Uz5O8TdZ3qF2iFq8fIqOKjNycbUak/s1600/hawaii_shopping.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheVjqVfNAL0TBgJ4a-9Va4OgJnMAT-VgynRAtZEeHe6re9L3tDPLqjjFDm-X_jXkENvhH27xdigFD_pyrW4jdmEVAt8gCCl8yIqYVkT83pKKz4Yp0Uz5O8TdZ3qF2iFq8fIqOKjNycbUak/s1600/hawaii_shopping.jpg" /></a></div>
[Clockwise from top left: <a href="http://www.madewell.com/madewell_category/ACCESSORIES/eyewear/PRDOVR~84444/84444.jsp">Hepcat Shades</a>; <a href="http://www.modcloth.com/shop/dresses/too-much-fun-dress-in-island">Too Much Fun Dress in Island</a>; <a href="http://www.zappos.com/sanuk-yoga-mat-red">Sanuk Yoga Mat Flip-Flops</a>; <a href="http://www.zappos.com/nike-flex-2012-run-digital-pink-atomic-teal-white-metallic-dark-grey">Nike Flex 2012 Run</a>; <a href="http://www.madewell.com/madewell_category/BAGS/backpacks/PRDOVR~88781/88781.jsp">Herschel Supply Company Backpack</a>; <a href="http://www.modcloth.com/shop/graphic-tees/a-whale-y-good-time-top">A Whale-y Good Time Top</a>]<br />
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With the New Year, I put myself on a mandated no-shopping-until-our-vacation regimen (which admittedly I wasn't so stringent about today but I <i>swear</i> I was doing really well for 8 weeks,) so in anticipation for our trip in March (Oahu! The Big Island! Poke!) I'm already surfing around my second homes on the Internet (Modcloth. J. Crew. Madewell.) for colorful gear to bring with me.<br />
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Meanwhile, I've been loving all of the musicals and Audrey Hepburn movies on Netflix. I used to love, LOVE Audrey Hepburn as a kid (and still do.) <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Funny_Face">Funny Face</a> used to be a favorite rental for me, so when I saw it on streaming I jumped for joy. It's still so stylish and gleeful after all these years, and the opening credits by Richard Avedon (see below) is really well done.<br />
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Haven't seen Funny Face? What are you waiting for?! It's beautiful to watch.<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" frameborder="0" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/XWt_pzm094I" width="560"></iframe>Mohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07021751664110443351noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4596605274648651955.post-79193285728170559932013-01-02T23:11:00.003-08:002013-01-02T23:13:15.280-08:00Looking Back on 2012<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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[<b>First row, from left to right</b>: DIY business card I made for my first professional conference. DIY red envelopes I made for my nephews and nieces. Love Park in Philadelphia, taken during my trip there last March. <b>Second row, from left to right</b>: Hello Kitty cup at <a href="http://www.yogurt-land.com/">Yogurtland</a> during the summer Sanrio promotion. Me at my new job, comparing my scarf to a 1950s design book I reviewed. My sister and I after successfully completing the <a href="https://secure3.convio.net/sdzoo/site/SPageNavigator/halfmarathon.html">Safari Park Half Marathon</a>.<br />
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[<b>First row, from left to right: </b>Me and<a href="http://www.lacma.org/art/exhibition/levitated-mass"> Levitated Mass</a> at LACMA during the summer. My cousin and two sisters after completing a relay at the <a href="http://www.runcim.org/">California International Marathon</a> in December. The Color Run in August. <b>Second row, from left to right: </b>It's a Small World at Disneyland, all lit up during the holidays. A latte at <a href="http://www.coffeetomo.com/">Coffee Tomo</a> in Los Angeles. The boy and I at his department holiday party.]<br />
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2012 marked a transformative period for me. I graduated (**wooohooooo!!!**,) switched jobs and careers, ran the most I have ever ran in my life in three races (a half marathon, a 5k, and 6 miles of a relay marathon,) started to dress like a grown up (pencil skirts at J. Crew Factory are awesome, who knew?,) and healed after a particularly hard 2011. 2012 personally rocked with good memories.<br />
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2013 promises to be filled with excitement, as I get to be part of some rewarding and monumental projects and spend more time getting healthier and spending time with the boy. On the horizon...<br />
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+ A trip to the Big Island and Oahu. This will be the first long vacation the boy and I are taking since our honeymoon back in 2010. We have our flights booked and lodging on the Big Island taken care of, now we just need to choose a hotel (or rental) in Oahu. Any suggestions for places to go, things to do, and people to see are welcome and appreciated!<br />
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+ I'm going to keep running! I signed up for the Safari Park Half Marathon again, and I've snagged some more runners to do it with me, including the boy, our friend, my other sister and cousin (I think? Those two need to sign up still!) and my wonderful mentor. We have a whole team of people, it's going to be so much fun!<br />
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+On a more general note, I'm trying hard not to spend so much money. I'm on a no clothes buying spree (6 weeks and counting) and it is HARD. I'm giving myself until March, which is when I'll allow myself some items for our Hawaii trip. Having three months without buying clothes is probably a piece of cake for most people who don't drool over shoes and jewel-toned handbags, but this is who I am. I like pretty things. Not buying them is difficult. Because of my no shopping spree, I've unsubscribed from all the usual suspects (ModCloth, J.Crew, Anthropologie,) so that my email isn't laced in temptation. Be gone bright skirts and cashmere cardigans!<br />
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Oh, 2013. We have so much to look forward to.<br />
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What does 2013 bring for you? What do you hope for in the new year?<br />
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Mohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07021751664110443351noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4596605274648651955.post-15919398845245206622012-12-27T21:37:00.001-08:002012-12-27T21:37:16.006-08:00Boy's Birthday in Vegas<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Hi. We have a lot to catch up on. I'm not sure if anyone is out there anymore, (hello readers! does anyone still read my poor, abandoned blog?) but I had some requests in the Real World to keep it up (you like me! you really do!). Also, last week, the boy asked, "what did we do for our anniversary this year?" and normally I would, in my most disgusted look ever, "What?! How can you not remember? Clearly the day we got married is not high on your list." And then I would scoff repeatedly in his general direction. </div>
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He loves me. </div>
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But instead, I sat there for the longest time and realized I have no idea what we did for our anniversary. Did we do anything the day-of? What happened? Wait, how long have we been married? And then the boy said "what happened, you're supposed to be our family historian." So here I am. And, man this blog needs some cleaning up!</div>
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For now I'll start by recapping the boy's 29th birthday! We went to Vegas on a <a href="http://www.tripadvisor.com/Hotel_Review-g45963-d503598-Reviews-Wynn_Las_Vegas-Las_Vegas_Nevada.html">Wynn</a> promotion ($299 for two nights, tickets to the show <a href="http://www.wynnlasvegas.com/Shows">La Reve</a>, and a Wynn buffet credit--great deal!) that we received in the mail. Everything was wonderful. As our usual, we packed a lot into two days. On our itinerary: </div>
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+ <a href="http://www.neonmuseum.org/">The Neon Museum</a>. Ok, admittedly this was for me and not the boy, but he enjoyed it too! I think. This is a fun off-the-strip excursion that is by tour appointment only and lets you see all the old Vegas signs now piled all in a "boneyard". This place is photo-op heaven, every corner I looked there was something interesting to snap. They allow pre-approved photo shoots, so if you're in Vegas and looking for a spot this would be a wonderful and unique place. </div>
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+ Dinner at <a href="http://www.parislasvegas.com/casinos/paris-las-vegas/restaurants-dining/gordon-ramsay-steak-detail.html">Gordon Ramsay Steak</a>. Hell's Kitchen fans, this is the restaurant now orchestrated by the winner of the show. The whole restaurant was an experience in itself, but it was so dark I didn't get many good photos. Gah! You can see what I had at the end of this post, which because I've been a delinquent historian, I don't remember what it was! But doesn't it look delicious, meat eaters?</div>
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All in all, a wonderful birthday. We definitely plan to return, next time to eat at <a href="http://www.cosmopolitanlasvegas.com/taste/restaurant-collection/wicked-spoon.aspx">Wicked Spoon</a> and catch another show. </div>
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[The Neon Museum's Boneyard Park sign and glass slipper]</div>
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[Love these scripted typefaces many of the signs used!]</div>
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[Lucky us--perfect weather]</div>
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[The boy and I]</div>
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[The sparkly view from our room at The Wynn] </div>
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[Mmmm...my dinner at Gordon Ramsay Steak]</div>
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[Another shot of us in front of the restaurant]</div>
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<span style="text-align: left;">Our next big trip that I haven't brought up here is to Hawaii, which if you've been reading for a while, you know has been on my wish list for quite some time now. More on that trip later. :) </span></div>
<br />Mohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07021751664110443351noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4596605274648651955.post-2446692111537867472012-08-05T22:01:00.002-07:002012-08-05T22:01:25.764-07:00Summer Highlights 2012<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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[From <a href="http://thecolorrun.com/sacramento/">The Color Run</a>, Sacramento]</div>
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This weekend I ran <a href="http://thecolorrun.com/sacramento/">The Color Run</a> with my dear friend (see our adorableness above) which is a 5k in which you get drenched in colored powder: yellow, orange, pink, blue, green, and purple. Volunteers squirt this colored powder on you during the 5k, so by the end, you look like Jackson Pollock attacked you with happiness. It was fun and <i>super</i> quick in comparison to <a href="http://pinkargyle.blogspot.com/2012/05/safari-park-half-marathon-recap.html">the half marathon</a> I ran in May, which was really a test of my endurance and tolerance for hills. This was more a matter of, how much of the pink colored powder can I get on my shirt? Or thoughts like, omigosh I just licked my lips and this stuff tastes disgusting. Or, how am I going to get in the car without totally ruining it? It was a cooler weekend in Sacramento, which was such a blessing, and a nice getaway from my day-to-day in San Diego. </div>
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Last weekend, the boy and I made a day trip to Los Angeles to see Michael Heizer's <a href="http://www.lacma.org/art/exhibition/levitated-mass/">Levitated Mass</a> at LACMA. It was worth the visit, but left me feeling a little depressed. [It's also been all over the press for costing $$$$ and making quite the trek across LA to its home at LACMA--you can read more <a href="http://lacma.wordpress.com/2012/02/24/levitated-mass-the-journey-begins/">here</a>.] It's a single boulder fixed to steel beams over a cement walkway, and the surrounding landscape is dirt and gravel. You can walk under the boulder and view it from different angles. It felt very isolating and stagnant in comparison to the rest of the museum. But this is coming from someone that willingly had strangers shoot paint at her for the sake of looking colorful and messy. I also still own stuffed animals with names, so I like the color and whimsical in my art. Which really wasn't always the case--I find that the older I get, the more I just want art to make me feel contemplative but happy. I think more about how my time is so limited; I want to surround myself with objects that conjure up good, happy feelings.</div>
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[Window display featuring photographs by <a href="http://framework.latimes.com/2012/07/26/2012-olympians/#/0">Jay Clendenin/LA Times</a>]</div>
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The real star of my life lately has been work, which has consumed most of my thoughts and time. I don't mind it at all, as I am really loving it. This window display was something fun I got to do for the Olympics. I'm glad my graphics background is coming in handy as a librarian. It gives me a chance to exercise that part of my brain and put my art training to good use. </div>
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Some fun things on the horizon: </div>
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+ The boy and I want to take a trip to China! As I settle into work more, this seems like it actually might be a possibility instead of just a fleeting fantasy that I research to death with no outcome. </div>
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+ We're planning a trip to Vegas to go check out the <a href="http://www.neonmuseum.org/">Neon Museum</a> and <a href="http://www.maxbrenner.com/">Max Brenner</a>. </div>
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+ This Fall marks the first Fall in three years that I will NOT have school at night/weekends!! I look forward to enjoying the seasons more sans grad school. </div>
<br />Mohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07021751664110443351noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4596605274648651955.post-38445142638831002102012-07-08T17:36:00.000-07:002012-07-08T17:36:48.997-07:00June 2012 in Review<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I'm ready for life to slow down, and to get back on here and document more of it! For those of you who want to keep more up-to-date tabs on my life, you can find me on Instagram under pinkargyle. :)Mohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07021751664110443351noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4596605274648651955.post-78086189667935695702012-05-29T16:02:00.001-07:002012-05-29T16:02:52.176-07:00Transitions--A New Job, A New CareerOn Thursday, I quit my job. After 5 years of working on a project that recently came to a close, I quit my job. And part of me knew that everything would be okay, and that my boss would be kind and courteous and wish me luck, but then there's the irrational paranoid anxiety crazed part of me that was really, really scared. But like most everything else I tend to have unnecessary meltdowns over, it was okay and easy. I walked in, said how much I had enjoyed working there and how much I would miss my coworkers, and gave my last day. She told me how much she appreciated what I had contributed to the company and that she would miss me, and then I exited her office to tell my fellow editors the news as well. That's the sad part of this post.<br />
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The good part of this post is...I got a new job! Irrational paranoid anxiety crazed me is paranoid that typing that will somehow take it all away, but I like living on the edge, so I'm going to type it again--I got a new job! Some of you who have been reading a long time know that I have been living a marathon of a professional life. For the past three years, I've been working full-time and going to graduate school part time to complete my MLIS (Master's in Library and Information Science) to be a librarian (yes, librarians needs master's degrees!) This schedule has taken its toll. I have little time on weekends, I don't get to do as many fun things, and all my creativity is zapped from writing and reading for school. I've got the words "burnt out" stamped to my forehead.<br />
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With the economy in the crapper, libraries being consolidated and closed left and right, I was not counting on anything. I figured that after graduation (t-minus 6 days until my last assignment is due! oh. em. gee.) I would start job hunting and polish my e-portfolio, maybe volunteer or take another internship. I never thought I would be so lucky to have a job lined up right after graduation. Since I've been absent from our blog circle of style-savvy, creative, supportive women, I've been lurking at library school and library job hunting blogs (and the occasional HR blog) to read about career advice. Reading about everyone's experiences was driving me to new heights of anxiety because my future career outlook looked damn right dismal.<br />
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So I feel VERY lucky, and I think (and truly hope) this is going to be a good fit. I'm really thankful, but nervous. And I'm ready to celebrate.<br />
<br />Mohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07021751664110443351noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4596605274648651955.post-3570282086021833252012-05-08T11:30:00.001-07:002012-05-08T11:30:36.701-07:00Pale blue, yay or nay?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Mission: Find a dress for the purpose of graduation, potential summer dinner dates out with the boy, and upping Mo's happiness meter just a little.<br />
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Subject in question: Eva Franco's <a href="http://www.modcloth.com/shop/dresses/belle-of-the-butterfly-garden-dress">Belle of the Butterfly Garden</a> via ModCloth. Subject gets extra points for the cute butterfly print, v-neckline, and light, airy summer style.<br />
<br />Question for my readers: Does this pale blue color go with my skin tone? I tried to think of clothes I own, and I can't really remember light blue being in there...sea foam green, yes, but no light blue. Orange for instance looks kind of odd on me, and yellow is also a hard color to pull off (but I still wear it because the shade makes me happy.) I don't know if this pastel blue color will like me or not. <br />
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But I sure do love the butterfly print.<br />
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Do you have colors you steer clear of? What do you think of the dress? <br />
<br />Mohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07021751664110443351noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4596605274648651955.post-20217341498236217872012-05-07T17:29:00.000-07:002012-05-07T17:29:53.182-07:00Safari Park Half Marathon Recap<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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[My sister and I (I'm on the left) after completing our first half marathon, the <a href="https://secure3.convio.net/sdzoo/site/SPageNavigator/halfmarathon.html">Safari Park Half Marathon</a>. We finished!!!]</div>
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Yesterday, I ran my first half marathon with my sister at the <a href="https://secure3.convio.net/sdzoo/site/SPageNavigator/halfmarathon.html">San Diego Zoo Safari Park</a>. I have been training for the past few months, and I was nervous because I've encountered some obstacles (a hurt knee, breathing problems, chafing, oh my!) during my runs. My biggest fear was training and then not finishing (there is a 3 hour time limit.) I'm happy to report that I not only finished, but also had a lot of fun during the process. I was smiling most of the time from all of the entertainment along the course (music, animals, rousing supporters,) and watching the other runners' excitement.</div>
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The race started early at 6:30 AM, so we were out the door by 5:00 AM and arrived a full hour early at the start line at the North County Mall. It was FREEZING, the porta potty line was ridiculously long, and I was rethinking purchasing this cumbersome iPhone clip-on case I bought the day before. It sure was annoying my hip bone, but later in the race I hardly noticed it anymore because my other body parts probably hurt more at that point, ha!<br />
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This is what it looked like next to our pace group, all the way back at 11 minutes: <br />
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Above is a timing chip. I didn't know this until the half marathon, but our time is recorded via this little chip. As an added bonus, it's super cute and a nice keepsake. I was checking mine out right before the start buzzer. </div>
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When we first started running, we were shoulder-to-shoulder and I saw the sea of people moving forward. I started running with my sister, and then got lost in my headphones and gained more momentum after mile 1. I think that I went the fastest from miles 1 to 6, and didn't even stop for water or powerade. There was a baby cow at one hydration station that people were petting, and I really wanted to stop and pet her too, but all I could think was "nooo, 2:30 pace! 2:30 pace!" Me passing up saying "hi" and petting a baby animal takes extreme circumstances, like finishing at my goal time. When I took this photo, I was feeling pretty good: </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj88N14NedEHpPvWSrAgFwIhwkvk9YEda8lUx1gmypxC44uvPnvUiSXmwjtHBSBzKYjkrmLtbzE3C-BSRl91BbexOfgquMijpNVU6QwM6g_yYFwYd7Ezd9UvTnWOM18ixhr_33A-lwnTkND/s1600/mile5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj88N14NedEHpPvWSrAgFwIhwkvk9YEda8lUx1gmypxC44uvPnvUiSXmwjtHBSBzKYjkrmLtbzE3C-BSRl91BbexOfgquMijpNVU6QwM6g_yYFwYd7Ezd9UvTnWOM18ixhr_33A-lwnTkND/s1600/mile5.JPG" /></a></div>
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<br />But when I reached mile 6, there was the. scariest. hill. ever. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnLSdkkoBQAebHrNpGcaZVlcp5p_0byfSpPS8cV5g-kjt8WolthtHML8ZJI44_du2-FudCovuvU1bwDX-x3h81rGu2-quny0t3fdK40aKDwvE7e4Ty3rJihRy5_PbuZlmOUL4HyyRlbhpZ/s1600/hill_safari_park.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnLSdkkoBQAebHrNpGcaZVlcp5p_0byfSpPS8cV5g-kjt8WolthtHML8ZJI44_du2-FudCovuvU1bwDX-x3h81rGu2-quny0t3fdK40aKDwvE7e4Ty3rJihRy5_PbuZlmOUL4HyyRlbhpZ/s400/hill_safari_park.jpg" width="267" /></a></div>
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[Photo from half marathon runner <a href="http://www.facebook.com/lucy.bender">Lucy Bender</a>]</div>
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Really steep. Sand. Dirt. I had to walk. It was nothing I had tried to run before, and unfortunately after this hill I lost momentum. But I kept going! And going! And going! </div>
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Eventually I got into the park, and got excited when I was nearing the end and saw this sign. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-JUNqKtYJbNSrnHz1PPjEDWEVIJAmkCUkZn8Fii9Kemy4tmMFszeIYz5YhxW_dN91SZQIibcyHHm9Wa6PxjXBxOQj3fkQhPj_ejYBjQ9CEPIQJXsGgQoWJRpyuF5ZoWFpd__mM-isCBJh/s1600/thankyou_safari_park_half.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-JUNqKtYJbNSrnHz1PPjEDWEVIJAmkCUkZn8Fii9Kemy4tmMFszeIYz5YhxW_dN91SZQIibcyHHm9Wa6PxjXBxOQj3fkQhPj_ejYBjQ9CEPIQJXsGgQoWJRpyuF5ZoWFpd__mM-isCBJh/s1600/thankyou_safari_park_half.jpg" /></a></div>
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[Photo by Georgeanne Irvine, San Diego Zoo staff]</div>
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I finished 2 minutes after my goal time of 2:30. Good enough for me! And now I have this shiny medal and wonderful memories of our first half marathon. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC9bLfRhSJtOxwga5ec_gdmTd0o4YEoJQVsUrUcHu5ZbWu_5CIb05_FtigFilpS-_qtomvw4bUdRbTGx_d6V7SChq8XgY_vI67CLgR7AsxlX_aDzaKd0zfvvOdE0UUyjpVynBlksv2zWcl/s1600/medal.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC9bLfRhSJtOxwga5ec_gdmTd0o4YEoJQVsUrUcHu5ZbWu_5CIb05_FtigFilpS-_qtomvw4bUdRbTGx_d6V7SChq8XgY_vI67CLgR7AsxlX_aDzaKd0zfvvOdE0UUyjpVynBlksv2zWcl/s1600/medal.JPG" /></a></div>
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[Basking in our victory after the race] </div>
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I can't wait until next year. We're already planning our costumes. </div>
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Next up, I've signed up for the <a href="http://thecolorrun.com/">Color Run</a>. I'm officially hooked. :)</div>Mohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07021751664110443351noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4596605274648651955.post-31373342298868687802012-04-15T18:55:00.002-07:002012-04-15T18:55:38.103-07:00Up to 9 Miles!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPWsMywOBSGwC-zBwE29SEl4xUqptIYRuXutlxuXu2m6oOBV2ibL-LRCqpp_PWmMwCZrRZdMH0s5N_sysPBOrPdF8yICadFKacVYcnCHv7LoGGyZr41wADNHuyuqPl2WX-TgboawDvhx3t/s1600/running_collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPWsMywOBSGwC-zBwE29SEl4xUqptIYRuXutlxuXu2m6oOBV2ibL-LRCqpp_PWmMwCZrRZdMH0s5N_sysPBOrPdF8yICadFKacVYcnCHv7LoGGyZr41wADNHuyuqPl2WX-TgboawDvhx3t/s1600/running_collage.jpg" /></a></div>
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[Some snapshots from today's run: <a href="http://www.yelp.com/biz/lake-miramar-san-diego">Lake Miramar</a>, my Asics, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alive_%28Goldfrapp_song%29">a great song</a> to run to, and my snacks of choice]</div>
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The half-marathon is in 3 weeks (eeek!), and today I made it to 9 miles! Although I love the challenge, I never anticipated how much training would affect my body. In addition to the aches and pains I had at the beginning of my training, I have now been having trouble breathing. I visited the doctor and hope to be better, but all this running is taking its toll! Vitamin Water and Powerade have also become my best friends, because the electrolytes have helped counter some nausea I was feeling after running. Nausea + aches + gasping for air = no fun. But I feel such accomplishment when I'm done that's I think it's all worth it.</div>
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I'm also just 6 weeks away from graduation. When I was getting married, all I could think about was the day of the wedding (July 3rd). Anything else after that just seemed non-existent. I have that same feeling about graduation. I just keep working toward that first week in June and I can't think beyond that. All in good time...and once graduation is over, I'm up for the next challenge! </div>
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I know I've been absent, but trust me, my life is very boring right now...hence the lack of posts. My life can basically be summed up by school, career, running, cuddling with the boy. Career, running, cuddling with the boy, school. Cuddling with the boy, school, running, career. </div>
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And sometimes I sleep. :) </div>Mohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07021751664110443351noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4596605274648651955.post-54036401680747752162012-03-21T11:26:00.000-07:002012-03-21T11:26:47.259-07:00Springtime in Philadelphia<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I went to my first professional conference (go librarians!) in Philadelphia (my first time in Philly) last week and had a wonderful time. I was a little anxious about being out of my element at a conference for a profession that I don't fully call my own yet, but all in all, I had a great time. It helped that my hotel room was spacious with a beautiful view, that mouth-watering food could be found around every corner, and that spring was blooming in the city.</div>
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This was the view of Broad Street from my hotel room: </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaXwSI9icVOo-xUYAcBSEjUJ-LF6Q1ikkuTOx9K5uOihcZquHF8eFAoxzvhTDiWwHD_kH7QXcyGRFWqvx-8n9A6yeRvUZMPdpct8-g7m6w5hT9amzXmXqq6rS7hiruqiqRd6APSmAZqixi/s1600/view_hotel2.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaXwSI9icVOo-xUYAcBSEjUJ-LF6Q1ikkuTOx9K5uOihcZquHF8eFAoxzvhTDiWwHD_kH7QXcyGRFWqvx-8n9A6yeRvUZMPdpct8-g7m6w5hT9amzXmXqq6rS7hiruqiqRd6APSmAZqixi/s1600/view_hotel2.jpg" /></a> </div>
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[Lucky me got a corner room!]</div>
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When I wasn't mingling with librarians, I spent a lot of time at the <a href="http://www.readingterminalmarket.org/">Reading Terminal Market</a>, which was (much to my delight) right across the street from the convention center. I wish something like Reading existed in San Diego! There were so many delicious treats--flowers, candies, cheese steaks, pretzels (oh the pretzels--I've never had such a good pretzel!), cupcakes, vegetables, meat, jams and jellies, coffee--loved it all. Did I mention the pretzels?</div>
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The Market is indoors and has rows (or "avenues") of vendors, like this one: </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIHzuIZ2Ohk0VB0LJOcgLOWDlL8GtniUl1MUzX4NOL5h_ktTvCwouzX2vobBa-eHdQkjzRpK3nM7l1pdO9I9DwXoY294G_ScN8sYy9FCxtwQpLI-znEIEOu4JjtgL4LHIVYJ_4MB1ISh4n/s1600/reading_avenue.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIHzuIZ2Ohk0VB0LJOcgLOWDlL8GtniUl1MUzX4NOL5h_ktTvCwouzX2vobBa-eHdQkjzRpK3nM7l1pdO9I9DwXoY294G_ScN8sYy9FCxtwQpLI-znEIEOu4JjtgL4LHIVYJ_4MB1ISh4n/s1600/reading_avenue.jpg" /></a></div>
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I was particularly lured in by the sweets: </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLmo5Mw25U6DCI7crpNhwQPERk4yTkUv3r1bcu1g-kuCUX5aqom3sr2fEfQLD4ucXTziQld-m6X0S_hDRhDUHVulfoRu59sQeEOCqbFPxhYthycb2u5B4s-gVrUvGgG6b5Q76zMGdSV1DO/s1600/treats_display.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLmo5Mw25U6DCI7crpNhwQPERk4yTkUv3r1bcu1g-kuCUX5aqom3sr2fEfQLD4ucXTziQld-m6X0S_hDRhDUHVulfoRu59sQeEOCqbFPxhYthycb2u5B4s-gVrUvGgG6b5Q76zMGdSV1DO/s1600/treats_display.jpg" /></a></div>
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[CANDY AND CHOCOLATES! Where do I even start??]</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibgkwTNvkbaWchyphenhyphenRuijdN_us7JoGIFLd6J4KhDaX5YhzAKzDDrRrXnOLDaYqyEk-BlGrtVPNTd1LHrW1UNUFh4B4SPiAEkLj0aYbMnWjfPig5pjH7nfvW5nrRVaSrpRXhS2ojC_Y_bpIMD/s1600/mint_truffles.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibgkwTNvkbaWchyphenhyphenRuijdN_us7JoGIFLd6J4KhDaX5YhzAKzDDrRrXnOLDaYqyEk-BlGrtVPNTd1LHrW1UNUFh4B4SPiAEkLj0aYbMnWjfPig5pjH7nfvW5nrRVaSrpRXhS2ojC_Y_bpIMD/s1600/mint_truffles.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwoZF5C73DMmZ4cezHSlp_F6k4aXR_mNcOYey3JGeNU8SAhUlR7_jGmqUGIoEyNIIyAwxt0RFhUu2zj0Afr06zipfKNQAYwrXGaFEH5RWQa1bhoLnVGqn2Z5X8Sn9Zbi6C4uegPPgjDcth/s1600/mm_cupcake.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwoZF5C73DMmZ4cezHSlp_F6k4aXR_mNcOYey3JGeNU8SAhUlR7_jGmqUGIoEyNIIyAwxt0RFhUu2zj0Afr06zipfKNQAYwrXGaFEH5RWQa1bhoLnVGqn2Z5X8Sn9Zbi6C4uegPPgjDcth/s1600/mm_cupcake.jpg" /> </a> </div>
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These sticky buns at Beiler's Bakery were also incredible--sticky and sweet and made right in front of us. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0y1Hy8grSnMPEvFX1wUCy0M65EU55dL8gxCV0-mkH5Yykded0Bo43hkFL6oXZTZJnwKRsUCjQqIxCbo2lYixi4jA_zlKcjoH83U7V2c7Z0Sz9vkVXToLfII6BiTcZTTtuLuIm-db9GNXh/s1600/cinnamonroll1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0y1Hy8grSnMPEvFX1wUCy0M65EU55dL8gxCV0-mkH5Yykded0Bo43hkFL6oXZTZJnwKRsUCjQqIxCbo2lYixi4jA_zlKcjoH83U7V2c7Z0Sz9vkVXToLfII6BiTcZTTtuLuIm-db9GNXh/s1600/cinnamonroll1.jpg" /></a></div>
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And the flowers were beautiful! While I was there, the east coast was having a heat wave while San Diego was rainy and frigid. Craziness.</div>
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And finally, I cheated. I didn't actually eat a cheese steak, but instead had this roast pork sandwich from <a href="http://www.readingterminalmarket.org/merchants/view/56">DiNic's</a>, complete with sharp provolone and broccoli rabe. YUM.<br />
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To work off a fraction of the food I just showed you, I ran from my hotel all the way up the steps of the <a href="http://www.philamuseum.org/">Philadelphia Museum of Art</a>, a la Rocky Balboa. <br />
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[Watch out half marathon! I'm comin' for you!] </div>
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I did a good amount of career soul searching while I was there, but was happy to have had breaks to eat, smell the flowers, and pump my fists up the steps of the museum.<br />
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Philadelphia, what a wonderful city.Mohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07021751664110443351noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4596605274648651955.post-91809095466710740452012-03-05T22:38:00.001-08:002012-03-05T22:39:27.031-08:00Hi, Remember Me?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibt3VvVniRjySl8sFBXeZs8ma5s5exxmu_tAqUX5Ie5X1kqVW1_vdpgXZD8GGR3YFboJYhOIdXmlZxXKdSorC3AP56tqJZgFCAGRs2DM_eky3avjQxJwmBNPtHVogR9Ao1LU2Iz_dfjGX9/s1600/haircut.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibt3VvVniRjySl8sFBXeZs8ma5s5exxmu_tAqUX5Ie5X1kqVW1_vdpgXZD8GGR3YFboJYhOIdXmlZxXKdSorC3AP56tqJZgFCAGRs2DM_eky3avjQxJwmBNPtHVogR9Ao1LU2Iz_dfjGX9/s320/haircut.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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[I got a haircut with more fringe and bangs.]</div>
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[The amazing <a href="http://aglimpseofthegirlnextdoor.blogspot.com/">Abbie</a> sent me these awesome running socks! I felt so loved opening the package. Thank you <a href="http://aglimpseofthegirlnextdoor.blogspot.com/">Abbie</a>! Abbie's also got a great business cooking, Girl Friday Events+Design, soon to come <a href="http://www.mygirlfridaydoes.com/">here</a>.]</div>
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[The boy promises a trip to this tree house to commemorate being together for 10 years. I hope it happens! You can drool over its magical splendor <a href="http://www.airbnb.com/rooms/50724">here</a>.]</div>
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While you're looking at the photos, you should play this song:
<iframe width="420" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/acLQSzPNu4Y" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>
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[The lovely <a href="http://priscillaahn.com/">Priscilla Ahn</a>] <br />
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[I'm thinking about doing <a href="http://www.whatisblik.com/shop/explore/fishwall-pattern-wall-tiles">this</a> to our bedroom wall. Our bedroom is BORING. It's got nothing on the walls and looks depressingly sparse. This would either make me dizzy or really happy.]<br />
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In other news that don't have pretty pictures attached to them...<br />
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I am 93 DAYS away from graduation!!! The boy and I already booked a place in Seattle and are now looking into spending some extra time in Vancouver. I'm excited!<br />
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Next week, I'm attending my first professional conference in Philadelphia, so I'll be surrounded by librarians. It's going to be eye-opening and a good start to my career.<br />
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Training for the half-marathon is hard, but I'm getting there. It was really hot on Sunday when I did my run, and I got too tired and *sniffle* walked. I hope for a better week of training!<br />
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I'm almost done with a huge work project that has taken 4 years. I'm so close to being finished, and I'm not sure I'm going to believe it's done when it really is. A celebration is definitely in need when it happens.</div>
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<br /></div>Mohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07021751664110443351noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4596605274648651955.post-28006038713006262012-02-21T11:59:00.000-08:002012-02-21T11:59:54.216-08:00My First 5 Miles!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcEWejpXzRhaGCIU13tJq1QNo9-s00U0Wi5EMFlvHbpjO9wRIB1PzsxkpA-Mzk65VHcXdNAO3KgW7J7sYL6BfnRXD3WLlMB_slzi1BVxqMLUymrxyg5pD_pHNjhgWqs6g6xvPEw_aKo_45/s1600/keepcalm_run.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcEWejpXzRhaGCIU13tJq1QNo9-s00U0Wi5EMFlvHbpjO9wRIB1PzsxkpA-Mzk65VHcXdNAO3KgW7J7sYL6BfnRXD3WLlMB_slzi1BVxqMLUymrxyg5pD_pHNjhgWqs6g6xvPEw_aKo_45/s400/keepcalm_run.jpg" width="285" /></a></div>
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[Poster from <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/92264932/keep-calm-and-run-with-the-wind-original?ref=sr_gallery_9&sref=&ga_search_submit=&ga_search_query=keep+calm+and+run&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_ship_to=US&ga_search_type=handmade&ga_facet=handmade">Rebel Rose Design</a>]</div>
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Yesterday, I ran five miles without walking!!! I've never done that before, so when I saw the 4 1/2 marker on the trail, I was so excited. Generally when I run, I'll get to the 2 or even the 1 1/2 marker and say "OK! Well, that was great, time to walk a little." I'm also thankful that my knee and back and shoulder (did I leave any body parts out?) no longer hurt, so I feel this surge of confidence. Half marathon. I can do this.<br />
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I'm also scouting other locations for my runs and will report back--looks like there are some pretty amazing trail runs in San Diego that I am unaware of. <br />
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Hope everyone had a wonderful holiday weekend! xo </div>
<br />Mohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07021751664110443351noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4596605274648651955.post-54937005237296340212012-02-15T12:18:00.000-08:002012-02-15T12:18:36.415-08:00Free Printable Monogram<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1DRwsz7Fx7K2FJ9NAZNLKB-LsXlU9GWYG7dSizV6l7DYTwgba3m_r-WpzzsDKuH9r3pG2yM1UFAjiuQBHkYFKf2QFc3mk41AVvHtnTxS_fxSXsrskkgBeg7jK-ElmrLasNsxBvbWU1Kcx/s1600/monogram.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1DRwsz7Fx7K2FJ9NAZNLKB-LsXlU9GWYG7dSizV6l7DYTwgba3m_r-WpzzsDKuH9r3pG2yM1UFAjiuQBHkYFKf2QFc3mk41AVvHtnTxS_fxSXsrskkgBeg7jK-ElmrLasNsxBvbWU1Kcx/s1600/monogram.jpg" /></a></div>
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[FREE printable from <a href="http://www.weddingchicks.com/freebies/custom-monograms/free-floral-heart-monogram/">Wedding Chicks</a>!] </div>
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I love this. If you're planning a wedding, a party, want a graphic for some new stationery, this would be a beautiful addition! Get it now while it's hot by clicking <a href="http://www.weddingchicks.com/freebies/custom-monograms/free-floral-heart-monogram/">here</a>. </div>
<br />Mohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07021751664110443351noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4596605274648651955.post-42301947913123841822012-02-13T15:38:00.000-08:002012-02-13T15:38:32.922-08:00An Early Valentine's Day<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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We celebrated an early Valentine's Day/<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Galentine%27s_Day">Galentine's Day</a> (which was really just an excuse to go out and have a fancy date,) at <a href="http://marketdelmar.com/">Market</a> in Del Mar. The lighting in there was super dim--great for romance, bad for photos. So, I only got a couple, including one of this delicious dessert that tasted just like a candy bar with fancy ingredients.</div>
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[YUM. Peanut Crunch (aka, caramel corn), Chocolate Mousse Cake, Caramelized Bananas. And look, they knew I was coming! An "M" for Mo.]</div>
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Earlier in the day, I treated myself to a massage for my ailing back at <a href="http://www.bergamotspa.com/">Bergamot Spa</a>. My back is getting better, but I'm still resting before I go out and train again. Bergamot is a really cute place next to the ocean, and I recommend it if you're looking for a spa to do a bridal shower, baby shower, a bachelorette, or if you're like me and had nothing to do on a Sunday morning--it's pretty much nice and tranquil for anything, and super, super cute.</div>
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[<a href="http://www.bergamotspa.com/">Bergamot Spa</a> in Encinitas]</div>
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It was a really nice and peaceful weekend. I wish I had more of them. </div>
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<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Galentine%27s_Day">Happy Galentine's Day</a>!!</div>
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<br />Mohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07021751664110443351noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4596605274648651955.post-25296915120977264792012-02-11T17:02:00.000-08:002012-02-11T17:02:10.695-08:00Updates on Life and Running<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir3xjuHcHKtYaPOMKI4tIPjPXIox1fyZVp4yXmP8GCrsKJaPtyXKNYmE8hi20IuAawfHdHV71ZIAsYy1y9ZUTnq4TUyNYCBjNr2R846RmaqkMPZOd2Ub4P6FTsyqTlUY7yILAlvyrpHFsZ/s1600/mo_san_elijo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir3xjuHcHKtYaPOMKI4tIPjPXIox1fyZVp4yXmP8GCrsKJaPtyXKNYmE8hi20IuAawfHdHV71ZIAsYy1y9ZUTnq4TUyNYCBjNr2R846RmaqkMPZOd2Ub4P6FTsyqTlUY7yILAlvyrpHFsZ/s1600/mo_san_elijo.jpg" /> </a></div>
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[Me on the trail at <a href="http://www.sanelijo.org/welcome-san-elijo-lagoon-conservancy">San Elijo Lagoon</a>]</div>
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Wow, thank you so much for everyone's support on <a href="http://pinkargyle.blogspot.com/2012/01/training-for-my-first-half-marathon.html">my last post </a>about the half marathon! I'm inspired by all your experiences and advice. It seems I inspired my sister, so she signed up too! And to add to the half marathon love, my cousin also signed up for one in San Francisco. <i>And</i>, if that wasn't enough, my good friend who very rarely runs decided to go out and do a mile! I'm just spreading the get out and run love, sigh.</div>
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Thanks to<a href="http://aglimpseofthegirlnextdoor.blogspot.com/"> Abby</a>, I printed out the Hal Higdon <a href="http://www.halhigdon.com/training/51131/Half-Marathon-Novice-1-Training-Program">Novice Training Program</a> and am using it as guidance. </div>
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Training is already kicking my butt. Since I posted, it's been a little tricky training because </div>
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+I got sick and couldn't stop coughing for a couple weeks. No fun. Lots of spitting. :(</div>
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+My knee hurt, but now my knee is better (yay!!) after going to the Road Runner store and getting some new Asics. I also got some custom insoles and thick socks--all in all, it was a very expensive trip to the Road Runner store!</div>
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+My back REALLY hurt, and now only mildly hurts. This is partially my fault because I went out running when it only mildly hurt, and then it REALLY hurt after my 5 mile long run. We're talking aches down my arm and pains in multiple places kind of pain. There was one morning when I just couldn't move. While we were still in bed, the boy was sleeping on top of my hair, so when the alarm went off I lunged my head forward. And because he was on top of my hair, my neck jerked back and I just yelped out like a baby. OWWWWWW! </div>
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Luckily, I have a massage scheduled at <a href="http://www.bergamotspa.com/index.htm">Spa Bergamot</a> tomorrow morning and I am SO looking forward to it! </div>
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Hope everyone has a wonderful V-Day and great weekend. </div>
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<br />Mohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07021751664110443351noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4596605274648651955.post-70637496485937324372012-01-24T15:14:00.000-08:002012-01-24T15:14:02.309-08:00Training for My First Half Marathon<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg92iC0oM723OJbVAJYVUgj6apChXk37a4naFO-ltrcCloeIukbrDTs0Ey11ndl1MrCAJaxUuzA7cwMMHt8oR3SdKr20hyphenhyphenaGbAqU1rJnSMhL3EpIrIeZcAEfsePu9_zL95du63QaNua3sUd/s1600/lululemon_campaign.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg92iC0oM723OJbVAJYVUgj6apChXk37a4naFO-ltrcCloeIukbrDTs0Ey11ndl1MrCAJaxUuzA7cwMMHt8oR3SdKr20hyphenhyphenaGbAqU1rJnSMhL3EpIrIeZcAEfsePu9_zL95du63QaNua3sUd/s1600/lululemon_campaign.jpg" /></a></div>
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[Cute ad campaign from <a href="http://shop.lululemon.com/home.jsp">lululemon</a>]</div>
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On a whim I signed up for a half marathon. "You did what?!" said the boy. "Do you even know what that entails?"Oh, husband. Such confidence!<br />
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Seriously though, I don't think I really know what it entails, ha! I'm not a runner, but for whatever reason, I was swayed by cute tigers (the money for this marathon goes toward a new tiger sanctuary) and this voice inside me telling me that I should focus on something that helps my mental and physical health. And then, before I knew it, I was signed up to run 13 some odd miles in the <a href="https://secure3.convio.net/sdzoo/site/SPageNavigator/halfmarathon.html">Safari Park Half Marathon</a>.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYCeITEjmmGlxdN7Nwm_Vh6yn5PIaCl8VQyFSsxUaz8yZsaDLUDF-V9hIHexXXLAaGyIw5S4g6ZUuoTcmVlgn7yc_HL_M0zCzhjAl8hW1dTU_5LqM5MW8NW_KgV8OA3vgAY3TOtyYxt28r/s1600/safari_park_marathon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYCeITEjmmGlxdN7Nwm_Vh6yn5PIaCl8VQyFSsxUaz8yZsaDLUDF-V9hIHexXXLAaGyIw5S4g6ZUuoTcmVlgn7yc_HL_M0zCzhjAl8hW1dTU_5LqM5MW8NW_KgV8OA3vgAY3TOtyYxt28r/s1600/safari_park_marathon.jpg" /></a></div>
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[Wanna join me? You can sign up <a href="https://secure3.convio.net/sdzoo/site/SPageNavigator/halfmarathon.html">here</a>!]</div>
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Like any good planner/blogger/future librarian, I've looked up some training schedules and it looks like I better start training in the next couple weeks and log in a whole lot of miles a week. Eep! But I'm excited by this challenge, and I think it will be good for my heart and head.<br />
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Send me your tips marathon runners! How should I train?<br />
<br />Mohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07021751664110443351noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4596605274648651955.post-86679738150071629792012-01-18T12:01:00.000-08:002012-01-18T12:01:14.601-08:00Lunar New Year Baby BlocksSister 2: So wait, when are you going to start trying?<br />
Me: After my graduation, and after the boy gets his PhD.<br />
Sister 2: Ok, so when is that?<br />
Me: Well, if I don't royally screw up, I graduate in June. And if the boy advances, he could potentially be done by March next year.<br />
Sister 2: So, next year? You'll start trying next year?<br />
Me: No, after he's done with his PhD, which isn't until...<br />
Sister 2: THAT'S NEXT YEAR.<br />
Me: Shut up, it totally is not. *scratches head* Hm, he starts clinic in 2013...which is, hm...<br />
Sister 2: NEXT YEAR!<br />
Me: Whoa. <br />
Sister 2: Don't worry, I'm sending you my books. Which ones do you have? <br />
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I suppose one could really tell that I'm having baby fever because I'm starting to research cute baby items on Etsy. This is how the wedding planning started, which then snowballed into its very own lace-covered beast!<br />
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Lunar New Year is creeping up on us and I saw these adorable animal zodiac baby blocks by <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/bysimple?ref=pr_shop_more#">bysimple</a> and I had to share. What a beautiful keepsake for a newborn! They come in all the animals of the zodiac and also in two different illustration styles.<br />
You can check out more at <a href="http://www.etsy.com/people/bysimple">Stacy's Etsy shop</a>. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBRK1f5hJFQ4Delels9OT0j54mGGosVGoAg4FQdjkO9OVzBDx2iME3EUv4nEOdh4flmgns4RTmO_mbUa6Cdgm-0AA2OKJnCtex0-0MeyJhVc0JBAeVWuDp8H03qhheL6NJlhlNMkAnBxy8/s1600/bysimple1.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBRK1f5hJFQ4Delels9OT0j54mGGosVGoAg4FQdjkO9OVzBDx2iME3EUv4nEOdh4flmgns4RTmO_mbUa6Cdgm-0AA2OKJnCtex0-0MeyJhVc0JBAeVWuDp8H03qhheL6NJlhlNMkAnBxy8/s1600/bysimple1.jpg" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuGVj-UDtOHIeCuGfBrluumYOIzZzWwC1E4HGaUcAPuBDA2tXHBl3y5WQOXrDxRLDAKdHy0rCTVwOQK9rfiIr_JaFt_71fIaxJz5o-TdwMUJDAoTbczipJuCFGM389ZJX8vAFMeK8PV9x9/s1600/bysimple5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuGVj-UDtOHIeCuGfBrluumYOIzZzWwC1E4HGaUcAPuBDA2tXHBl3y5WQOXrDxRLDAKdHy0rCTVwOQK9rfiIr_JaFt_71fIaxJz5o-TdwMUJDAoTbczipJuCFGM389ZJX8vAFMeK8PV9x9/s1600/bysimple5.jpg" /></a></div>
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[All items and photos from <a href="http://www.etsy.com/people/bysimple">Stacy Wong of bysimple</a>]</div>
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I envision a cute set of these in our future nursery, to be determined at a much later date! </div>
<br />Mohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07021751664110443351noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4596605274648651955.post-30063209453740548162012-01-09T23:05:00.000-08:002012-01-09T23:20:37.601-08:0011 Things About MoThank you to my blogger friend <a href="http://elephantislove.blogspot.com/2012/01/ive-been-tagged-first-in-2012.html">elephant is love</a> for tagging me! This is quite the post, I needed to answer 11 questions about myself.<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">Here are the questions Chewy came up with and my answers!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><b>1. Is there a significance behind your name?
</b>Yes--my name means “dream” in Chinese. I’m told my Dad had a dream I would be a girl, and lo and behold! Here I am. :) </span><br />
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<b>2. Your favorite color / color combination?</b>
Purple is consistently one of my favorite colors, but I love all colors of the rainbow. I’m not a huge fan of black, but if I do wear it, I like pairing it with a really bright scarf, necklace, or cardigan. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">Here are some of my favorite combinations at the moment:
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-yA1knR3EKQrj8BUaFbs7mhNcY8-UKGr_D5jn7tVkQ8bqSuWeMYT75nQN2qT4b9LmvPMuDfosoLv4bYf2EaIViSt1zHt80b5QDI0-KJ0Yetp1F4NQrpQfVICBI_YznRl2wctMgkIYWeib/s1600/purple_aqua.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="164" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-yA1knR3EKQrj8BUaFbs7mhNcY8-UKGr_D5jn7tVkQ8bqSuWeMYT75nQN2qT4b9LmvPMuDfosoLv4bYf2EaIViSt1zHt80b5QDI0-KJ0Yetp1F4NQrpQfVICBI_YznRl2wctMgkIYWeib/s320/purple_aqua.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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[Purple and aqua]</div>
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[Peach and goldenrod]</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNy7n3TlLYa71RvGjPlYFEnk1bFC8VGjouH-LGFltM6Innl68oh6boGRO-HiothfDMim2xOhnyftnUF1zV5rgNz3St78jSkxAUBbk1s1OQW7vygt4efUVadTa5cPfHGua7AvFdcILt9CHG/s1600/royalblue_seafoamgreen.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="164" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNy7n3TlLYa71RvGjPlYFEnk1bFC8VGjouH-LGFltM6Innl68oh6boGRO-HiothfDMim2xOhnyftnUF1zV5rgNz3St78jSkxAUBbk1s1OQW7vygt4efUVadTa5cPfHGua7AvFdcILt9CHG/s320/royalblue_seafoamgreen.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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[Royal blue and seafoam green]</div>
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<b>3. Favorite past time / thing you do to de-stress?</b><br />
I love to write, take photos, make art and crafts, and explore new places (or old ones, like the beach or the zoo!) This blog is the perfect place for me to publish all my adventures and reflections. Not only is it a record of everything I see, but it's also my way of sharing my life with you.<br />
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<b>4. What is your motto in life, or your strongest belief /value?</b><br />
Hmmm...good question! I make an effort to keep an open mind, and also try not impose my values on others because what works for me certainly doesn't work for the rest of the world. I don't like upsetting people, and am sensitive to the harmony and peace in my relationships. Life is hard, we need all the help we can get from one another! I try to see things from other people's perspectives because we've all come from different walks of life. While I like to keep the peace, I have been known to make snide remarks or give a death stare for the following: 1. racism 2. homophobia 3. sexism 4. judgmental statements against myself and/or family/community 5. entitled people 6. arrogance 7. the movie <i>National Treasure</i><br />
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Finally, chocolate and hugging are needed on a daily basis.<br />
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<b>5. What is your next upcoming (exciting) project? </b><br />
Another mini book! This one is a more personal project and I'm going to write a lot for it, as opposed to my other mini books which are all photos. It's going to have a forest theme and I am really excited to use these fun materials I picked up:<br />
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<b>6. Describe your fashion style. Post a picture, if you have one! </b><br />
I have an ultra feminine, colorful, eclectic style.<b> </b>Texture, bright colors, and fun accessories are all welcome in my closet. I own way too many dresses, and am a fan of ruffles, bows, and cardigans. Below are some of the items from my wardrobe.<br />
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzHbF4222SejufugJG6dD8YBJBWItXYMzAqTfUVraLxqd94ZVb0oUDxwh5ktKXph41M_CJNkx4gXmMX5BtB__AjS3aRF4w20BvVwQfzfNxjKC7GTHQO5gUF6ir5xcEPbIUEoT44TwU8cyC/s1600/dress1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzHbF4222SejufugJG6dD8YBJBWItXYMzAqTfUVraLxqd94ZVb0oUDxwh5ktKXph41M_CJNkx4gXmMX5BtB__AjS3aRF4w20BvVwQfzfNxjKC7GTHQO5gUF6ir5xcEPbIUEoT44TwU8cyC/s1600/dress1.jpg" /></a></span></b><br />
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<b>7. Coffee or tea, or choice of morning beverage?</b> Vietnamese coffee or milk tea please!<br />
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<b>8. All time favorite book and/ or movie?</b> Oh man, just one? If I HAD to choose one movie, it would be <i>My Neighbor Totoro</i>, which always puts a smile on my face and gives me the warm fuzzies. I don't know if I have an absolute favorite book (I feel like as a future librarian I should have one that I absolutely adore) but there are just too many in too many genres. What kind of book? Art book? Children's book? Fiction? Nonfiction? But let's see, just one...I always think fondly of the book <i>A Heartbreaking Work of Staggering Genius</i> because I read it when I was studying abroad and missing Berkeley. It made me a fan of Dave Eggers.<br />
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<b>9. What music do you listen to?</b> I typically listen to folk, indie rock, or indie pop with a female lead singer--Bird and the Bee is one of my favorite bands, and I also have Ingrid Michaelson, She and Him, Lily Allen, Fiona Apple, Rilo Kiley, Kate Nash, and Lenka on my playlist.<br />
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<b>10. Do you prefer living in a house or an apartment?</b> I've been living in an apartment for the past 10 years, but I really miss living in a house. I'm not a huge fan of being stacked on top of one another, and having a house would mean I could have a yard or a front porch or a garage...sigh...the possibilities.<br />
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<b>11. What is your dream vacation?</b> Anywhere with good food, a beautiful view, and my husband by my side.<br />
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Thanks Chewy! I had fun answering these. </div>
<br /></div>Mohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07021751664110443351noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4596605274648651955.post-74904547769740905732012-01-04T06:00:00.000-08:002012-01-04T06:00:05.770-08:00San Francisco Date Day<i>[I wrote this post over my break and I notice that my tone in this is rather chipper--which probably means I was having a good vacation! Instead of revising it since I'm posting this days later after coming back home, I thought I'd keep it as is--enjoy!]</i><br />
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Did everyone have a good holiday? I'm still on vacation back home in Northern California, gearing up my wits and health for a great 2012. After having a bit of a panicky two weeks (I was convinced I was doing horribly in one of my classes--turns out I was fine, phew) we made the long drive from San Diego to the Bay Area and have been here since. It's been a little crazy. We've been here a week and have stayed with four different relatives and have filled our bellies at so many delicious restaurants. Such is life when we visit!<br />
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Yesterday, something unexpected happened--we had nothing planned. So the boy and I decided to take the day to frolic through San Francisco. We met in college at UC Berkeley, so San Francisco was always a special treat for us away from studying. Even after visiting so many times and living close in college, San Francisco continues to be a treat.<br />
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We started the day off at the <a href="http://www.ferrybuildingmarketplace.com/">Ferry Building</a>, and got some <a href="http://www.bluebottlecoffee.net/">Blue Bottle coffee</a> and <a href="http://www.acmebread.com/locations">Acme Bread</a>. And then we walked out to the pier and I snapped this picture: <br />
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[<a href="http://www.bluebottlecoffee.net/">Blue bottle</a> mocha and a content Mo]</div>
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We continued the day over at <a href="http://www.koipalace.com/default.htm">Koi Palace</a> in Daly City. </div>
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[XO har gow, aka, spicy shrimp dumpling deliciousness]</div>
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[*drool* These are like Chinese donuts, lots of sugar and fresh out of the oven]<br />
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After stuffing ourselves silly, we headed over to the <a href="http://www.conservatoryofflowers.org/">Conservatory of Flowers</a>. The exhibits were gorgeous, and my favorite was the special exhibit, <a href="http://www.conservatoryofflowers.org/atconservatory/playlandNov2011">Playland</a> (see the pics further below.) The exhibit celebrates seaside culture in a bygone era, complete with a miniature railway exhibit, fun mirrors, a photobooth, a bumper car, and other amusement park charm. I LOVED all of the bright colors and foliage that decorated this space. I highly recommend it, and it's on display until April 15th! </div>
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I left my heart in San Francisco. I'm pretty sure it's not at my desk in San Diego, which I have to return to shortly, sigh. Hope everyone is having an easy week back at work!Mohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07021751664110443351noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4596605274648651955.post-82081239379583784222012-01-02T22:31:00.000-08:002012-01-02T22:31:16.562-08:00hello 2012, I've been waiting for youWhile 2011 proved to be devastating, there <i>were</i> some happy memories and good news for us. Here are some of the happy moments of 2011: <br />
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+ Our marriage is still going strong, and we continue to learn more about each other every day. We've talked a lot lately, especially with my heartache, and I think we're closer than ever now. We celebrated our first year of marriage with <a href="http://pinkargyle.blogspot.com/2011/07/one-year-anniversarybirthday-trip-new.html">a trip to New Mexico</a>.<br />
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+ My sisters gave birth to beautiful baby boys, <a href="http://pinkargyle.blogspot.com/2011/07/meet-my-nephews.html">Parker and Jonah</a>.<br />
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+ We moved into a nicer apartment and I finally have <a href="http://pinkargyle.blogspot.com/2011/07/colorful-new-office-space.html">my own office space</a>. <br />
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+ The boy and I were both awarded fellowships for our studies. During this economic nightmare, we consider ourselves lucky to have the help. <br />
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+ After a scary six weeks of my Dad being sick in the hospital (at the worst time, we were told pancreatic cancer was a possibility--it's since been ruled out--yay!), he is finally at home and regaining strength. I was able to see him over the holiday break, which was such a relief.<br />
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The big theme for me for 2012 is to look forward. Make peace with the past. Look forward to things to come. I have a lot to look forward to--in the near future I have my graduation to look forward to, and in the farther future, I see growing our home to include a house and kids. <br />
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I really liked <a href="http://creatingclever.com/the-aileen-manifesto">this 2012 manifesto poster</a> from creating clever, and so I made my own. If you made one too, I'd love to see it!<br />
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2011, go to sleep. 2012, I'm all yours. </div>
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Do we share any of the same resolutions? What are your thoughts about the past year?</div>Mohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07021751664110443351noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4596605274648651955.post-44914231900847950122011-12-11T22:39:00.000-08:002011-12-11T22:39:10.773-08:00Winner of the Shabby Apple Giveaway - Nikkiana!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7ayBttsmZ-P7eRt7l1Kf2hTIIHL-70NIl8nZI5WYv7G6hvkaTCs5p1Bm7SN0Ckye9ppCNz_RIOLzgMYWaBsezXMc0F93z3Pn95_9z-zPhKPyOpPrw76JGBcNjP6509mBRokIKublZ9ASn/s1600/nikkiana.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7ayBttsmZ-P7eRt7l1Kf2hTIIHL-70NIl8nZI5WYv7G6hvkaTCs5p1Bm7SN0Ckye9ppCNz_RIOLzgMYWaBsezXMc0F93z3Pn95_9z-zPhKPyOpPrw76JGBcNjP6509mBRokIKublZ9ASn/s1600/nikkiana.jpg" /></a></div>
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Congratulations Nikkiana! I couldn't find an email address for you, please contact me (my email is on the <a href="http://pinkargyle.blogspot.com/p/contact.html">contact page</a>) so you can claim your prize.Mohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07021751664110443351noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4596605274648651955.post-64653534155728962172011-12-07T11:42:00.000-08:002011-12-21T09:22:33.085-08:00peace, love, and cupcakes<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><b>Have you entered the <a href="http://pinkargyle.blogspot.com/2011/11/shabby-apple-giveaway-francine-skirt.html">Shabby Apple Giveaway</a>? Tomorrow's the last day! </b></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1Gm5feH5AQPTwZyyA9Bnx-3WSEX_CBRYqt2dWU-lz6tvh89oBDu8oBjivFSxh5Akz3e1WNvZ-lsgupDQw-hD3ynNnWlQiNzumnOQHeKmjWoT0aSGrlafinaOdh-aYWAZSFkvsqKRSJBdR/s1600/holiday_2011_forblog.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1Gm5feH5AQPTwZyyA9Bnx-3WSEX_CBRYqt2dWU-lz6tvh89oBDu8oBjivFSxh5Akz3e1WNvZ-lsgupDQw-hD3ynNnWlQiNzumnOQHeKmjWoT0aSGrlafinaOdh-aYWAZSFkvsqKRSJBdR/s1600/holiday_2011_forblog.jpg" /></a></div>
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[I had fun doing this photo shoot. The cat never has fun during these photo shoots, but I know that when she sees the final product, she's thankful she didn't squirm out of my arms in desperation. Now I just need to make the boy pose for one of these!] <br />
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To brighten up this super crappy year, I am looking forward to spending time with my family and friends this holiday season. We will be making our perilous trek from San Diego to San Francisco and Sacramento on the 23rd, where I finally get to see my Dad (he just left the hospital and will be recovering,) my family, the boy's family, and some good friends I only get to see a few times a year.<br />
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When times are hard, it's difficult to be far away. Days like these, I wish I lived close by, so I wouldn't have to plan out just one week of time to see everyone I love. <br />
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On the agenda is a visit to one of our favorite restaurants in the city, <a href="http://thehse.com/">The House</a>, and I hope to have lots of cuddle time with my baby nephews and niece! <br />
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With a mountain of work (finals and work deadlines) I am counting down the days until I get to go over the river and through the woods on the 23rd. It's been pure chaos lately.<br />
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Hope your holiday planning is sweet and merry! I'm going to have Elf playing in the background while I toil away at my finals. xoxo</div>Mohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07021751664110443351noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4596605274648651955.post-28662056902973863002011-11-30T16:38:00.001-08:002011-12-11T22:39:36.464-08:00Shabby Apple Giveaway - Francine Skirt - CLOSEDTis the season to give, and what better way to give than with a <a href="http://www.shabbyapple.com/">Shabby Apple</a> Giveaway! I've had my eye on any skirt with a bow, so I'm going to give one of you the chance to have this adorable pencil skirt, the <a href="https://www.shabbyapple.com/p-1006-francine.aspx">Francine</a>. For those of you unfamiliar with <a href="http://www.shabbyapple.com/">Shabby Apple</a>, it's an online boutique of sweet and flirty <a href="http://www.shabbyapple.com/t-apparel.aspx">women's dresses</a>. As readers familiar with this blog know, I'm a sucker for dresses!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizu7FLgcpioESlNARRvtPrWKx4qaKAB5dHRdEa1JJWUgnp9fQxApfd08bvghiXaROwXpo3-1pi9wXtBKJdEFOIT_SUKil_jy0LbEnuSct5MG6dUXQKdA0ekMmzZDaktXYLE8d9SqsRXzrE/s1600/shabbyapple_giveaway.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizu7FLgcpioESlNARRvtPrWKx4qaKAB5dHRdEa1JJWUgnp9fQxApfd08bvghiXaROwXpo3-1pi9wXtBKJdEFOIT_SUKil_jy0LbEnuSct5MG6dUXQKdA0ekMmzZDaktXYLE8d9SqsRXzrE/s1600/shabbyapple_giveaway.jpg" /></a></div>
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[The <a href="https://www.shabbyapple.com/p-1006-francine.aspx">Francine Skirt from Shabby Apple</a>]</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>To enter, you must:</i> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Like the <a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Shabby-Apple/56291792791">Shabby Apple Facebook page</a>, then leave a comment below telling me you did. That might be a pretty boring comment, so to make things interesting for me and you, let us all know what your plans are for this holiday season while you're at it. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>For an additional entry, you may also:</i> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Tweet, Facebook, or blog about this giveaway and leave a comment here with the link.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">This giveaway will close one week from now on December 8th at 11:59 PM. A winner will be chosen at random from the comments. <b> </b></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Don't forget--include your email address so I know how to contact the winner!</b></span> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"> Good Luck! </span></div>
<br />Mohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07021751664110443351noreply@blogger.com21tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4596605274648651955.post-66008881626517308282011-11-29T14:31:00.001-08:002011-11-29T14:42:45.902-08:0020% Off Sarah Perlis + Eternity Ring Love<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ6_TRpHR59Rn-vsQDDtyJP98cQf-DwOMTLXfzpnU_7_C9Rnwue8qYT9XMXajSF1K18WQc13wNia36-BOfvNSj7aJHVx79jhSK9U9i3rKhe_Z7V1imAXUNAkPqcWKCG-Rfjz-j2_T8M695/s1600/8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ6_TRpHR59Rn-vsQDDtyJP98cQf-DwOMTLXfzpnU_7_C9Rnwue8qYT9XMXajSF1K18WQc13wNia36-BOfvNSj7aJHVx79jhSK9U9i3rKhe_Z7V1imAXUNAkPqcWKCG-Rfjz-j2_T8M695/s1600/8.jpg" /></a></div>
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I never got a wedding band (we opted to use the money to get the boy the gold wedding band of his choice) so whenever I see that Sarah (who made <a href="http://pinkargyle.blogspot.com/2009/05/playing-with-camera-my-ring.html">my engagement/wedding ring</a>!) having a sale my heart skips a beat. Isn't this one just lovely?<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYx-rbYCkO8IQgg3MrKJjtPkauLAOK80t6jH17q67HKHS42GUb22o67QmDp3oiNuLIjiOjTTV0ZT2ET-2y6cZkgwWmps2mW4i90FSILX-kOz0F6b-AHFSGzGSZCKdrRWQMAI0lXgLA58jE/s1600/sarahperlis_eternityring.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYx-rbYCkO8IQgg3MrKJjtPkauLAOK80t6jH17q67HKHS42GUb22o67QmDp3oiNuLIjiOjTTV0ZT2ET-2y6cZkgwWmps2mW4i90FSILX-kOz0F6b-AHFSGzGSZCKdrRWQMAI0lXgLA58jE/s1600/sarahperlis_eternityring.jpg" /></a></div>
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[<a href="http://www.sarahperlis.com/collections/rings/products/yellow-gold-bezel-eternity-band">Yellow gold bezel eternity band</a>]</div>
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Sigh...maybe one day?? </div>
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Go visit Sarah's website <a href="http://www.sarahperlis.com/">here</a> for more beautiful jewelry.</div>
<br />Mohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07021751664110443351noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4596605274648651955.post-62670930313720435552011-11-27T22:10:00.001-08:002011-11-27T22:49:49.117-08:00Giving Thanks<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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That turkey above was really, really good. The gravy that you see directly behind it, even better! Some of the best turkey I have had. For the first time, the boy and I spent Thanksgiving at my godmother's who whipped up a fabulous feast. It was delicious.</div>
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My godmother and I share an affinity for sparkly pretty things. Here you can see the pretty tablecloth she set out, and the pink glass peaking in the corner. </div>
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Yams are underneath this cloud of toasted marshmallows. Mmmmmmm...<br />
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Even though I had a horrible paper to write (ugggghhhh) the boy and I managed to have fun with his time off from lab. It was really nice. We spent the day at the zoo, which I always love. I've been to the zoo several times, and each time the hippo, Otis, is smushed up against the glass and looking positively lazy. This time he was actually posing on this rock, so I took the opportunity to get a photo with him. Hi Otis! [These <a href="http://blogs.sandiegozoo.org/2010/11/11/hippo-photo-goes-global/">lucky folks</a> got Otis to smile.]<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC_Oq71m6WRIspan-fhgmM6eeVAwFGutzDNn31TNloShE_flmPecFiGtO7HNp4NU-WlDxHUr2JVRSzdP9DvecrABiZMUSkMbNU-pf_Gxt7n0guvuw8FFkmUk7bi4IBW-H2oEPXBoEx8vyt/s1600/mo_otis.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC_Oq71m6WRIspan-fhgmM6eeVAwFGutzDNn31TNloShE_flmPecFiGtO7HNp4NU-WlDxHUr2JVRSzdP9DvecrABiZMUSkMbNU-pf_Gxt7n0guvuw8FFkmUk7bi4IBW-H2oEPXBoEx8vyt/s1600/mo_otis.jpg" /></a></div>
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After the zoo, we had dinner at one of our favorite spots in <a href="http://prepkitchen.com/la-jolla">La Jolla, PrepKitchen</a>. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9QzXr7fhJGmPbaxdir43KwCVT1nxswXpmk6jOUsaNpj2AyFOV21z4VExBfvZWxKK_fmLjOIQV9C24HQftDqvHrs_DBZbbKaoN2llVGEUhOyJzT2fhDyTGsB2dFmM9nN6Nfp14vhRKe25E/s1600/prepkitchen.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9QzXr7fhJGmPbaxdir43KwCVT1nxswXpmk6jOUsaNpj2AyFOV21z4VExBfvZWxKK_fmLjOIQV9C24HQftDqvHrs_DBZbbKaoN2llVGEUhOyJzT2fhDyTGsB2dFmM9nN6Nfp14vhRKe25E/s1600/prepkitchen.jpg" /></a></div>
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[Photo from <a href="http://prepkitchen.com/la-jolla">PrepKitchen</a>]</div>
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That dinner was amazing. The boy's dish was particularly good--a turkey leg with polenta. This was fall off the bone good.</div>
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To top it off, we shared a pumpkin bread pudding. We were full of food and happiness. </div>
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<i>Annnnnnnnd</i> if that wasn't enough, we also saw <a href="http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/the_muppets/">The Muppets</a>, which was SO GOOD. It totally made me smile all the way home and had me in love with Amy Adams (and her wardrobe!) again.<br />
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[Just hanging out with my Muppet buddies]</div>
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On a more serious note...<br />
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This Thanksgiving, I am thankful for all of the experiences I have had in my life thus far. I am thankful for the love I have received, the places I have been, the knowledge I have the accrued, and the possibilities that my life has to offer. The fact that I got to eat a delicious Thanksgiving meal, visit the zoo and see so many animals from around the world, have a romantic dinner by the ocean, and see The Muppets, all with my best friend and love, is quite a weekend. I'm quite grateful that this is my life.<br />
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I am thankful that my friends and family have their health and are fed well and live in warm homes. And although my Dad isn't doing so well (he's back in the hospital and I hope he is out by the time I go back home,) I am thankful for the education and experience of the doctors and medical staff who are helping treat him and make him better so he can go home and be with us.<br />
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I am thankful that I have this public vehicle to share my life with you, and I am thankful that you share your life with me so I can read about the love that other people share around the world.<br />
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Hope everyone had a wonderful, delicious Thanksgiving.<br />
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Let the holidays--whatever you may celebrate--begin!Mohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07021751664110443351noreply@blogger.com6