tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-39591255612553676862024-03-14T14:54:29.653-04:00So Fawned // Life, love, inspiration, style, motherhood, travel, and tea.Life, love, inspiration, style, motherhood, travel, and tea.Desireehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05248779047139738858noreply@blogger.comBlogger1922125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3959125561255367686.post-36970253858705248402013-07-10T05:00:00.000-04:002013-07-10T05:00:01.700-04:00{Wordless Wednesday} Rice Lake, Before The Storm<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNiAqU388eFnTFecYPRUQxpc3ucyvXLSQpGB78qgf8QYS9MHfFp-saqrL4-D-Y3uZN47Np3uUfMxdYXLROa6z1zcnYz7tPrqgjfSY5WDHFjG_tVohtFXqA_d4Ge3Fy0I9T8b8PMPoOBnVY/s1600/rice+lake+ontario+(1).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNiAqU388eFnTFecYPRUQxpc3ucyvXLSQpGB78qgf8QYS9MHfFp-saqrL4-D-Y3uZN47Np3uUfMxdYXLROa6z1zcnYz7tPrqgjfSY5WDHFjG_tVohtFXqA_d4Ge3Fy0I9T8b8PMPoOBnVY/s640/rice+lake+ontario+(1).JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5twLWMp1aQyJGHI-7p-94eHYX9p0sDtufCELXTy3KyqepxgY2j3Cx5MUvuNE7crnnsv7PaJHB4t3tK46s4q4MQGahyUoExsuRY7dYFxP9zmqHjPh6pIwvVFaLSQknhNvgEyhnACXhPQLD/s1600/rice+lake+ontario+(3).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5twLWMp1aQyJGHI-7p-94eHYX9p0sDtufCELXTy3KyqepxgY2j3Cx5MUvuNE7crnnsv7PaJHB4t3tK46s4q4MQGahyUoExsuRY7dYFxP9zmqHjPh6pIwvVFaLSQknhNvgEyhnACXhPQLD/s640/rice+lake+ontario+(3).JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Desireehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05248779047139738858noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3959125561255367686.post-89105429115852321052013-07-09T06:00:00.000-04:002013-07-09T06:00:00.786-04:00Barn Cat Babies<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-gkPg38V3VvXKuz-n66jDY4OYgrgNvcx7JOGgkJWK_HWzJ7S-kNwgj4eSJhyugEKRaPdKtTr_cKjNHHVQnc4R0SB5S_hwjXI7ZStXAzYYxLg9fSwgcT-S_Lrwu1s5cRrfNCRnDYrr5Atz/s1600/barn+cats+kittens+so+fawned+(1).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-gkPg38V3VvXKuz-n66jDY4OYgrgNvcx7JOGgkJWK_HWzJ7S-kNwgj4eSJhyugEKRaPdKtTr_cKjNHHVQnc4R0SB5S_hwjXI7ZStXAzYYxLg9fSwgcT-S_Lrwu1s5cRrfNCRnDYrr5Atz/s640/barn+cats+kittens+so+fawned+(1).JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Remember those barn kitties I <a href="http://www.sofawned.com/2013/07/small-style-summertime-with-binksy-bobo.html">mentioned before</a>? Aren't they gorgeous?<br />
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Lately they've been getting a little friendlier, but they still aren't super easy to catch. Gretchen has been taking great care to wait outside their little entrance under the porch, dangling a tinfoil ball at the end of a long string. So sweet.Desireehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05248779047139738858noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3959125561255367686.post-60128274778706472782013-07-08T11:42:00.003-04:002013-07-08T11:42:58.505-04:00Blog Conference Must-Haves!Being well prepared at a <a href="http://www.sofawned.com/2013/07/blog-conference-tips-what-should-i-wear.html">blog conference</a> will make your experience a smooth and satisfying one. There’s nothing more frustrating than finding yourself miles from home, thinking to yourself, “If only I’d known to bring an [insert much-needed item here]!!”.<br />
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If you’re new to the wonderful world of <a href="http://www.sofawned.com/2013/07/blog-conference-tips-what-should-i-wear.html">blog conferences</a>, you might be scratching your head, wondering what exactly should be filing your suitcase.<br />
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<b><a href="http://momspark.net/cool-finds-blog-conference-must-haves/">Click here</a> to learn about my <a href="http://momspark.net/cool-finds-blog-conference-must-haves/">blog conference must-haves</a>!</b>Desireehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05248779047139738858noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3959125561255367686.post-65470602594416211032013-07-08T05:00:00.000-04:002013-07-08T05:00:07.911-04:00Huntsville, Ontario: Dockfest 2013 {Travel}<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBH0gyRZ2Ds6_0HbltQWM1CHluDt_3fOxyD9Xu9mMlCFWsa0U7OZx7HtsU-ygLVSIVZSjwKr7H5Msy4vufVNSZtW65tgaRKjrb83sV4aRXHwKOW67Y-ZcYgT_5bKHIYyw48aMJoLJfCUa7/s1600/huntsville+muskoka+dockfest+6.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBH0gyRZ2Ds6_0HbltQWM1CHluDt_3fOxyD9Xu9mMlCFWsa0U7OZx7HtsU-ygLVSIVZSjwKr7H5Msy4vufVNSZtW65tgaRKjrb83sV4aRXHwKOW67Y-ZcYgT_5bKHIYyw48aMJoLJfCUa7/s640/huntsville+muskoka+dockfest+6.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Our weekend in <a href="http://www.sofawned.com/2013/07/huntsville-ontario-dockfest-travel.html">Huntsville, Ontario</a> was fantastic! <a href="http://www.sofawned.com/2013/07/huntsville-ontario-dockfest-travel.html">Dockfest</a>, bathtub races, great food, live music, gorgeous scenery, and a downtown area truly built to impress.<br />
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Huntsville is the largest city within the <a href="http://www.discovermuskoka.ca/">Muskoka Region</a> of Ontario -- a huge tourist area, attracting thousands of people from around the world every year. The Muskokas were ranked one of <i>National Geographic</i>'s 20 must-see destinations in 2012, and holds a spot as one of their <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1426208596/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=1426208596&linkCode=as2&tag=sofaw-20">100 Places That Can Change Your Child's Life</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=sofaw-20&l=as2&o=1&a=1426208596" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" />.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3sikLmspPYtE2dgS4L6AFzPeuxmqz7HPUZR71LjOG91MBfly3ssrGc0V1EuxQZ7Xa7DS-jSoyqRukQCPlHLW7DMAjaj8GiSKvceuwcSOVRw4XzW6X_hZxlooUft6K7Wn-FVB6iCavQtWt/s1600/huntsville+muskoka+dockfest+%25286%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3sikLmspPYtE2dgS4L6AFzPeuxmqz7HPUZR71LjOG91MBfly3ssrGc0V1EuxQZ7Xa7DS-jSoyqRukQCPlHLW7DMAjaj8GiSKvceuwcSOVRw4XzW6X_hZxlooUft6K7Wn-FVB6iCavQtWt/s640/huntsville+muskoka+dockfest+%25286%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOSUKlaiv2saaEt03FL5-JosNJNW3d7a6umKcwPY_grtqAgOSpZnyIzw3rn8OCHigJVgPQTBwC3KYJYup_6QT0MkuNTFrgcpvOsqi8T44522kGm8p0C2FIEAW8H93virS20PLhwutKalhY/s1600/huntsville+muskoka+dockfest+%25287%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOSUKlaiv2saaEt03FL5-JosNJNW3d7a6umKcwPY_grtqAgOSpZnyIzw3rn8OCHigJVgPQTBwC3KYJYup_6QT0MkuNTFrgcpvOsqi8T44522kGm8p0C2FIEAW8H93virS20PLhwutKalhY/s640/huntsville+muskoka+dockfest+%25287%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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The main reason for our trip to cottage country was to cheer on a pal in the bathtub races -- which is <a href="http://instagram.com/p/bbnaAqCCxJ/"><i>exactly</i> what it sounds like</a>.<br />
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These races were insanely fun to watch! A few tips, a crash or two, but mostly lots of laughs and fun. Our boat didn't win in its Media category, but our "Captain", as we called him, said he couldn't wait to do it again!<br />
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The entire Dockfest event was super well organized, with dedicated volunteers running around all day long to make sure everything went off without a hitch. You can really feel the sense of community when you're visiting Huntsville.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIB_7ug2LtxW3MdbqAIs3FdNbCXMYgMpjoHIEzJL9VwfwjZWe394vQsFWVQlFeRh0IhaXhTzipS3yf_Dk1pis65liBUMVQS6-FIrAhYiHlb7JbKTJB_63ok-CYQQLSSbgMuHdOcgA3Upqh/s1600/huntsville+muskoka+dockfest+%25281%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIB_7ug2LtxW3MdbqAIs3FdNbCXMYgMpjoHIEzJL9VwfwjZWe394vQsFWVQlFeRh0IhaXhTzipS3yf_Dk1pis65liBUMVQS6-FIrAhYiHlb7JbKTJB_63ok-CYQQLSSbgMuHdOcgA3Upqh/s640/huntsville+muskoka+dockfest+%25281%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Two places you've got to check out if you're in the Muskokas: <a href="http://www.themillonmain.ca/">The Mill On Main</a>, and <a href="http://www.onthedockspub.com/">On The Docks Pub</a>. Both featuring great atmosphere, food, and beverages -- including offerings from the <a href="http://www.muskokabrewery.com/">Muskoka Brewery</a>. We fell in love with On The Docks, which boasts a three story patio overlooking the water. They also make a killer burger.<br />
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We'll definitely be making a trip back to Huntsville again in the future!<br />
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<i>If you're considering a visit to the area, check out <a href="http://www.discovermuskoka.ca/">Muskoka Tourism</a> and <a href="http://www.downtownhuntsvilleadventures.ca/">Hunstville BIA</a> for more great vacation ideas. </i><br />
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<b>Have you ever visited the Muskokas?</b>Desireehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05248779047139738858noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3959125561255367686.post-48303305298895146352013-07-05T13:59:00.001-04:002013-07-05T13:59:47.734-04:00Blog Conference Tips: What Should I Wear?<a href="http://www.sofawned.com/search/label/BlogHer13" target="_blank">BlogHer'13</a> is coming up quick, ladies! As we near the big day, I'll be sharing blog conference tips on everything from <a href="http://www.sofawned.com/2011/08/what-mama-wore-toca-boca-luncheon.html" target="_blank">what to wear</a> and what to pack, advice from seasoned <a href="http://www.sofawned.com/search/label/BlogHer13" target="_blank">blog conference</a> pros, and making sure you get<i> </i>the <i>most</i> out of your conference adventure.<br />
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Today I've got some fun outfits to share, that you can adapt for your own personal blog conference wardrobe. <i>My motto? Stay simple, accessorize abundantly, and help your feet stay fabulous with the comfiest footwear possible.</i><br />
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<a href="http://www.polyvore.com/blogging_conference_style_no/set?.embedder=164446&.svc=copypaste&id=88230449" target="_blank"><img alt="Blogging Conference Style: No. 2" border="0" height="692" src="http://cfc.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-set/.sig/KW03RClZyaGaLRHajbcMQ/cid/88230449/id/qZls-ddOSnCQx-rFc5HUHQ/size/c640x692.jpg" title="Blogging Conference Style: No. 2" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://momspark.net/fashion-friday-what-should-i-wear-to-a-blog-conference/" target="_blank">This look</a> perfect for attending blog talks, taking notes at sessions, meeting bloggy-friends, and chilling out during seminars. No matter which conference you're heading to, you'll want a comfortable, yet super stylish look for when you're running around to different locations, networking like a mad-woman -- holding your notebook/laptop/iPad in one hand... and coffee in the other!<br />
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Pop over to <a href="http://momspark.net/fashion-friday-what-should-i-wear-to-a-blog-conference/" target="_blank">Mom Spark</a> for three more fabulous <a href="http://momspark.net/fashion-friday-what-should-i-wear-to-a-blog-conference/" target="_blank">blog conference styles</a>... plus <i>seven bonus tips</i> on packing and accessorizing.<br />
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So tell me, friends...</h2>
<i>Which conferences are you heading to this year? Have you ever been before?</i><br />
<i>If you've got any burning blog conference questions you'd love to see answered on <a href="http://www.sofawned.com/2011/08/what-mama-wore-toca-boca-luncheon.html" target="_blank">So Fawned</a>, just comment below or shoot me a <a href="https://twitter.com/sofawned" target="_blank">tweet</a>!</i>Desireehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05248779047139738858noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3959125561255367686.post-53913684896708184372013-07-04T13:47:00.001-04:002013-07-04T13:47:43.328-04:00{Small Style} Summertime With Binksy & Bobo<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYr1XnAXl5Qat31fai-7Fy5OWOAsKa-0CgV1Pi3kCXITBL1CzpNGtMbDp4C75wOfuMvLTDqC679SevQkQs5vQqp5d5LgtFzHZ2cLOZFMWIzXFAob7FVUU67Mc92Zxfo9BBShIhkM3Xrt47/s1600/binksy+and+bobo+review+%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYr1XnAXl5Qat31fai-7Fy5OWOAsKa-0CgV1Pi3kCXITBL1CzpNGtMbDp4C75wOfuMvLTDqC679SevQkQs5vQqp5d5LgtFzHZ2cLOZFMWIzXFAob7FVUU67Mc92Zxfo9BBShIhkM3Xrt47/s640/binksy+and+bobo+review+%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwhHTj7juPz1HM92VMapo0rMu_yXtg2DQoZiNxOKsKRg7pDhH7UWXDzqCiZHlnUKX09z1Wzn6VzZRUm9QLXKhoVZWcN6nvmWhw4Yzan9ULHla8gVXTOiuH9zLYfZz8U3nQLgMcfW79ljgW/s1600/binksy+and+bobo+review+%25281%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwhHTj7juPz1HM92VMapo0rMu_yXtg2DQoZiNxOKsKRg7pDhH7UWXDzqCiZHlnUKX09z1Wzn6VzZRUm9QLXKhoVZWcN6nvmWhw4Yzan9ULHla8gVXTOiuH9zLYfZz8U3nQLgMcfW79ljgW/s640/binksy+and+bobo+review+%25281%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="text-align: start;">This little lass is having a blast living in the country. We're finally able to spend more time outside, enjoying the gorgeous breeze that we always seem to have up here, and she's been exploring the property daily. </span><span style="text-align: start;">The dogs follow her around like she's their little pack leader. </span></div>
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<span style="text-align: start;">I love that she's getting dirty and covered in grass and wet from watering all our gardens with the hose. These are the memories we were hoping for by moving away from the city and into a space where <i>play</i> comes much more easily. </span></div>
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The first thing she does each morning is pop outside to say <i>hi</i> to the barn cats and kittens who have now taken up residence under the porch. Sometimes we have breakfast outside too. Nothing like sipping my first coffee of the day, while watching the birds sing and my little miss chasing kitties. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU4YGuqc_qFtUo8clVAdvZ80Yz4hIxpIdcDqW6ErK-qFgXZENjU0ZLgkL2QqDPZEsCsRkr-cWFf79jvbm6krmtFkW1IGYUl9hzIvalkQfZ9Vk_JJsUSOfPJmp-3PNTam8Maj80ROQ9HJGY/s1600/binksy+and+bobo+review+%25283%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU4YGuqc_qFtUo8clVAdvZ80Yz4hIxpIdcDqW6ErK-qFgXZENjU0ZLgkL2QqDPZEsCsRkr-cWFf79jvbm6krmtFkW1IGYUl9hzIvalkQfZ9Vk_JJsUSOfPJmp-3PNTam8Maj80ROQ9HJGY/s640/binksy+and+bobo+review+%25283%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6_dgBFxHPB5Vp7NENudfSuPMCMrtvsE-VEF_bkSjbMpOg8184bFsBJyQwvicLDyjBj2gvsyaov_iiwcWqLx8kbunVkp1AgNWinHFzttgciV_6DN8PT6XRH87Mcl1xpENXI08MquDyYVo6/s853/binksy+and+bobo+review+%25285%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6_dgBFxHPB5Vp7NENudfSuPMCMrtvsE-VEF_bkSjbMpOg8184bFsBJyQwvicLDyjBj2gvsyaov_iiwcWqLx8kbunVkp1AgNWinHFzttgciV_6DN8PT6XRH87Mcl1xpENXI08MquDyYVo6/s1600/binksy+and+bobo+review+%25285%2529.JPG" /></a></div>
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Reversible Tie Dress c/o <a href="http://www.binksyandbobo.com/shop/index.php?route=product/product&product_id=54" target="_blank">Binksy & Bobo</a> // Sandals via Joe Fresh</div>
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I love dressing Gretchen in the summer -- and as each seasons comes and goes she has more to say about what she'd like to wear... or not! </div>
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When the lovely folks at <a href="http://www.binksyandbobo.com/shop/index.php?route=product/product&product_id=54" target="_blank">Binksy & Bobo</a> sent over their neat reversible tie dress I showed it to Gretchen, and she immediately decided she wanted to wear it flowers-side-out. </div>
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Don't you <i>love </i>reversible pieces? This dress is fantastic for <a href="http://www.sofawned.com/2013/07/huntsville-ontario-dockfest-travel.html" target="_blank">travelling</a> (two-outfits-in-one, baby) and is plenty durable. </div>
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Here's a peek at G, helping me feed out neighbours chickens, while wearing the reverse side of her new smock.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjxsz2r80zG0aBX3ffA5wZw-XJC4sxKMYYsTh6y4imglmpRec19S2GkwFp2Vn2Y9cKzIONdd4ItXBMgkMPZ4Xqq63N5tp9gu7XiJr315_dS4cC2eUlj93-aWEgG6Tb2EDDUcaVupIp5-7Y/s1600/binksy+and+bobo+review+%25284%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjxsz2r80zG0aBX3ffA5wZw-XJC4sxKMYYsTh6y4imglmpRec19S2GkwFp2Vn2Y9cKzIONdd4ItXBMgkMPZ4Xqq63N5tp9gu7XiJr315_dS4cC2eUlj93-aWEgG6Tb2EDDUcaVupIp5-7Y/s640/binksy+and+bobo+review+%25284%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Super cute, and a completely different look. I could see the first pattern for play and romping through the yard, and the second (with some <a href="http://www.childmode.com/2013/04/15/spanish-shoe-designer-camper-kid-gets-whimsical-for-fall-2013/" target="_blank">cute shoes</a>) for a dressier occasion -- a family reunion, birthday party, summer wedding, you name it.</div>
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This dress is also a <i>convertible</i> piece, which means it's going to fit your kiddo way longer than most items. My least favourite part about children's clothing is that it's rare to get more than ONE season out of them. (A sign I should have another baby, right?) The <a href="http://www.binksyandbobo.com/shop/index.php?route=product/product&product_id=54" target="_blank">tie-up shoulders</a> and simple fit makes it easy to morph this piece from a dress, to a tunic -- perfect for layering too.</div>
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All Binksy & Bobo <a href="http://www.binksyandbobo.com/clothing.html" target="_blank">clothing</a> and <a href="http://www.binksyandbobo.com/accessories.html" target="_blank">accessories</a> are made in Canada (love!) and built to last. This is a piece your little ones will wear and wear, before packing it up, or passing it along to a friend.</div>
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I know my daughter is going to have her new pinafore in high rotation all summer long <i>and</i> into the Fall. </div>
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<i><a href="http://www.sofawned.com/search/label/Small%20Style" target="_blank">Click here</a> for more <a href="http://www.sofawned.com/search/label/Small%20Style" target="_blank">Small Style</a> posts.</i></div>
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Desireehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05248779047139738858noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3959125561255367686.post-2494618963682001442013-07-04T11:50:00.000-04:002013-07-04T11:50:21.854-04:00Heading To Huntsville, Ontario {Travel}<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-V03f5PIdYMmOY22pUvLEiNa2o8vjMeUkXTBQwiW9CDnRXyqx8ojY13eq9_yd-gW8uj7yf5Q9CEbPbZF7oXoxuAPopnZvbzz-KSUmxxcVcVcCpUc67i_yZK9_t7BZWuHAhIZF0Uz_1ZEf/s640/hustville+ontario+so+fawned.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="huntsville, huntsville ontario, so fawned, so fawned blog, travel" border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-V03f5PIdYMmOY22pUvLEiNa2o8vjMeUkXTBQwiW9CDnRXyqx8ojY13eq9_yd-gW8uj7yf5Q9CEbPbZF7oXoxuAPopnZvbzz-KSUmxxcVcVcCpUc67i_yZK9_t7BZWuHAhIZF0Uz_1ZEf/s640/hustville+ontario+so+fawned.jpg" title="huntsville, ontario" width="640" /></a></div>
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This weekend we're taking a trip to Hunstville, Ontario to visit some friends and to take part in <a href="http://huntsvillelakeofbays.on.ca/m/events/view/Rotary-DockFest" target="_blank">Dockfest</a>.<br />
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On Saturday, the downtown area will be filled with folks who have come out for The Rotary Club of Huntsville's very first annual <i>Rotary Dockfest</i>. The event main attraction of this event is -- and I'm not even joking -- the Bathtub Derby. Motorized bathtubs will navigate a series of obstacles, attempting to keep up speed and balance as they head down the river. I won't lie -- I'm really excited to see this race!<br />
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The Dockfest Schedule Of Events</h2>
<b>8am</b> Pancake Breakfast<br />
<b>10am to 1pm</b> Children's craft area open (Provided by Huntsville Festival and <a href="http://www.tawingo.net/" target="_blank">Camp Tawingo</a>)<br />
<b>11am to 3pm</b> Huntsville Lions BBQ lunch<br />
<b>11am</b> Bathtub Derby Parade (Begins at Centre Street)<br />
<b>12pm to 3pm</b> Bathtub Derby<br />
<b>1pm to 4pm</b> Children's game & ride area opens<br />
<b>1pm to 2.30pm</b> Muskoka Concert Band plays in the River Mill Gazebo<br />
<b>3pm to 5pm</b> <a href="https://twitter.com/LaganzaMusic" target="_blank">Laganza</a> plays at the River Mill Park stage<br />
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If you're in the area and looking for a fun event to check out this weekend, maybe we'll see you in Huntsville!Desireehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05248779047139738858noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3959125561255367686.post-83529516670190245252013-07-03T05:00:00.000-04:002013-07-03T05:00:08.221-04:00{Wordless Wednesday} As The Sun Sets<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6VMJHPRe9Aoww0LiubiKJoKYT_ni_fx1XzwOMGqr5KwgAvuh6NnBUH9Bhq_lmKMj0TiXqRWTe2zpkKt8FuwI0d5diCiDNhwvuMOXMBLRsgOE_ACk28GzGz77YR8NlOUQod5WyqMGruAAq/s1600/goodnight.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6VMJHPRe9Aoww0LiubiKJoKYT_ni_fx1XzwOMGqr5KwgAvuh6NnBUH9Bhq_lmKMj0TiXqRWTe2zpkKt8FuwI0d5diCiDNhwvuMOXMBLRsgOE_ACk28GzGz77YR8NlOUQod5WyqMGruAAq/s640/goodnight.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div>Desireehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05248779047139738858noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3959125561255367686.post-4546030057817181532013-07-01T22:48:00.001-04:002013-07-04T12:38:20.622-04:00Win $75 To Use At Minted! {Giveaway}<div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcRpx94ubVQCGPmxeZ6r2ocXLsem0rfzQQkhRHEdjwH27mJuTvhqMXWmCjqteRD5kotdEH5m1nKIMokCSSn2C_5d2MqnvnRQG_bpy8j1_2XFxHwvbxkxGlOhJ1aj7vlQpeMsDogwS676i4/s705/minted+giveaway+%25286%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcRpx94ubVQCGPmxeZ6r2ocXLsem0rfzQQkhRHEdjwH27mJuTvhqMXWmCjqteRD5kotdEH5m1nKIMokCSSn2C_5d2MqnvnRQG_bpy8j1_2XFxHwvbxkxGlOhJ1aj7vlQpeMsDogwS676i4/s640/minted+giveaway+%25286%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I'm really excited about this giveaway, friends! <a href="http://www.minted.com/" target="_blank">Minted</a> is seriously filled with drool-worthy bits of eye candy that any paper-addicted, typography-loving, stationary aficionado will swoon over.</div>
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From thank you cards and personal journals, to paper straws, nursery prints, menu cards, and <a href="http://www.minted.com/kids-birthday-party-decorations" target="_blank">birthday party décor</a> -- <a href="http://www.minted.com/" target="_blank">Minted</a> has everything you need for your next celebration. You'll be giddy browsing through page after page of beautiful photographed and tantalizing wares.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgP2u4kAV6Rih6D2wjQA_D2tEa4MVFyVF4HHo5gKnvGdhqaE77SbjbKbMk9hBLYZaG06YCHXBszfLLXlZ8pQ9esR9YkHSTbKRgxm0NqFaOVTrIOG8Xm2-QxKmjm1gV7BaJliEC9Se-OX9G4/s705/minted+giveaway+%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgP2u4kAV6Rih6D2wjQA_D2tEa4MVFyVF4HHo5gKnvGdhqaE77SbjbKbMk9hBLYZaG06YCHXBszfLLXlZ8pQ9esR9YkHSTbKRgxm0NqFaOVTrIOG8Xm2-QxKmjm1gV7BaJliEC9Se-OX9G4/s640/minted+giveaway+%25281%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5uSiHRZWGFauNo8nGbFY1JhiG7tWAPUV2_5I0BVUksNmsOAUknytlM0-cXCenayyz2_Y6UFgjxdk7dIrAcYtEA4BhszXqcr_YQ41wdUdqDkvoW0cmK60LI_EhAMWwDYUMVFwHQ6WkkL6m/s705/minted+giveaway+%25283%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5uSiHRZWGFauNo8nGbFY1JhiG7tWAPUV2_5I0BVUksNmsOAUknytlM0-cXCenayyz2_Y6UFgjxdk7dIrAcYtEA4BhszXqcr_YQ41wdUdqDkvoW0cmK60LI_EhAMWwDYUMVFwHQ6WkkL6m/s640/minted+giveaway+%25283%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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And if you're planning a super special day, like <a href="http://www.mygirlthursday.com/2013/06/its-been-long-while-hasnt-it.html" target="_blank">this lovely lass</a>, check out their <a href="http://www.minted.com/wedding-invitations" target="_blank">wedding invites</a> too! (Aren't the letterpress cards just gorgeous??)</div>
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<b>This giveaway is open internationally and ends July 9th at 12am EST. One lucky winner will snag a $75 gift card to use at <a href="http://www.minted.com/" target="_blank">Minted</a>. Best wishes, mes amis!</b></div>
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<script src="//d12vno17mo87cx.cloudfront.net/embed/rafl/cptr.js"></script>Desireehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05248779047139738858noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3959125561255367686.post-86905715531371086132013-07-01T20:42:00.001-04:002013-07-01T21:41:41.491-04:00Do You Play The Lottery?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghamFGS6EPNbxTiX_DGZ2l2gZDDou9i9Z7cPe2Mr1vL9o7DAHLeKazJzBYL1LxOmoKIsRRJy5WRgWisJBD8HG5tTvsKW03qRkX6eq9_qgjLyTGIEBWciyQHPtybRb2hsxoZh5wFWnqg8mp/s640/do+you+play+the+lottery.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghamFGS6EPNbxTiX_DGZ2l2gZDDou9i9Z7cPe2Mr1vL9o7DAHLeKazJzBYL1LxOmoKIsRRJy5WRgWisJBD8HG5tTvsKW03qRkX6eq9_qgjLyTGIEBWciyQHPtybRb2hsxoZh5wFWnqg8mp/s640/do+you+play+the+lottery.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
Every few weeks I buy a lottery ticket, and it sits in my purse until I remember to get it checked at the grocery store, and then I pick up another one. I've never been a habitual <a href="http://www.sofawned.com/2010/11/day-23-fifteen-facts-about-desiree-fawn.html" target="_blank">lottery</a> player, but my mom is.<br />
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<b>When I was in high school, my mom won the lottery.</b><br />
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I remember waking up to sounds of exciting downstairs, a voice saying we won over and over again. I had no idea what was happening.<br />
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As I came downstairs I was stopped just short of the bottom by my mom and her partner, huge grins, eyes wide.<br />
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<i>We won, we won, we won!</i><br />
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A lottery ticket and that morning's paper were shoved into my hands as I read out the number. Sure enough, it matched. And we were all a little stunned.<br />
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My mom, not wanting to risk a possible newspaper typo (and since we didn't have the internet, couldn't check online) took the ticket to the same convenience store where she bought it, and sure enough, the numbers didn't lie.<br />
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It was definitely the start of something very interesting for our family. And despite the fact that perhaps lightning doesn't strike twice, my mister and I still buy tickets every so often and keep our fingers crossed. It'd be a nice retirement fund, right?<br />
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Do you ever play the lottery? Do you check via <a href="http://www.lottery.net/">lottery.net</a>, or another online site? Or do you check it in person? In Ontario we have little kiosks where you can scan your tickets, but I still like to take mine to an actual person for some reason. Call me old fashioned!<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Image source: <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/sophistechate/3047006771/">Lisa Brewster</a> via <a href="http://photopin.com/">photopin</a> <a href="http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0/">cc</a></span>Desireehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05248779047139738858noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3959125561255367686.post-60964059739239097142013-07-01T06:08:00.000-04:002013-07-01T06:08:00.076-04:00{How To} Get Tree Sap Off Your Hands (Because It Really Feels Just Terrible)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZDzU_zaAe1_fYLgAelFh2FjgDHNjy5jAo6aYfpd1-ruNZbjjIIRMUYOL7_Ap97LqlD259MeSWxd_HWfRgOijTI0uB6L0fZxrrGD3iy34Xt0PU9E5dWMEvTqBpxeEVsRlReBVE4XVFeU2y/s1024/how+to+get+tree+sap+off+your+hands.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZDzU_zaAe1_fYLgAelFh2FjgDHNjy5jAo6aYfpd1-ruNZbjjIIRMUYOL7_Ap97LqlD259MeSWxd_HWfRgOijTI0uB6L0fZxrrGD3iy34Xt0PU9E5dWMEvTqBpxeEVsRlReBVE4XVFeU2y/s640/how+to+get+tree+sap+off+your+hands.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Trying to get tree sap off your hands is something I <i>dread</i>. That endless sticky feeling makes me shudder, BUT there are ways to deal with it quickly, should you ever get <i>stuck </i>in a sappy situation. </div>
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Here are a few methods you can try!<br />
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<b>How To Get Tree Sap Off Your Hands</b></h2>
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<b>Rubbing Alcohol</b></h3>
Pouring alcohol over the sap seems to make your skin feel less sticky right away, but I always find that the tacky feeling remains, even after washing it off with soap.<br />
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<b>Dirt</b></h3>
Rubbing dirt on the sap for a while can un-stick you a bit, just keep at it for a while until the sap feels like it's loosened from your skin. Again, rinse with a soap (dish soap tends to help) and see how you've made out. It might take a few tries.<br />
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<b>Peanut Butter</b></h3>
Same method as dirt, just replaced with peanut butter! I think the oils really help attack the sap.<br />
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<b>Toothpaste</b></h3>
Squirt a dollop on the area and rub it in with water. Then wash as usual with soap. Bonus: You'll be minty fresh!<br />
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<b>Olive Oil</b></h3>
The best method I've found so far! Just rub it into your hands, then wash it off with dish soap. Instant success. Another lovely use for your beloved bottle of evoo. (I have to thank my partner, Rich, for this one. It's his tried and true method!)</div>
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<i>Any other tips on how to get tree sap off your hands? Anyone else despise that tacky-skin feeling?</i></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Image source: <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/tjstaab/6615535691/">tjstaab</a> via <a href="http://photopin.com/">photopin</a> <a href="http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/2.0/">cc</a></span></div>
Desireehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05248779047139738858noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3959125561255367686.post-5310873030959944032013-06-30T06:00:00.000-04:002013-06-30T06:00:05.537-04:00Tiny FriendGretchen snapped this picture when we were at the cafe a few days ago. She had been feeing them crumbs to bring them closer to us. Some like to hop right onto the table to snack on muffin bits -- a tiny bird took 1/2 a scone from my plate once.<br />
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Have a beautiful Sunday, friends.Desireehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05248779047139738858noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3959125561255367686.post-68139749770190345462013-06-29T17:14:00.000-04:002013-06-29T17:14:38.333-04:00Alberta Flood Relief: How Dizolve Is HelpingThousands of people have been forced from heir homes by flooding in Alberta, Canada. Now, until July 31st, <a href="http://mydizolve.com/campaign/alberta-flood-relief/#.Uc9KATukq-s" target="_blank">Dizolve</a> is lending a hand by donating $12 from every package to the <a href="http://mydizolve.com/campaign/alberta-flood-relief/#.Uc9KATukq-s" target="_blank">Canadian Red Cross Alberta Floods Fund</a>.<br />
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That's the ENTIRE purchase price, less $3 shipping/handling. Amazing!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPgUu1kk4vJo2nIslBah8C0fbfr-sSSBt2cyoPqQlFAD-qI1QYe9iqtZgC3CJM3nQpsToSxm5hcjHhqyx-AjsEBUB_h68Uv09SCNv4WSIBji6FY02C1311KivHh5DwYl8lY5vfPkPlEhoF/s700/Canadian-Red-Cross-Alberta-Floods-Homepage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="278" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPgUu1kk4vJo2nIslBah8C0fbfr-sSSBt2cyoPqQlFAD-qI1QYe9iqtZgC3CJM3nQpsToSxm5hcjHhqyx-AjsEBUB_h68Uv09SCNv4WSIBji6FY02C1311KivHh5DwYl8lY5vfPkPlEhoF/s640/Canadian-Red-Cross-Alberta-Floods-Homepage.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://mydizolve.com/campaign/alberta-flood-relief/#.Uc9KATukq-s" target="_blank">Click here</a> to buy a box and help out our friends in Alberta.<br />
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<i>Canadian readers can enter our <a href="http://www.sofawned.com/2013/06/dizolve-ultralaundry-detergent-strips-giveaway.html" target="_blank">Dizolve giveaway</a> right <a href="http://www.sofawned.com/2013/06/dizolve-ultralaundry-detergent-strips-giveaway.html" target="_blank">here</a>. Ends July 2nd. </i><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Image via <a href="http://www.redcross.ca/Donate/Donate-Online/Donate-to-the-Alberta-Floods" target="_blank">Canadian Red Cross</a>. </span>Desireehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05248779047139738858noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3959125561255367686.post-82455262433527471882013-06-29T15:19:00.002-04:002013-06-29T15:19:47.867-04:00{How To} Brew French Press Coffee<div style="text-align: justify;">
<i>I first learned to brew French press coffee when I was in university. My roommate taught me his tricks of the trade, and I've never forgotten the massive, stainless steel press that we used to use. Lately I've been using our one-cup brewer a lot, but I've been wanting to get back into the tradition of brewing a fresh batch of French press coffee each morning. This post was originally published January 15th, 2012.</i></div>
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Fact: I LOVE my <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B005ADS5TU/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=sofaw-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B005ADS5TU">Bodum</a>. Brewing French press coffee makes me all giddy and I love brewing it up for the same reasons I love brewing up a pot of tea. It's all in the ritual. Choosing my favourite bean, trying new blends, grinding in my favourite grinder, pouring, stirring, smelling, sipping.</div>
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There are lots of different methods to follow when it comes to using your French press, so today, I'd like to share my a bit about <i>my</i> French pressing habits. Enjoy!</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/ameli0rate/6702029545/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="coffee o'clock by desireefawn, on Flickr"><img alt="coffee o'clock" height="450" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7146/6702029545_b050dc04bc_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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First, I like to start with whole beans, as fresh as possible. These particular ones happen to be from Starbucks, but I often like to buy them downtown from the roaster I used to work for.</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/ameli0rate/6702031023/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="coffee o'clock by desireefawn, on Flickr"><img alt="coffee o'clock" height="427" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7157/6702031023_d3d6dc196e_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/ameli0rate/6702032391/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="coffee o'clock by desireefawn, on Flickr"><img alt="coffee o'clock" height="473" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7035/6702032391_751753d06e_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/ameli0rate/6702033511/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="coffee o'clock by desireefawn, on Flickr"><img alt="coffee o'clock" height="427" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7158/6702033511_e6a54bf7c6_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/ameli0rate/6702034347/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="coffee o'clock by desireefawn, on Flickr"><img alt="coffee o'clock" height="427" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7167/6702034347_c1ddbc00d3_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I grind the beans as my water boils on the stove. For a French press, you generally want a coarse grind, but I like mine a wee bit finer. It's all visual for me. This grinder is a bit of a prized possession, actually... it's on its way out though. Nearly broken and try as I might, I can't find an identical replacement, so I treat her with care. (Seriously. If you ever spy a yellow Philips grinder online or at a thrift store, please let me know!) When I'm grinding, I don't actually measure my beans. I just know how full the grinder ought to be for one full Bodum. However, I measured it out today, and for my size press (an <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B005ADS5TU/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=sofaw-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B005ADS5TU">8-cup, 32oz. Bodum</a>) I used about 8-9 tablespoons, or about 2/3 cup beans (before grinding).</div>
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Once I have my grinds the way I like them, they go into the French press with a tiny pinch of salt. Around the holidays, I sometimes add nutmeg & cinnamon for a fun kick.</div>
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Next, I pour the water in a circular motion to soak all of the grinds, then stop once the carafe is about 1/3 full. Then I grab my trust wooden chopstick and stir til the coffee "blooms". You want to see the colour change a bit, as the ground start to steep and magic starts to happen. Once your coffee "blooms", fill your press to the top, pop the lid (press) on top, then set a timer for four minutes. At the end of four minutes, you're free to get pressing.</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/ameli0rate/6702035637/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="coffee o'clock by desireefawn, on Flickr"><img alt="coffee o'clock" height="427" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7030/6702035637_9aef709f8f_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/ameli0rate/6702036809/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="coffee o'clock by desireefawn, on Flickr"><img alt="coffee o'clock" height="413" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7173/6702036809_9ca4b17301_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/ameli0rate/6702038131/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="coffee o'clock by desireefawn, on Flickr"><img alt="coffee o'clock" height="427" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7030/6702038131_43c875b771_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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My trick? Place your hand on top of the French press plunger and allow the weight of your hand to do the pressing. You don't want to shove it. If it so happens that your grind is too fine, your press may be a bit tougher to get down as the grind block the flow.<br />
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To rectify this, simple reverse your press to halt the blockage, then continue pressing. Never PUSH your press down. This can end in a mess of boiling water and coffee all over you. Messy & ouch.</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/ameli0rate/6702039079/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="coffee o'clock by desireefawn, on Flickr"><img alt="coffee o'clock" height="427" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7002/6702039079_60ac84923f_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/ameli0rate/6702039975/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="coffee o'clock by desireefawn, on Flickr"><img alt="coffee o'clock" height="427" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7167/6702039975_3b5ab4cd57_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Once your coffee has been pressed, you're ready to savour & enjoy. Find your favourite cozy mug, pour away & add your accoutrements if so desired. I like a dollop of cream and a bit of organic sugar. Or sometimes Bailey's, if I'm feeling festive.</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/ameli0rate/6702040859/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="coffee o'clock by desireefawn, on Flickr"><img alt="coffee o'clock" height="427" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7162/6702040859_16b614ae55_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/ameli0rate/6702041713/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="coffee o'clock by desireefawn, on Flickr"><img alt="coffee o'clock" height="427" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7023/6702041713_8c4ec238a6_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/ameli0rate/6702042587/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="coffee o'clock by desireefawn, on Flickr"><img alt="coffee o'clock" height="427" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7031/6702042587_67afc539fd_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/ameli0rate/6702043721/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="coffee o'clock by desireefawn, on Flickr"><img alt="coffee o'clock" height="423" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7154/6702043721_586816b92c_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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And that's that, mes amis. Time to sit back & enjoy your cuppa. Don't forget to pour the rest of your brew into a thermos or carafe of some description to keep it piping hot til you're ready for mug no. 2 and beyond.</div>
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<i>Peace!</i></div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/ameli0rate/6702028391/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="coffee o'clock by desireefawn, on Flickr"><img alt="coffee o'clock" height="454" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7035/6702028391_52f9ebfae4_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<i>What's your favourite way to brew coffee? French press? Chemex? Drip? Share in the comments!</i>Desireehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05248779047139738858noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3959125561255367686.post-63045618128844373982013-06-29T06:00:00.000-04:002013-07-04T12:21:40.695-04:00Beautiful Art For Your Home From Easy Canvas Prints {Review}<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy2DCH6yL4tbn4vS7LN9D5RXe8sec3QW4Tik0PfoF8TMBki9RwE6bm_zFzvl-0RKSVvz2WHbqoYVtBIw-bb97JsTW91NkakaKlwQssaaMtHHcbnwUnnDGrV6pkVTszyveaqrUcAXrouvCA/s1600/easy+canvas+prints+so+fawned+(1).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy2DCH6yL4tbn4vS7LN9D5RXe8sec3QW4Tik0PfoF8TMBki9RwE6bm_zFzvl-0RKSVvz2WHbqoYVtBIw-bb97JsTW91NkakaKlwQssaaMtHHcbnwUnnDGrV6pkVTszyveaqrUcAXrouvCA/s640/easy+canvas+prints+so+fawned+(1).JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Any time I've moved in the past, including our most recent <a href="http://www.sofawned.com/2013/06/i-have-four-things-to-tell-you.html" target="_blank">move to the country</a>, I'm always compelled to put artwork up first. My clothing isn't completely put away, and we have lots of other boxes to unpack, but I've added pieces of art to nearly every space, including <a href="http://instagram.com/p/aypMMeiC0k/" target="_blank">my new office</a> -- where this gorgeous print now hangs.<br />
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Earlier this month, the lovely people from <a href="http://www.sofawned.com/2013/06/easy-canvas-prints-giveaway.html" target="_blank">Easy Canvas Prints</a> (who also hosted <a href="http://www.sofawned.com/2013/06/easy-canvas-prints-giveaway.html" target="_blank">this generous giveaway</a>) sent me a canvas print of my choice. I'm stunned at how well it turned out!<br />
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I mentioned in <a href="http://www.sofawned.com/2013/06/easy-canvas-prints-giveaway.html" target="_blank">this post</a> that I had chosen one of my favourite Gretchen photos for the print, and I'm so glad I did. The canvas is a beautiful quality, and the image looks fantastic blown up to 16x20 inches.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcY61bKU94PFsUMFqPCiJk58Hr_q01VCvcSKe1TYfrA-dfy28PCfQvKH-Zdske3J1qoW866MGUpEmUbyubaIgO-A6H_HibLKvv7rCCUGJZB35riN-lQvw9w_lD23Aha3_oMDvnlRPbTTif/s1600/easy+canvas+prints+%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcY61bKU94PFsUMFqPCiJk58Hr_q01VCvcSKe1TYfrA-dfy28PCfQvKH-Zdske3J1qoW866MGUpEmUbyubaIgO-A6H_HibLKvv7rCCUGJZB35riN-lQvw9w_lD23Aha3_oMDvnlRPbTTif/s640/easy+canvas+prints+%25281%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBljimPjS6AUsbceqV-aP5Rf_c45mPqKVYpVS4i7RMPZWl2ArGgI0EcpxXbkYV33DsYI6rm7CcYC7P6YoQKuCrRCUSBNyhFe5WdoqVNL-KtOQqu8vRWYU4xagj94Ead38ZGO7hrUIF_enJ/s853/easy+canvas+prints+so+fawned+(2).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBljimPjS6AUsbceqV-aP5Rf_c45mPqKVYpVS4i7RMPZWl2ArGgI0EcpxXbkYV33DsYI6rm7CcYC7P6YoQKuCrRCUSBNyhFe5WdoqVNL-KtOQqu8vRWYU4xagj94Ead38ZGO7hrUIF_enJ/s1600/easy+canvas+prints+so+fawned+(2).JPG" /></a></div>
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I'm glad I chose the option to have my image wrap around the edges of the canvas. I love the look it gives!<br />
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I'd definitely recommend <a href="http://www.easycanvasprints.com/" target="_blank">Easy Canvas Prints</a> if you're looking for a fun new way to display your favourite images -- something that goes beyond traditional framing. You can order prints anywhere from 8x8 to 40x40 inches, with a number of different options for customization. Visit <a href="http://www.easycanvasprints.com/" target="_blank">Easy Canvas Prints</a> to get started and check out their deals on now.<br />
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Time to decide on my next print choice... there are so many I'm dying to send off. Peace!<br />
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<i>View the <a href="http://www.sofawned.com/p/sponsor.html" target="_blank">So Fawned</a> sponsor guidelines and full disclosure <a href="http://www.sofawned.com/p/sponsor.html" target="_blank">here</a>. </i>Desireehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05248779047139738858noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3959125561255367686.post-17715875521023446982013-06-28T07:30:00.000-04:002013-06-28T07:30:02.103-04:00One Of Those Days<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCXZliyWQ0JvCR9uyVk0tEbU71rHW8fmByLtbcGnI_UdutaXT_gtMeK_xXm4zQij9COAVfYUXMByIqrrOuL3Veie2tIM3M5X7dy-LVXQBc7Nq-4ZVCDLoxDXPF17UjSbtBcZL4ieuzg_T0/s1280/photo+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCXZliyWQ0JvCR9uyVk0tEbU71rHW8fmByLtbcGnI_UdutaXT_gtMeK_xXm4zQij9COAVfYUXMByIqrrOuL3Veie2tIM3M5X7dy-LVXQBc7Nq-4ZVCDLoxDXPF17UjSbtBcZL4ieuzg_T0/s640/photo+1.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Wednesday was just one of <i>those</i> days.<br />
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The day before, I headed to the hospital to support one of my <a href="http://www.sofawned.com/2013/01/doula-births.html" target="_blank">doula</a> clients who was in labour. By Wednesday afternoon, I had been at the hospital nearly 20 hours -- the point where, if timing allows, I will take a break to catch an hour or two of sleep, a shower, a bite to eat. As I was able to take a moment from the hospital, I drove to my partner's work to grab lunch with him.<br />
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That's when he noticed the bulge in my car's front right side tire. A bulge creating a super thin bit of tire, which I'm <i>still </i>surprised didn't burst before I got to his office.<br />
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Since having my tire explode on the highway home isn't exactly something I care for, we made a trip to Canadian Tire, where thankfully they were able to change my front tires for two lovely new ones.<br />
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Fine and dandy. Not what I wanted to spend my hospital break doing, but that's life.<br />
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My partner and I did manage a bite to eat and a coffee, before I headed home to shower, picked up Gretchen from daycare and brought her to her father's, then made my way back to the hospital to rejoin my clients.<br />
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After finishing up at the hospital, I was riding on just a few hours sleep from the evening before, frustrated with the fact that births don't always play out the way we'd like, and craving some time to decompress.<br />
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I got to my car, took a deep breath, and blew it all out, nice and slow, just as I have my clients due during contractions. Deep. Cleansing. Breaths.<br />
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Then I turned my key in the ignition.<br />
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And the gas light came on.<br />
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Sigh.<br />
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Off to the gas station I went. Then to pick up groceries before finally making my way home.<br />
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Over the last week I've been keeping a close eye on my Neon's odometer because I was coming up on a milestone: 123,456kms. I really wanted to get a picture when it happened.<br />
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I parked in the lot at the Superstore, and suddenly remember to look down at my dash.<br />
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Yup. Just one of those days. Desireehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05248779047139738858noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3959125561255367686.post-12359313797586303892013-06-28T05:00:00.000-04:002013-06-28T05:00:01.556-04:00Fawned Friday: A Bunny, Yummy Camping Food, And A Brand New Baby<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJxR1gL5YEE9tB8SGkxs29uQi9lms-TKpsc0-mXzhkhNisp6SFqwWx6CWY0fF5zqQVgXmw_vt3P51PVxj0NgKcAbIErhrplv9RlpEypeaZQ_1k4zPjxF9XxQThFXfa8U6Rb452Zx_vW7ps/s849/bunny+wearing+hat.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJxR1gL5YEE9tB8SGkxs29uQi9lms-TKpsc0-mXzhkhNisp6SFqwWx6CWY0fF5zqQVgXmw_vt3P51PVxj0NgKcAbIErhrplv9RlpEypeaZQ_1k4zPjxF9XxQThFXfa8U6Rb452Zx_vW7ps/s1600/bunny+wearing+hat.jpg" /></a></div>
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01. A <a href="http://wishwishwish.net/2013/06/lights-camera-action/" target="_blank">bunny</a> wearing a hat.<br />
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02. I'd recommend a visit to <a href="http://www.alexandrafranzen.com/" target="_blank">Alexandra Franzen</a>'s site daily.<br />
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03. Top 10 <a href="http://todayilearned.co.uk/2012/07/20/top-10-most-read-books-in-the-world/" target="_blank">most read books</a> in the world.<br />
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04. Must keep this in mind for our <a href="http://www.abeautifulmess.com/2013/06/cajun-hobo-packets-camping-food.html" target="_blank">camping trip</a> next month.<br />
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05. A cute translation of <a href="http://joannagoddard.blogspot.ca/2013/06/what-british-people-say-vs-what-they.html" target="_blank">British</a> meanings.<br />
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06. <a href="http://thoughtsandbirosketches.blogspot.ca/2013/06/creative-play.html" target="_blank">Creative play</a>, from a creative mama.<br />
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07. Someone's <a href="http://www.loveelycia.com/2013/06/baby-early-bird.html" target="_blank">sweet little one</a> has arrived early!<br />
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08. This is always <a href="http://todayilearned.co.uk/2012/08/25/typeface-designed-for-doctors/" target="_blank">how I feel</a> when I look at prescriptions.Desireehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05248779047139738858noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3959125561255367686.post-55378712468325202902013-06-26T05:38:00.000-04:002013-06-26T05:38:01.307-04:00{Wordless Wednesday} Country Love<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHXuSoUm3l7SeL02Sa5FR6vKe5vcyPYAeLnMVjRKJWRON-iuXUOLsQGHB_X6G10w-loQxWsT31ngeZadZ7Jq8kSMDiZEu9eVmcchXy-nnTYw4MXJnrLfornL_r7StRKK1GMNBSMojRBMLj/s1600/country+love+(1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHXuSoUm3l7SeL02Sa5FR6vKe5vcyPYAeLnMVjRKJWRON-iuXUOLsQGHB_X6G10w-loQxWsT31ngeZadZ7Jq8kSMDiZEu9eVmcchXy-nnTYw4MXJnrLfornL_r7StRKK1GMNBSMojRBMLj/s640/country+love+(1).jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Desireehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05248779047139738858noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3959125561255367686.post-2726290386082618182013-06-24T16:07:00.001-04:002013-07-04T12:21:59.264-04:00Win A One Year Supply Of Dizolve Ultra Laundry Detergent Strips {Giveaway}<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKrwGH8oioTITFuvKVfxXtFSSj5aXWoYmaa_bFd7SLWauuGsNh9thQXgxfhMQszIS3xe4uoiQnmU6o1qLlgHsenZEZf7DjNwIzYwwC7XvGwKMbP6upY6N2difjMZ9mZ4M38WG5fXQEtLZo/s1600/dizolve.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="224" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKrwGH8oioTITFuvKVfxXtFSSj5aXWoYmaa_bFd7SLWauuGsNh9thQXgxfhMQszIS3xe4uoiQnmU6o1qLlgHsenZEZf7DjNwIzYwwC7XvGwKMbP6upY6N2difjMZ9mZ4M38WG5fXQEtLZo/s640/dizolve.gif" width="640" /></a></div>
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A little while ago, the folks at <a href="http://mydizolve.com/" target="_blank">Dizolve</a> sent me a box of their laundry detergent strips to try out. My first thoughts upon opening the box was, "There's no way that tiny thing can clean a whole load of laundry." However, after a month or so of using the product religiously, I'm a convert.</div>
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Though my mister is an expert laundry doer -- he measures and sorts and loads the machine perfectly -- I've always been more of a dumper, shover, and douser. Laundry in, soap in, water in, GO. But in that haze of rushed laundry doing, I know I'v been using more soap than needed. Aka, I've been wasting soap, and wasting money.</div>
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Enter, <a href="http://mydizolve.com/" target="_blank">Dizolve</a> strips. They come all attached together, so you've just got to rip one off, pop it into the bottom of your machine, add your clothes and off you go! REALLY dirty load? Use 2. Not so dirty load? Use 1/2. Easy, simple, and BOY do they work.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji2PysotmeOA21ywS4mhTBpd7-6eT7uLhJOi6MjVZLyQO4Ua8vGrt2IIsdtx4U4C6WpfiUgfQX0fajLJYP8xIkfIk0DjldKdaOxdpndDH5RgiSk5EgUU0f7-fzj0jQ9JWUJ2CMrq92oL3Q/s1600/dizolve+1.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji2PysotmeOA21ywS4mhTBpd7-6eT7uLhJOi6MjVZLyQO4Ua8vGrt2IIsdtx4U4C6WpfiUgfQX0fajLJYP8xIkfIk0DjldKdaOxdpndDH5RgiSk5EgUU0f7-fzj0jQ9JWUJ2CMrq92oL3Q/s640/dizolve+1.gif" width="586" /></a></div>
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Perfect for use in hot or cold water, you can't measure wrong, and they work in standard or HE machines. These babies are <b>made in Canada</b> and have a whole host of other fabulous qualities too:</div>
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<li>Zero plastic</li>
<li>94% less transportation pollution</li>
<li>Biodegradable</li>
<li>1,4-Dioxane free</li>
<li>Phosphate-free</li>
<li>Safe for septics</li>
<li>Hypoallergenic, gentle on skin</li>
<li>Free of colour dye</li>
</ul>
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From their website:<br />
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<blockquote class="tr_bq">
We’re on a mission to make your laundry washing chore easier, healthier, more economical, and much kinder to our planet.<br />
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A few years ago, we observed many things drastically wrong with traditional detergent products:<br />
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<li>They’re heavy to lug around and bulky to store,</li>
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<li>Shipping them around generates tons of pollution,</li>
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<li>They add a mountain of plastic to our landfills, and</li>
</ul>
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<li>Over-sized, hard to read measuring caps cost consumers over $1 billion a year in over-dosing waste.</li>
</ul>
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A light bulb went off, and we set out to invent a smarter way to clean laundry.</blockquote>
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Because their 72-load packages can be mailed in a small envelop, this is the first time ever that detergeant has been shipped in a cost-effective manner. Amazing stuff.<br />
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<a href="http://mydizolve.com/2013/03/27/the-eco-impact-of-laundry-detergent-in-canada/" target="_blank">Click here</a> for a neat infographic about the <a href="http://mydizolve.com/2013/03/27/the-eco-impact-of-laundry-detergent-in-canada/" target="_blank">eco-impact</a> of laundry detergent in Canada.<br />
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<b>THE GIVEAWAY</b><br />
Dizolve has generously offered a year's supply of <a href="http://mydizolve.com/" target="_blank">Dizolve Ultra Laundry Detergent Strips</a> to one of our Canadian readers.<br />
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<b>TO ENTER</b><br />
<a class="rafl" href="http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/9f85131/" id="rc-9f85131" rel="nofollow">a Rafflecopter giveaway</a><br />
<script src="//d12vno17mo87cx.cloudfront.net/embed/rafl/cptr.js"></script><br />
<b>Giveaway ends Tuesday, July 2nd at 12am EST! Open to Canadian residents only. A winner will be announced via Twitter/Facebook, and an update on this post.</b><br />
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You can read more about this fantastic Canadian company <a href="http://mydizolve.com/our-company/" target="_blank">here</a>, and if you're interested in their fundraising campaigns, take a peek <a href="http://mydizolve.com/fundraise/" target="_blank">here</a>! A unique company with stellar vision. Love it.<br />
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<i>Update: Congrats to our winner, Gillian! Watch your inbox!</i>Desireehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05248779047139738858noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3959125561255367686.post-24864781605060721002013-06-24T08:00:00.000-04:002013-06-27T22:02:30.884-04:00My Kia, My Summer: Tailgating Traditions<!-- Kia: My Kia, My _____ - June (Content Series) / Clever Girls Snippet --><script src="http://member.clevergirlscollective.com/track?u=5324&g=684" type="text/javascript"></script><img src="http://assets.clevergirlscollective.com/pixel/p.png?a=campaign&gid=684&uid=5324" style="display: none; height: 1px; width: 1px;" /><!-- END Clever Girls Snippet --><br />
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My mister and I have a Saturday morning tradition, which started last summer, involving a visit to the local farmer's market for coffee and incredibly spicy sausages.</div>
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It all started after our favourite farmer's market fare began to be less and less tasty, and we discovered a new delicious breakfast food -- locally made sausages from a quirky vendor. So yummy, and maybe you wouldn't think that's a great idea for breakfast, especially when paired with coffee, but we LOVE it, and now it's become a Saturday morning tradition for the entire season.</div>
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Our tradition also involves us tailgating in the back of our <a href="http://clvr.li/15l7MEc" target="_blank">Kia</a> Soul.</div>
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Sometimes we bring a picnic blanket, but most weekends we sit together in the back hatch, munching away and chatting about our plans for the rest of the weekend. Sometimes my daughter is with us, and she climbs right into the back and sits cross-legged with her snack.</div>
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Last summer we even folded all the seats down and watched iPad movies outside at night. It was like a little mini campout in the driveway!</div>
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When my partner first bought the <a href="http://www.kia.com/us/" target="_blank">Soul</a> I pretty much fell in love with it. It's such a different looking car, and if I were in the market for a new car myself, I really think I'd get one too. (Are matching cars too much??)</div>
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The Soul is adorable, roomy, and fun.</div>
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We've taken a lot of summertime road trips in this car, and have never once felt like we didn't have enough room for everything we needed. We also moved earlier this week and, excluding big furniture, we could fit everything into the back with the seats folded down.</div>
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I'm definitely looking forward to next weekend, for more morning tailgating... and later this month, another camping trip! We put our Kia to the test, and she's never let us down. (Time to inform my partner I just called his car a girl. But I don't think he'll mind.)</div>
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Hope you're enjoying your summer, friends! Time for one more GPO me eating a sausage. Peace!</div>
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<i>I was selected for this opportunity as a member of <a href="http://clevergirlscollective.com/" target="_blank">Clever Girls Collective</a> and the content and opinions expressed here are all my own.</i></div>
Desireehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05248779047139738858noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3959125561255367686.post-70084765191377284522013-06-24T06:00:00.000-04:002013-06-24T06:00:04.324-04:00Kids & Caterpillars<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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My <a href="http://www.sofawned.com/2013/06/small-style-coffee-by-pond-toes-in-water.html" target="_blank">daughter</a> has officially reached the bringing-bugs-home phase of childhood. About a week ago, she came home from her gramma’s house, proudly carrying a jar filled with caterpillars, leaves, grass, and sticks. She was SO excited to show me her new pets.<br />
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<a href="http://momspark.net/kids-caterpillars/" target="_blank">Continue reading at Mom Spark...</a>Desireehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05248779047139738858noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3959125561255367686.post-66344083651494061352013-06-21T06:00:00.000-04:002013-06-21T06:00:06.709-04:00Fawned Friday: 3D Printing, Bathing Suits, And Trees<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZsVx7VcL4zLocQtglJjo0cCeAR84SUQ88GdPvEsTIiOTRDJyv2JjE7AYXBjcH0ZTm8PzxAiJ-CQfl-VZwdvp6qgkkjNZSTfW9wNfBdosJTW6AJAf3d6VasXWi8XSStYO8w3S20nybSWgX/s1600/3d+printing+cookie+cutters+(3).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZsVx7VcL4zLocQtglJjo0cCeAR84SUQ88GdPvEsTIiOTRDJyv2JjE7AYXBjcH0ZTm8PzxAiJ-CQfl-VZwdvp6qgkkjNZSTfW9wNfBdosJTW6AJAf3d6VasXWi8XSStYO8w3S20nybSWgX/s640/3d+printing+cookie+cutters+(3).jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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01. <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/Printmeneer" target="_blank">3D printed</a> cookie cutters.<br />
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02. Seriously sweet <a href="http://www.childmode.com/2013/06/17/mini-boden-swimwear-for-babies-tiny-tots/" target="_blank">bathing suits</a> for littles.<br />
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03. The <a href="http://thoughtsandbirosketches.blogspot.ca/2013/06/the-good-life.html" target="_blank">good life</a>.<br />
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04. Working hard for <a href="http://www.thenoisyplume.com/blog/2013/06/19/on-working-hard-for-something-special/" target="_blank">something special</a>.<br />
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05. <a href="http://simplemom.net/you-can-do-something-just-for-you" target="_blank">Take care</a> of yourself.<br />
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06. <a href="http://www.loveelycia.com/2013/06/photos-look-at-me-grow.html" target="_blank">So neat</a>!<br />
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07. Can't stop <a href="http://joannagoddard.blogspot.ca/2013/06/how-standard-key-lock-actually-works.html" target="_blank">watching</a> this.<br />
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08. I love when she talks about trees <a href="http://www.thenoisyplume.com/blog/2013/06/17/a-handful-of-the-random-and-a-dash-of-trees/" target="_blank">like this</a>.<br />
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09. If <a href="http://todayilearned.co.uk/2013/06/18/if-brands-were-honest/" target="_blank">brands</a> were completely honest.<br />
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10. Vintage <a href="http://mashable.com/2013/06/19/vintage-tech-ads/" target="_blank">tech ads</a>.<br />
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Wishing you all a fantastic weekend! After a week of moving, and unpacking, and about 30 trips between our old condo and the new farm... we're zonked! Time for a relaxing weekend and some R&R.<br />
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<i>What have you got planned for the next few days?</i>Desireehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05248779047139738858noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3959125561255367686.post-64916003097924871122013-06-20T11:55:00.000-04:002013-06-20T17:02:55.241-04:00On Clumsiness & Silly InjuriesI get hurt a lot.<br />
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I'm clumsy, and though I don't feel like I'm especially uncoordinated, I tend to injure myself in the strangest ways. ALL THE TIME.<br />
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Take moving day for example...<br />
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Injury no. 1: While carrying a big box into the house, I smashed my left hand into the banister, resulting in a full hand bruise, as shown below. I'm just glad I didn't actually break a finger or my hand, but the bruising is pretty nasty. It hurts to make a fist or wiggle my fingers.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaO5DptLwhhUKP-5mG6SVoL8nZ4qGf9mRA2bfFRbzZoEC-5f-LUYLjl-ZbRYluLNvfpWxIWjH1ypy-X1DakjbBP68t-TjGmdPweepMMlncvURYOh8oTLMaEEOFAJEf7oq547ABgIcbNDfe/s1600/moving+day.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaO5DptLwhhUKP-5mG6SVoL8nZ4qGf9mRA2bfFRbzZoEC-5f-LUYLjl-ZbRYluLNvfpWxIWjH1ypy-X1DakjbBP68t-TjGmdPweepMMlncvURYOh8oTLMaEEOFAJEf7oq547ABgIcbNDfe/s640/moving+day.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Injury no. 2: Gauged my leg on the corner of a box, just a bit of skin taken off, not too much blood.<br />
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Injury no. 3: While trying to move an electrical cord out of the way, I crawled along the floor and reached to push the cord into the corner, hitting eye on the corner of the bedside table. Now it's a bit swollen and red, but doesn't look as bad as it feels.<br />
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I also stubbed my toe in the car (go figure) and broke a toenail, got a splinter loading shelves, and pinched my arm trying to push two bookshelves together.<br />
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Seriously. This is my life all the time. I have NO idea how I've never broken a major bone or been seriously injured the point of needing a hospital visit. I've had my share of broken toes/fingers, but nothing that actually necessitated a cast or stitches.<br />
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<a href="http://www.sofawned.com/2013/06/happy-birthday-mister.html" target="_blank">My partner</a> is so used to my constant injuries. He just gives me a sympathetic look, smiles... and gets a bag of ice or a band-aid.<br />
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I also break a lot of stuff -- dropping it, somehow knocking items off shelves, tripping over whatnots. The phrase <b>this is why we can't have nice things</b> is uttered A LOT within our walls.<br />
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Anyone else walk through life, accident after injury after bruise? I barely even bat an eye when it happens now... I'm not even surprised. <i>Ever have that feeling?</i><br />
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<i>Update, 5:02pm: I just ran around outside with the dog, stepped on a rock, and now my foot is gushing blood. See. Told you.</i>Desireehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05248779047139738858noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3959125561255367686.post-74439740632581731922013-06-17T06:00:00.000-04:002013-06-20T16:03:08.150-04:00I Have Four Things To Tell YouSometimes life gets exciting and busy and wonderful and I forget to share kind of big stuff on the blog. So today, I'm sharing four pieces of news that I've probably tweeted about, but haven't sat down at the keyboard long enough to really explain.<br />
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So here it goes!</div>
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<b>01. I'm going to BlogHer'13.</b></div>
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Ok, so this you know because of the wee badge I've got up in the right hand corner... and it was sort of mentioned in this post, but really, I haven't dedicated a moment to it as I should have. I'll be attending BlogHer'13 in Chicago, and will be in the city July 25th-28th. The first and only blogging conference I've attended so far, was <a href="http://www.sofawned.com/2011/08/blogher11-san-diego.html" target="_blank">BlogHer'11</a> in <a href="http://www.sofawned.com/search/label/BlogHer11" target="_blank">San Diego</a> -- and I had such an amazing experience. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs2i58uA_Gr3ME461DWZO6kQvdpZGiIffr7xGD4KuqJxgW59wd9FXmGtk06pOOWcoq96ha4OBYLL1m3QyEOPysfkWqeiIxhfVijGu5qpbmST5_wXRxzkMHI0rO45Z2r9k3cWKDm5CIQMFI/s1600/blogher13.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="100" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs2i58uA_Gr3ME461DWZO6kQvdpZGiIffr7xGD4KuqJxgW59wd9FXmGtk06pOOWcoq96ha4OBYLL1m3QyEOPysfkWqeiIxhfVijGu5qpbmST5_wXRxzkMHI0rO45Z2r9k3cWKDm5CIQMFI/s640/blogher13.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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Honestly, meeting bloggy friends is one of my favourite things in the world. There's nothing like connecting with people after following their lives, and chatting online, and getting to really know one another before you ever meet. For example, I've contributed to the blog <a href="http://childmode.com/" target="_blank">Child Mode</a> in the past, and wrote with its founder, Nadia, over on another blog, and finally this weekend we had a chance to meet in person! She happened to be near Peterborough, check out <a href="https://twitter.com/Viamede" target="_blank">Viamede Resort</a>, so we met up and I got to meet her three gorgeous children too. Such a great visit!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1raNQoUm5wXq5trnWLwa9EZGbl8yw2Jpq9uEI0V9h1c0oxEHAobQP0KyVIMAK2nlKa-OX2PzisSv5BVvx5VB3PoE3yfntIkOtddmsSzF6lBfjJ7KPh_mZmW0cIx_KPLbUSc0Cm5HfRPHe/s1600/sofawned+and+childmode.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1raNQoUm5wXq5trnWLwa9EZGbl8yw2Jpq9uEI0V9h1c0oxEHAobQP0KyVIMAK2nlKa-OX2PzisSv5BVvx5VB3PoE3yfntIkOtddmsSzF6lBfjJ7KPh_mZmW0cIx_KPLbUSc0Cm5HfRPHe/s640/sofawned+and+childmode.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Nadia and I are working on some blog ideas for later in the summer... can't wait to share!</div>
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Also, if you're going to be in Chicago next month, give me a shout! I'm hoping to meet even more of you lovelies!</div>
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<b>02. I got glasses.</b></div>
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After months of thinking to myself, <i>"Driving at night shouldn't be this hard"</i>, I went to get my eyes checked and walked away with a prescription to help deal with my deteriorating ability to see things that are far away. And WOW what a difference they make. It's a tiny prescription, but for driving and distance, I'm a much happier girl with my glasses on. I'm still a bit stunned at how much I can see with them on! Hello leaves on trees and far away billboards! The world is crisp and clear!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilOFhn7cf17saDdbh_MUGqEZhFOk-Adig_E2olL7X_sdUV9OJTHWUdC5WMRfeWKs6hCUvI-S6NEgSr3hf8Si1KwWDP_I7RHMIoFCXDpezXPf4LBFmUNfMXoEwzFIvz7sKH3tJejxLAZA8B/s1600/sofawned+has+glasses+(1).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilOFhn7cf17saDdbh_MUGqEZhFOk-Adig_E2olL7X_sdUV9OJTHWUdC5WMRfeWKs6hCUvI-S6NEgSr3hf8Si1KwWDP_I7RHMIoFCXDpezXPf4LBFmUNfMXoEwzFIvz7sKH3tJejxLAZA8B/s640/sofawned+has+glasses+(1).JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXSZ2jGTYXaZRCinqo2flihFF7wgNslsVbs13ty3dGuRTvAxDbdyi59B9ZTVz__N0-7tYlrKhsIJJU-vGJG5vdAQIXCcXDsoRuM2F9L3HrwCd_3SEYbzWYPKaosyFmPrbj8bUpyyd8g_bj/s1600/sofawned+has+glasses+(2).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXSZ2jGTYXaZRCinqo2flihFF7wgNslsVbs13ty3dGuRTvAxDbdyi59B9ZTVz__N0-7tYlrKhsIJJU-vGJG5vdAQIXCcXDsoRuM2F9L3HrwCd_3SEYbzWYPKaosyFmPrbj8bUpyyd8g_bj/s640/sofawned+has+glasses+(2).JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b>03. I started writing for <a href="http://www.inquisitr.com/" target="_blank">The Inquisitr</a>.</b></div>
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If you've been reading <a href="http://www.sofawned.com/" target="_blank">So Fawned</a> for a while, you might know that I used to write full time for <a href="http://www.celebritybabyscoop.com/" target="_blank">Celebrity Baby Scoop</a>, and that I currently contribute to <a href="http://momspark.net/" target="_blank">Mom Spark</a>, a mama blog founded by the lovely <a href="https://www.facebook.com/amy.bellgardt" target="_blank">Amy</a>.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPN7WFCIfgKJSh7IvzCYvLvTbY402OFNSLI0zPb5XKUOW-S_Zj2ey0X8U2c3odOjf_4NKLkfoGb2oO4AZXRyovKiQ7rNzo52674TuPxxw-_rxCj-X1YSpRVPFdjm43Xs1nbEyEemW0VdoG/s1600/inquisitr.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="53" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPN7WFCIfgKJSh7IvzCYvLvTbY402OFNSLI0zPb5XKUOW-S_Zj2ey0X8U2c3odOjf_4NKLkfoGb2oO4AZXRyovKiQ7rNzo52674TuPxxw-_rxCj-X1YSpRVPFdjm43Xs1nbEyEemW0VdoG/s400/inquisitr.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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After making the decision to <a href="http://www.sofawned.com/2013/06/when-one-door-closes-saying-goodbye-tango-peterborough.html" target="_blank">close my shop</a>, I knew I'd be back writing and sure enough, was able to land myself a gig with <a href="http://www.inquisitr.com/" target="_blank">The Inquisitr</a>. Currently an intern and loving it!</div>
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<b>04. We're moving to the country. </b></div>
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Here's the big one. Earlier this year my mister and I <a href="http://www.sofawned.com/2013/03/springtime-ch-ch-changes.html" target="_blank">moved in together</a>, and this week, we'll be putting the condo on the market, and moving to the country, to a farmhouse owned by family. You've probably seen my <a href="http://instagram.com/sofawned" target="_blank">Instagram</a> feed filling up with images of fields and barns, orchards, and the most beautiful old home. I'm thrilled for the chance to have Gretchen experience what it's like to live in the country, with endless fields to play in, fresh air, and lazy summers days. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwBAQBETJkz_DEPBuM9ZAoy40HpGjepAcKIe9BRJYFLLVjJGpogTnYBuTAt38Kr1bwOiCrOzKLsqoQk4c1TvcjTv4NGOFsauAm9YOXHBamyDUBPUDQGsHBPwfmEeVRJ7HeNzA6hScn_GnC/s1600/pretty+house.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwBAQBETJkz_DEPBuM9ZAoy40HpGjepAcKIe9BRJYFLLVjJGpogTnYBuTAt38Kr1bwOiCrOzKLsqoQk4c1TvcjTv4NGOFsauAm9YOXHBamyDUBPUDQGsHBPwfmEeVRJ7HeNzA6hScn_GnC/s640/pretty+house.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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We can't wait to enjoy the peace and quiet of rural life -- something we both grew up loving. It's also just about 20 minutes out of town. A summer of bonfires and sipping tea on our wraparound porch is about to begin. That barn above? That'll be my view from my new office. Incredible. </div>
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So there we have it. Four bits of news -- four things that are making me very, very happy. </div>
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<i>My next post will come to you from the farmhouse. Peace!</i></div>
Desireehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05248779047139738858noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3959125561255367686.post-46320779205197089612013-06-17T05:00:00.000-04:002013-06-24T10:53:14.824-04:00{Giveaway} Win An 8x10 Canvas Print Via Easy Canvas Prints<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT0llsJUTfo81XVIqmP1_2jzuSl2nV7yhGWiJQb8Ytis70_M45mWxRalDwguRIR9f1oot6H22k3LapakchEoZGmCgdw5KDjL640vioBhVm5Al8XuPw-8_Ksk0WzjOta53HbPjlqX_MeIpP/s1600/easy+canvas+prints+giveaway+so+fawned.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="610" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT0llsJUTfo81XVIqmP1_2jzuSl2nV7yhGWiJQb8Ytis70_M45mWxRalDwguRIR9f1oot6H22k3LapakchEoZGmCgdw5KDjL640vioBhVm5Al8XuPw-8_Ksk0WzjOta53HbPjlqX_MeIpP/s640/easy+canvas+prints+giveaway+so+fawned.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Earlier this month, I was contacted by the folks from <a href="http://easycanvasprints.com/">EasyCanvasPrints.com</a>, offering me a canvas print of my choice, <i>and</i> one 8x10 print to share with my lovely readers. I know you're going to love these!<br />
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I visited their super user-friendly site and was pleased with all the options available when it comes to sizing of prints, mounting options and framing, as well as options to use photos from either your computer, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/sofawned" target="_blank">Facebook</a>, or <a href="http://instagram.com/sofawned" target="_blank">Instagram</a>.<br />
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The hardest part? Deciding which image to choose!<br />
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I went back into my archives and found a few I really love...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmCxSR7BHfh5ExcmgKWPmtLcWRJN7IF3e8NduSfKj-lXyk5qq7OmDM_mIlXh7gc4N1A1_JbUo_eJpjsLdAAhCi8zmreDI0xnjhyphenhyphend5dTzokz7RKkOgGKI4ckx4AcqaL1krMSvOgd1wPXyfP/s1600/easy+canvas+prints+(1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmCxSR7BHfh5ExcmgKWPmtLcWRJN7IF3e8NduSfKj-lXyk5qq7OmDM_mIlXh7gc4N1A1_JbUo_eJpjsLdAAhCi8zmreDI0xnjhyphenhyphend5dTzokz7RKkOgGKI4ckx4AcqaL1krMSvOgd1wPXyfP/s640/easy+canvas+prints+(1).jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg68fFg0eQNddXb8EM2GzlsIbF3E0EiYdUEx81s4s85o_eolQc8Oig6y-1tCZhDmM7Nx7o6vhTfzLO1U02kaCLzf7cba3_cdaCvKxtDndN054_lM0DuryimVOOe-Ql8vmn5ssyrJDHdh7FF/s1600/easy+canvas+prints+(2).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg68fFg0eQNddXb8EM2GzlsIbF3E0EiYdUEx81s4s85o_eolQc8Oig6y-1tCZhDmM7Nx7o6vhTfzLO1U02kaCLzf7cba3_cdaCvKxtDndN054_lM0DuryimVOOe-Ql8vmn5ssyrJDHdh7FF/s640/easy+canvas+prints+(2).jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgH0blvrAO1aNN0SNHdSnH-yATLgxfJipdI5crH9E8Tb1UKQDJqccYxciNa_dQbdSAJrD52168He1JvrxjkI_R8QX8ZTOCYjPyWmqpcOEwNN0AJVsJvCuKah832CCP9C6n8VDXkbtIVBt1C/s1600/easy+canvas+prints+(3).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgH0blvrAO1aNN0SNHdSnH-yATLgxfJipdI5crH9E8Tb1UKQDJqccYxciNa_dQbdSAJrD52168He1JvrxjkI_R8QX8ZTOCYjPyWmqpcOEwNN0AJVsJvCuKah832CCP9C6n8VDXkbtIVBt1C/s640/easy+canvas+prints+(3).jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I ended up choosing the very first image, of a tiny <a href="http://www.sofawned.com/2013/06/small-style-coffee-by-pond-toes-in-water.html" target="_blank">Gretchen</a> picking flowers in the park. It's always been a favourite of mine, and soon it'll be hanging in our living room.<br />
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Now, onto the fun stuff...!<br />
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<b>THE GIVEAWAY</b><br />
Up for grabs is an 8x10 canvas photo print!<br />
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<b>TO ENTER</b><br />
<a class="rafl" href="http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/151352110/" id="rc-151352110" rel="nofollow">a Rafflecopter giveaway</a><script src="//d12vno17mo87cx.cloudfront.net/embed/rafl/cptr.js"></script><br />
Psst, you can also share this giveaway with your friends <a href="http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/share-code/MTUxMzUyMmQ0NWFkNGE5MjIzZDkwN2FlZmU3MDExOjc0/" target="_blank">here</a>, if you're feeling especially generous! Karma, right?<br />
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<a href="http://www.easycanvasprints.com/photo%20prints" target="_blank" title="photo canvas prints"><img alt="photo canvas prints" border="0" src="http://easycanvasprints.com/cmsimages/canvas_photos_logo.jpg" /></a><br />
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<i>Giveaway sponsored & facilitated by <a href="http://www.easycanvasprints.com/" target="_blank">Easy Canvas Prints</a>. View <a href="http://www.sofawned.com/" target="_blank">So Fawned</a>'s sponsor/disclosure information <a href="http://www.sofawned.com/p/sponsor.html" target="_blank">here</a>. </i><br />
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<i>Update: Congrats to our winner, Cassie! Check your email for a message from Easy Canvas Prints, and a link to claim your fabulous prize! </i>Desireehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05248779047139738858noreply@blogger.com