tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-226987962024-03-23T11:07:20.551-07:00foolsewoodeHappiness...not in another place but this place, not for another hour but this hour
- walt whitmanChickenbellshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13573889595933525371noreply@blogger.comBlogger1154125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22698796.post-38390003593680814722011-03-22T07:12:00.000-07:002011-03-22T07:12:07.347-07:00Sniff Sniff...I'm so sorry for my absence here again lately, but allergy season has started in full force in my little mountain town. This is not unusual for this time of year of course, but what is unusual is the severity of the allergies that have descended into our town.<br />
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I remember thinking that it's been a hot mess around here as everywhere I've gone lately, people are sniffing and sneezing and rubbing their eyes. So, I'm not alone...and everyone who happens to be sniffing and sneezing and rubbing their eyes have all complained that this is one of the worst allergy seasons they can remember.<br />
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Myself included.<br />
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I've had to double up on the pills I take a couple of time, and it still didn't prevent me from getting some pretty severe flu-like symptoms this last week. Although, I've talked to a few people who say when they get allergies, they actually feel like they have the flu (which is new to me) So, I've been taking it a bit easy the last few days and trying to get over whatever it is that I have, be it flu or allergies.<br />
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Luckily we just got some more snow (yipes!) yesterday, so I think it's tamped down the pollen for a bit...I'll let you know.Chickenbellshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13573889595933525371noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22698796.post-59783854557208674222011-03-16T20:19:00.000-07:002011-03-16T20:20:27.417-07:00Now We're Cookin'...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf6f2uurOU2E2kDQeIyESgB0pCrkED-wUro8K7fk28dHOM9kZ-U7Z5Nd2rYwfry6xEm6FH0Q23-b78H16lspUgKj_p6h5F82hgzqX_6OCpG8cOk-dQ0tB-VYe4OOKpS-kkSt0-/s1600/IMG_8901.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf6f2uurOU2E2kDQeIyESgB0pCrkED-wUro8K7fk28dHOM9kZ-U7Z5Nd2rYwfry6xEm6FH0Q23-b78H16lspUgKj_p6h5F82hgzqX_6OCpG8cOk-dQ0tB-VYe4OOKpS-kkSt0-/s1600/IMG_8901.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">Just in case you're looking for new vintage goodies for your kitchen...we've got them at Snap Snap.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">This is the beauty of having so much room and a creative partner such as my mother...who is also a vintage textile lover. We have plenty of linens in stock and more coming in every day.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBooVuQVULxzfM0ca8L90pPE-jasNOnSk4H6g7X8dfokkS-Pb0MPJniA6z4FlIs3SRm8d7BebLpkSY_OBxkX5hnsrxZHefLLLEbcwnqQOApdX_v8ubzf-pasOFomAJe09o31YE/s1600/IMG_8902.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBooVuQVULxzfM0ca8L90pPE-jasNOnSk4H6g7X8dfokkS-Pb0MPJniA6z4FlIs3SRm8d7BebLpkSY_OBxkX5hnsrxZHefLLLEbcwnqQOApdX_v8ubzf-pasOFomAJe09o31YE/s640/IMG_8902.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Including a much overlooked little basket of linens for 10 cents. I'm unsure of why it is overlooked, as it's right at the front next to our front counter, but there you go. Perhaps it's the startling low price? But I can almost guarantee that of you dig around you can find a whole set of napkins or a few little towels, perfect for home projects you need single linens for or if you're just looking to replace throw away paper towels for meal times...</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
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</div>Chickenbellshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13573889595933525371noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22698796.post-1712089174640389022011-03-15T07:44:00.000-07:002011-03-15T07:44:09.794-07:00Let There Be Light...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioh0HX9i33z4owq_JPlloNN1WLDz7s6QJ51bgJFOXLsjm0Jp8BoszcdTzZSSrXgFFPdYH35CqVM9N-QabhHSgYfL7XQVNHFwZpH1tpf_G0Vg0eUQqqtHnJDBwAUP2vIQdQNtZQ/s1600/IMG_8904.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioh0HX9i33z4owq_JPlloNN1WLDz7s6QJ51bgJFOXLsjm0Jp8BoszcdTzZSSrXgFFPdYH35CqVM9N-QabhHSgYfL7XQVNHFwZpH1tpf_G0Vg0eUQqqtHnJDBwAUP2vIQdQNtZQ/s1600/IMG_8904.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">As I've recently mentioned, there's a lot of redesign going on around Foolsewoode...A whole lot. It's not that I don't love the things I've spent a lifetime collecting, but some of the things have had to go to other parts and rooms, and some things have had to completely go and find new homes all together.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">And my bedside lamps are no exception.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Which was kind of a surprise to me.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">I always enjoyed my bedside lamps, one my father designed and made, and one I received as a gift many years ago. The one that my father made has been relocated to the new boudoir as it makes more of a dramatic statement in there, and the other one doesn't really gel with my decorating style anymore...and that's when I found these cutie little vintage teapot lamps at the thrift.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">They practically jumped into my hands, and at $3 a piece I figured it was a small investment to make in a little bit of the new bedroom style. The only unfortunate thing was the shades that came with them. While I'm assuming they're original, they're not the prettiest shades I've ever seen.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">So, I started researching shades and found that the ones I really like are more money than I want to spend on new shades. I also thought the original ones were not only a bit awkward, but a bit big...and then I had an idea.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">I am reupholstering a chair cushion a chair that I am putting in the bedroom, and maybe I could use the same fabric on the lampshades that I use on the chair cushion?</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">I suppose this is a good time to mention that the material is a vintage damask pattern I'm using from a dress that I made into a skirt which I was never that fond of after I made it, and I was just thinking of junking the skirt all together...but that damask pattern is just so darned cute!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">(which is why I hung onto it so long in the first place) </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4Ri-UcJR05q3cAloDmWjq06MRHc56WPfxTYpTxq-q1WdZIMp8YgR4NjfFbi1tuOYE7_xXsLb1I0Tdtlf_iw9etoP78LfYg-c-W2w0okum8ecl4Q0eJAqnzGYYDJ6pS-ODW4_Q/s1600/IMG_8905.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4Ri-UcJR05q3cAloDmWjq06MRHc56WPfxTYpTxq-q1WdZIMp8YgR4NjfFbi1tuOYE7_xXsLb1I0Tdtlf_iw9etoP78LfYg-c-W2w0okum8ecl4Q0eJAqnzGYYDJ6pS-ODW4_Q/s1600/IMG_8905.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">So, Sunday I made a pattern for the lampshade and started cutting out fabric. I then applied the fabric to the existing shade with some glue and *poof! A whole new look for the lampshades...</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Which makes the shades look just the right size and a whole lot cuter...plus? I still have more than enough fabric left over to remake the chair cushion eventually.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">And I think it's a perfect solution for my new little lamp cuties to update them just enough for the room redoux.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">I am still considering finding some cute black trim to finish the tops and the bottom of the shades, but for now they're working just fine.</div><div style="text-align: center;"> </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Chickenbellshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13573889595933525371noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22698796.post-68038560645416893202011-03-08T19:42:00.000-08:002011-03-08T19:46:46.721-08:00Vintage Cowgirl Inspiration...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTZTB2fQDLWIlVPuy89c4woHymhrAUlNbdh9Fm59dAJPzLG0HVhmyXQEwwgqq1kA7R2DC7bO3iRmCeZIBMCkdGbLi7qGgjER-Zh_B4tTKzRfeGi5BMlPraIb2JwYHpDOHORgbv/s1600/IMG_8898.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTZTB2fQDLWIlVPuy89c4woHymhrAUlNbdh9Fm59dAJPzLG0HVhmyXQEwwgqq1kA7R2DC7bO3iRmCeZIBMCkdGbLi7qGgjER-Zh_B4tTKzRfeGi5BMlPraIb2JwYHpDOHORgbv/s1600/IMG_8898.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">And here's what had me gluing my fingers and other parts of my hands to everything in Kari and Jay's studio...Totally vintage inspired necklaces.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">These were Kari's original design using vintage Cowgirl photos with burned edges that were then attached to the rusted buckle charms (this is where it becomes dangerous for the fingers...well, my fingers in particular as everyone else seems to have a whole lot more experience with glue in this area than myself) and embellished with charms and bling, and all attached to the copper and silver ball chain necklaces.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">I just helped out with the design execution in the end.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQueKsYYMcwjXKL_JdYPQcELa3mOWtX5rKq3EA7lGjg6sfQG8YT-C0fDYN7nvx9UznTI7v6Wf4HKD3tpG81o7UvoJa3Lp3W83Hm19Da_7qDaRaeNuc8uqKdWrFkbm84raPU4X9/s1600/IMG_8900.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="292" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQueKsYYMcwjXKL_JdYPQcELa3mOWtX5rKq3EA7lGjg6sfQG8YT-C0fDYN7nvx9UznTI7v6Wf4HKD3tpG81o7UvoJa3Lp3W83Hm19Da_7qDaRaeNuc8uqKdWrFkbm84raPU4X9/s400/IMG_8900.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">And right now they are a Prescott Snap Snap exclusive (and a Cheyenne exclusive if you happen to be in that area) and were lovingly arranged in the shop by yours truly just today.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">We also made one Eight Ball charmed necklace and one Mini Flask necklace as well. We also made a full sized flask, but that's still at the studio as we're perfecting the exact design on that little beauty.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Stop by and see them when you get a chance, as I don't normally make jewelry (being that I'm still biting the glue off of myself) but had a wonderfully inspired and fun time doing these little beauties with Kari, because I love me some sweet old cowgirl illustrations.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Can I get a Ye-Haw?</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Or a Yippie-I-O?</div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Chickenbellshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13573889595933525371noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22698796.post-2967911188322504752011-03-07T18:23:00.000-08:002011-03-07T18:30:16.405-08:00Working With Metal...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6TtW2DGsoujQbuDd1JoEb_4HhWl4q6aHav0an-qk9yigaVY_Qz9Z4rEHgyOq87DT_QhS1bW-8akueHmscejiZQLbuXYxu5pacKnYQcJfztt7Q1dL-3ERaY2jK02_rRf-l5Mqz/s1600/IMG_8885.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6TtW2DGsoujQbuDd1JoEb_4HhWl4q6aHav0an-qk9yigaVY_Qz9Z4rEHgyOq87DT_QhS1bW-8akueHmscejiZQLbuXYxu5pacKnYQcJfztt7Q1dL-3ERaY2jK02_rRf-l5Mqz/s1600/IMG_8885.jpg" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">For the last two days, which are usually my days <i>off</i>...I have had the pleasure of working with some good friends at their Metal Fabricating Shop.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">And by working I mean I've been introduced to metal cutting machines, shocking metal (which is a process of almost instant rusting large sheets of metal) getting to know the lay of the land, filling orders, packing boxes, making jewelry, being creative, and generally getting down and dirty.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Working with metal can be a dirty job...but only in the best of ways.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCOURnKpxiQ4RAoG5sbxOcsfVn5h6b4XZSiu63nPpQNJMQgo0RldDwkoFYu-NkPxi1L6yaorNcBQA2SczjlV-yayDH3mdlI5_90gFniqFXXkIG4R8r6ViGF0mAPrXSHBhJ6w4Q/s1600/IMG_8889.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCOURnKpxiQ4RAoG5sbxOcsfVn5h6b4XZSiu63nPpQNJMQgo0RldDwkoFYu-NkPxi1L6yaorNcBQA2SczjlV-yayDH3mdlI5_90gFniqFXXkIG4R8r6ViGF0mAPrXSHBhJ6w4Q/s1600/IMG_8889.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">My friends Kari and Jay own Universal Iron Works here up in the Northland of Arizona and it is <b><i>awesome</i></b>!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">They supply metal to a whole lot of people in the world, including Snap Snap. They can do <b>anything</b> you want, which I kind of already knew...but after having the pleasure of stepping into their world for the last couple of days, I have a whole new appreciation for their entire operation.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">This is a true Made in America company where everyone rolls up their sleeves and dives in...and while it is a lot of fun and a well oiled machine, I am finding myself a bit exhausted from running around...but in a great way for sure.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXKVDNqensn0nbrCi_fSKugZeUeOwgFoOii2GMF80uDcH9gKqurGzcA9kymjRR8uo0mpaChd92KcB6GaUxQLDiUR0un4InjgL7UWNB21gDckwzj9CHuK0Wqm7ecRvnj86zyfDl/s1600/IMG_8888.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXKVDNqensn0nbrCi_fSKugZeUeOwgFoOii2GMF80uDcH9gKqurGzcA9kymjRR8uo0mpaChd92KcB6GaUxQLDiUR0un4InjgL7UWNB21gDckwzj9CHuK0Wqm7ecRvnj86zyfDl/s1600/IMG_8888.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Everyone is super creative and highly skilled at what they do at the shop mixed up with the whole element of being laid back and having fun...truly enjoying all their work.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Plus? There's about a million and one things to do, and that work changes from moment to moment...which means that there's never a dull minute of the day and there's something exciting going on around every corner.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Lucky for me, I've been invited to join in the operation and will be heading out at least one day a week to lend a hand wherever they need it...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2MDGpBc0YPMQCLpTBON0pAiyksugLBTVkxLZx49cN_enQG9QxpXv7JrQFqTaGT7ihNvEeN-SoOnUmFHFZgAEazObIC2b08jMtj8bTi9RIOfZk12sdLeiGDqNvTEsYcJfFPwLh/s1600/IMG_8892.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2MDGpBc0YPMQCLpTBON0pAiyksugLBTVkxLZx49cN_enQG9QxpXv7JrQFqTaGT7ihNvEeN-SoOnUmFHFZgAEazObIC2b08jMtj8bTi9RIOfZk12sdLeiGDqNvTEsYcJfFPwLh/s1600/IMG_8892.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Though I'm not sure I'll be welding.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Or branding...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I'll be leaving that to Jay and his helper <i>thankyouverymuch</i>...welding and branding is hot work and looks a little more firey and scary to me than I'm use to. I mean, I hardly ever use fire in my line of work, what with clothes being so flammable and whatnot.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">And as an added bonus, I get to help create new ideas (which is almost too easy, because we're working and throwing out new designs to each other all day) and also grab exciting metal goodies to put in Snap Snap...like a whole slew of new jewelry I helped design, or rather glue. Which was kind of a hysterical mess at some point seeing as I started gluing my thumb to things and then to itself and at one point glued a pair of needle nose pliers to my person as well.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Sigh.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">At least I'm good comic relief.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0sX1mdC6gSTFlP05FSHLxrVoH_ueNDGQSjJ1OIYip7HU4BS0dGzbEC2PLN6MqpJ8NhBISq6xWdKqwD5m_Rcl5wYtB2q1LoKpzEXX1cuN0-birbAcRZyFBPcVUa6HYVSDK6kUN/s1600/IMG_8893.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0sX1mdC6gSTFlP05FSHLxrVoH_ueNDGQSjJ1OIYip7HU4BS0dGzbEC2PLN6MqpJ8NhBISq6xWdKqwD5m_Rcl5wYtB2q1LoKpzEXX1cuN0-birbAcRZyFBPcVUa6HYVSDK6kUN/s1600/IMG_8893.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">It's almost too enjoyable when I'm there to call it <b>work</b>...maybe it's just because it's a wonderful change of pace from what I do in my regular working day, which adds just the right amount of the inspiration I crave...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Chickenbellshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13573889595933525371noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22698796.post-90948017506473066312011-03-04T17:18:00.000-08:002011-03-04T17:26:24.520-08:00Red Hot Vintage Linens...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcGmGjlyEiRieNW1-4iUiBRsbLdu2qX1xUnRR0x3XKSrR3FGuY9K7RWDwApzGAgAfN0UFScgl6Kw6Aaeb0T7m4Rfh5JMk5Aug2qjXug6rmW7826yQnVnii_0GyXkI-jYoVaJi-/s1600/IMG_8883.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcGmGjlyEiRieNW1-4iUiBRsbLdu2qX1xUnRR0x3XKSrR3FGuY9K7RWDwApzGAgAfN0UFScgl6Kw6Aaeb0T7m4Rfh5JMk5Aug2qjXug6rmW7826yQnVnii_0GyXkI-jYoVaJi-/s1600/IMG_8883.jpg" /></a></div><br />
I absolutely adore monogrammed vintage linens...in fact, I love them so much I collect them. Don't worry though, with all the purging and cleaning around here, I have a great project in the works at the moment to utilize them, so they will be seen (as I am using this as a new standard in which to keep things around here...I have to be able to see things and enjoy them) and not stuffed in drawers or closets...much.<br />
<br />
Ahem.<br />
<br />
My mother and I being total textile lovers means we also happen to have tons and tons of vintage linens at Snap Snap...and by tons and tons, I mean my mother has been madly pricing and has gone through no less than 100 tags today...which means, we have a <b><i>whole lot</i></b> of amazing embroidered, beautiful embroidered, and just plain linens.<br />
<br />
They are also affordable prices and range anywhere from 10 cents (oh yes, that's right) to 10 dollars.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><i>Come one come all...</i></b></span><br />
<br />
But this particular one caught my eye, and I had to snatch it right up because it had me in stitches...mostly because it says "Hot Muffins" on it...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgy-U_MtKJI3Fd1zlgeoLVsT4Cv1wDK8-KXim0NjypPatVS0DBhMLJsJNtly2xZ4QOzTS2aSMPSTeprrxj6UUeqNFkNXRwCzl_jaQR7hIAvKAhlzHgjKGQ53lGqVCGruSKjuGiF/s1600/IMG_8884.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgy-U_MtKJI3Fd1zlgeoLVsT4Cv1wDK8-KXim0NjypPatVS0DBhMLJsJNtly2xZ4QOzTS2aSMPSTeprrxj6UUeqNFkNXRwCzl_jaQR7hIAvKAhlzHgjKGQ53lGqVCGruSKjuGiF/s1600/IMG_8884.jpg" /></a></div><br />
And mostly because it also seems to have this rather large burn hole in it...<br />
<br />
Hot Muffins indeed...Chickenbellshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13573889595933525371noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22698796.post-18585760816939602422011-03-02T19:55:00.000-08:002011-03-02T20:20:28.981-08:00Life in Redoux :: Being Seen...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhscFpSurZRTeluY2XFuZZ6SFFvTh9cco5VkkfuLqAio1X6PA8hu9i9SHC0pLZsUiOS8-RFgtnWRDyn3SvglsPkx3JR9EgKHRwZjDVS5x1EBa2-kBVrJUhPBzv-SKn5q4bJ_J6x/s1600/HPIM2521.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhscFpSurZRTeluY2XFuZZ6SFFvTh9cco5VkkfuLqAio1X6PA8hu9i9SHC0pLZsUiOS8-RFgtnWRDyn3SvglsPkx3JR9EgKHRwZjDVS5x1EBa2-kBVrJUhPBzv-SKn5q4bJ_J6x/s400/HPIM2521.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
As I was saying yesterday...I got rid of my armoire. The big pine one that sat in the corner from the minute I moved into this house 8+ years ago, being moved of course, from my other home where I lived with it 3 years before that.<br />
<br />
I loved it...I did. I picked it out for my eX and I, and while it served me well...it was for our TV and our TV just outlived its lifespan in my house. I have been toying with the idea of getting a new TV for quite some time now, so after a whole lot of asking around and researching, I settled on something new and with that came the problem of where and what to do with the new piece of electronica.<br />
<br />
So...out with the old, ahem...which is pictured above (and believe me, I had to search for this picture of the armoire) and in with the new:<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3RMj3QWR-d8u8N2gNZUErMmgsAUsszlehTUYBPCTSviO6m-pRI_i_feOJmue-wcQ5aSFdulMbUluT66FI11PTEJ7cF6Q2RGapFPI6iTMF1VH-_J28vmI2NcYKK7eE7L9Xt3Q2/s1600/IMG_8879.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3RMj3QWR-d8u8N2gNZUErMmgsAUsszlehTUYBPCTSviO6m-pRI_i_feOJmue-wcQ5aSFdulMbUluT66FI11PTEJ7cF6Q2RGapFPI6iTMF1VH-_J28vmI2NcYKK7eE7L9Xt3Q2/s1600/IMG_8879.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">New console. And yes, that's a rather large hole in my rug. I wish I could figure out a way to hide it better, but I just can't...however, this is a 1920's hand tied silk Chinese rug that I bought at an estate sale for $25. Without that hole I would have paid hundreds of dollars more. That hole saved me a TON of money...so in a way? I'm totally celebrating it.</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
After searching and falling in love with many other consoles, I had this one delivered from JC Pennys (for free and right to the house, and loads cheaper due to online coupons) where I assembled it right on the spot. According to Dina, the same company that makes furniture for the Pottery Barn makes it for Pennys...so if it reminds you of them, that would be the reason. I absolutely adore assembling most things, so this went together pretty fast.<br />
<br />
The three little drawers that are in the center of the console are actually not drawers, but a door that opens to reveal three shelves! This is a perfect place for Blu-Ray's and Wii's (in case you have such things) but not so much for your stereo system (which actually can fit quite well to the right of the whole shebang...and may move later or be replaced with something that can fit on one of those shelves behind the door)<br />
<br />
Unloading a armoire that you've used to ummmm...<strike>stuff</strike> <strike>store</strike> <strike>throw things in and quickly shut the door</strike> organize your household paperwork and other electronic items in for many years is an adventure within itself.<br />
<br />
I had a ton of DVD's (which are now stored in my coffee table) old taxes (which have been gone through and organized and stored in another location) and a ton of warranties and instruction manuals...which have been thrown away (if I no longer even own the actual appliance it was for...good grief) or stored (if I still actually did own the actual appliance it was for)<br />
<br />
Phew.<br />
<br />
Seriously.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJcURzHLnDezFkysD9oWMnLn700fppUSKL2tkkSC1PzOctTqcyD4wOC5qoM48eq1m2TRzN9QFIT5Z7-185wq7XGOjdxoptg2WN85u0QHfPGCSH4JyfVHAAkqgdrglgCVXpEe9c/s1600/IMG_8880.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJcURzHLnDezFkysD9oWMnLn700fppUSKL2tkkSC1PzOctTqcyD4wOC5qoM48eq1m2TRzN9QFIT5Z7-185wq7XGOjdxoptg2WN85u0QHfPGCSH4JyfVHAAkqgdrglgCVXpEe9c/s1600/IMG_8880.jpg" /></a></div><br />
And there were four extra little shelves, two on each side...that I now had the responsibility of filling up. This (as you can imagine) was not a huge problem.<br />
<br />
In said large armoire, I had quite a few things I'd been saving for myself. The only problem was, I never could see these little things. I have had them for years (in the case of the small wooden dolls, which were brought by my father to me, from parts all over the world when I was a small child...the rest I've just saved) and I have been storing them. For what I don't know?<br />
<br />
So, I decided that they needed to come out and be displayed and enjoyed. I realized as I stood with my hands on my hips organizing everything, that I've spent my whole life collecting all sorts of lovely things and...well? I can't see a lot of them.<br />
<br />
These lovely things are packed away and hidden.<br />
<br />
It all of a sudden started to dawn on me that this is a bit ridiculous...and then I realized that my whole house is full of things I've collected, and it may just be time for me to start going through things and saving only those that I truly love, and also actually have room to display and enjoy...all without cluttering the place up (like it has been)<br />
<br />
I realize that I may just have my work cut out for me here.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj42t1G5DCBIT-Ft2owwN7DaC8dsSaylHxWYRm-lbJCxBvBS5jPBqBwp2YBhrYb2t_yBH2MEloJTEuqJZ1RcCQ6XEelNAKKoU_tLx_Dee8xNdcgrX57NvDp1F7VSFz_2w8OYR77/s1600/IMG_8881.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj42t1G5DCBIT-Ft2owwN7DaC8dsSaylHxWYRm-lbJCxBvBS5jPBqBwp2YBhrYb2t_yBH2MEloJTEuqJZ1RcCQ6XEelNAKKoU_tLx_Dee8xNdcgrX57NvDp1F7VSFz_2w8OYR77/s1600/IMG_8881.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<br />
So...out came the collectibles I wanted to keep (including one of the most rare Flinstone items ever made...that crazy plastic "rock" phone up there) and the others went to the new Snap Snap to be sold.<br />
<br />
And you know what?<br />
<br />
Getting rid of things wasn't even that painful.<br />
<br />
It was wonderful to reorganize, dust, and display the things I've kept hidden all these years.<br />
<br />
Really wonderful.<br />
<br />
After the few days it took to totally unload, move out, rebuild, and situate the new TV I sat with my feet propped up enjoying my new HD picture and looking around my newly refreshed living room...my totally completed new paint job (that pesky corner that had been waiting to be painted and matched to the rest of the room, but was behind that armoire that I couldn't move by myself) and two totally new walls for the art I have had waiting for such a space to open up...I was just getting ready to toast myself to a job well done, and that is when I heard the whispering.<br />
<br />
It was coming from the bedroom...and it was my old bedroom furniture.<br />
<br />
Now it's ready to leave too...ready to find its new forever home away from Foolsewoode. It's sitting at the ready already unloaded and waiting to be moved out.<br />
<br />
Who knew?<br />
<br />
It was at this point that I realized that I have been thrust into the middle of a total life redoux...<br />
<br />
Now all I need is a truck and some muscle.Chickenbellshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13573889595933525371noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22698796.post-50435327173414591962011-03-01T08:02:00.000-08:002011-03-01T08:08:57.913-08:00Life in Redoux :: It's all in The DetailsUpheaval and change.<br />
<br />
This seems to be the theme of my life as of late. When it comes to change, it can either be the things you can't control, the things you can...or even the delusion that you think that you actually control anything at all. In my case at any rate...you think I'd get it by now as they say the only constant is life is change, eh?<br />
<br />
Sometime in the middle of moving and loss and letting go the letting go theme just waved its hand and started to gallop out of here...in droves.<br />
<br />
The whole thing that started it off was the purchase of a new TV. This is something that I have been wanting for a while now...which means I've been researching and asking friends and studying, and decided to make the leap during the week of Super Bowl (apparently this is one of the best times to purchase a new TV because of the sales) I love my new TV, shamelessly. SO much so, that I'm almost sad it's not smaller and I can take it with me wherever I go...<br />
<br />
It also meant that I had to get rid of my Mexican pine armoire I used to house my old TV...so out it went. And in came a whole new console. Something a bit more Pottery Barnesqe, more me, more modern and sleek...and oddly enough, black. I had along with my TV research, looked at new media stands and I was very attracted to the black ones for some reason. I have no idea why...but I did end up ordering one and having it ship directly to my home (for free...thank you JC Pennys! Dina also said that the same people who design for Pottery Barn often do have items at Pennys...in case you were wondering)<br />
<br />
I assembled the new console and TV in one night (including painting the ONE last green wall corner in the living room that happened to be sort of hidden by the old armoire that has NOT matched my living room now for ohhh...5 years? Ahem!) and hooked everything up and sat back to enjoy...and then looked at my coffee table.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgk1etam8YxZG9qmfWDiw80LMS6CQMHvzJqUb1MdyTxl7BMHUH14-U7vWYi6EoGV4W8pyNGUDBUdeHA3YDA7X8ij4NixW2evQDhFJs0I0V8ewxbFoMWX5MZiAHL5XZ4SbZtDwDZ/s1600/IMG_8851.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgk1etam8YxZG9qmfWDiw80LMS6CQMHvzJqUb1MdyTxl7BMHUH14-U7vWYi6EoGV4W8pyNGUDBUdeHA3YDA7X8ij4NixW2evQDhFJs0I0V8ewxbFoMWX5MZiAHL5XZ4SbZtDwDZ/s1600/IMG_8851.jpg" /></a></div><br />
Gah.<br />
<br />
This thing.<br />
<br />
I love this coffee table...it's old, it's Italian and what's not to love? I purchased it from my mother years ago and covered its very distressed green paint with terracotta...didn't love it, but have decided to live with it. The details are incredible, and it's a lovely size, and there are two doors that open and give me a ton of storage.<br />
<br />
I was using this storage for blankets, but have now switched it to DVDs...moving an armoire you've stuffed things into for years does take away a large amount of storage...<br />
<br />
But, it was calling out for its own redoux, which is exactly what happened.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQSo8lRCHypu58WZ_WFW6AiNIcHApdJPQX-GP_9C6i_99WdOoP0esK-kQMkPrFkZFOIb3l6sKPbmYBgPc2qnX10WhSWlKWPEmK1sF64x6ORcyciNHkwve0ZtdxYSaso02wrQet/s1600/IMG_8863.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQSo8lRCHypu58WZ_WFW6AiNIcHApdJPQX-GP_9C6i_99WdOoP0esK-kQMkPrFkZFOIb3l6sKPbmYBgPc2qnX10WhSWlKWPEmK1sF64x6ORcyciNHkwve0ZtdxYSaso02wrQet/s1600/IMG_8863.jpg" /></a></div><br />
Well now. That's so much better. Seriously better. The kind of better that makes me smile every time I step into the room.<br />
<br />
I also love the rich look of black paint with a little red underneath, and since I was already working with terracotta...I decided to try a little experiment of painting and then taking paint off.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCYbAakNVm4evQoh-s5CnDjQa0H9gkkaE1P22eSaU-AJLn0nZY0JIYKk1_lSnKUHxICxo3NbdIhhk2Bmfkb4seBP5fK0FLLpQYWBmJtlgf4ssqHfTNG9n3n1DATXcFk3-1wPi7/s1600/IMG_8855.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCYbAakNVm4evQoh-s5CnDjQa0H9gkkaE1P22eSaU-AJLn0nZY0JIYKk1_lSnKUHxICxo3NbdIhhk2Bmfkb4seBP5fK0FLLpQYWBmJtlgf4ssqHfTNG9n3n1DATXcFk3-1wPi7/s1600/IMG_8855.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzWL9we8JiM-BwYYj9NHMfrX2KAn1ZEFzji-_BZ01M8h6YuV0862hZmavlQJsdhXXlGdtdiwGVVeZE5AYRjaJkkpa4yB1lthDZevrAXiXTbWO91IeFMASBa5YAij_eYdlQvl4w/s1600/IMG_8877.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzWL9we8JiM-BwYYj9NHMfrX2KAn1ZEFzji-_BZ01M8h6YuV0862hZmavlQJsdhXXlGdtdiwGVVeZE5AYRjaJkkpa4yB1lthDZevrAXiXTbWO91IeFMASBa5YAij_eYdlQvl4w/s1600/IMG_8877.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPJizBhazO55BqGXIhyhZaGK9LQDEXzI2BMoLDDHrDZJ4KgC95jf2qAuc_9dddNmA1BdY2cGgsABjd4I9bzQcsDMDLUBvsdoLHVorBqO-wRcCtmEnzG6XiOw2cFomgi4CmYMsP/s1600/IMG_8859.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPJizBhazO55BqGXIhyhZaGK9LQDEXzI2BMoLDDHrDZJ4KgC95jf2qAuc_9dddNmA1BdY2cGgsABjd4I9bzQcsDMDLUBvsdoLHVorBqO-wRcCtmEnzG6XiOw2cFomgi4CmYMsP/s1600/IMG_8859.jpg" /></a></div><br />
I really love the way the table turned out...I have always enjoyed the details and lines of this piece and I think with the paint and rub technique, I've been able to coax them out a little more...<br />
<br />
Which is good, because I've got some major big plans for this house, and needed to practice some new painting techniques. New plans...change...All of a sudden. Oh yes I do...<br />
<br />
(Including the crazy blue blanket chest in the background of the picture of the coffee table...bah!)Chickenbellshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13573889595933525371noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22698796.post-58018904283467884422011-02-28T15:17:00.000-08:002011-02-28T15:40:03.828-08:00Collecting Lemons...Well.<br />
<br />
Here we are on the very last day of February...and as I poke around in the recesses and the corners of my head, I see a whole lot of good intentions. Currently they're not making eye contact with me, but slinking further into their own shadows or scuttling out of view. It makes me wonder what happened here?<br />
<br />
Then I look around at all the things that have happened since I was last in this space and nod my head knowingly...I have been a bit overwhelmed.<br />
<br />
The first thing is, I moved my shop. I moved Snap Snap within earshot of its 16 year Birthday to a newer and bigger location downtown...a couple of streets over. A better part of the downtown neighborhood...location location location. And, I've gone into business with my mother...but we've mostly talked about all of this haven't we? If not...let me know what your questions are, and I'll try to answer them as best as I can.<br />
<br />
And I had the greatest fantasies that I would blog each step so that I could document everything that was happening, and then during the middle of moving, organizing, and refluffing, my 97 year old grandmother got gravely ill and passed away. Or passed on...however you want to put it. I don't want to really put it at all myself, as I have been feeling a lot of sadness about this huge loss. Of loosing someone I've known every day of my whole life thusfar. In fact, there is a huge part of me that hasn't wanted to post anything here until I could dedicate a post to my grandmother, and then I could get back to my life. I'm unsure if I can do that...just write it and get on with it. Unfortunately, this has meant that every time I've turned on my computer, I've pushed away the blog, and pretended it didn't exist. Which isn't what I really wanted at all.<br />
<br />
So, in the spirit of taking a deep breath and pushing forward and knowing somewhere deep in my heart that it's OK to put certain things off...I have decided to take a deep breath. And just write instead. And when I need to, I will write about my grandmother.<br />
<br />
Because, I miss writing. I miss that part of my creative process. And most of all, I miss this space. I miss you. And so many things have been happening that I have wanted to share...even exciting things that have made me smile from time to time.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGeOIzwbYtv2oP4poLK2gflQSQJn_Ss-MDVc3sCZvnNTQGJLQlHNVjiEAQ1_jplQzF8X3lY7cYGBYu-zRiMS0gUmcxZTaTbLvrI01-TONib0_mYntyFdVv8lOGo9QkhM32iHmJ/s1600/IMG_8847.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGeOIzwbYtv2oP4poLK2gflQSQJn_Ss-MDVc3sCZvnNTQGJLQlHNVjiEAQ1_jplQzF8X3lY7cYGBYu-zRiMS0gUmcxZTaTbLvrI01-TONib0_mYntyFdVv8lOGo9QkhM32iHmJ/s1600/IMG_8847.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Like:</span> During the month of January, we celebrated my mother and Rozzilyn's Birthday...it was death and birth in one month...<br />
<br />
And I had a whole lot of Meyer's lemons...<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJqRTOvS5WmZckSCKPFyAOLc7KbQtA7bgLlWiaxdYbnXGU_KgtxdxWTFbyVwyqJT8INJDNK1x4iYb5drDVcHzkIsmKbgU-k96V-WV78QVUKSq3yZkU63E7R1Hu7CRUhO4sWX6Y/s1600/IMG_8848.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJqRTOvS5WmZckSCKPFyAOLc7KbQtA7bgLlWiaxdYbnXGU_KgtxdxWTFbyVwyqJT8INJDNK1x4iYb5drDVcHzkIsmKbgU-k96V-WV78QVUKSq3yZkU63E7R1Hu7CRUhO4sWX6Y/s1600/IMG_8848.jpg" /></a></div><br />
So, I made a <a href="http://www.culinate.com/recipes/collections/Contributors/Zena+Chew/vegan_lemon_layer_cake">Vegan Lemon Layer Cake</a>.<br />
<br />
From scratch.<br />
<br />
Which I think is the very first cake I've ever made from scratch. <i> Isn't that incredible?</i> It is to me, because I love to cook and bake...and we're kind of baky people in our family. So, it seems a little silly that I haven't ever done something like this. And no...the irony was not at all lost on me that probably until the week my grandmother passed, she could have made a cake from scratch...using recipes that she's always had in her memory...and here I was, just starting out.<br />
<br />
However, with the allergy problems we sometimes face in our family it can be challenging to bake anything and have it both turn out <b><i>and</i></b> taste semi-normal. But, what really attracted me to this cake was the fact that it had a whole different middle icing layer...which I thought would introduce a whole other flavor into the cake overall.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrnKhNuyFj_DN1U56b4ohAGCTEqbbBUXC0xxsA0ZyqMV5H36rzkJQMa7sUzwCXteFX7fF8ufmTzsgZAyxi_UFN6yQ5W2FEqIzwKNm4ze_n3sxoIcO0BxULB_AhoqnbEdGuzPbe/s1600/IMG_8849.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrnKhNuyFj_DN1U56b4ohAGCTEqbbBUXC0xxsA0ZyqMV5H36rzkJQMa7sUzwCXteFX7fF8ufmTzsgZAyxi_UFN6yQ5W2FEqIzwKNm4ze_n3sxoIcO0BxULB_AhoqnbEdGuzPbe/s1600/IMG_8849.jpg" /></a></div><br />
Which is exactly what it did!<br />
<br />
The cake was a hit...as my mother and I both love lemon anything (Rozzilyn wasn't too convinced...she's more of a chocolate girl herself)<br />
<br />
I used Spelt flour for the body of the cake, and followed the recipe exactly...oh well except that I researched a vegan lemon curd concoction that I poured all over the top of the cake, to make it even more lemonish flavored. And yes, while the cake was more time consuming than a mix, it was so lemony and moist it was well worth the extra effort!<br />
<br />
Except for the zest. Holy cow this whole endeavor called for a lot of zest and zesting Meyers is a bit hard...because they are super soft and get a lot softer while you're trying to grate them, and then they tend to smuch down and get very juicy and messy.<br />
<br />
Perhaps I need a better zesting option?<br />
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Thank you for bearing with me during my long absence. I still have a lot of good intentions, but I will be moving slowly back into blogging if that's OK with you? (<i>even <b>YOU</b> the commenter who left a comment for me to tell me what a humorous <b>man</b> I was and how I need to check out your site...thank you especially. I needed the laugh</i>)<br />
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I will more than likely continue to be picking lemons this life...and I guess it's up to me to figure out what to make with them. But, I'll try to check in more often from now on...Chickenbellshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13573889595933525371noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22698796.post-13457346957605515372011-01-12T07:34:00.000-08:002011-01-12T07:44:48.897-08:00Valentine's Window...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKu6GGyyTq_TTdPqaSfh7_0uaYzfVkbwicgB81-DUn6LVNy-V5SQL49DlE3h1pcLM331SixP0s-ZO7puZLi7S573bnHy_A0bxqjg6fG_1VR-mu3XadQjBA0p7E-aHthjYKX-J1/s1600/IMG_8832.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKu6GGyyTq_TTdPqaSfh7_0uaYzfVkbwicgB81-DUn6LVNy-V5SQL49DlE3h1pcLM331SixP0s-ZO7puZLi7S573bnHy_A0bxqjg6fG_1VR-mu3XadQjBA0p7E-aHthjYKX-J1/s1600/IMG_8832.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">The first window I've really put together in the new space...and one that's been on my mind tucked way in the back for a little while now. That's how my creative process is...things hide in there and pop out every once in a while.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">(I just hope they do it at the right time. So far, so good)</div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;">This window has a rather large gold Cupid (I've been saving forever oddly enough) blowing glittering red hearts out of his horn...and even though you can't see it (because it's darned hard to take a picture of the entire window...from the outside I have too much glare, and from the inside I need to make myself into a contortionist!) The floor is lined with fluffy red and white crinolines...which kind of makes it look like our lady there is standing in clouds.<br />
<br />
See?!<br />
<br />
For everyone who secretly (and not so secretly) rolled their eyes at my insane crinoline buying binge this year...I <b><i>did</i></b> find something to do with them.<br />
<br />
And heavens, when you stop to think about it...the possibilities are really endless.<br />
<br />
(mostly because I still have about 12 that aren't being used...because they were too colorful for this particular window. Whee Anyway!!)</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaAtQKbFWwJ1AyRXReRm9KbGtZ2v8S9WTkGVKbUmrI2ikSIfsHgt2uwiO1r_U3N7CQTVbjIUdF4fQ6M2VIJJoMcMsgy4K4XAKHbk6weRzdgFr2knBdDAsZhxFegDs6ayz-TIil/s1600/IMG_8833.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaAtQKbFWwJ1AyRXReRm9KbGtZ2v8S9WTkGVKbUmrI2ikSIfsHgt2uwiO1r_U3N7CQTVbjIUdF4fQ6M2VIJJoMcMsgy4K4XAKHbk6weRzdgFr2knBdDAsZhxFegDs6ayz-TIil/s1600/IMG_8833.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">We have two large windows at the shop, so it should be both challenging and fun to dress them up. There's nothing more fantastic than creating a vignette that makes people stop and look...and yesterday, I noticed that both of the windows have little finger, hand, and forehead marks all over them.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Which is usually indicative of people stopping to lean and peer against the glass trying to see inside...</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">What a wonderful compliment!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Chickenbellshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13573889595933525371noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22698796.post-33076902846248563672011-01-06T06:30:00.000-08:002011-01-06T06:32:42.217-08:00Heavy Metal...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipZEWoYr-sceW28UxQYTB7LbHOL_QJ_6ZoxV9pQHjwT0hyphenhyphenmmauqvNTvnTNvR77VwALJDOAP_kk8CKJAFwh9btJ7s_-AduDOBq24egBGotB58sVijxWnwnXbFdxxsl9NXqYcWeB/s1600/IMG_8822.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipZEWoYr-sceW28UxQYTB7LbHOL_QJ_6ZoxV9pQHjwT0hyphenhyphenmmauqvNTvnTNvR77VwALJDOAP_kk8CKJAFwh9btJ7s_-AduDOBq24egBGotB58sVijxWnwnXbFdxxsl9NXqYcWeB/s1600/IMG_8822.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">One of the new things we're carrying at Snap Snap are the most incredible little charms made by my friend Kari's metal fabrication shop here in Prescott. There are tons of different shapes and designs to choose from, including but not limited to (of course): Hearts (with stars, hearts, and piece signs in them) winged hearts and guitars, Guitars (with stars, hearts, and piece signs in them) Stars (with...well, you get the picture) Cowgirls and Cowboys...Flaming Hearts, Flowers, Clovers, Butterflies, Dragonflies...etc.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">They are all ready to go and perfect to wear as charms on a necklace...and Kari has loaded us up with piles of Ball Chain that is just ideal for you to create your own jewelry design. And the ball chain is incredible! It varies in sizes from very small to very big (pictures to come)</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Or you could use these to make words for signs or names or just about anything else...little tags for gifts, or complete gifts in themselves for those creative people in your life.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSyHCfIT63JtwDBRr315LbO5x82zFzVX_TKEfkpIYEmANM6iFgCRRNzHJKeSASe4vKKqB-vjV0yc6WYki8w3sa111qs4Gf7S0_YCHmqwWh_MnVmtq3vhnI8_Fxgnw6w-UuCJ6C/s1600/IMG_8821.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSyHCfIT63JtwDBRr315LbO5x82zFzVX_TKEfkpIYEmANM6iFgCRRNzHJKeSASe4vKKqB-vjV0yc6WYki8w3sa111qs4Gf7S0_YCHmqwWh_MnVmtq3vhnI8_Fxgnw6w-UuCJ6C/s1600/IMG_8821.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Oh Wait. Did I mention that we also have an entire metal alphabet as well?!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">We do!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">And there will be more to come...different fonts and different sizes, and we will be able to do most custom work to fit whatever creative indulgences you may have.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">The little metal charms are completely affordable being only $2.50 each or 5 for $10.00...</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">So, come on down and check them out, they've already been flying out the door...<br />
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Especially the ones with the wings!<br />
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</div>Chickenbellshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13573889595933525371noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22698796.post-74580528389283116062011-01-04T06:16:00.000-08:002011-01-04T06:16:01.104-08:00Now Open...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibGXG5EkiUXIr3QgjbZk9nrKdsjSRjFfxOpkz_slGOonYOUJjTVi5TmpS_xufUMyaY-F0TjN6fsKF1AHyn9lfgVwxB9t8ZxKXMyfCZD8PCyWmB-NfrcfmE0E_onekrPiDtvC4B/s1600/IMG_8823.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibGXG5EkiUXIr3QgjbZk9nrKdsjSRjFfxOpkz_slGOonYOUJjTVi5TmpS_xufUMyaY-F0TjN6fsKF1AHyn9lfgVwxB9t8ZxKXMyfCZD8PCyWmB-NfrcfmE0E_onekrPiDtvC4B/s1600/IMG_8823.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">After about a week of moving, organizing, hanging...and moving large heaving things (like shelving, furniture, and all sorts of objects like that) we've officially opened the New Snap Snap on Cortez St Sunday January 2nd!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">It is no where complete as far as we've had it pictured in our heads, in the land of imagination and creativity...which is a little surprising to me (I think sometimes I'm under the impression I can snap my fingers and everything will just magically come together in seconds.) However, there's something you need to know about me. I think the way I picture things in my head and the way they turn out in reality are very different.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">And you know what?</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">That usually means that it turns out better and in ways I've never expected.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">This is also such a large and open space the possibilities for how to arrange things is endless in my head and a bit overwhelming for me...thank heavens for my mother! She has owned and worked in so many large spaces she comes up with the greatest ideas and awesome arrangements! When I opened the other Snap Snap almost 16 years ago, the space could only really be laid out in a certain way and somewhere in my head I keep thinking that I walked in and everything magically looked like it did later when I was open.</div><div style="text-align: center;"> </div><div style="text-align: center;">*poof*</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Instant store!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">What I'm not remembering, is how many days I stood on top of a ladder painting...how I added and subtracted racks, displays, frames, mannequins. And, as this space evolves, we'll be doing the same things...always rearranging always changing.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXwXjUTSf6eWZ-wjJyZYNLTchqcQwzXbpywMhJ3LAh6lbUQdc9Oe4E4Wrj-qScMRFn_9QccZv6P05YmvZy58W0yXMv7S0UtPI1-B07FA-3hRK1U2ZKLVLFtXBiV8p7ZtU42-z0/s1600/IMG_8824.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXwXjUTSf6eWZ-wjJyZYNLTchqcQwzXbpywMhJ3LAh6lbUQdc9Oe4E4Wrj-qScMRFn_9QccZv6P05YmvZy58W0yXMv7S0UtPI1-B07FA-3hRK1U2ZKLVLFtXBiV8p7ZtU42-z0/s1600/IMG_8824.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">We are working on decorating and fluffing, as well as solving some pesky wall rack problems. The walls in this old building are different than the walls in the other old building I was in, so they need to be addressed in a different way. I don't have that knowledge, but I am working on meeting with people who do.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">We still have to install dressing rooms. I do have the three walls, and they just need to be secured to the space designated for them and painted...and there are two wall racks that need to go up, and when I left yesterday some extra shelves we aren't going to need at the moment were being taken to storage, so I am excited to get to the shop to see what space that opened up or a few floor racks to spread out into (because try as I might, I haven't been able to picture it in my head.)</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8N5I08E79ryqSXoV9M3CHpfmje6Vqp9KW1FuXcDqE24XqT0b6DcFrLYb3fMnBJ4QmtjIm8puwZhwIxs4GWyQC1RtVS-TDm47BbUa0b9yBv0KgbTdX62KvmBJoux5ph2l5mQ-3/s1600/IMG_8826.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8N5I08E79ryqSXoV9M3CHpfmje6Vqp9KW1FuXcDqE24XqT0b6DcFrLYb3fMnBJ4QmtjIm8puwZhwIxs4GWyQC1RtVS-TDm47BbUa0b9yBv0KgbTdX62KvmBJoux5ph2l5mQ-3/s1600/IMG_8826.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Did I mention during the middle of all of this moving and arranging and setting up shop that we had a rather large snowstorm and crazy Prescott deep freeze?</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Well we did. Which relegated me to walking everywhere I needed to go for 3 days. Anything else I needed was saved until I felt safe enough to dig my car out and attempt to drive down my street and not go down sideways. Luckily it wasn't that bad...after the first day.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">We also had a major medical scare in the family...so it has been quite a week indeed.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">But a good one, and the new shop will all come together in time in surprising ways in which we haven't anticipated. Sure we have things to iron out, but after both my mother and I running shops for so many years, I think we can both agree that this is to be expected when owning your own shop. There's always something to be ironed out and something to work on and improve.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">That's what makes it yours.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
So, we'll see you downtown in our new location on 133 N. Cortez!</div>Chickenbellshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13573889595933525371noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22698796.post-19543052113489644522010-12-29T19:56:00.000-08:002010-12-29T20:01:50.703-08:00Snow and Design...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOv882RXBeoi3dAGxL9Hd53cg0fi8O25aWioikb8iUS0NhcIzLV2N-pueIO2WYk8UlSP1AQe_lYolL6qJ0uZVES8lqLgqcqepC2SLjKFAzP29NH5qzcpBZSRK5vf2K2L7WSTFg/s1600/shop+window+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOv882RXBeoi3dAGxL9Hd53cg0fi8O25aWioikb8iUS0NhcIzLV2N-pueIO2WYk8UlSP1AQe_lYolL6qJ0uZVES8lqLgqcqepC2SLjKFAzP29NH5qzcpBZSRK5vf2K2L7WSTFg/s1600/shop+window+1.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">Just a small teaser picture of one of the windows of the new shop.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">...says the woman who keeps forgetting her camera.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">...says the woman who has consecutively woken up at 4 am for the last two days.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Ahem.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">My mother and I have been knee deep, or maybe hip deep (come to think of it) in preparations for opening the shop.<br />
<br />
Things like:</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">*Moving heavy heavy objects all around the new space. My body is so sore it's amazing. Luckily most of the times we're pushing, hauling and lifting things around we inevitably have to break for laughter...which makes it all worth it, and things are starting to really come together, amidst all the laughter. What a fun way to create!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">*Making many trips all around the shop with armloads of clothing, as all of the clothing was delivered yesterday and we ran out of places to hang it right towards the end and had to come up with a more alternative plan and lay them in piles on the ground. Walking around a space that is almost twice as big as the other one is exhausting, but in an exhilarating way!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">*Working through our first real snow storm of the year...which set the delivery of the wall racks back a day (and only one, I hope) and feeling mighty lucky that the clothing move was scheduled for the sunny day, and not the snowy/blizzard one. Which gives us more time to fluff and design the rest of the space, and come up with different ideas for placement...I tell you, there are times when I've looked around and thought that not all of the clothes are going to fit...but I know the space is so much bigger that I'm just being silly!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">*Hand washing little loads of Vintage doll clothes, and receiving emails of inspiration from my mother...which lets my mind relax and wander into the realm of window design. What we have up right now is something we put together in between pushing and pulling furniture, shelves, and showcases...what is going on in my head (and both of our heads) is more exciting. It's like seeing a whole other light at the end of the tunnel...or seeing a whole other door open in a room with a lot of other open doors and windows. It's another fun part of the shop...and the part you can let sneak in when you're in between moving and your mind relaxes a bit in a different way.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">*And that Murano glass chandelier up there in that picture? It's totally wired and working...I just forgot to turn it on for the photo (I would love to see the whole shop hung with chandeliers like that one.) But I promise that I will take more photos soon. We are shooting for an earlier opening date than we had originally discussed, and we'll see if we can make that happen.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">For now?</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">I think I'll sit and watch the snow come down and dream...</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Chickenbellshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13573889595933525371noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22698796.post-11941552397402380772010-12-23T17:24:00.000-08:002010-12-23T17:24:17.251-08:00All Things Glittery and Sparkling Bright...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0w9aTAxehkzRp47riq5jn_LSNLSdnh85x05u3Df1Kf8gk__0ibYMbHr2ygcjUIl4OF9_KeFWU2Gmh3umATreOuANjZu9iFUztlhBYgLIYCohZ-HYeRFJ-relc6HqXag_k1TfF/s1600/IMG_4306.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0w9aTAxehkzRp47riq5jn_LSNLSdnh85x05u3Df1Kf8gk__0ibYMbHr2ygcjUIl4OF9_KeFWU2Gmh3umATreOuANjZu9iFUztlhBYgLIYCohZ-HYeRFJ-relc6HqXag_k1TfF/s1600/IMG_4306.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">Oh my.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Could it be that Christmas is just a hop skip and a jump away?</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">I think it might be, and I can see it rounding the bend, and if I squint just right...there it is...in my near future. Thank heavens things around Foolsewoode are all sparkling bright this season, <i><b>and</b></i> the little dusting of snow I woke up to this morning helped with my holiday mood. Of course, it helps and mostly all comes together when you find a ridiculously cute vintage scene in which to welcome the season.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Yes indeed. What you see in this post is two little sweeties skiing, with a deer, and a whole slew of flocked ornaments, including (but not limited to) bells, and some crazy pink looking shrubbery...all mounted on a Styrofoam base trimmed in pink ribbon.</div><div style="text-align: center;"> </div><div style="text-align: center;">Of course.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">My mother remarked that when I get married in the future I absolutely must do it at Christmas and then I could use this as a center piece. I told her if I got married at Christmas I'd use this as a cake topper!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">And I don't even ski.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">But, it would be worth it, no?</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">(I'm picturing a pink wedding dress trimmed in white marabou...<i>anything that goes with pink and blue ornaments and my tiara...</i>) </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Until that day, this little piece fits in nicely with all the Holiday Trimmings in these parts and will probably enjoy a long life with me no matter how it's used. I mean, I suppose I could just throw a holiday party and design the whole soiree around this diorama (of sorts)</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">I'll let you know when that happens.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">(I'm now picturing Ambrosia...again in pink or blue? And I can <i><b>still</b></i> wear my tiara...)</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">On this eve of Christmas eve (that's a lot of eve's isn't it?) I wish all of you a very happy holiday in case I don't make it back to write in this space...and you enjoy all of your celebrating in the coming days. I think I'm going to reflect on this last year and spend a little time thinking about what I was doing on this day a year ago...and maybe just a little bit about what the future may hold...</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">And wait to see if Santa got my letter this year.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">(I've decided to bribe him with peanut butter and chocolate fudge instead of cookies...I hope that works!)</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Chickenbellshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13573889595933525371noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22698796.post-30769747919899593322010-12-22T10:57:00.000-08:002010-12-22T11:23:11.192-08:00I've Got My Eye On You...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXXGaI0-8Cg6A7RqJv5neULmt9-nHh4X_2ZWrWgO0DX8N14BHNix91WWUNM6vjwrhXwGWbhDKuwYoaf1-XkRWPHqBE6nW88Ul9IyyzuuqYCj5I9te6ab6Kol6eu_dIWc-WYdn8/s1600/IMG_4303.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXXGaI0-8Cg6A7RqJv5neULmt9-nHh4X_2ZWrWgO0DX8N14BHNix91WWUNM6vjwrhXwGWbhDKuwYoaf1-XkRWPHqBE6nW88Ul9IyyzuuqYCj5I9te6ab6Kol6eu_dIWc-WYdn8/s1600/IMG_4303.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">The thrifts have been a regular treasure trove around these parts lately...and I realize that I haven't done a thrifting post for a while...what with not hardly posting at all, I suppose that's to be expected?</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">At any rate.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">During my annual Christmas Vintage Treasure Hunt during this time of year, I am sad to say that I haven't come up with buckets and baskets of vintage goodies...but it may be because I started the whole holiday treasure hunting season out with a bang and found the most delightful silver aluminum Christmas tree (with pom poms on the ends of its branches) as the very first vintage Christmas thing I purchased this year</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">!!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Now, add to that the fact that the thrift had received it in its original box, with each branch in its original paper sleeve protector, nestled sweetly with its original instructions...And then we can talk about how someone somewhere in their back room decided to save all of that. So, not only did I get this beautiful tree, but all of the other perks that came along with it.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">And then I got a vintage color wheel at an estate sale, which I haven't seen in ages. And I snapped that up too because I really wanted it for both the new silver aluminum tree and the pink aluminum tree I have at home.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">So, while I haven't been raking it in by the boxes full, I can honestly say that this season it has been quality over quantity.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">The tree is safely tucked into the window display at Keystone Antiques, my mother's antique store downtown where it is being displayed in all of its glory.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">It is the perfect window display tree for sure, and I am picturing it being used as a window display for Snap Snap for many years to come...</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">But, I did want to share with you the new little vintage glasses holder I got as well! That's me in the picture up there hiding behind it...It's a little metal silver and gold-tone holder with red jeweled pupils...and perfect for my Lulu Guinness glasses that were just laying around on the side table in my bedroom. I currently have two pairs of glasses, and I use my Lulu's for my stylish out and about glasses and I use the others for...um, other things?</div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;">Anyway, I've been worried something was going to happen to my Lulus just laying there, so now they have their own silly little home.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Snap Snap Update:</b></span> I was just at Home Depot this morning getting paint mixed and supplies purchased for the painting party that is happening at the new space on Sunday. I have one question to ask. When did all of that stuff get so expensive?! Gracious. But, it's the fastest way to give a total face lift to a space and usually the most inexpensive way as well...which is almost a little hard to believe as I totaled up my purchases, but I know it will be worth it when it's all done and ready to be designed and set up.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">A local shop in town is going out of business, so I was able to run over and purchase a lot of new racks for the new shop. They were a fantastic deal for me and I really needed to update some of the racks I have (even though between my mother and I, we have a ton of clothing racks...and a lot of hers are amazing vintage ones) as I have been using the same racks since I opened almost 16 years ago! And I also scored some lovely new half mannequins, mannequins, and mannequin heads all for display. Now all I need is some more chandeliers (although, I did dig some out that I have been saving for a special occasion...oddly enough.) so we will light and hang what we have and keep our eyes open for the rest that we will need!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">We're also meeting with a friend about metal. Sounds intriguing? <b><i>I'll say.</i></b> We are looking into having all sorts of metal shapes, letters, and numbers for the new space...along with signs, jewelry...and whatever else we think of coming up with. It's so fun to create with so many inspiring people!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">I scheduled the movers for the 28th early in the morning, so in a Snap (ha!) everything will be removed from here and over in its new home...the wall racks will come down the 29th, and we will be fluffing and designing until January 2nd, which will be our new opening date! What a great way to start off the New Year...</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Chickenbellshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13573889595933525371noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22698796.post-38965532081993399582010-12-19T18:15:00.000-08:002010-12-19T18:35:20.595-08:00And the Holidays Just Roll Right In...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbPJATTA9ohJQZuq7YDyJVeo6Mph7FmP6JS_z6eEI0_UHuCj_i68PdGphslWH6rmcuZuhvOWX3MEqX9gVsLwFn8YWYoux2WN32LobgYgdAAcYopqoVCgvTwBDv2uudKbxN7Rek/s1600/IMG_4299.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbPJATTA9ohJQZuq7YDyJVeo6Mph7FmP6JS_z6eEI0_UHuCj_i68PdGphslWH6rmcuZuhvOWX3MEqX9gVsLwFn8YWYoux2WN32LobgYgdAAcYopqoVCgvTwBDv2uudKbxN7Rek/s1600/IMG_4299.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">No matter what changes are running rampant through my life right now The Holidays can't wait...as a matter of fact, they're rolling right up with reckless abandon.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Heavens.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Could it be that there is less than a week left until Christmas?</i></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Yes, I am all ready...gift wise. Things have been sent out, they have been bought and stashed...but they have not been wrapped. And not one thing has been baked...Nor have I sent any holiday cards like I usually do...</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Sigh.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">But, </span>I did schedule the phone to be switched over to the new shop, and I also have a mover set up to move the Snap Snap to its new home...and I have announced my last day open in the original location as December the 27th (and painting as much as I can of the new space December 26th) And, we're shooting to be open in the new location January 2nd...even if things are a little rough. We are used to working around rough edges and it will be easy to work while I'm actually at work, so to speak. I think we're both finding it hard to really design the space until we know exactly what we're really working with. So there's that.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">And in the midst of all of this change and excitement is the view from my home, decorated for the holidays. As I sit here snuggled on the couch contemplating exactly what holiday movie to put on for tonight's enjoyment I am also pondering if I like the view from the inside or the outside the best...</div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;">I put up the tree at it's normal early time and it sat here with just lights on it...along with the mantle. The thought of decorating seemed to be a little too much in the midst of everything else, and I figured that I would just call it a day and live with simplicity, because all of the lights are just as beautiful...and then all of a sudden one night I jumped up and started in. I mean I kept thinking that I collect all of these lovely vintage ornaments, candles, and village houses and since they can only be brought out one time a year then it's high time they see the light of day.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">After decorating (which probably took all of about an hour) and then sitting here watching the white lights glinting off all the sparkle and fluff I was immediately happy that I did.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">And I can enjoy the view...</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">(good grief! I was just looking at the picture I posted and it looks a bit blurry. I actually used a soften effect...hmmmm)</div>Chickenbellshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13573889595933525371noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22698796.post-46631448961084258952010-12-13T10:48:00.000-08:002010-12-13T11:05:22.622-08:00To Do Lists...<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmsP2rcmrHARZ8r90dadHTL8smeDImemSf1pVXSHEy0NUDZrcV-0wI5aAsajWcCEkTgHfC6V1Y6xZA8ZttFMemiS0Iay5WoQDr61F7kYFmOCy3rylEBqwvcVN4RazpMSxSnr2A/s1600/envelopes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmsP2rcmrHARZ8r90dadHTL8smeDImemSf1pVXSHEy0NUDZrcV-0wI5aAsajWcCEkTgHfC6V1Y6xZA8ZttFMemiS0Iay5WoQDr61F7kYFmOCy3rylEBqwvcVN4RazpMSxSnr2A/s400/envelopes.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.google.com/imgres?imgurl=http://www.kingstonszim.com/media/ccp0/prodsm/envelopes.jpg&imgrefurl=http://www.kingstonszim.com/index.php%3Fapp%3Dccp0%26ns%3Dcatshow%26ref%3Dstationery&usg=__juYz5ZP8fITN-wTR8kOrBuDSkSs=&h=400&w=400&sz=52&hl=en&start=91&zoom=1&tbnid=xc5LGNRecyEoqM:&tbnh=143&tbnw=143&prev=/images%3Fq%3Denvelopes%26um%3D1%26hl%3Den%26client%3Dfirefox-a%26sa%3DN%26rls%3Dorg.mozilla:en-US:official%26biw%3D1278%26bih%3D631%26tbs%3Disch:10%2C2653&um=1&itbs=1&iact=hc&vpx=695&vpy=198&dur=1224&hovh=225&hovw=225&tx=131&ty=134&ei=u2gGTcWIEovWtQPnpZGJDQ&oei=VmgGTdy4NoymsQP4qPCvDQ&esq=32&page=6&ndsp=19&ved=1t:429,r:10,s:91&biw=1278&bih=631">Photo Credit</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>I am here to say that the amount of <i><b>To Do Lists</b></i> around here have reached epic proportions.<br />
<br />
This is only to be expected, as my mother and I are currently elbow deep in the negotiation of the moving of 2 businesses (well, 3 if you count the reorganizing and revamping of her other store Keystone Antiques, which will be even more packed <b><i>full</i></b> of goodies when we get towards the end of this month) and as I was totally and completely ready to go early this morning (I'm getting to the stage where I am having a hard time relaxing and feel more comfortable if I'm <b>doing</b> something instead) I offered to help my mother out before I dashed to work for the day myself...whereupon completion of said help, we were catching our breath and my mother was rearranging her lists in front of her.<br />
<br />
This is exactly the point in which we started laughing.<br />
<br />
She had spread out in front of her no less than 3 envelopes with things written on them and arrows and exclamation points and things crossed out. It was impressive. She's a big believer in reuse and recycle (which could be only one of the reasons we both work in the secondary market; Antiques, Collectibles, Resale Clothing...the other is our joint passion for such things) so she usually snags old envelopes from bills and letters she saves and routinely uses them to make lists on.<br />
<br />
Which is just as well, seeing as there may be a lot of list making around here for some time to come...I tell you, it's impressive indeed.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><i><b>Snap Snap Update:</b></i></span> The Book Section and all of the Jewelry are moved out of the Snap Snap and are already at the new location on 133 N. Cortez St. Also, I have counter tops and a large lit case with adjustable glass shelves, in case anyone is interested in buying displays for a shop...While cleaning out the jewelry case, I did open the doors on the bottom of it and found a blue mirror I used to use for display, 2 pairs of vintage wrap around safety glasses, and a vintage "Grand Opening" cloth banner. I think all of those things will come in handy at some point, no?<br />
<br />
I also think I narrowed down a color for the walls of the new location, which kind of lends itself to a lovely rich cream hue. We really want to have a neutral palette in which to build off of (and not clash with the amazing wood floors that grace the new shop.) While I did paint the original Snap Snap with a lot of whimsy and color...We both feel like we want to take the new shop in a different direction. Since we will be offering so many other items for sale at any one time, stock will be changing constantly, we will build and design our displays off of all the baubles and fun items we have in at the moment instead of relying on a static wall bling.<br />
<br />
I have also redesigned all the Shop Tags (a more flowy background and static font, instead of a hand lettered font like I have been using since 1995) with the help of the lovely staff at Staples here in town. Dina and I also got together and designed a lovely flier for my BIG move as well...so it's plastered all over windows and being handed out.<br />
<br />
That's all for now. I'm off to start making lists...Chickenbellshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13573889595933525371noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22698796.post-24004768333772277322010-12-06T12:22:00.000-08:002010-12-06T12:22:06.005-08:00The Time is Now For BIG Changes...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC84xefAJy1BxB1HUYkn23K6-jISMLAZHYMssgfhtx54PZ4w0CnpY8IXmp_b-gJrU9Kul-SFaSLwxiTjseQ9fiUzHT0_BMwxs6zr1NWo7i-j6lQG3AaFwV_7WNwImM86zWFZMT/s1600/sign.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC84xefAJy1BxB1HUYkn23K6-jISMLAZHYMssgfhtx54PZ4w0CnpY8IXmp_b-gJrU9Kul-SFaSLwxiTjseQ9fiUzHT0_BMwxs6zr1NWo7i-j6lQG3AaFwV_7WNwImM86zWFZMT/s1600/sign.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"> Well I have exciting news...After almost 16 years at the exact same location, towards the first of 2011, I will be moving Snap Snap!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">I know.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">We haven't even had New Year's Eve, and there's already big changes happening in my corner of the world...and Snap Snap's corner of the world too for that matter.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">The new shop will be a joint venture between my mother and I, in a much larger space for me (although, we will be keeping the name Snap Snap and our phone number) and on a much busier street in the town....Kind of known around these parts as Antique Row. I will be moving everything to 133 N. Cortez St. Besides gaining space, there will be some wonderful new changes at hand.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhh9V0zuOuu5yihq85b1zpSSjKtGoVLahTH6j-TbVBHAjTMGu06ulBPybSBMX3GtSKjK4lV1BT4VFLzt6cxs0m3fDiOo9fZEZzkDe8p8-qly9XgXTkbnEFXBClMlZTGPbznV0Zb/s1600/fallwindow2010.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhh9V0zuOuu5yihq85b1zpSSjKtGoVLahTH6j-TbVBHAjTMGu06ulBPybSBMX3GtSKjK4lV1BT4VFLzt6cxs0m3fDiOo9fZEZzkDe8p8-qly9XgXTkbnEFXBClMlZTGPbznV0Zb/s320/fallwindow2010.jpg" width="216" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Along with all the fantastic things I carry now at Snap Snap (name brand clothing for women and men, jewelry, handbags, shoes, hats, and any other wearable accessories...) we will be expanding into and exploring the idea of a whole Resale Lifestyle.<br />
<br />
Which simply means that we will also be offering Antiques, Collectibles, books, vintage household items, vintage supplies, and things in which to feather and fluff your entire life...<br />
<br />
Resale Mind, Body, Soul.<br />
<br />
In anticipation, I have begun finding more display items and other ideas in which to grow Snap Snap up and bring it into a different stage in its life. We both have creative ideas of where to take this new space, and still let it remain a more than affordable, alternative, and exciting place to shop in Prescott.<br />
<br />
People keep asking me Why Now?<br />
<br />
Well, it seems like the right time for me to set my sights on something that my mother and I have been tossing around now in the air for more than a year...it seems like it is the right time to combine our creativity and see where we go. Between us we have more than 30 years worth of experience running shops in Prescott.<br />
<br />
It's time.<br />
<br />
*I will be updating this space regularly with news about the big move...Here We Go...Chickenbellshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13573889595933525371noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22698796.post-64575717593643836272010-12-01T14:45:00.000-08:002010-12-01T14:46:49.009-08:00NaNoWriMo...Check.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNc29wLcShgqi0Jj9-DB0YdjO8sdB_CxGNyehseMbGNXMypGWVa_DpaEtibykj5l98ZZ2agCJxsTd4IA54BDCGguwDb-b8QMu1-R82IX6PRz_ZUliajevNEkpHw_kVRS4mnpEg/s1600/nano_10_winner_120x240-6.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNc29wLcShgqi0Jj9-DB0YdjO8sdB_CxGNyehseMbGNXMypGWVa_DpaEtibykj5l98ZZ2agCJxsTd4IA54BDCGguwDb-b8QMu1-R82IX6PRz_ZUliajevNEkpHw_kVRS4mnpEg/s400/nano_10_winner_120x240-6.png" width="200" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">Happy December 1st!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Did you miss me?</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">I missed you...like the Dickens, which is somewhat appropriate as we're almost in the season of Dickens. Well, so far as A Christmas Carol and things having to do with Tiny Tim and such. And I missed writing in this space too.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Oh I was writing, you can believe that. I WON NaNoWriMo! I did it! I wrote a 50,000 word novel in one month...I wrote 2,000 words a day. For the first two weeks, and then I didn't and I was just going to let myself slide because I have a TON of new things going on in my life right now, and then Andrew and Angie <b><i>made</i></b> me write.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">They went about it in a very sneaky was as well...I spent the afternoon at their house on Thanksgiving where I taught them how to play Cribbage, and they introduced me to the joys of Buffy the Vampire Slayer (only the most loved and watched show of most of my favorite people in the world...I'm just slow on the uptake I guess) and after we were all hooked on both of those things, hey slyly suggested that I come over a couple of days later and we'd play cribbage, watch Buffy, eat leftovers, and write for NaNo.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">And there I was hopelessly trapped between leftovers and Buffy and before you know it, I actually wrote approximately 25,000 words in 3 days.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">(it helps that I write average 900 words every 15 minutes)</div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;">(I have a lot to say)</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">(stop laughing)</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">But, I finished my novel yesterday before 2:00 pm and entered my words onto the official NaNo page and they counted them and said I needed about 250 more. Seriously. The program I was using said I had 25 more than I needed, so I actually had to reach deep and find 250 more words I hadn't already overused...</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">But I did it.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">And I'm amazed at myself. I am such a strong started when it comes to certain things, but I always thought I had a hard time finishing. However, I've realized as I've gotten older, this may be an old story and I'm getting much better at finishing the things I start.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Which is good because I got some fabulous news to let you all in on, and I'll do that tomorrow...</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">I'm not sure what will be next for my novel, but I did learn some interesting things:</div><ul><li>Once I start doing a project, when I get in the flow of creativity, it is hard for me to stop...I never knew I did this with writing too.</li>
<li>I honestly thought I could sit down and write a manuscript that was ready to be published. I quickly realized that not many people probably can do that, and it will take a lot of revising and editing. This is not a bad thing, but it was surprising to me.</li>
<li>I know who my characters are because they're in my head. I found it very funny that I hardly described them in words...no one else would be able to figure out if they even liked these people.</li>
<li>Winning NaNo does not give me any grand prizes other than a downloadable certificate and a funny video of vikings singing my praises. It also gave me a great sense of accomplishment and a very large smile...and bragging rights.</li>
<li>I can do most anything I set my mind to if I give myself the chance to do it. (although sometimes I work better with a deadline...and at the last minute) (but there's always enough time)</li>
</ul>And I'm not sure if I'll do NaNo again next year, but you never can tell...it was a great time (all said and done) <br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Chickenbellshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13573889595933525371noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22698796.post-23521936243437014592010-11-10T11:07:00.000-08:002010-11-10T11:11:07.900-08:00All Souls Procession...Tucson Arizona 2010<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgND7wUE1GMhtt8_GqAxwFcYB9EXPM7YzYPlU-PGvo1dCyzIt-TtQGBvx5JbY9Qbbp-eqweSN1iINsLJ5KpfnXPPmT1WG_EOJUdWUf5-UiMwdF8dhw9LCxJqqCijcWgUeyVxHEt/s1600/IMG_4244.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgND7wUE1GMhtt8_GqAxwFcYB9EXPM7YzYPlU-PGvo1dCyzIt-TtQGBvx5JbY9Qbbp-eqweSN1iINsLJ5KpfnXPPmT1WG_EOJUdWUf5-UiMwdF8dhw9LCxJqqCijcWgUeyVxHEt/s400/IMG_4244.jpg" width="256" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Well hello there!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">I'm sure with the silence for the past couple of days, and you knowing that I went to Tucson's Day of the Dead Procession, you were probably wondering if I maybe had gotten swept into the river of souls that were parading and remembering and calling attention to on Sunday?</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">I almost did.<br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">The procession was a very powerful experience coming on the heels of what was a very relaxing weekend with Andrew and Angie, who accompanied me down south for the trip. We happen to travel quite well together (although I didn't have any doubts) and I have no idea whether it's because I was traveling in Arizona, or the fact that I've been to Tucson more than several times in my life, but we were seriously chill. It was a whole lot of meandering around, finding fantastic little coffee shops and other little boutiques...chit chatting and discovering the most wonderful food</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">(it's Tucson, they're serious about their Mexican food down there. Very serious. Also? Megan gave us a little list of good things to check out. She did not lead us astray.) </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">We stayed at the Quality Inn Flamingo Hotel which is a cute little historic hotel they've re-done very close to Fourth Ave. and UofA. I have always wanted to stay at some sort of Flamingo Hotel after I totally blew it and didn't stay at Andy Womaks Flamingo Motor Inn when I lived in Flagstaff (it was a wonderful old Route 66 Motel, although I'm not sure if it had ever been updated, so it may have been dicey...but one should try as hard as they can to live out their dreams...yes?)</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">There were no flamingos at the hotel anywhere, which I'm sure they could have done with at the pool area, but I'll just bring mine from home next time.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">HA!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyurxU8F7rVr8FLc6GfY7sDSiEequp8vvaHe39Ru7E6S5MzizpIPZdLtNCB-cTMH_wOZilpiant64YmOjy35ulLXLAbtzwLUHsFZtS1m3VSBEe5HccDupyg_RLJZ1_xiHzClKI/s1600/IMG_4245.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyurxU8F7rVr8FLc6GfY7sDSiEequp8vvaHe39Ru7E6S5MzizpIPZdLtNCB-cTMH_wOZilpiant64YmOjy35ulLXLAbtzwLUHsFZtS1m3VSBEe5HccDupyg_RLJZ1_xiHzClKI/s400/IMG_4245.jpg" width="316" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyurxU8F7rVr8FLc6GfY7sDSiEequp8vvaHe39Ru7E6S5MzizpIPZdLtNCB-cTMH_wOZilpiant64YmOjy35ulLXLAbtzwLUHsFZtS1m3VSBEe5HccDupyg_RLJZ1_xiHzClKI/s1600/IMG_4245.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br />
</a></div><div style="text-align: center;">We kind of got a bit mixed up with the schedule of what was happening the weekend of the Day of the Dead, and we probably should have stayed until Monday and then come home, but we all got a little flexible and made our weekend work for us. Which means we got to see the Angel Procession which is in honor of all the children that have passed.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">This was a smaller procession of children at a nearby park. Also at the park there were several families with altars set up for their loved ones while they sat and looked on. There were also performances by several schools and very talented children (a lot on stilts. Tucson has a very large "circus" and performance culture that starts with all sorts of camps and classes for youth) there was also several places you could write the names of your own little family members and a slide show of pictures being projected onto the side of the building...which was so touching, it was hard not to cry.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">I don't know any of the people in the pictures, but it was wonderful to see them all...and so very many pictures of people's animals as well. I will think to pack waterproof mascara next time.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">The night of the big procession, which is held on a Sunday (NowWeKnow) the members of <a href="http://flamchen.com/">Flam Chen</a>, the amazing fire performers (who also perform a huge finale) were running around in the crowds handing out and collecting pieces of paper from people who wrote blessings, messages, or things they want to let go of, so that they may be burned at the big ending ceremony.<br />
<br />
I have seen Flam Chen perform several times in Prescott thanks to <a href="http://www.tsunamionthesquare.org/">Tsunami on the Square</a>...but it's still very hard to miss one of their performances if you're right there...but we did have to get home and it is about a four hour drive from that very place. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz06uTDIbRLIPTE1nnNHgN_oQYHyp4NJO8tGLjXKwKHzNnIj0qwSYtQaJIJW_xn9WKVz1X4aDQDn3MnCnz3Hq1IPMlkYY9XW6p9RDig1-fIk1igBkb_negdEHs1WK0V-hSG0so/s1600/IMG_4247.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz06uTDIbRLIPTE1nnNHgN_oQYHyp4NJO8tGLjXKwKHzNnIj0qwSYtQaJIJW_xn9WKVz1X4aDQDn3MnCnz3Hq1IPMlkYY9XW6p9RDig1-fIk1igBkb_negdEHs1WK0V-hSG0so/s400/IMG_4247.jpg" width="230" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM8i5eS5MebhaNYRSuG6xo5AjuJy2qwqNS6Mt9UUqmLIl20RAfPyMSfn6AS5UsSFfFK3NoXEf3dRP_fZ7_IAUMa2roiAszSRcPwS79_1K1ar5tOB5cC_h0Ix_K0KVGwxCk97BA/s1600/IMG_4251.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM8i5eS5MebhaNYRSuG6xo5AjuJy2qwqNS6Mt9UUqmLIl20RAfPyMSfn6AS5UsSFfFK3NoXEf3dRP_fZ7_IAUMa2roiAszSRcPwS79_1K1ar5tOB5cC_h0Ix_K0KVGwxCk97BA/s400/IMG_4251.jpg" width="366" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggMNmFneBwgkB8_QlMkmr2RLZwG-yX_4JgrEKBzsGImyswzAiGQ3SKof2nqgRcGwTrwvJiXEUAb41Pg2yfGX-HRj28dNUpb668DioJb8d8FDUQo1tyB-C0vpuZLbzVE3WQU_zK/s1600/IMG_4270.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="391" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggMNmFneBwgkB8_QlMkmr2RLZwG-yX_4JgrEKBzsGImyswzAiGQ3SKof2nqgRcGwTrwvJiXEUAb41Pg2yfGX-HRj28dNUpb668DioJb8d8FDUQo1tyB-C0vpuZLbzVE3WQU_zK/s400/IMG_4270.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">We were there about an hour early to check everything out, and when the procession finally started, people crowded close to the route, and I had the feeling of standing on the river bank of a very somber and sacred flow of...well, death, love and memories.</div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;">There were a lot of people holding pictures and lit candles, floats...for the wolves that are being killed in Arizona, Water, Our AZ education system, The BP oil spill and the sea life that was lost there, Names of the children that have committed suicide from the bulling in school, various propositions that passed in AZ during the most recent election...it was absolutely amazing.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">And totally profound.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">I can't say that I was overstimulated or even overwhelmed. I was just there, standing and watching it all go by trying to acknowledge all the memories and thoughts people had brought with them.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRfli2NWOmbk35zZgcK-DW1OvorEURFxoAHM8vj_acrw6CTSuZUDUC-Yp9r1RbZ0H_YntFAxjzCcvldDZALEfsLimmYmGMQ_N_F8LvFyDO1gmwRABSPCzqoe2hJpuDEGEXXI_9/s1600/IMG_4284.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRfli2NWOmbk35zZgcK-DW1OvorEURFxoAHM8vj_acrw6CTSuZUDUC-Yp9r1RbZ0H_YntFAxjzCcvldDZALEfsLimmYmGMQ_N_F8LvFyDO1gmwRABSPCzqoe2hJpuDEGEXXI_9/s400/IMG_4284.jpg" width="285" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTz8Ass-Txh3FB8V8K3Y4htuOv7olQ96-m7zj7hlZ1fzefDqom6ayti3E6pwIwLGy6qBNcBhDk8v9jLYxJxOAMTR24rZIo1CR1gjW3CI3Ol_yXU8KjfPW3AmwW1kBk21qFu3In/s1600/IMG_4296.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTz8Ass-Txh3FB8V8K3Y4htuOv7olQ96-m7zj7hlZ1fzefDqom6ayti3E6pwIwLGy6qBNcBhDk8v9jLYxJxOAMTR24rZIo1CR1gjW3CI3Ol_yXU8KjfPW3AmwW1kBk21qFu3In/s400/IMG_4296.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>Chickenbellshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13573889595933525371noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22698796.post-22505880649894585042010-11-05T13:05:00.000-07:002010-11-05T13:05:49.296-07:00DÃa de los Muertos...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPMQhT7zHLLbt-0A7UxUMYySi832XvB5Sf9h-mkIqCJsra8_qYlT4A89lZH8mQ_fJQAxHHBovJ_iQy_FLkYwCwgH5pTssTAgn6ApiQW4ljwGAsjF3ZXxcYX2esnSAAN046yZFg/s1600/IMG_5920.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPMQhT7zHLLbt-0A7UxUMYySi832XvB5Sf9h-mkIqCJsra8_qYlT4A89lZH8mQ_fJQAxHHBovJ_iQy_FLkYwCwgH5pTssTAgn6ApiQW4ljwGAsjF3ZXxcYX2esnSAAN046yZFg/s1600/IMG_5920.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Well once again, I'm off!</div><div style="text-align: center;"> </div><div style="text-align: center;">Like a shot out of a gun...here she goes.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Seriously.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">(at some point I may actually catch up with myself)</div><div style="text-align: center;">(but really, when you have a surprise New York trip thrown smack dab in the middle of your life, and you've already planned other things it makes for some fun and busy traveling)</div><div style="text-align: center;">(which I adore)</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">This time I'm off on a road trip with wonderful friends to enjoy Tucson's Day of the Dead celebration, which was pushed to this weekend because of Halloween falling on the Sunday before All Saints and All Souls Day.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">I am very excited as I have always wanted to go to their celebration and I have no idea why I have never made it down there, but there you go.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">And here I go!!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwwMTo40qcmU2tYTXuEK8ceeka-WAZ54U2Gk1fDc0UICRON7mxwrTsAwqm0pl5A_XlMaKFKmMFNmm43xzRZW0-QJaVfQl4fHijMZqOFaTlQrQaCiALxmxsq7kmXif4Ry44k-rk/s1600/IMG_5922.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwwMTo40qcmU2tYTXuEK8ceeka-WAZ54U2Gk1fDc0UICRON7mxwrTsAwqm0pl5A_XlMaKFKmMFNmm43xzRZW0-QJaVfQl4fHijMZqOFaTlQrQaCiALxmxsq7kmXif4Ry44k-rk/s400/IMG_5922.jpg" width="223" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">Although, I don't know if I'll see anybody as cute as my Prescott sweeties were for our Day of the Dead parade...The Sun and a Moon baby and a witch.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Which really is the perfect threesome if you think about it.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Have a fantastic weekend!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Chickenbellshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13573889595933525371noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22698796.post-24841952568338122002010-11-04T12:50:00.000-07:002010-11-04T12:56:21.031-07:00A Tree Grows in Brooklyn (only I wouldn't know that for sure, cause' I didn't get to Brooklyn. But I did see the bridge.)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM7g1LuLKEVJATNOTz_DsG43uzs4xmNaP88Um4YoyQuzxFMUjpsuoOnRGG4PZ3Av9l_ksF-GJ-YMU_9P_GiZQjFFiV-BkyOVyzfmhfSLjfMfr66MKBE4J-RqzfqrTM0Ysvj5JY/s1600/IMG_5902.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM7g1LuLKEVJATNOTz_DsG43uzs4xmNaP88Um4YoyQuzxFMUjpsuoOnRGG4PZ3Av9l_ksF-GJ-YMU_9P_GiZQjFFiV-BkyOVyzfmhfSLjfMfr66MKBE4J-RqzfqrTM0Ysvj5JY/s400/IMG_5902.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">A Tree Lined Street!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Dave spent a fair amount of time laughing at me because I kept exclaiming that very sentence while we walked all over The Village. It seems kind of silly because I do happen to live in the mountains, which are surrounded by protected national forest, and I happen to care take some trees on my property (I don't figure I own them, not really) but there's something more quaint about seeing these sweet tree-lined streets with all the brownstones and beauty.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">LeSigh.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Do you hear that City Of Prescott?!</div><div style="text-align: center;">Can I have a new tree to replace the one you ripped out in front of the shop 5 years ago?!</div><div style="text-align: center;">Please?</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Actually, I walked around a lot in The Village kind of amazed at the amount of decorations and flowers and pumpkins that were all around. Not only in front of the many shops, but in front of the brownstones as well. There they were in all their glory, with no one touching them.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Wha?</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">You may not know about the battle of the planters/flowerpots I have had in front of Snap! Snap!, but finally gave up after having them stolen from in front of the shop, having the flowers ripped out and trailed down the street, people urinating and leaving their beer bottles and cigarette butts in them, having one of them picked up and thrown through a car window (apparently the continuation of a bar fight) and the last straw? Coming to work and finding them kicked apart while a homeless man who used to stop by and say hi and tell me how much he appreciated seeing my flowers, stood there with my shredded flowers in little containers he found at the thrift because he felt so bad (after cleaning up the entire mess with a borrowed broom from next door, all before I got to work because he knew how much I loved the flowers and he didn't want me to see this latest horror...such a sweet man. Seriously.) I walked by all this beauty and flowers in The Village, in the middle of Manhattan and I marveled at the beauty all around me that people chose to leave there totally intact so everyone could enjoy it. I have no idea why people aren't vandallizing these things in a big city and why they are in our small town...but it did make me stop and wonder.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">I'd love to hear your theories on the matter though...<br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC1fpucGCYr3ETyrCU7KWAnpYUsln61W7C_Y5x6CeJwT45sr_HURrLQrCuoIkIa0O-hXwGcgaNtkOCEgc5rxPtJ68hxztrAnVlgXcSi3g0uMnccLR-5F-cgOIN7YlUkeKeTyWV/s1600/IMG_5903.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC1fpucGCYr3ETyrCU7KWAnpYUsln61W7C_Y5x6CeJwT45sr_HURrLQrCuoIkIa0O-hXwGcgaNtkOCEgc5rxPtJ68hxztrAnVlgXcSi3g0uMnccLR-5F-cgOIN7YlUkeKeTyWV/s400/IMG_5903.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">Here is one of the mighty old fountains in The Village. Obviously it's no longer working, but Dave said they take great pride in cleaning and restoring it.<br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;">I am totally in love with the face above the tile and can only imagine how beautiful it is when it's working.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFy5bfcMT0SGu-zpGWo7u5O0YCu9CYwFUTcApC3vL7K3HWIGT2uMvW1WrhoCmMiN1p-qreme9eqxN1u1ggCybBn0DcmJod7hmGt713Y4o2UGRkYlr7QCcPRC1bArLOILXMw8rM/s1600/IMG_5905.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFy5bfcMT0SGu-zpGWo7u5O0YCu9CYwFUTcApC3vL7K3HWIGT2uMvW1WrhoCmMiN1p-qreme9eqxN1u1ggCybBn0DcmJod7hmGt713Y4o2UGRkYlr7QCcPRC1bArLOILXMw8rM/s400/IMG_5905.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">We did take a little jaunt through Washington Square Park, which is under renovation, so Dave said they've been digging up skulls and other human remains for quite a while now.<br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;">Apparently Washington Square Park was a burial ground for mass graves at one point.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht27ePGn1GwIbx7eMBHpJppyLEVUAhELTjxDIJuFnOSh53TEYtOlFU8o3NrZBDNRNqPfNRkBKTEPHP5XphjZtxLTuYVo2AqqKzgi-yPiMxnrx8lIwY-kmrZsGZveBU0wlg_6yP/s1600/IMG_5906.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht27ePGn1GwIbx7eMBHpJppyLEVUAhELTjxDIJuFnOSh53TEYtOlFU8o3NrZBDNRNqPfNRkBKTEPHP5XphjZtxLTuYVo2AqqKzgi-yPiMxnrx8lIwY-kmrZsGZveBU0wlg_6yP/s1600/IMG_5906.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">It was still very crowded though and can you believe it? Not one person solicited me for drugs! Last time I was there it was drug free-for-all where you could have gotten anything you wanted.* I mean, it was a Drug Market to Washington Square as it is the famous Farmers Market to Union Square.<br />
<br />
*I did not take anyone up on their offer of drugs, I just found it mildly amazing coming from a small town and only being 21 and whatnot. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Dave said it was probably because it was 10 am and it was a bit early for the drug dealers to be out and about on a Saturday.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCyM3xvHiAgKrzrC4si3fwoHxsrW9lUOHdhyphenhyphenTQV-W_0MmL_hzML9zmejtGko8Aruz5wOinCItKkL5Po5lzqWDpZYIqnFjE4nRzD7zb6Pv0ziRpGSNuKK-rgs5U45v-2Wgwfhby/s1600/IMG_5910.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCyM3xvHiAgKrzrC4si3fwoHxsrW9lUOHdhyphenhyphenTQV-W_0MmL_hzML9zmejtGko8Aruz5wOinCItKkL5Po5lzqWDpZYIqnFjE4nRzD7zb6Pv0ziRpGSNuKK-rgs5U45v-2Wgwfhby/s400/IMG_5910.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">And here's Dina talking on her phone in front of Tinsel Trading Co.</div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
<a href="http://www.tinseltrading.com/index.php">Oh Tinsel Trading Co</a>.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Let me tell you a little story. My mother had just gotten a book on Tinsel Trading Co. or more specifically, what was in their basement. Apparently once there was a man who was into some sort of banking in NYC who was the son of a tailor and who loved trims and notions and beautiful things. I believe he inherited his father's shop and during his lifetime his family never stopped buying notions and trims...even if you had just a bit of something leftover from someone, he would buy it.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Well, they have a shop full of the most delightful trims and notions, and I mean it is overwhelmingly eye-popping in there...and his grand daughter is now in charge of all things Tinsel Trading, and since they recently moved their store, she let a photographer go through their basement snapping shots...which no one had ever done before.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">I had a wonderful time poking all around, and honestly could have probably spent hours in there, but as it was I gathered up a bag full of the sweetest little baubles and beauties for my mother. She was amazed when I texted her where I was and said, "<i>I don't believe it! Is it the REAL one?!</i>"<br />
<br />
Yes indeedy it was...right smack dab in the middle of the garment district!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">I am so happy that she shared this book with me before I left for NY!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Come to think of it, I think we were looking at this book a month before I even knew I was going. We're so intuitive in my family...</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi66426chfIvWVjI8R_8AsXsKlP_dE9huaQziAv7Xjo-iTQ361YfQux_g1kGXF2hUzcof7yA6zCZsii-l19Rq_hq9Re142FpTPWoNS24WIzXxaM_3KnPRZBh5vEtL0fQwD1dlPe/s1600/IMG_5911.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi66426chfIvWVjI8R_8AsXsKlP_dE9huaQziAv7Xjo-iTQ361YfQux_g1kGXF2hUzcof7yA6zCZsii-l19Rq_hq9Re142FpTPWoNS24WIzXxaM_3KnPRZBh5vEtL0fQwD1dlPe/s400/IMG_5911.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">And here's Dina doing a little high kick at Rockefeller Center's ice rink.</div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;">We've already discussed how I chickened out because I was afraid I would fall and break something...and you would not <b><i>believe </i></b>the flack that I'm getting from people about this. To which I have one thing to say...</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>I invite you to go out to New York and ice skate on the ice rink at Rockefeller Center and tell me how much <span style="font-size: large;"><b>you</b></span> enjoyed it.</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">So there.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhNfGjn8qFtH9aeymb-LlL224EWNvh6CF_sLPJsAcee9UDCz1xOaBHMa6n6i78T3Js7tnJ_T8HDARcpsPFX9yOidZWNLz_VhRLND5m6uW-kE1wEePTswOm4nuksODnHMWqp44N/s1600/IMG_5914.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhNfGjn8qFtH9aeymb-LlL224EWNvh6CF_sLPJsAcee9UDCz1xOaBHMa6n6i78T3Js7tnJ_T8HDARcpsPFX9yOidZWNLz_VhRLND5m6uW-kE1wEePTswOm4nuksODnHMWqp44N/s400/IMG_5914.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Rockefeller Center. </div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijbXwFg2GJ0koacRXbvqhfGPzv9rccPFV_ASCNTmNUdPlufE6SKQJfrqbHV4WfWRV58413P6XgWRn8yGf-HdflANFcnHKaUbgx4Qck7Ol3zrJsU2EzDkPM6WVR2uB5qjLC8BNH/s1600/IMG_5919.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijbXwFg2GJ0koacRXbvqhfGPzv9rccPFV_ASCNTmNUdPlufE6SKQJfrqbHV4WfWRV58413P6XgWRn8yGf-HdflANFcnHKaUbgx4Qck7Ol3zrJsU2EzDkPM6WVR2uB5qjLC8BNH/s1600/IMG_5919.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">And a final stop in our trip to New York...and a place I've been longing to see since my first trip 19 years ago...the famous Alice in Wonderland statue in Central Park donated by George Delacorte (the famous publisher and philanthropist) upon the death of his wife Margarita on what he declared to be the best plot in Central Park. The giant bronze statue is surrounded by little sayings which you can read for yourself if you follow<a href="http://www.nycgovparks.org/sub_your_park/monuments/monument_info.php?monId=13"> this link.</a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">As you can see, I shimmied my tush up onto a mushroom and am hanging onto the door mouse and I have to say, I just love this picture about the mostest out of all the pictures of New York.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">So, that's about it...our Fabulous New York trip in it's entirety. I hope you've enjoyed it as much as I did...</div><div style="text-align: center;"></div>Chickenbellshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13573889595933525371noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22698796.post-65460195178908873692010-11-03T10:55:00.000-07:002010-11-03T10:57:59.499-07:00Mostly Wordless Wednesday...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTljeTe-iLabbTJo9tLt16I4xCQ5hllwNiV9wRxD0SXXIfU3r1v8jR3XRXeQf22fzaotAioTYDUoksh5Q2ql2iyR13MB_l_DkM_xsTbrNfUXKZCno6mvKzvWq4EHPt_CoC-HfJ/s1600/IMG_5904.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTljeTe-iLabbTJo9tLt16I4xCQ5hllwNiV9wRxD0SXXIfU3r1v8jR3XRXeQf22fzaotAioTYDUoksh5Q2ql2iyR13MB_l_DkM_xsTbrNfUXKZCno6mvKzvWq4EHPt_CoC-HfJ/s1600/IMG_5904.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Here I am.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Standing on the last privately owned piece of land in Manhattan, the <a href="http://www.roadsideamerica.com/story/27150">Hess Triangle</a>. Or maybe I'm trespassing? That would probably be more accurate.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Apparently you can not own land in Manhattan, only buildings...the land belongs to the state? I'm not sure, I think that was what Dave was talking about...but you know how I am about historical sites covered in mosaic tiles...I tend to get all snappy with the camera, which may or may not lead to me tuning people out.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Ahem.<br />
<br />
AKA: after googling and reading the history of this triangle I think we can say the City is a big ole' bully and an over user of Eminent Domain. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">But it is an enchanting little piece of history nonetheless (although probably not for the Hess family when their building got demolished) and I'm so happy I was there.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Chickenbellshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13573889595933525371noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22698796.post-14126454280043589352010-11-02T15:41:00.000-07:002010-11-02T15:43:19.241-07:00The Big Apple...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKTIhHstSO_cUcS5fyEfdYReYUebIY_Qdavb0TE8n3F2ZYcwR89tUGQYe4C8WGhZMlpMrlLCx8YscxYem7DA6ArhO4JxEcbC89weAVbmuJnrN2PM3C5pok2IGb69oV_7TsQ96u/s1600/IMG_5834.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKTIhHstSO_cUcS5fyEfdYReYUebIY_Qdavb0TE8n3F2ZYcwR89tUGQYe4C8WGhZMlpMrlLCx8YscxYem7DA6ArhO4JxEcbC89weAVbmuJnrN2PM3C5pok2IGb69oV_7TsQ96u/s400/IMG_5834.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Look at that. Isn't that quaint?</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">It was the front of a little brownstone on our block, all decorated for Halloween. We were staying at Restaurant Row (I know, perfect for people such as myself) (perfect in the way that I almost eat nonstop while on vacation) at <a href="http://www.frenchquartersny.com/">The French Quarters</a>. It was a lovely homey hotel that was mighty easy to come home to at the end of a long day.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">They also had a Keruig in the room, so that was extra special. They use <a href="http://usa.loccitane.com/FO/Home.aspx?cm_guid=1-_-100000000000000000073-_-6226790533&cm_mmc=Google-_-2010-Brand-Exact-_-General-_-Misspelled&gclid=CMTfkLCPg6UCFQULbAodISJWQQ">L'Occitaine</a> as their toiletries, which is one of my favorite companies ever for body products...and they serve breakfast daily...including New York bagels and hard boiled eggs.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">It was very hard to come home and not have someone make me breakfast and coffee. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2SFxyXlLo_tA-a_30qBWmiJ1n6xD9Y5XjbvI2mfXwqqTSK37CM-TBBamZc4qKBix6NJF0lB8muumFFEuf9SO0Sid6Npw84DAkJVN2v0tLpVUPpP91gxR-GG8FhdNwrr5or-5S/s1600/IMG_5859.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2SFxyXlLo_tA-a_30qBWmiJ1n6xD9Y5XjbvI2mfXwqqTSK37CM-TBBamZc4qKBix6NJF0lB8muumFFEuf9SO0Sid6Npw84DAkJVN2v0tLpVUPpP91gxR-GG8FhdNwrr5or-5S/s400/IMG_5859.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">And this is Dave. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">He's a little blurry cause' we're getting onto a subway to go to The Village, and I'm totally excited so I'm probably shaking.<br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;">Dave is a very good friend of mine from days gone by, and whom I just thought to try to reconnect with on facebook on total accident a mere three weeks before my New York trip, and even before I knew myself that I was going. We reconnected, and oddly enough the next day he was on a plane to visit his parents here in AZ and we saw each other for the first time in ten years...and then *poof* here I was in New York seeing him again!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Isn't life amazing?</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">He's been hanging out in New York working off Broadway this whole time. I am wonderfully proud of him and miss him terribly all at the same time. Dave is one of those people who has a piece of my heart with him...and that's good, because I know he'll take care of it no matter how far apart we are.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKBHaDOusQymzqToCQzqwqpjro1mpzRDEo_VH_Xyk3z4GE9mUd1rrqIoW3783I5KKpXXzvlpMHfK-eaEQ7ApUA4Qht_pqSRkZzzydIfNzOZtUFeJ5ItzZ9IGIPy1Rw1JRpHpc_/s1600/IMG_5860.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKBHaDOusQymzqToCQzqwqpjro1mpzRDEo_VH_Xyk3z4GE9mUd1rrqIoW3783I5KKpXXzvlpMHfK-eaEQ7ApUA4Qht_pqSRkZzzydIfNzOZtUFeJ5ItzZ9IGIPy1Rw1JRpHpc_/s400/IMG_5860.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">And this is a picture of the Slaughtered Lamb Pub. Dave said it is a pub with the theme of</div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;">(wait for it)</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Scottish Werewolves!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">(there's a werewolf on the sign, but the sun was apparently in the way...silly sun.) </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Pretty narrow target market, but there you go. We didn't go in as we were on our way to The Red Lion to listen to music, but I here tell there's a dungeon in the basement. With skeletons.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">And I thought Whiskey Row was wild...</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiYTsxwXl0PTO8L5PrTi6u49Fy-4CxeGyvRp9MLiAeKy4xr-oBxf65P6ayNUwC0G0056aA2PMUeJeb1PVfgzYXPrVz9WJFG0CC0es1slG08sKNLA7onwbpJJBMFg3lsCCx7AKB/s1600/IMG_5864.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiYTsxwXl0PTO8L5PrTi6u49Fy-4CxeGyvRp9MLiAeKy4xr-oBxf65P6ayNUwC0G0056aA2PMUeJeb1PVfgzYXPrVz9WJFG0CC0es1slG08sKNLA7onwbpJJBMFg3lsCCx7AKB/s400/IMG_5864.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">This is a picture of Kari walking in the subway...we were just about to start our walking tour of New York, only we didn't know it.<br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;">We jumped on a whole slew of subways during the day, but we ended up walking down Madison Ave to the Met, and then part of Central Park, and then they were working on Bleeker St. (and some other stops) in The Village and we had to get off of the subway stop at the end of the line at the Brooklyn Bridge...and <b><i>walk </i></b>to Bleeker.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">That was the part of the tour that took us through China Town, Little Italy, The Bowery (where<a href="http://cbgb.com/"> CBGB</a> is which happens to be the birth place of punk rock music...or rather was, apparently they lost their lease and the landlord asked them to go. The owner smartly replaced the walls and took the originals with him as they were signed by a whole slew of famous musicians. HA!)...we stopped to eat at a pub and then rode back to our hotel where we both collapsed.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Seriously.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-RbcwFmpX0puENYD2hIRbdJVNeocQ1nF7M2tjlAhEHe3SrmJ8kb-w8N-U1d26qWHXxtebtm-lLnumuWEbBdyRGylRbU_22ZA5EH3yK_8z6qvF7xncruULyaa6umk0_tqHj6I6/s1600/IMG_5866.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="317" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-RbcwFmpX0puENYD2hIRbdJVNeocQ1nF7M2tjlAhEHe3SrmJ8kb-w8N-U1d26qWHXxtebtm-lLnumuWEbBdyRGylRbU_22ZA5EH3yK_8z6qvF7xncruULyaa6umk0_tqHj6I6/s400/IMG_5866.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">We also saw Ground Zero.<br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;">I wasn't as emotional as I thought I would be. I'm not sure why this is but not only can you not see the actual site due to all the construction going on for the memorial, but maybe enough time has passed since the attacks and it's not so fresh for me anymore? I'm not sure. It was amazing to be down there standing near the site though, and just remembering.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS41XvWN0uqCA8r2vqRRumzJcAILPu1IBY67E6UsANxgcAS_wNh1Ags1YfLXNbbSo2Phca_ufKmgHO_H1on4oLms5siZT-TXS1D30lnc-Km1NGUQdL6fu3oE_XoYH4C46TES8x/s1600/IMG_5868.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS41XvWN0uqCA8r2vqRRumzJcAILPu1IBY67E6UsANxgcAS_wNh1Ags1YfLXNbbSo2Phca_ufKmgHO_H1on4oLms5siZT-TXS1D30lnc-Km1NGUQdL6fu3oE_XoYH4C46TES8x/s400/IMG_5868.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">And then across the street was St. Paul's Chapel, which is a pretty amazing little old old old church. The church housed the people who were part of the rescue effort for 9/11 gave them cots, and a place to decompress.<br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;">It is a pretty amazing little place and the graveyard is full of old little headstones...I mean, old like 1700's old.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLLZr358dmxPxjfM0SXAb_OvdqNgOFb0yuFjg8EehDjWnoIPqJGEsu6ZbFrgnjmsoPoIkrJf2mwnj5DRdUAG7QE82RyDMkm_o8gh594ZA9v4NuMQqocNqVldQsos4UxRC67mpU/s1600/IMG_5873.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="241" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLLZr358dmxPxjfM0SXAb_OvdqNgOFb0yuFjg8EehDjWnoIPqJGEsu6ZbFrgnjmsoPoIkrJf2mwnj5DRdUAG7QE82RyDMkm_o8gh594ZA9v4NuMQqocNqVldQsos4UxRC67mpU/s320/IMG_5873.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">I also spied this very wonderful old American Seal painting on the wall in between all the 9/11 memorabilia and do you know what it was hanging over? </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">George Washington's pew.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">As in, father of this country George Washington?</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Yeah. That guy. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Apparently he was inaugurated at this church during his <b>first</b> term of President of the United States, and continued to worship here until they moved the capital to Philadelphia.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Who knew?</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Seriously. I stood there a bit giddy with the history of the whole place.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Totally amazing.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhX_rQcOEICt7-iz5Kx4tk41Fqk3rCc5YFyczbiY4hv1e2ur6PrdQuI1ADMNNfM0tMcVcbHMS1TPdat32AejMtlykVdAaGoci-Pzt-Lmskk5mPEnBv751KA7mqZwFKxN0hXpCv/s1600/IMG_5880.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="306" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhX_rQcOEICt7-iz5Kx4tk41Fqk3rCc5YFyczbiY4hv1e2ur6PrdQuI1ADMNNfM0tMcVcbHMS1TPdat32AejMtlykVdAaGoci-Pzt-Lmskk5mPEnBv751KA7mqZwFKxN0hXpCv/s400/IMG_5880.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">And there's 86th Street in all of its subway mosaic glory...<br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;">I'm not particularly connected to 86th St. but, I absolutely love all things mass transit and I simply adore the subways in New York...a love affair that started during my first trip 19 years ago, and I was happy to find out, continues to this day.<br />
<br />
Plus? All the tile work is beautiful. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHGuGn9ns43vomBzpb0rjt-Ec_EX0dlDXTCFGK-whVprU-mPhRhxEksWVecQHFjwIQI7M6GEh5RHAEgmU8Ikc07GYT7oz7ei9JU8cFmCtHJZxGwGwD27qMnVNxSEypYS-zkhUD/s1600/IMG_5889.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="311" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHGuGn9ns43vomBzpb0rjt-Ec_EX0dlDXTCFGK-whVprU-mPhRhxEksWVecQHFjwIQI7M6GEh5RHAEgmU8Ikc07GYT7oz7ei9JU8cFmCtHJZxGwGwD27qMnVNxSEypYS-zkhUD/s400/IMG_5889.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">And there's pretty little Central Park.<br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;">OK, little isn't the word for it, but we strolled through bits and pieces the whole week enjoying the changing of the leaves and the little bit of solitude in a busy city...squirrel watching.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">They also have a zoo in Central Park, in case you're wondering.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9rYXuuszq64uU-cNdgwKay4GS8zAaMgIXGUies5VOFBa45Hi_vyc0V5jmT8fjArE8hDY9NMZuX9Na_DlvL5v4QNp1GO1GXaOvB0h8_KgBT1mSm0L6PCMNY1bzWVFycBCIrKyV/s1600/IMG_5893.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9rYXuuszq64uU-cNdgwKay4GS8zAaMgIXGUies5VOFBa45Hi_vyc0V5jmT8fjArE8hDY9NMZuX9Na_DlvL5v4QNp1GO1GXaOvB0h8_KgBT1mSm0L6PCMNY1bzWVFycBCIrKyV/s400/IMG_5893.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">A Central Park bridge. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEDxMdUCNVFQ1_HXAu1F-vZXvV8Qd9au-hDgygzPy0-evfZRldZNVTWcZ-NyGYO1NLsU03Nd5EZA5uJbdwu67yldKDQUuCU5womcC4doxxeeAGBgq2Tj4La-OwJAC3ZlyBA44c/s1600/IMG_5897.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEDxMdUCNVFQ1_HXAu1F-vZXvV8Qd9au-hDgygzPy0-evfZRldZNVTWcZ-NyGYO1NLsU03Nd5EZA5uJbdwu67yldKDQUuCU5womcC4doxxeeAGBgq2Tj4La-OwJAC3ZlyBA44c/s400/IMG_5897.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">And proof of fall laying among the cobblestones surrounding Central Park.<br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLV2smIbPPcTCctPdeS4o_BvMVoRR9kQApM-8sWAGcvWrDh_YjLEGG1RoUzJOrUBjv6Vke4CCE6yp-mDjrT8U8o-_BCljlPFGKF50M39_r3yzU6EKathl1HmujvBkGCGY4ZQMx/s1600/IMG_5899.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLV2smIbPPcTCctPdeS4o_BvMVoRR9kQApM-8sWAGcvWrDh_YjLEGG1RoUzJOrUBjv6Vke4CCE6yp-mDjrT8U8o-_BCljlPFGKF50M39_r3yzU6EKathl1HmujvBkGCGY4ZQMx/s400/IMG_5899.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">And one of the many statues that line parts of Central Park.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">I believe this one is the angel leading the soldier down Fifth Ave.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">OR...perhaps he's my knight (or soldier...whatever, I'm getting older we don't need to get all picky at this point in the game) in shining armor and he just asked directions to Cartier so he can buy me that Eternity Bracelet and win my heart.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Oh yes, I'm totally sure of it...</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">(I probably should have tipped her)</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">(then again, he appears to be headless, so maybe she's just more like a guide dog. Damn.)</div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Chickenbellshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13573889595933525371noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22698796.post-16021351144643197822010-11-01T12:41:00.000-07:002010-11-01T12:41:17.388-07:00New York New York...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimvSrB9JYJZt1vhzv_Uh1HdICA_0YcVRSrxzM1IdbSwq9hMhcmXuc7qqTzIkKfecdPN84GWXRQpbahTsELPNLU51V_V_7dCJ_oHaaEOCYxRD1j2ge4HPjJqHyI90O-SXvjxUoM/s1600/IMG_5783.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimvSrB9JYJZt1vhzv_Uh1HdICA_0YcVRSrxzM1IdbSwq9hMhcmXuc7qqTzIkKfecdPN84GWXRQpbahTsELPNLU51V_V_7dCJ_oHaaEOCYxRD1j2ge4HPjJqHyI90O-SXvjxUoM/s400/IMG_5783.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">Time Square...at night. The first night of our arrival.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Needless to say, Time Square is a bit more overstimulating than I remember it being.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">OK.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">A lot more stimulating.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9m1PWxfhNLuuf_RaDrit8Um5C18xbsXcOEMs9vF96PjR91m3tGl_0sQ91cgtou3fSuf-JjsBJcQ6W62dY70zs2XxugMWDVNJcwZ3TDfNtAOKsKqGniy2ecD2jB2w2gAV5bywM/s1600/IMG_5788.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9m1PWxfhNLuuf_RaDrit8Um5C18xbsXcOEMs9vF96PjR91m3tGl_0sQ91cgtou3fSuf-JjsBJcQ6W62dY70zs2XxugMWDVNJcwZ3TDfNtAOKsKqGniy2ecD2jB2w2gAV5bywM/s400/IMG_5788.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">The Plaza Hotel.</div><div style="text-align: center;"> </div><div style="text-align: center;">Incidentally, we were in New York the same time as Charlie Sheen. We didn't stay at The Plaza Hotel, so we missed the whole crazy naked Charlie party.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Which may have been more overstimulating than Time Square.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Also? There's an Eloise flag among the other flags. I totally didn't realize it until I was walking by sometime later and I was just too hurried to snap another shot.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">New York's like that.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">It gets into your blood quick.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY_2xDY1-GvV-oePTSLIBtL0w6OtyJN_GCnqb7_HhM6mLlkAEz5IPhHRoqtYk9ANXC1mNXMG7z8mkAehKVH7SCLZb7w0LOFNnC7DybeqripPOuQ1j6OiWevO81DH-YnFCEVYKM/s1600/IMG_5831.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY_2xDY1-GvV-oePTSLIBtL0w6OtyJN_GCnqb7_HhM6mLlkAEz5IPhHRoqtYk9ANXC1mNXMG7z8mkAehKVH7SCLZb7w0LOFNnC7DybeqripPOuQ1j6OiWevO81DH-YnFCEVYKM/s400/IMG_5831.jpg" width="280" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">Tiffany's...and their clock.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Sigh.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Located on Fifth Ave. right next to Trump Tower.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMtmS59JqWmY6dKe-fBWyzMki2ij7BD6822dYrTVlB9OPs6LPDrdgqm7h3pKPQuRt3FPpBhvWzFgH_ZABRFKNds3FbYnUt5fbdamA8eWOMQ9Vh4XQCd5HlFLXhYQxFrpxxcH9H/s1600/IMG_5838.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="243" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMtmS59JqWmY6dKe-fBWyzMki2ij7BD6822dYrTVlB9OPs6LPDrdgqm7h3pKPQuRt3FPpBhvWzFgH_ZABRFKNds3FbYnUt5fbdamA8eWOMQ9Vh4XQCd5HlFLXhYQxFrpxxcH9H/s400/IMG_5838.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">New York Pizza.</div><div style="text-align: center;"> </div><div style="text-align: center;">I seem to eat very very well on my vacations.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">And while this looks fantastic, it's right down the block from New York's top rated pizza...which I tried as well.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Of course.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5Xb46nTs8bMoi0uXs9v9cGMdsCeNkg3CGbSIxOpVT-BqTULg2KGOFAh4S1ceQ-isbcAnB5O_dO8L-x73s_a60JHO3G6b11_VisAr2y_L90XZ5WkkIKY50WlZBihqVx9PunYYl/s1600/IMG_5856.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5Xb46nTs8bMoi0uXs9v9cGMdsCeNkg3CGbSIxOpVT-BqTULg2KGOFAh4S1ceQ-isbcAnB5O_dO8L-x73s_a60JHO3G6b11_VisAr2y_L90XZ5WkkIKY50WlZBihqVx9PunYYl/s400/IMG_5856.jpg" width="310" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">Rockefeller Center.</div><div style="text-align: center;"> </div><div style="text-align: center;">Yes, the ice skating was all set up. Although, the first day of our trip was the coldest...the rest of the days were in the 70's...which means yes, it was warmer than my little Arizona town. Which also means that yes, I had too many warm clothes with me.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Sigh.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">I did not in fact, ice skate. This was purely Dina's dream...I did actually take a photo of her, but I chickened out. While I'm young at heart, I all of a sudden worry about ridiculous things like: If I fall? What is the likelihood I will break my arm? Or worse yet, my hip?</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLHhQ8qQdLQpVoBjqAxdnGdjTBqG6uzSUI-lDsi5qostyeW8TJj9N0JfCHFWjGKnHRK1u3nYy3rFCoVz2zuJhx3JqFF10uPWAyKTtOultAlHzz3fxASLp2tZk9Oc0uZZRZRWz0/s1600/IMG_5819.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLHhQ8qQdLQpVoBjqAxdnGdjTBqG6uzSUI-lDsi5qostyeW8TJj9N0JfCHFWjGKnHRK1u3nYy3rFCoVz2zuJhx3JqFF10uPWAyKTtOultAlHzz3fxASLp2tZk9Oc0uZZRZRWz0/s400/IMG_5819.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">My pink cupcake from the Magnolia Bakery...from our Sex and the City tour.</div><div style="text-align: center;"> </div><div style="text-align: center;">Yes, a glorious three hour tour all over the city which plied me with so many fun facts it left me questioning if I'd ever even watched the series.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">On a special note, we did drive by the Puck Building, which made a little special mention as our guide pointed out that the building was also part of another famous series and did anyone know what it was? Which means that I yelled, "Will and Grace!!"</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Because truth be known?</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">I would have been just as happy to be on a Will and Grace tour as a Sex and the City tour.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpyN18soDC780SddrIvZ8gNKSGY98JZWAfyICuF67UGaRgNn4qrqCxRbQMRfiCbDKEMiApzkKEWUPto3jT9PvTmfqsfxqPU2FFcKOJYHMCy49U8eENCmNMvaDnFlzvVnvsYbei/s1600/IMG_5816.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpyN18soDC780SddrIvZ8gNKSGY98JZWAfyICuF67UGaRgNn4qrqCxRbQMRfiCbDKEMiApzkKEWUPto3jT9PvTmfqsfxqPU2FFcKOJYHMCy49U8eENCmNMvaDnFlzvVnvsYbei/s400/IMG_5816.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">We three gals...</div><div style="text-align: center;"> </div><div style="text-align: center;">That would be me (left to right) Dina and Kari.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Balancing our cupcakes on top of our coffee...which was a special feat because I'd just been inside the Lulu Guiness store in The Village and was a bit over the moon about the entire experience.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Oh Lulu.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">You were such a magnificent surprise!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5btjBmGRkJCt4kd3Om_tfBSQPnu3B1DjAKKn5Oz8a0A5GFAmW0YiIW1yPaRbtVLwvSnXrLoBtti5wGxpJI38jM1gQD1cFz6foeGHYHu_oultbJd4u2sTQ5Pr-0wPrKc34UsRS/s1600/IMG_5804.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="288" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5btjBmGRkJCt4kd3Om_tfBSQPnu3B1DjAKKn5Oz8a0A5GFAmW0YiIW1yPaRbtVLwvSnXrLoBtti5wGxpJI38jM1gQD1cFz6foeGHYHu_oultbJd4u2sTQ5Pr-0wPrKc34UsRS/s400/IMG_5804.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">This is a shot from inside <a href="http://www.buddakannyc.com/">Buddakan</a>...the restaurant where Carrie and Big had their wedding rehearsal dinner in the first movie. It was a pretty fantastic fusion restaurant that we really wanted to get back to...But I'm unsure of how spendy the menu was.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Our tour guide said we'd get a free drink if we went back.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">I wonder why we never made it back there?</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Good grief.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN3UMStlF1X-HAEAbtBJxykswB6L7O4zJ_laz6DO4Tc3r7sHq33UbaFCzmZol_y0xZibbF5uD8_wEyR_wlG2__AqWhzoj-46eykjvsQvT0AS1TKOVao_nrcLFZhyphenhyphencu9nMAXqj3/s1600/IMG_5789.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN3UMStlF1X-HAEAbtBJxykswB6L7O4zJ_laz6DO4Tc3r7sHq33UbaFCzmZol_y0xZibbF5uD8_wEyR_wlG2__AqWhzoj-46eykjvsQvT0AS1TKOVao_nrcLFZhyphenhyphencu9nMAXqj3/s400/IMG_5789.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">And some random tall buildings.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Because everything is so gloriously big in New York.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHphSj6agecJ3s2K82coWDuhtzd5KWqP06H5o4goU8VyMptBU0xGO-oEgCdXo8w5xYRwRsPc-lDgDO6fgwWzkmKawDqcuyFAOZyf6A8HDjHtQLVwRrzJaoCj2Wpe-nE-QXEeoD/s1600/IMG_5800.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHphSj6agecJ3s2K82coWDuhtzd5KWqP06H5o4goU8VyMptBU0xGO-oEgCdXo8w5xYRwRsPc-lDgDO6fgwWzkmKawDqcuyFAOZyf6A8HDjHtQLVwRrzJaoCj2Wpe-nE-QXEeoD/s400/IMG_5800.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">This would be Dina and I...all bundled up.</div><div style="text-align: center;"> </div><div style="text-align: center;">This also begs the question as I was going through photos...why does it look like I'm leaning in towards everyone?</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Seriously.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">At least she's not leaning away from me.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Also?</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">That is my <a href="http://www.fao.com/home/index.jsp?002=2194048&004=1340366933&005=7277922016&006=4079351243&007=search&008=">FAO Shwarz</a> bag which later went missing. Oh, I know what you're thinking...some nasty person nabbed my bag. They didn't. All the New Yorkers we met were simply delightful...apparently, I'd left the bag to close to the trash can in our hotel and the maid threw it out.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">With a special Barbie bag I'd bought Rozz and my Tiffany's boxes.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Drat.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Oh, I did buy a heart lock charm at Tiffany's by the way. In case you were wondering. Also? In case you're wondering, my eye makeup is darker in New York.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">I have no idea why this is...but both Dina and I noticed it.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">I, for some reason, have not been able to replicate this in Arizona.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Maybe it's a city thing.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-nMoFcLQR-W95F96ADecJ9jUq6DrXAepqbCPUjk0on1RlvdL9ouDCM2VX9VEPD-5noW2loSgFMI7bbtU7xowHGlbz3rwDaGL3cUiVeeIeSj3BF1Huj4luz7sD6djhafVE83ym/s1600/IMG_5827.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-nMoFcLQR-W95F96ADecJ9jUq6DrXAepqbCPUjk0on1RlvdL9ouDCM2VX9VEPD-5noW2loSgFMI7bbtU7xowHGlbz3rwDaGL3cUiVeeIeSj3BF1Huj4luz7sD6djhafVE83ym/s400/IMG_5827.jpg" width="300" /></a></div> <br />
<div style="text-align: center;">This is a shot of a famous church that I don't know the name of, but probably a hundred people will leave it in my comments.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">That's fine.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbSLGnZs3-AbvuKtaNal4i2VYo-qc-zHl5WcKT1VpfSiLdNB2W4VoUqYYLx2PmjW3tFmtmqc_QQdfG-wHNao7S8NAC65D4vlKUAt_EkSWQNywMC0ej-aOlPcSxPkNWvEY9XVkV/s1600/IMG_5829.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbSLGnZs3-AbvuKtaNal4i2VYo-qc-zHl5WcKT1VpfSiLdNB2W4VoUqYYLx2PmjW3tFmtmqc_QQdfG-wHNao7S8NAC65D4vlKUAt_EkSWQNywMC0ej-aOlPcSxPkNWvEY9XVkV/s400/IMG_5829.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">This is Cartiers.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">On Fifth Ave.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Cartiers currently houses the <a href="http://www.cartier.us/#/show-me/jewelry/b6005600-love-bracelet">eternity bracelet</a> I want. But, I firmly believe this is not a gift for me to get myself. I am very good to me, but this gift? I'm holding out for someone else to give it to me.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Hear that universe!?</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">This is the very bracelet your lover locks onto your arm and they keep the key.</div><div style="text-align: center;"> </div><div style="text-align: center;">LeSigh.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Also?</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">I don't wear yellow gold...only white (or platinum I suppose...but there's no need to get greedy)</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsfWQ_tb0dbmVaUOMYAGGRifw7tmk4R8vEvopKiP2mXxmW9Suu4MT-E5qsPoetV-bNBdFiCXj_oFX1dC_qXnEdikPoIVg-mCR-Lle4iPX1yqA6Znc0EsJ95SalZIyp2LtHkANA/s1600/IMG_5881.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsfWQ_tb0dbmVaUOMYAGGRifw7tmk4R8vEvopKiP2mXxmW9Suu4MT-E5qsPoetV-bNBdFiCXj_oFX1dC_qXnEdikPoIVg-mCR-Lle4iPX1yqA6Znc0EsJ95SalZIyp2LtHkANA/s400/IMG_5881.jpg" width="296" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">And I'll end this installment One on New York with this fabulous black and white photo.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Because New York looks so lovely in shades of gray.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Chickenbellshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13573889595933525371noreply@blogger.com3