tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-99026772024-03-13T08:18:40.495-04:00**Jonathanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03547640380443175482noreply@blogger.comBlogger2468125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9902677.post-1680656783514672982023-07-15T22:38:00.000-04:002023-07-15T22:38:17.719-04:00We're Back with Some BIG NEWS!!!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhch3sHbYkm58oBiuOISLUO1IX8Kw0YWzuSwjpz6cgCOpwbJnCILdvNlb_VZoPHlPZ91QomV5sbNMFId3zqJAleLPVn0JLb3ziInjSRdvnH2QwR98aquyHa_SBn7xcO3UBkMGN3FbLpYoFo4jEZi-A7X0TH3ZfYWYB3FIbcVmyiOTE9j7Z4bLHyhw/s3300/Untitled%20copy%208.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2550" data-original-width="3300" height="494" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhch3sHbYkm58oBiuOISLUO1IX8Kw0YWzuSwjpz6cgCOpwbJnCILdvNlb_VZoPHlPZ91QomV5sbNMFId3zqJAleLPVn0JLb3ziInjSRdvnH2QwR98aquyHa_SBn7xcO3UBkMGN3FbLpYoFo4jEZi-A7X0TH3ZfYWYB3FIbcVmyiOTE9j7Z4bLHyhw/w640-h494/Untitled%20copy%208.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div><br /></div>Heya friends! I know that it’s been a while. Here’s what’s been going on: <div><br /></div><div>Quite a few years ago, when we started our hair care company, I received a comment from a How Bourgeois reader. She seemed upset and said: “You recommended products on your blog for those of us going gray. I bought them and now you are making and recommending your own line?!” To say I felt badly was an understatement, but then I took a deep breath and thought for a moment before I replied. Here’s the truth - </div><div><br /></div><div>The truth is, I loved and used and still stand by every single product that I have ever mentioned on this blog. They personally helped me in my gray hair transition and I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend them again! The thing is though, as a “Silver Sister” of 13 years, I’ve always been searching for a mythical hair care line that was more natural, more affordable and formulated for gray hair, and I never found it. I KNEW that we could do better given the opportunity.</div><div><br /></div><div>For those of you who haven't been around for a while, I have to tell you that I’m not a gray hair influencer. I'm just an everyday silver sister like anyone else, searching for a way to make my hair as healthy and bright as it can be. Eventually, I made the decision to let the actual influencers take over in the social media space, and I moved my focus and effort from the blog to making great hair products! (I was more helpful over there).</div><div><br /></div><div>I’m so thrilled that I can FINALLY share a bit of exciting news!!! Some of you might have noticed that The BTW Co. has been out of stock for a while - pandemic supply chain issues for both ingredients and packaging set us back a bit, and then the BTW Co. went through a big and fantastic change so we can always stay in-stock from now on.</div><div><br /></div><div>Two great things have happened - </div><div><br /></div><div>First, we've heard you. Your input matters! Many of you have asked for smaller sizes of our shampoos and conditioners, especially when you’re using purple products for the first time. So with that, we’ve added 8-ounce bottles of our Purple Shampoo & Purple Conditioner to the line!</div><div><br /></div><div>Additionally, many customers have found BTW because of sensitivities to certain ingredients and a desire to avoid harsh chemicals, fillers and synthetic fragrances. While we use scents derived from natural fragrance oils, and we have deliberately kept our scent profile low, some of our customers have asked if we could even create a fragrance-free option - so we did! You can now find 8-ounce bottles of fragrance-free Purple Shampoo & Purple Conditioner on our site.</div><div><br /></div><div>We are also really excited to announce that we’ve updated our best selling Life-Changing Leave-In Conditioner and Silicone-Free Serum. These are amazing products for all hair types that may be used together or individually, to add moisture, control fly-aways and soften hair.</div><div><br /></div><div>The second bit of news is that BTW has concluded a merger with a larger company that believes in our vision, allows us to keep complete control and is not changing any of the products and ingredients that you love. The new structure gives us more opportunities to share our line with our customers and never go out of stock again!</div><div><br /></div><div>We're not lowering our standards or altering our formulas. We still hold a commitment to being as natural as possible, using the same production team and the best quality ingredients we can find. We continue to be cruelty-free with no animal testing, and no silicones, sulfates, phthalates, parabens or synthetic fillers!</div><div><br /></div><div>We're excited to share our future plans as we go. In fact, 5-6 new products are in the pipeline for later this year/early 2024. Things like innovative styling products made just for long and short gray hair and gorgeously hydrating hair masks that you’ll love to pamper yourself with.</div><div><br /></div><div>And that my friends is the scoop! This is where we’ve been, and we missed you. All of our products can be found at <a href="http://www.thebtwco.com">www.thebtwco.com</a> with free shipping when you spend $40 or more and (soon) on Amazon with Prime shipping. WE’RE BACK! </div><div><br /></div><div>Xoxoxoxox, </div><div>Lauren</div>Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05093968853372697053noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9902677.post-61376868661358838542022-02-01T00:29:00.001-05:002022-02-01T00:29:11.980-05:00Still Here, Still Gray!<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgVd6Sa3kzhDt0mSj2yCBTa-7komlLh0JV3weFsO9rFMOSVh03cBvEYojZUHhU3k5AChls9T6ltEIw-ocB1wQY7wfb3G0nme9zokc-JTtQUzqZpYZgOxqXVRkqTmvtTTS5mW1ixQb5BTRi9_d1GQOD3v1gl99WKyJhCbwD7T6bYIV9j-gd-5Po=s2965" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2965" data-original-width="2261" height="354" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgVd6Sa3kzhDt0mSj2yCBTa-7komlLh0JV3weFsO9rFMOSVh03cBvEYojZUHhU3k5AChls9T6ltEIw-ocB1wQY7wfb3G0nme9zokc-JTtQUzqZpYZgOxqXVRkqTmvtTTS5mW1ixQb5BTRi9_d1GQOD3v1gl99WKyJhCbwD7T6bYIV9j-gd-5Po=w271-h354" width="271" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite; font-size: medium;">Helloooooooo blogosphere readers, occasional lurkers and silver-haired friends! I've missed you . I'm here still here, I'm still gray, and I just wanted to say: "Hi!" I suppose that it's time for one of my occasional check-ins where I ramble a bit and plop some pictures and words down for posterity's sake and for those patient and good-hearted folks who come around to actually read about what has been new. Thank you, I really can not thank you enough for being here. Y'all are so nice with your comments (on other social media) and your emails and your patronage of<a href="https://www.amazon.com/stores/The+BTW+Co./page/F9E4BED3-0186-4527-96F4-4D640815533A?ref_=ast_bln" target="_blank"> The BTW Co.</a> Thank you!!</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite; font-size: medium;">I know that How Bourgeois has been quiet these days, but rest assured, you haven't missed anything too exciting. We've just been continuing to stick around home and play it safe. Everyone is well and doing the best that they can. I thought I would share a few up dates and going-ons from the past six months. I still have a skin care post that I promised to a reader. I started working on it months ago and would love it if I could get that posted. I've been dabbling in skin care for "aging" skin. You guys, this aging thing really snuck up on me! How does life move so quickly? At any rate, I only want to recommend products that I've used for some time, so I had to really go through a bottle or two of an item before I write about them. More about skin care to come.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite; font-size: medium;">So let's see... first off, everyone, human and furry are thankfully doing ok. It's very difficult to spend two years inside of a small house together, but we've made the best of it. I think we're pretty good at that. One thing that I have come to realize is that I AM NEVER BORED! Quite the opposite. I need more time in the day to get through all of the things that I would like to do and try, read, watch and listen to. The past couple of years has reminded me that life is AMAZING and there are interesting things EVERYWHERE! It's endless what you can dive into learning. Aren't we lucky to have the internet? The spark of interest enters your brain, then you type it into a search box and then you are presented with endless information on that topic. You guys, it's SO GREAT! Here are a few things we've been doing (with the help of the internet.)</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite; font-size: medium;">(Google, how do I groom a dog? Help!)</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjwgCiSqx6JyslM3ZALU50dKDlIugk_Zh-asBDb31qPG7GLWqvtTMDL90CXlH2nplQrkkV0xvOG3vfW_NzgAFrETKL1GeCD2gn8Es8bAe7kiRxg6tNmDpEX3qpATrm39tSB_2s08Exc9IZMNeArK_1qimVH63hmBH_01GjJy3njl70ZMXc0HUI=s4032" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="421" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjwgCiSqx6JyslM3ZALU50dKDlIugk_Zh-asBDb31qPG7GLWqvtTMDL90CXlH2nplQrkkV0xvOG3vfW_NzgAFrETKL1GeCD2gn8Es8bAe7kiRxg6tNmDpEX3qpATrm39tSB_2s08Exc9IZMNeArK_1qimVH63hmBH_01GjJy3njl70ZMXc0HUI=w316-h421" width="316" /></a></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: "Special Elite"; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: "Special Elite"; font-size: medium;">I think the happiest and most exciting news is that just this week we found out that Noah was accepted into a program for high school students at an Ivy League university out east!!! I don't think I should share the name here until he is home, but Noah is THRILLED, and Jon and I are THRILLED! We're just so happy that he finally has something great to look forward to and that he'll be able to get out of the house, out of town and go do something fun and interesting. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite; font-size: medium;">Here's he is on his first day of 11th grade!</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgqa-W7NNAf6AcIzdkbC41a6wdxxYMwuvJV07SxdsYd0c8wSPT-jzQ236Y5uC6fwltxrMfSCKxStp-Vi1i8pZTgPSOYamDP8oQ6cYEGOL80L7oUsLoFmCx8y7EKFYIdSK7ikRsn0MnD0vjQZJRwfCvtbr1VJtYRgGgQjAJ5uSz82aGItujXRGU=s2016" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="368" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgqa-W7NNAf6AcIzdkbC41a6wdxxYMwuvJV07SxdsYd0c8wSPT-jzQ236Y5uC6fwltxrMfSCKxStp-Vi1i8pZTgPSOYamDP8oQ6cYEGOL80L7oUsLoFmCx8y7EKFYIdSK7ikRsn0MnD0vjQZJRwfCvtbr1VJtYRgGgQjAJ5uSz82aGItujXRGU=w276-h368" width="276" /></a></div></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite; font-size: medium;">Noah's been working incredibly hard these past few years as a homeschooler. We're very proud of his perservenrance, especially throughout the pandemic. He has continued to take community college classes every semester and just passed his 30th credit with a 3.93 GPA . I don't know how he does it, but this kid has big plans and he's well on his way!</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite; font-size: medium;">Speaking of education, but not really the same thing, I've taken part in some online classes and seminars. Lots of meditation and mindfulness, and recently, I've wanted to expand my knowledge of consciousness. It has lead me to a deeper dive in eastern philosophy. Did you know that there are MANY similarities between Hinduism and Judaism!? It's fascinating. Although, most major religions share many things with each other. We are all one!</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite; font-size: medium;">I've also been spending a lot of time volunteering online. Did you know that you can do that!? Yep, you can! I used to enjoy volunteering (in-person) when Noah was in school. Now I've taken the work up again, but for now, online. It started a year and a half ago with a neat project that our synagogue was doing called "Plarn Sleeping Mats." I can't remember if I have written about it before, but "Plarn" is plastic yarn that you make from strips of plastic bags. After you have a very large amount of plarn, you take a big crochet hook and crochet these thick, soft sleeping mats. We then donate the mats to homeless shelters and out reach centers where they are distributed to people who need them. You would be surprised how insulating these mats are from the cold, wet ground. They fold up and you crochet a carrying strap too. It took me a while, but I finally got through one and it felt good to delivery the mat back to the organizers. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite; font-size: medium;">After that, just over a year ago, I began facilitating a weekly online Zoom group for people who were mostly at home during the pandemic and needed a little company and support. We have not missed a single week in over a year and I have to tell you, this group is like my second family! I love them dearly and feel like it was such a fantastic way to make life long friends. We really love talking about anything and everything and checking in on each other. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite; font-size: medium;">At the end of summer I began volunteering on a committee for my synagogue as well. It's a membership committee and we come up with ways to keep current members having a fun and also brainstorm ways to attract new members. I went to one meeting in person when our community numbers were low, but since that time, all of my meetings have been over Zoom. We'll get back together one day. We've planned some fun online cooking and crafting classes among other things, and back in the fall there was an outdoor lunch and activities for kids and their parents. We're kind of like the welcome wagon too, which is one of the things that I did for four years at Noah's old school in my old volunteer years. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite; font-size: medium;">Finally, I was just asked last week to volunteer my time on a marketing team, also for the synagogue. This is going to be so exciting. I created some digital art and marketing material for new members and also for an up coming event and really enjoyed that experience. Who knows what will come next.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite; font-size: medium;">Anyway, I've probably bored you with so much talk about this, but in closing, I do have to say that volunteer work is near and dear to my heart, and has been the plan all along. I was hoping to get back into it this year and amazingly, I have been able to! I'm grateful to have the time to lend a hand and hope that these opportunities continue to grow.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite; font-size: medium;">So, speaking of digital art, I've kept up with drawing. I'm always practicing and learning new things, slowly but surely. I took two, short online drawing classes through a site called "<a href="https://www.domestika.org/en" target="_blank">Domestika</a>" and learned a lot. I also made an advert for my Stepmom's restaurant and bakery for a local newspaper and magazine!</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite;"><br /></span></div><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhSbgevOYqUkQb4v-W9tn8KFuPe1JFhlwOvA8bkUB8HhD-o-Fuq1deau9wvf6BC5sOz_UL2xre16Dw7SM4NLUSOnjG6bXHXPUu-tWegHJvhY0i4PMC_gVjWZyI97VnXx-yHNcJuZX7ARc-Lr8ZFj-JaNhZBq5QZWNTnbuJaS-PhNpVXxcX6vXg=s2000" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2000" data-original-width="2000" height="598" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhSbgevOYqUkQb4v-W9tn8KFuPe1JFhlwOvA8bkUB8HhD-o-Fuq1deau9wvf6BC5sOz_UL2xre16Dw7SM4NLUSOnjG6bXHXPUu-tWegHJvhY0i4PMC_gVjWZyI97VnXx-yHNcJuZX7ARc-Lr8ZFj-JaNhZBq5QZWNTnbuJaS-PhNpVXxcX6vXg=w598-h598" width="598" /></a></div></blockquote><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px;"><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></div><p></p></blockquote><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite; font-size: medium;">Another creative outlet that I've been doing is crochet. I sometimes crochet at night. Most recently I made this super easy shell stitch cardigan.<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o3TjErLRJxA" target="_blank"> I used Wolly Wonders Crochet's Youtube tutorial of the Women's Shell Stitch Cardiagn. </a> Really, it is silly easy. This was made from one <a href="https://www.michaels.com/caron-skinny-cakes-yarn/M20001215.html" target="_blank">Caron Skinny Cake</a>. I made this with a free pattern and a $10 ball of yarn!</span></div></div><p></p><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px; text-align: left;"><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><p></p></blockquote><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhR95U75q1d0HsNK0_mUQBj78S-7T-LyumI2TVVQ61kLU8FwkEXBLBLtAKhgxNKJRG6UQTSWjLJiwrQblyzr9L4oI-vH173gz9svHnafsBzFeofkdmTmLASPZcvCGzenYIacITfn9SMNhl_euEzEoETNza0lroNPLjYcS3vFGvvRZzqewSUOEI=s4032" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="535" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhR95U75q1d0HsNK0_mUQBj78S-7T-LyumI2TVVQ61kLU8FwkEXBLBLtAKhgxNKJRG6UQTSWjLJiwrQblyzr9L4oI-vH173gz9svHnafsBzFeofkdmTmLASPZcvCGzenYIacITfn9SMNhl_euEzEoETNza0lroNPLjYcS3vFGvvRZzqewSUOEI=w402-h535" width="402" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite; font-size: medium;">SQUEEEEEEE!!!!!! The next project had me CRAZY excited because 1.) I am a Beatlemaniac and 2.) because I have always wanted one of these.....</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite; font-size: medium;">Have you ever seen Paul's hand crocheted granny square vest? The one that he wore a lot during Magical Mystery Tour? Well, although I am in love with George, it is Paul who had the fabulous vest, and I had to try to make an inspired one. Here is said Paul's vest.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhFIFDXXx1WK_mFSkOs0C_VpMnba6QkkW3EAjFvkpicx6jSc-8EDaqkjWl5eN4bO-SCIQmnmx1oaic_6rpt0nXUXtC4OVXoTVqXky9cBBAodKQ4CUL6rdqjvnTjz1UXdEkPRur5WYROKrSHjQazi66Lgh510k_Qf_9_BZ4rLmLk9PDRPZ-X7kk=s736" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="736" data-original-width="736" height="490" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhFIFDXXx1WK_mFSkOs0C_VpMnba6QkkW3EAjFvkpicx6jSc-8EDaqkjWl5eN4bO-SCIQmnmx1oaic_6rpt0nXUXtC4OVXoTVqXky9cBBAodKQ4CUL6rdqjvnTjz1UXdEkPRur5WYROKrSHjQazi66Lgh510k_Qf_9_BZ4rLmLk9PDRPZ-X7kk=w490-h490" width="490" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite; font-size: medium;">I just had to try to replicated it! So, I searched high and low for any chatter about the vest online, and sure enough, came across a few patterns on Ravelry. I ended up following the instructions on the blog "Happy Trousers." She made a GORGEOUS replica for her son. Thank you Happy Trousers, I could not have done it without you!! I ended up modifying the original vest to be shorter and a bit more form fitting. I also narrowed the shoulders, added a border and a pom-pom tie and some hidden closure hooks. So, not a replica, but inspired by Paul's. It was so much fun and I even did something crazy and ordered the wool yarn from the UK! Amazingly, it was on sale and ended up being much cheaper than wool yarn in the US. I really had so much fun with this one. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjMI4_nqyNtVyHIMMnVFAkTn768MoAN2NmWIt0xtViXRUWMLMhRPUfGE357V12uZZBKrOd0GJeXOwpaP23uIg744u7020Orer4iGxA_FUD8TT1HtTKM3s66rgpq-khMh9blp17pB6TxIk1IBOKeliwhbeYiu8yqpIQH11aj_6M6WG3rcDQpHkU=s4032" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="549" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjMI4_nqyNtVyHIMMnVFAkTn768MoAN2NmWIt0xtViXRUWMLMhRPUfGE357V12uZZBKrOd0GJeXOwpaP23uIg744u7020Orer4iGxA_FUD8TT1HtTKM3s66rgpq-khMh9blp17pB6TxIk1IBOKeliwhbeYiu8yqpIQH11aj_6M6WG3rcDQpHkU=w412-h549" width="412" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite; font-size: medium;">Last but not least and most recent, I found a second ball of stripey yarn under the bed and decided to try to learn a new stitch, the Crocodile Stitch. See, they look like scales. I'm making a rainbow hat. </span></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgtE1lncIA_WSZWKDp_cz6v2Dldfu3d7jm35_unXa5Mu2SlAR0AVGAuiY5ywIpy2cLaE_6wvfhTdUPhs6NY8fGopK1E6PB_zC9gcCz8aCYfLwq8IRLqcNTwbdFsKzsEv-jBupxCI7YUspP06HrczYDiL8HOyToWUFrq4qi45Pqmz_bxcgKVkEE=s4032" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="597" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgtE1lncIA_WSZWKDp_cz6v2Dldfu3d7jm35_unXa5Mu2SlAR0AVGAuiY5ywIpy2cLaE_6wvfhTdUPhs6NY8fGopK1E6PB_zC9gcCz8aCYfLwq8IRLqcNTwbdFsKzsEv-jBupxCI7YUspP06HrczYDiL8HOyToWUFrq4qi45Pqmz_bxcgKVkEE=w448-h597" width="448" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite; font-size: medium;">I FINALY started crafting window decorations again. For many years I would make different window decorations for each season and often each month. I stopped making them during the pandemic for about a year and a half. I just ran out of motivation and steam. Sometime last month I just realized how much I missed it and made some January decorations. They are kids building snowmen and having a snowball fight. Now February's are ready to go up tomorrow. I love how they turned out!!! February's theme is "All YOU Need is Love" in honor of Valentine's Day. Which, btw, happens to be our 18th wedding anniversary!</span></div><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-family: Special Elite;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgxQGMK3m-2YWewDR_lblYGdz4KUYj0l6ogSrNHfAQ9I7wZu6-rA9Ld63pT3jfRLjUdJSYQEJzKgUhF5UiG7mUULFdSQMmy_XtCriCQfpRcSDHZlm-p5TDA52mtb6KPoCxG-FUimsmFkEW6jn-6ZafhUFE1VKsuJEqy-XTVEuzv_GLfHrKOCqM=s3686" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2877" data-original-width="3686" height="444" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgxQGMK3m-2YWewDR_lblYGdz4KUYj0l6ogSrNHfAQ9I7wZu6-rA9Ld63pT3jfRLjUdJSYQEJzKgUhF5UiG7mUULFdSQMmy_XtCriCQfpRcSDHZlm-p5TDA52mtb6KPoCxG-FUimsmFkEW6jn-6ZafhUFE1VKsuJEqy-XTVEuzv_GLfHrKOCqM=w569-h444" width="569" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite; font-size: medium;">I do have to say, all of this drawing on a tiny iPad, squinting at stitches of yarn at night and cutting out tiny pieces of paper has kind of wrecked my eyes. I finally went for an eye exam in the summer. So, that was good. I wear my reading glasses all of the time now and it's been a good time playing around with different inexpensive pairs. My big round glasses just came. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj2jgNYguOPMSn7mBE5T-OFdB4GkOYzq17o4XTvv_OkslA2c2uGSAIm8AZGO1dkOtm1YEyb8huoGt-ZjTe7JC01U9HLUYOZHzUwkvx56mbpBx3W29iebIlanoExp7DVOIbcHz03DtYKyg2bH423nVOklkOwUBKgE2UlfacGwvfOPQ5-BCrAjyo=s3088" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3088" data-original-width="2316" height="476" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj2jgNYguOPMSn7mBE5T-OFdB4GkOYzq17o4XTvv_OkslA2c2uGSAIm8AZGO1dkOtm1YEyb8huoGt-ZjTe7JC01U9HLUYOZHzUwkvx56mbpBx3W29iebIlanoExp7DVOIbcHz03DtYKyg2bH423nVOklkOwUBKgE2UlfacGwvfOPQ5-BCrAjyo=w357-h476" width="357" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite; font-size: medium;">I hesitated to talk about my hair care line in this update post because I don't want it to sound like I'm using the blog to just sell products, because I'm not! I think it would be strange to not mention how things are gong though, and what's around the corner. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgKU92mnf4uOZHFCPCY63MZ51hej7cJVcLQJdUXIQkNiKAPqeWPUCBE-DuYYFXARDPY4NSw6bOV_CA-EZGz8yvP7247eaR4XnAibz2g1wwpKdO90sOONUX_yEDu7YmqOe1PvGIU5CA6dgMokV5wmzwvOWqJRYRPGN9alHsULClGzO5A0SP0Z9Q=s506" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="193" data-original-width="506" height="162" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgKU92mnf4uOZHFCPCY63MZ51hej7cJVcLQJdUXIQkNiKAPqeWPUCBE-DuYYFXARDPY4NSw6bOV_CA-EZGz8yvP7247eaR4XnAibz2g1wwpKdO90sOONUX_yEDu7YmqOe1PvGIU5CA6dgMokV5wmzwvOWqJRYRPGN9alHsULClGzO5A0SP0Z9Q=w424-h162" width="424" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: Special Elite; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: "Special Elite"; font-size: medium;">I know that things have been quiet from the BTW Co. as of late. We struggled for a bit to get all of the ingredients and packaging materials in for our production. It's been a strange time for the supply chain. Also though, our current word-of-mouth advertising has worked well and wonderfully, we have many a returning customer, so we just keep chugging along. BUT..... BIG, HAPPY things ahead! Oh, I am so very sorry that I can not talk about specific details just yet, but behind the scenes some super great things have been happening, and 2022 is looking to be an exciting year for BTW. <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Purple-Shampoo-Silver-Blonde-Hair/dp/B07KCZF3WB/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1D4RMHF6A9FXU&keywords=by+the+way+your+hair+looks+fabulous&qid=1643684266&sprefix=by+the+way+your+%2Caps%2C77&sr=8-1" target="_blank">All of your favorite products</a> will be here, all restocked and maybe even some FABULOUS new ones too! So please stay tuned and thank you, thank you, thank you for your continued support. Thank you soooo much. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: "Special Elite"; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite; font-size: medium;">I spent a lot of time in the backyard this year. We, meaning 90% Jon, with a little of my help, power washed the deck, stripped off all of the old remaining stain, and then restained it. That was huge improvement and we spent so much time outside reading under the awning. I had my vegetable garden but honestly, didn't do a ton with it because I FULLY EXPECTED MY BACKYARD TO BE TORN APART THIS SUMMER! I don't how much I've written about it but we've been trying to have a small addition built off of the back of our house for...four years!? It has taken such a long time. First we had to interview architects and then once we chose one, the plan for a small first floor master had to go through several re-designs. Because our house is historically designated, we had to go in front of both the historic board and the planning board several times, and we had to apply for a variant. It was kind of a mess and sometimes took months to get on the meeting schedules. Then the pandemic happened when we were finally ready. It is a long story, but I really thought it was about to happen this summer. Well, it was, but then my Mom bought a new house and I let her use our builder and jump in front of us and the rest is kind of a twisted history. So, we're back to square one-ish. I'm rethinking even taking up the small bit of yard space that was slated to be used for the new footprint and would feel more comfortable going back to the drawing board with a new plan anyway. There's no big rush.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite; font-size: medium;">In spring, as soon as the ground thaws and it is warm enough, we have a whole row of 6' arborvitae being brought in for privacy , which I have wanted to do for ten years! I'm so excited and can't wait. We've kind of agonized over what to do with the mini-pool too. It's time to resurface again or fill him in. Mini is always in need of maintenance, for the surface and the bricks and the pipes and the filter. All of it. Not to mention constant cleaning. That is a lot for just 24"of water! I have plans for a beautiful butterfly garden where the mini is, but it still kind of makes me sad to think of not looking out at him. I just don't know what to do. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgOCFWW9irgQyk27pha_Xgzgia1EQedEABsEJxCafbDn0-2_2LRH365zIcURDlkUJeWZKs0tMV9Aj1nRgISEszfEG_IiGBEkHWmwEX_PTFjs2YhdsNRgfKxbTVEEyhoXhJCQHxw0GLb_tdz64UuFxzw-MVw07cmSyqMP7XSyBl7alh2zq2DbIo=s4032" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="379" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgOCFWW9irgQyk27pha_Xgzgia1EQedEABsEJxCafbDn0-2_2LRH365zIcURDlkUJeWZKs0tMV9Aj1nRgISEszfEG_IiGBEkHWmwEX_PTFjs2YhdsNRgfKxbTVEEyhoXhJCQHxw0GLb_tdz64UuFxzw-MVw07cmSyqMP7XSyBl7alh2zq2DbIo=w284-h379" width="284" /></a></div><span style="font-family: "Special Elite"; font-size: large;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: "Special Elite"; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>This year the vegetable garden surprised me with suddenly popping up its own tomato plants this spring. Really! Also some shallots and chives and lettuce. It was really awesome. I also had the chance to plant and experiment with many different kinds of culinary and medicinal herbs and wildflowers! Those are my favorite by far, especially the herbs.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEipisF7n2TBOGvF7VHVav9v_syaOaLjjAJRPUEwQE6FzPTbd8ILJg2XfjllDwP44Nd5m9nnuYyqfjx3T2YBpqeuTa9uU4NDtNJEFvimz1dS3XUyaCQCbOrWuG1XlW-ePSTbXAEZihUq5Tmd2y9VGW46Pkq-S0k3ZgEAQI7AxZKZp41aRr5Yji8=s3088" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3088" data-original-width="2316" height="461" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEipisF7n2TBOGvF7VHVav9v_syaOaLjjAJRPUEwQE6FzPTbd8ILJg2XfjllDwP44Nd5m9nnuYyqfjx3T2YBpqeuTa9uU4NDtNJEFvimz1dS3XUyaCQCbOrWuG1XlW-ePSTbXAEZihUq5Tmd2y9VGW46Pkq-S0k3ZgEAQI7AxZKZp41aRr5Yji8=w346-h461" width="346" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite; font-size: medium;">Oh and look!!! Look!!! I was absolutely ecstatic when the city finally agreed to plant a tree in our front yard, which is actually an easement. THANK YOU CITY, SO MUCH!!! I had been asking, basically politely begging for two years now. The large tree that was between our house and our neighbor was very old and fell down several years ago. After they tore down most of the church across the street and replaced it with a giant building, they also took out the beautiful trees and law. We lost all of our shade and greenery. It was incredibly upsetting. At first the city refused to plant a tree because they said that our lawn area was too congested with underground cables, but after a second year of begging, they actually came out and saw what I meant about our corner lacking the green trees that our city is known for. They did an investigation for wires and pipes underground and decided that we could have a tree planted with a small root system. This is a terrible picture, but I'm telling you, it was the happiest day in November when they finally rolled up and planted our little Silk Lilac tree. Everybody, meet George. <strike>We </strike> I names him after George Harrison, and this summer, I am going to make him a tiny replica of Rocky the Stratocaster guitar and laminate it and hang it from one of his branches. :) I'm so so happy!!!! </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhvmG6QzaKS1FrGojs0sjdiP0YcGEMMeM3KhT0gAQk59MIudOg-auRiVNGf_5dyK7fYrkv1RFJyGVKmFXl2B1pWgyXIodzcBp_Oln2N65TePGhYyKrIi2EKxFAgWEY6XB2hdi5VmKZKjgfrNOeMUv57C10QvzVJPRt3BJS7ndgvOC-DAD-CNpc=s4032" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhvmG6QzaKS1FrGojs0sjdiP0YcGEMMeM3KhT0gAQk59MIudOg-auRiVNGf_5dyK7fYrkv1RFJyGVKmFXl2B1pWgyXIodzcBp_Oln2N65TePGhYyKrIi2EKxFAgWEY6XB2hdi5VmKZKjgfrNOeMUv57C10QvzVJPRt3BJS7ndgvOC-DAD-CNpc=w321-h428" width="321" /></a></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/a/AVvXsEgTk-KAsjXcpD_vv2lF1WeKsMLuVV8cGpJpGxa7g5_CN4-KPVLec23x7t3CuJ5M4BG3R8l-R5gvWDIQoQSquZmqpp09N2oJkWecg95mNjslbK5FyaN32_KXeyoZrh4byp0Qcf5XAg5WQonFMGvCe58UuxA6NWAK0J61b7AIwzkZoRauT7AR-H4=s2400" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="784" data-original-width="2400" height="105" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgTk-KAsjXcpD_vv2lF1WeKsMLuVV8cGpJpGxa7g5_CN4-KPVLec23x7t3CuJ5M4BG3R8l-R5gvWDIQoQSquZmqpp09N2oJkWecg95mNjslbK5FyaN32_KXeyoZrh4byp0Qcf5XAg5WQonFMGvCe58UuxA6NWAK0J61b7AIwzkZoRauT7AR-H4=s320" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite; font-size: medium;">What else? Well, I noticed that I have a lot of pictures wearing a mask if that's something. My stepbrother stopped by one day and was wearing a very fancy mask. He was delivering "800 hot chocolates on a stick and 6 cakes" from their restaurant and bakery to a large office that was having a holiday party. He drove 800 hot chocolates on a stick 250 miles. I don't know why but I thought that was very amusing. I guess I need to get out more. By the way, as a mask connoisseur, my favorite by far for comfort and performance are the BOTN KF94's with the adjustable ear straps. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi4jg0djZ_bBXdfBqR_EvoK5yP-JSG4cDwblLpKCXjswHtrl1-TJYLWF0q091OROuIJPVHU6bP4WjmkY8N-9iG7K4BR0nLd8tWUS0vB27AaaUd6Ac8VZeHhqrKMKd5MeOVHESgASsRGPofwC7IMczrqmKnwgh-alz8au7lZv8GHefId1RLSSfw=s2000" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2000" data-original-width="2000" height="440" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi4jg0djZ_bBXdfBqR_EvoK5yP-JSG4cDwblLpKCXjswHtrl1-TJYLWF0q091OROuIJPVHU6bP4WjmkY8N-9iG7K4BR0nLd8tWUS0vB27AaaUd6Ac8VZeHhqrKMKd5MeOVHESgASsRGPofwC7IMczrqmKnwgh-alz8au7lZv8GHefId1RLSSfw=w440-h440" width="440" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Special Elite"; font-size: large; text-align: left;">One thing that we've really tried to do is to get outside and explore and hike and see new places. Once in a while Noah would join us, like on this gorgeous fall day at </span><a href="https://cranbrookartmuseum.org" style="font-family: "Special Elite"; text-align: left;" target="_blank">Cranbrook.</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhNZc5k8PCWfSleYetdd88_6BJkHm8MoMVSkQPCs9Jq4iUv76_UxV2vhnZ5-BcnZXtNPQB8Yg8ytUemPY2sMotJ6Q149t_DJ_K5E_30scP9VK4O0SQMq3WF9TRrQ2Plm_5xjQz7S8EftbLxP0-fkGeC-HBO2dPZcBj7Waa4DhLFsjRDVJnL5LY=s1440" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="1440" height="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhNZc5k8PCWfSleYetdd88_6BJkHm8MoMVSkQPCs9Jq4iUv76_UxV2vhnZ5-BcnZXtNPQB8Yg8ytUemPY2sMotJ6Q149t_DJ_K5E_30scP9VK4O0SQMq3WF9TRrQ2Plm_5xjQz7S8EftbLxP0-fkGeC-HBO2dPZcBj7Waa4DhLFsjRDVJnL5LY=w450-h450" width="450" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><span style="font-family: Special Elite; font-size: medium;">Usually though, being a teenager, he didn't really want to tag along. A lot of the time it was just Jon, Josie and I. We had some good adventures and visited some trails and state parks that we've never visited before. The kids will grow up, but the dog will always want to hang out with you. </span><br /><span style="font-family: Special Elite; font-size: medium;"></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjbVOZM2rwPiVCPkWFD3z0oEiOSnNzwl5MzF4Xqk4BX0o5GwbR7eGJkixK32fCF4mdXwLgWGiMNpGtjrD-0ceMwERk088bLUTClRSqZ5peQY3KIMVD9yxTfhscefDp4scBX1cbJ8cqpo1RDFYA9SM-7wwaLKXPd1kP_2xAAQCU_zt04ALOHNXA=s4032" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="290" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjbVOZM2rwPiVCPkWFD3z0oEiOSnNzwl5MzF4Xqk4BX0o5GwbR7eGJkixK32fCF4mdXwLgWGiMNpGtjrD-0ceMwERk088bLUTClRSqZ5peQY3KIMVD9yxTfhscefDp4scBX1cbJ8cqpo1RDFYA9SM-7wwaLKXPd1kP_2xAAQCU_zt04ALOHNXA=w387-h290" width="387" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite; font-size: medium;">A little winter snow will never stop a Michigander! We keep getting out. In fact, I think we're supposed to get a lot of snow this week. Somewhere I saw they were calling for 15". I'm here for it. I want to get outside and shovel. I love the snow! Noah and I took a snowy Christmas light walk one night. Our little downtown plasters lights everywhere.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjr1Ppum7rPwfKpL3g3L_q9jIWYmU6pbCB-oLjvbCjca73_FgeJCluXWZ7XqssqeC9YrWt5jGqaN_iyyIESXKquEtNM7y616ykctrmpQGQDsDC07LLDVdzmuckaO9myxh9W_La41WOt8UsuQZf5i-5RculOqyYB-x5uqJ0nUhie9TVR7RBvJGY=s2000" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2000" data-original-width="2000" height="557" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjr1Ppum7rPwfKpL3g3L_q9jIWYmU6pbCB-oLjvbCjca73_FgeJCluXWZ7XqssqeC9YrWt5jGqaN_iyyIESXKquEtNM7y616ykctrmpQGQDsDC07LLDVdzmuckaO9myxh9W_La41WOt8UsuQZf5i-5RculOqyYB-x5uqJ0nUhie9TVR7RBvJGY=w557-h557" width="557" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><span style="font-family: Special Elite; font-size: medium;">We are ready for you snow, and many more adventures.....</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjtpEmO97reb4cSCHcNsNaxOun8ZcXvKlOMPkgyvkwQz4mbf8vk0N49ZPNE8fcyzUQPhVcju_IubzcWRAIIphZ4ZCcNGhx9xPMz1HwLV-St1lpZU-vZMsDYRMiLTfrMU5X_cdHhH_RGEZPuf6I3Yvp7M7yX9X3kSOOJGOn1F4_gGPVnTNJ2J_k=s4032" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjtpEmO97reb4cSCHcNsNaxOun8ZcXvKlOMPkgyvkwQz4mbf8vk0N49ZPNE8fcyzUQPhVcju_IubzcWRAIIphZ4ZCcNGhx9xPMz1HwLV-St1lpZU-vZMsDYRMiLTfrMU5X_cdHhH_RGEZPuf6I3Yvp7M7yX9X3kSOOJGOn1F4_gGPVnTNJ2J_k=s320" width="240" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgauv8nAcFN1OurjRx6RL3TF2jRaFdnC7t7YIfDGAGEC1-ydS1JpHEYggjxuW6yh_DOgVXWLG-3XmUabWPcoPlnmhJ4yxg9gpjXw4pxEkapSWSpd2AeeY1BTu2_kBfaahGZuvPzl_XMQEMmpz_FTa6CkL7Oukfz86tsQ_0H-DG2ZI1LmKw1qsQ=s4032" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgauv8nAcFN1OurjRx6RL3TF2jRaFdnC7t7YIfDGAGEC1-ydS1JpHEYggjxuW6yh_DOgVXWLG-3XmUabWPcoPlnmhJ4yxg9gpjXw4pxEkapSWSpd2AeeY1BTu2_kBfaahGZuvPzl_XMQEMmpz_FTa6CkL7Oukfz86tsQ_0H-DG2ZI1LmKw1qsQ=s320" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite; font-size: medium;">(Sound ON)</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='368' height='306' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dyI9pl1FRh8fmZjPwftWG38yXnN9CSfWpiisbwp_3Wr4D2_iMH6IvHwnz0Oub1s4pnh9POunJSMpnA' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite; font-size: medium;">And you know guys, that's about it! If you've made it this far, I appreciate you reading along through the minutia of my current life. </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite; font-size: medium;">I hope all of you are doing well and moving along the best that you can. I appreciate each and every one of you! Keep sparkling!!!</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite; font-size: medium;">Until next time. </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite; font-size: medium;">xoxoxoxoxoxoxox, </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite; font-size: medium;">Lauren </span></div><span style="font-family: Special Elite; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><br /><span style="font-family: Special Elite; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><br /><span style="font-family: Special Elite; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: "Special Elite"; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><br />Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05093968853372697053noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9902677.post-18001366236595304972021-06-30T20:35:00.002-04:002021-10-02T20:41:46.682-04:00<p style="text-align: center;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BNSIPq-5EdA/YVj7H0Gr9xI/AAAAAAAALws/eKJ6MN0v3qY4WMPmmxhUACL6fajagJycACLcBGAsYHQ/s2016/210732090_10159408080287394_18788216891751553_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" height="469" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BNSIPq-5EdA/YVj7H0Gr9xI/AAAAAAAALws/eKJ6MN0v3qY4WMPmmxhUACL6fajagJycACLcBGAsYHQ/w352-h469/210732090_10159408080287394_18788216891751553_n.jpg" width="352" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><p></p><p><span style="caret-color: rgb(5, 5, 5); color: #050505; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: times;">So here's what happened: the street sweeper came by at 4:30am and woke me up. Which is weird I thought because the street sweeper usually only comes by in spring and fall, not summer. The street sweeper historically comes by at 5:00 or 5:30am and wakes me up then. It's a massive truck and as it passes by, sounds like a small jet getting ready for take-off. At least in the dead of morning it does. </span></span></p><div class="o9v6fnle cxmmr5t8 oygrvhab hcukyx3x c1et5uql ii04i59q" style="caret-color: rgb(5, 5, 5); color: #050505; margin: 0.5em 0px 0px; white-space: pre-wrap; word-wrap: break-word;"><div dir="auto"><span style="font-family: times;">And so I woke up and couldn't get back to sleep, because I was thinking about how much this past year and a half has opened my eyes and how much of what I see upsets and angers me. I tried to let go of the thoughts, tried to meditate, tried to convince myself that it would be far healthier to go back to sleep than to ruminate on something negative. But I couldn't. So just after 5:30 I took off my pajamas and threw on some clothes, and I tip-toed out into the garden. </span></div></div><div class="o9v6fnle cxmmr5t8 oygrvhab hcukyx3x c1et5uql ii04i59q" style="caret-color: rgb(5, 5, 5); color: #050505; margin: 0.5em 0px 0px; white-space: pre-wrap; word-wrap: break-word;"><div dir="auto"><span style="font-family: times;">Do you know what happened!? First, I went down to the bottom of the yard and I saw dozens of teeny tiny, newborn Arugula popping out of the soil. And to my surprise so many other new things. Down here is where I have a medicinal herb garden, a culinary herb garden and a butterfly garden. Days of rain and heat have made everything grow. I stopped and smelled the blooms on the onions. They smell just like onions! Flowers that smell like onions! Said hello to the resilient Sage plant that survived the winter. I willed my Yarrow to come up soon, bright and yellow. </span></div></div><div class="o9v6fnle cxmmr5t8 oygrvhab hcukyx3x c1et5uql ii04i59q" style="caret-color: rgb(5, 5, 5); color: #050505; margin: 0.5em 0px 0px; white-space: pre-wrap; word-wrap: break-word;"><div dir="auto"><span style="font-family: times;">Then, I took a towel and my pruning shears and went to sit down beside my other herb garden, closer to the house. It's time that I harvested some of my Lavender, so I did. Noting how "woody" woody plants truly are. I trimmed each stem of Lavender carefully, pruned it back and what did I find....CILANTRO! There was cilantro underneath my Lavender! And to my right was one, small, lovely stalk of runaway dill. I cleared all of the Lemon Balm, Spearmint and Mint that has tried to over take this little plot. I liberated the Thyme from all of them.</span></div></div><div class="o9v6fnle cxmmr5t8 oygrvhab hcukyx3x c1et5uql ii04i59q" style="caret-color: rgb(5, 5, 5); color: #050505; margin: 0.5em 0px 0px; white-space: pre-wrap; word-wrap: break-word;"><div dir="auto"><span style="font-family: times;"> And it got me thinking- plants do what they want. Some of them bulldoze over the other plants, competing to take over the entire garden. This is just like some humans. This is exactly what kept me up this morning. If plants compete and dominate for their own survival, not for the greater good of the garden, then is it only to be expected and accepted in human behavior? That thought made me so sad and defeated. But then, I thought about the trees and everything we know now about the inner workings of a forest, the symbiosis of trees and the moss and the fungi. I suppose it gave me hope, not every living thing is destined to be a jerk.</span></div></div><div class="o9v6fnle cxmmr5t8 oygrvhab hcukyx3x c1et5uql ii04i59q" style="caret-color: rgb(5, 5, 5); color: #050505; margin: 0.5em 0px 0px; white-space: pre-wrap; word-wrap: break-word;"><div dir="auto"><span style="font-family: times;">I carefully etched two shallow rows into the dirt with a little trowel and sowed some cilantro seeds. And then a fuzzy Bumble Bee flew up and began to buzz from one Lavender blossom to the next, right in front of my face. It was so cute I wanted to kiss him! Instead I just said "hello." The birds were out by now, chirping their repetitive morning calls. We have a red-winged Blackbird and we whistled a round together. Or maybe more like ten rounds, and then I sang him apropos Beatles songs, like "Mother Nature's Son."</span></div></div><div class="o9v6fnle cxmmr5t8 oygrvhab hcukyx3x c1et5uql ii04i59q" style="caret-color: rgb(5, 5, 5); color: #050505; margin: 0.5em 0px 0px; white-space: pre-wrap; word-wrap: break-word;"><div dir="auto"><span style="font-family: times;">It all made me realize that this is where I belong. Quiet, peaceful, slow. Perhaps not the most popular choice in life - I know now with great certainty that 80% I could and should be living as a monk in a monastic community. That would be ok.Rest assured more George Harrison in Rishikesh than Howard Hughes at the Desert Inn.</span></div></div><div class="o9v6fnle cxmmr5t8 oygrvhab hcukyx3x c1et5uql ii04i59q" style="caret-color: rgb(5, 5, 5); color: #050505; margin: 0.5em 0px 0px; white-space: pre-wrap; word-wrap: break-word;"><div dir="auto"><span style="font-family: times;">As for all of the selfishness and pain going on in the world? I'm not sure, but in order to keep sane, keep staying up, it's ok to do what you need to do, even if that means quietly cloistering yourself at home or in your garden among the cilantro if it feels right. </span></div><div dir="auto"><span style="font-family: times;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/TMMiXjwhODU" width="320" youtube-src-id="TMMiXjwhODU"></iframe></div><br /><div dir="auto" style="text-align: center;"><br /></div></div>Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05093968853372697053noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9902677.post-22816425901354200972021-06-03T14:40:00.002-04:002021-06-03T14:52:50.951-04:00426 Days At Home<p><span style="font-family: Special Elite;"><b>*PROLOGUE - As I write this prologue, it is now early June of 2021. Life has gotten so much better since beginning this post last fall. (Don't worry, this entry isn't all doom and gloom at all, it just starts off that way. ) </b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: Special Elite;"><b>After all was said and done, we ended up stay in our home, pretty literally, for almost 14 months to the day. 426 days. As I go on to mention below, for 14 months we avoided stores, restaurants, get togethers with friends and family. It was really really difficult. Detroit was hit very hard with three waves of the Coronavirus and since we were lucky enough to have Jon working from home, and Noah doing virtual school, we took that safety bubble of ours very seriously. Like so many of you, I know lots of people who have contracted the virus over the past 18 months and sadly almost as many who have had parents and Grandparents pass from this awful disease. So, we take it very seriously!</b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: Special Elite;"><b>During the fall of 2020, when I wrote the following post, I was feeling so low. Pandemic fatigue and loneliness had set in and the social and political climate in America had really really gotten me down. Our country was on fire. It's the best way that I can put it. Everyday was like watching a distressing movie. That's how it felt for me. </b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: Special Elite;"><b>I've decided to go ahead an publish this half-finished post because I want to park it on the blog to remember this time. This hasn't been a good year and a half, but it's been a life-changing year and a half, so it's important to document. Thanks for following along.</b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: Special Elite;"><b><br /></b></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite;"><b>(<span style="font-size: x-small;">The morning we received our 2nd. vaccines.)</span></b></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bKO2yGhH844/YLkk190V1WI/AAAAAAAALno/mk13CMX9lNk-PrsM4PZpdAq3IQvFg1i8wCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/KQNL7745.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bKO2yGhH844/YLkk190V1WI/AAAAAAAALno/mk13CMX9lNk-PrsM4PZpdAq3IQvFg1i8wCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/KQNL7745.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div><span style="font-family: Special Elite;"><br /><b><br /></b></span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: Special Elite;"><b>________________________________________________</b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: Special Elite;">I'm sitting in the bathtub while I type this. Which, I just realized, is probably not recommended. So because I am a rule follower, I will now close my laptop and brb...</span></p><p><span style="font-family: "Special Elite";">I'm back. I </span><i style="font-family: "Special Elite";"><b>was </b></i><span style="font-family: "Special Elite";">sitting in the bathtub typing this, and now I'm post-bath, flat on my back, typing from bed. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: Special Elite;">In an attempt to lower my anxiety and rid myself of a stress headache , I had decide to take one of those epsom salt, magnesium baths. Do you know the kind? I also have a scented soy wax melt thingy going. It's called "Honey Soaked Apples," in honor I suppose of Rosh Hashanah. Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year that is soon upon us, and for some strange reason I am hyper focusing on for the first time in my entire life. </span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite;">(Spent days drawing the Rosh Hashanah greeting card.)</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ampb47HHq7Y/YLhMy9G-VOI/AAAAAAAALjs/y03FWWG2Kv82_LbkXziDiROjOu5DnslwQCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/CVMS5308.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="543" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ampb47HHq7Y/YLhMy9G-VOI/AAAAAAAALjs/y03FWWG2Kv82_LbkXziDiROjOu5DnslwQCLcBGAsYHQ/w543-h543/CVMS5308.jpg" width="543" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: Special Elite;"><br /></span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: Special Elite;">I would have to guess that this is because anything to focus on rather than my anxiety is a good thing. Also, just to note, Noah and Jonathan both said that my new wax melt smells like pineapple, not apples and honey, and it has ruined my fall mood.</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7igqG7xU06E/X1jdS07XZuI/AAAAAAAALL8/ly-jyuQ5NbomAQ1BzYpGTxf_t3pGU15HACLcBGAsYHQ/s802/Screen%2BShot%2B2020-09-08%2Bat%2B8.23.34%2BPM.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="802" data-original-width="726" height="256" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7igqG7xU06E/X1jdS07XZuI/AAAAAAAALL8/ly-jyuQ5NbomAQ1BzYpGTxf_t3pGU15HACLcBGAsYHQ/w232-h256/Screen%2BShot%2B2020-09-08%2Bat%2B8.23.34%2BPM.png" width="232" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: Special Elite;"><br /></span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: Special Elite;">It's so funny, because before the past week or two, I was actually doing well throughout this pandemic. Like, truly well, even in terms of anxiety. I held myself together, stayed upbeat, positive, driven, focused and in control! There were grand, exciting plans for food storage and farming, and household essentials stockpiled in the basement. I made online accounts for produce delivery, weekly grocery delivery, costco delivery, medication delivery, school supplies and books and even a chest freezer for our garage. There was lots of disinfectants and online therapy and you name it, I had it figured out . I even found how to accurately measure Noah's ever-growing feet with some online, printable measuring device and ordered him snow boots. BAM! </span></p><p><span style="font-family: "Special Elite";"> I was king of this pandemic. So much so that it was I, scaredy cat Lauren who was reassuring and holding it together for OTHER people. "I've got this and you've got this!" I said.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Special Elite;">But then, I don't know, something changed. Maybe it was just fatigue as we approach this week- the 6th full month of staying home. We're more "careful" than 99% of my friends. For six months, we haven't been to a single store, grocery store, restaurant , carryout, friend visit, trip, adventure....just nothing. We can't even take walks around our busy area , unless it's at night, but even the four times we did that, each one involved groups of teens whizzing by us or endless other people walking their dog in the cover of night too. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: Special Elite;">Maybe though, my sudden anxiety is probably also up because our country has just spiraled into a totally divisive, conflict riddled hell. It's absolutely depressing to me, the state of our society, parts of our culture, parts of our past and parts of our now. I know with 100% of my heart, that I don't belong here. I'm not an American at heart. So maybe that's it- I feel trapped in a place that stresses me out and upsets me on a daily basis. As a friend put it, it's like being on a ship captained by a madman. Beyond that though, I'm sitting here trapped in a stress bubble because there is a pandemic outside of my window and it's out-of-control in our particular country compared to most of the rest of the world. It's because nobody cared in the first place to just stick around home and get our numbers to a manageable level during the first wave. We are a hopeless society on a whole.</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-d4pTU7hqdEY/X1jg5nkB-YI/AAAAAAAALMI/DFgJVksietU991iPF4VzB8ITltQMiRn3QCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/thank-you-for-listening-to-me-vent-and-dealing-with-me-being-crazy-just-wanted-to-say-i-love-you.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="240" data-original-width="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-d4pTU7hqdEY/X1jg5nkB-YI/AAAAAAAALMI/DFgJVksietU991iPF4VzB8ITltQMiRn3QCLcBGAsYHQ/s0/thank-you-for-listening-to-me-vent-and-dealing-with-me-being-crazy-just-wanted-to-say-i-love-you.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite;">Thank you. Ok, I feel better now. I just needed to get that off of my chest. You might not agree with me on the state of my country, or maybe you do, but...Im feeling down and worried and mostly just really really sad about what's been going on around here, and concerned about the future too.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite;">For the past six months I have been keeping busy. Very busy actually, in a good way! In a striving to never be bored way. First off, I've learned how to make digital art using the program "procreate" and an ipad. It's is SO MUCH FUN! It's wonderfully relaxing to spend an evening doodling in bed. Here is my favorite place- our local cider mill.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LCxEMpxky60/YLgHfUSm8QI/AAAAAAAALbI/SyHxO33zKWsL3THlv8YBBbW0GBNfVzjZwCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/Untitled_Artwork%2Bcopy%2B6.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="427" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LCxEMpxky60/YLgHfUSm8QI/AAAAAAAALbI/SyHxO33zKWsL3THlv8YBBbW0GBNfVzjZwCLcBGAsYHQ/w569-h427/Untitled_Artwork%2Bcopy%2B6.jpg" width="569" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><span style="font-family: Special Elite;">And then squirrels and a chipmunk driving to my favorite place-our local cider mill.</span><br /><span style="font-family: Special Elite;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NgHQ3McWC3c/YLg37xEEUOI/AAAAAAAALdo/ianNxtqF9-MX6ycxan29kc7nezaYIypFwCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/CJPK2135.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="508" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NgHQ3McWC3c/YLg37xEEUOI/AAAAAAAALdo/ianNxtqF9-MX6ycxan29kc7nezaYIypFwCLcBGAsYHQ/w508-h508/CJPK2135.jpg" width="508" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite;">I will include some other drawings. Actually, I opened an Etsy store to sell prints and stickers. I wasn't planing to do that, but some friends asked for framable prints and refused to accept them for free. I found an online company that does art prints, created an Etsy shop, connected the two and voila'! It's been interesting to learn how the whole thing works. I have a lot of respect for independent creators. They work hard. My shop is called "<a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/LolosLittleStudio?ref=seller-platform-mcnav" target="_blank">Lolo's Little Studio</a>."</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite;">______________________________________________________________</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite;"><b>*EPILOGUE- And that my friends, is where I stopped for the night back in 2020. I was tired. There's more to document though. This has been such a strange time, so I would love to park a few memory on the blog and keep in this post going.</b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite;">The new digital art hobby went on to become an actual thing! I've absolutely loved drawing on the iPad and have kept it up. There were a lot of winter themed drawings that got me through the cold, dark months. Like these:</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mR1wgsSZ69w/YLgQ0cQVvPI/AAAAAAAALbQ/0dGf_rV-occqSqdoAv5ZEjQVq4BkS14ZACLcBGAsYHQ/s1781/127183158_10158837869437394_4123978840721028128_o.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1781" data-original-width="1500" height="516" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mR1wgsSZ69w/YLgQ0cQVvPI/AAAAAAAALbQ/0dGf_rV-occqSqdoAv5ZEjQVq4BkS14ZACLcBGAsYHQ/w435-h516/127183158_10158837869437394_4123978840721028128_o.jpg" width="435" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kOUkZWV0am8/YLgQ2fkFrAI/AAAAAAAALbU/YYLFpxUxCfgISV_kcAo22iyq8ag1mFb7wCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/Untitled_Artwork%2B2.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1664" data-original-width="2048" height="364" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kOUkZWV0am8/YLgQ2fkFrAI/AAAAAAAALbU/YYLFpxUxCfgISV_kcAo22iyq8ag1mFb7wCLcBGAsYHQ/w448-h364/Untitled_Artwork%2B2.jpg" width="448" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jyXyr5MOmGo/YLgQ3lccJGI/AAAAAAAALbY/K6AAw29bY48X4S3SaI7Ma8b6ua8Dmb3bQCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/SnowyEvening.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1638" data-original-width="2048" height="353" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jyXyr5MOmGo/YLgQ3lccJGI/AAAAAAAALbY/K6AAw29bY48X4S3SaI7Ma8b6ua8Dmb3bQCLcBGAsYHQ/w442-h353/SnowyEvening.jpg" width="442" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fVHaI3qr78M/YLgRBqyvOtI/AAAAAAAALbg/Qy3Tm2Oy7hYBd--YIGcZbWmImZd7f4elACLcBGAsYHQ/s2042/Untitled_Artwork%2Bcopy%2B19.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1617" data-original-width="2042" height="347" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fVHaI3qr78M/YLgRBqyvOtI/AAAAAAAALbg/Qy3Tm2Oy7hYBd--YIGcZbWmImZd7f4elACLcBGAsYHQ/w439-h347/Untitled_Artwork%2Bcopy%2B19.jpg" width="439" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_gFlsAoNkWg/YLgR5fdfEwI/AAAAAAAALb0/UEbpNkLLqTkH37jj0iUmNEulZpmjBWHVACLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/Untitled_Artwork%2Bcopy%2B18.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1488" data-original-width="2048" height="367" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_gFlsAoNkWg/YLgR5fdfEwI/AAAAAAAALb0/UEbpNkLLqTkH37jj0iUmNEulZpmjBWHVACLcBGAsYHQ/w507-h367/Untitled_Artwork%2Bcopy%2B18.jpg" width="507" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Special Elite"; text-align: left;">I just kept going and even did several commissioned drawings of people's homes and businesses. </span><span style="font-family: "Special Elite"; text-align: left;">My most recent was just run as an ad for a</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Special Elite"; text-align: left;"> restaurant in a local paper! </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite;">For the most part though, a lot has just been nostalgic, fun drawing. The bustling little hill where I live:</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KCb5KiyhuRI/YLgSCECZjuI/AAAAAAAALb4/ZIErkjFRZsQ76yAqih6U9JEitZDT41JJwCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/107009927_10158490823247394_4693893194847298333_o.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="439" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KCb5KiyhuRI/YLgSCECZjuI/AAAAAAAALb4/ZIErkjFRZsQ76yAqih6U9JEitZDT41JJwCLcBGAsYHQ/w585-h439/107009927_10158490823247394_4693893194847298333_o.jpg" width="585" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite;">My favorite bread, Challah.....</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bH_ZIjCHx8k/YLgSDirWMWI/AAAAAAAALb8/eOX8dweZUmIxbXI5234-FcTMySdwAjw6gCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/Untitled_Artwork%2Bcopy%2B7.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="423" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bH_ZIjCHx8k/YLgSDirWMWI/AAAAAAAALb8/eOX8dweZUmIxbXI5234-FcTMySdwAjw6gCLcBGAsYHQ/w423-h423/Untitled_Artwork%2Bcopy%2B7.jpg" width="423" /></a></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite;">A fantasy world where I am the only one at my local soft serve .</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-M72gbcaaqps/YLg2J0A9MLI/AAAAAAAALdE/qCLmIExnNfAXL-pHOLJ1_zaZKHd_GzpjwCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IKPB3573.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1509" data-original-width="2048" height="367" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-M72gbcaaqps/YLg2J0A9MLI/AAAAAAAALdE/qCLmIExnNfAXL-pHOLJ1_zaZKHd_GzpjwCLcBGAsYHQ/w497-h367/IKPB3573.jpg" width="497" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite;">Some little inspirational ditties....</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZztDe59_LXs/YLgSE6c7xFI/AAAAAAAALcA/9p7mmtaS6PUbRa5TPITZYa1uj2VlOc04wCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/Untitled_Artwork.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="363" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZztDe59_LXs/YLgSE6c7xFI/AAAAAAAALcA/9p7mmtaS6PUbRa5TPITZYa1uj2VlOc04wCLcBGAsYHQ/w363-h363/Untitled_Artwork.jpg" width="363" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-v_c5zsKOcxo/YLgSGpm94gI/AAAAAAAALcE/wrbUvk4iyMAMzwrNsKf2VNNzAWzU7ivpACLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/Untitled_Artwork-2%2Bcopy%2B5.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="437" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-v_c5zsKOcxo/YLgSGpm94gI/AAAAAAAALcE/wrbUvk4iyMAMzwrNsKf2VNNzAWzU7ivpACLcBGAsYHQ/w437-h437/Untitled_Artwork-2%2Bcopy%2B5.jpg" width="437" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite;"> I tried my hand at making some stickers, which was really fun and....</span></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KYIGtaqNnsk/YLgSIGu4vmI/AAAAAAAALcI/f-vK-4SoWhACSlagSCTO1LsUboKH2Cd_wCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/Untitled_Artwork-2%2Bcopy%2B2.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="382" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KYIGtaqNnsk/YLgSIGu4vmI/AAAAAAAALcI/f-vK-4SoWhACSlagSCTO1LsUboKH2Cd_wCLcBGAsYHQ/w509-h382/Untitled_Artwork-2%2Bcopy%2B2.jpg" width="509" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite;">And I learned how to create mini animations!!</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='382' height='318' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dyX1rto39b5npyZNcNnvhMnhzGAwSl0OtBaW5cksjeDRQuteQ0bv6D6gFsS3N_rbk1K5dMMD3P5TWU' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div><br /><span style="font-family: Special Elite;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite;">Like I mentioned, this time was all about keeping busy, making the most of things, and learning everything that I could. I tried to stay sane and to help keep my family going. We cooked every single meal and tried lots of new dishes. We baked! I kept a detailed list of each new recipe. There was vegetable gardening and planting flowers. Crocheting and reading and learning a new language- Yiddish! I kept a journal, we took drives and I read the news each day. I listened to A LOT of podcasts, I love podcasts. I was interviewed about going gray on a Youtube channel and was a guest on a webinar. Those were first for me! Also, there were Zoom calls with all of our family and friends and Zoom parties and Zoom family reunions, Zoom classes, Zoom groups. One of them being a weekly chat group that I lead for people at our synagogue who were stuck at home like myself and looking for some company and encouragement Basically it was Zoom everyday all day for a while. I'm really thankful for this technology. </span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite;">My niece and nephew and I like to have a watch parties with Youtube videos of animals. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2FrebKOAS_k/YLg2zs5iV7I/AAAAAAAALdM/bryyEV9xsoE8RgmpKtD9sIA1fnG7hdO-gCLcBGAsYHQ/s2516/IMG_0912.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1240" data-original-width="2516" height="248" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2FrebKOAS_k/YLg2zs5iV7I/AAAAAAAALdM/bryyEV9xsoE8RgmpKtD9sIA1fnG7hdO-gCLcBGAsYHQ/w502-h248/IMG_0912.jpg" width="502" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><span style="font-family: Special Elite;">I'd Zoom from outside. (More on our deck bubble later.)</span><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zLOmLtJB0uA/YLg23HXx5gI/AAAAAAAALdQ/4jTzuiHmMH4DKcppgjQ4hEWqYrZq5zxYQCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_9755.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zLOmLtJB0uA/YLg23HXx5gI/AAAAAAAALdQ/4jTzuiHmMH4DKcppgjQ4hEWqYrZq5zxYQCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_9755.jpg" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: Special Elite;">There were the birthday parties</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PF28m0_Vfyg/YLgq1vEGnkI/AAAAAAAALcc/o6udMbsn57AxZy4x2RGmRG97LRd3WwstwCLcBGAsYHQ/s1624/Screen%2BShot%2B2020-12-31%2Bat%2B3.53.14%2BPM.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1088" data-original-width="1624" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PF28m0_Vfyg/YLgq1vEGnkI/AAAAAAAALcc/o6udMbsn57AxZy4x2RGmRG97LRd3WwstwCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/Screen%2BShot%2B2020-12-31%2Bat%2B3.53.14%2BPM.png" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><span style="font-family: Special Elite;">And more and more and more....</span><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-61ItOL8bplA/YLgq2lqLj2I/AAAAAAAALcg/XJX19VfeBrMXztPcgnoDO_xfdDtKk3eRwCLcBGAsYHQ/s974/Screen%2BShot%2B2020-06-25%2Bat%2B4.37.14%2BPM.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="558" data-original-width="974" height="234" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-61ItOL8bplA/YLgq2lqLj2I/AAAAAAAALcg/XJX19VfeBrMXztPcgnoDO_xfdDtKk3eRwCLcBGAsYHQ/w410-h234/Screen%2BShot%2B2020-06-25%2Bat%2B4.37.14%2BPM.png" width="410" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gPL3jIi_MBk/YLgq7CeSu7I/AAAAAAAALck/1Ro7OLEq3Rs5Tdln_w7vpbanLx_L7tDBQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1228/Screen%2BShot%2B2021-03-01%2Bat%2B3.23.00%2BPM.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1228" data-original-width="1118" height="429" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gPL3jIi_MBk/YLgq7CeSu7I/AAAAAAAALck/1Ro7OLEq3Rs5Tdln_w7vpbanLx_L7tDBQCLcBGAsYHQ/w390-h429/Screen%2BShot%2B2021-03-01%2Bat%2B3.23.00%2BPM.png" width="390" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1LNw3reaZao/YLgq8iM47gI/AAAAAAAALco/1aaRzccwZzoObJ5LEw6arGNb1JZKcLiXwCLcBGAsYHQ/s2020/Screen%2BShot%2B2021-02-07%2Bat%2B2.21.13%2BPM.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1430" data-original-width="2020" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1LNw3reaZao/YLgq8iM47gI/AAAAAAAALco/1aaRzccwZzoObJ5LEw6arGNb1JZKcLiXwCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/Screen%2BShot%2B2021-02-07%2Bat%2B2.21.13%2BPM.png" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-09lV1jEtVm4/YLgrCSLH8XI/AAAAAAAALcs/K0FvTB4I904QZUwwB2XrT5MAQBz_WBLIACLcBGAsYHQ/s2428/Screen%2BShot%2B2021-05-26%2Bat%2B4.20.38%2BPM.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1144" data-original-width="2428" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-09lV1jEtVm4/YLgrCSLH8XI/AAAAAAAALcs/K0FvTB4I904QZUwwB2XrT5MAQBz_WBLIACLcBGAsYHQ/s320/Screen%2BShot%2B2021-05-26%2Bat%2B4.20.38%2BPM.png" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><span style="font-family: Special Elite;">I learned how to change my background and Jon grew a large "Pandemic Beard."</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XrwdNz84JK4/YLgrFEv20wI/AAAAAAAALcw/zOQ9Y_yb8nkwRT147f2PQyVjkGxTL2mMQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1924/Screen%2BShot%2B2020-04-23%2Bat%2B1.58.49%2BPM.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1458" data-original-width="1924" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XrwdNz84JK4/YLgrFEv20wI/AAAAAAAALcw/zOQ9Y_yb8nkwRT147f2PQyVjkGxTL2mMQCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/Screen%2BShot%2B2020-04-23%2Bat%2B1.58.49%2BPM.png" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite;">Oh, and there were some great Zoom memes during this time.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Hp4XgsZI2wQ/YLg_cd2eCFI/AAAAAAAALiw/21RDpvoSr9cw2DBt-ZH5wgBHzOyBHwjtgCLcBGAsYHQ/s1118/Screen%2BShot%2B2020-11-25%2Bat%2B10.52.07%2BPM.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1118" data-original-width="1016" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Hp4XgsZI2wQ/YLg_cd2eCFI/AAAAAAAALiw/21RDpvoSr9cw2DBt-ZH5wgBHzOyBHwjtgCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/Screen%2BShot%2B2020-11-25%2Bat%2B10.52.07%2BPM.png" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1XUtLQKr80U/YLg_dwAlqYI/AAAAAAAALi0/_SK2wojTMzg_--iT2WdXV2lSorliEUSnwCLcBGAsYHQ/s1234/Screen%2BShot%2B2020-06-05%2Bat%2B11.40.47%2BPM.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1234" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1XUtLQKr80U/YLg_dwAlqYI/AAAAAAAALi0/_SK2wojTMzg_--iT2WdXV2lSorliEUSnwCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/Screen%2BShot%2B2020-06-05%2Bat%2B11.40.47%2BPM.png" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UoFNsncvBe0/YLg_fuKyX1I/AAAAAAAALi4/uZUnFfINQ70dE41jXGBUTnxny6M2axkWwCLcBGAsYHQ/s1062/Screen%2BShot%2B2020-03-31%2Bat%2B10.50.16%2BPM.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1062" data-original-width="820" height="437" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UoFNsncvBe0/YLg_fuKyX1I/AAAAAAAALi4/uZUnFfINQ70dE41jXGBUTnxny6M2axkWwCLcBGAsYHQ/w337-h437/Screen%2BShot%2B2020-03-31%2Bat%2B10.50.16%2BPM.png" width="337" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Special Elite"; text-align: left;">It really is astonishing to me, when I go back and look over the photos form the past year and a half, just how much we have done together at home. It was stressful and a bit scary, but more so, it was such a gift of time to be together. I will never ever forget that. Here are a few more pictures for posterity of some of the things that we did. I'll try to go in chronological order the best that I can.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Special Elite"; text-align: left;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Special Elite"; text-align: left;">It started out like this. I told you I was all holding it together, going in to this pandemic STRONG! I tore apart out utility closet, bought some shelves and turned it into what we affectionately call the "Prepper Closet." Then I filled it and and pantry full of emergency bulk food items. I was ready and a lot of people were laughing at me. They thought I was Chicken Little and over reacting. Then I made this drawing and posted it on my Facebook page.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nbUQkae2wBg/YLg6rTFmlxI/AAAAAAAALd8/X_1OEmexC_Es3EkGXnpGqXEfsw72SUtXwCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/HCIN9619.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nbUQkae2wBg/YLg6rTFmlxI/AAAAAAAALd8/X_1OEmexC_Es3EkGXnpGqXEfsw72SUtXwCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/HCIN9619.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><span style="font-family: Special Elite;">I was trying to be positive and upbeat for everyone, by making a series of hopeful front window decorations.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kAKAS0dGKlQ/YLg6sujBqbI/AAAAAAAALeA/LEj8pWNUKiIK-mKJbkT0Ax6LtWYqTMtoQCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_6721.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="384" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kAKAS0dGKlQ/YLg6sujBqbI/AAAAAAAALeA/LEj8pWNUKiIK-mKJbkT0Ax6LtWYqTMtoQCLcBGAsYHQ/w288-h384/IMG_6721.jpg" width="288" /></a><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-P78EOclLYsQ/YLg6tagR5HI/AAAAAAAALeE/DCPOS2LWDewWGDWLXEI18QY67tUUpSi_wCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_E6725.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="379" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-P78EOclLYsQ/YLg6tagR5HI/AAAAAAAALeE/DCPOS2LWDewWGDWLXEI18QY67tUUpSi_wCLcBGAsYHQ/w286-h379/IMG_E6725.jpg" width="286" /></a></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><span style="font-family: Special Elite;">In retrospect, maybe I was a little bit too idealistic. 😅😬</span><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ILd7XFU5JE8/YLg6ujKRLjI/AAAAAAAALeI/Z7xs3bLgIWs7DN1tGVZdr9RrxTyfYef5gCLcBGAsYHQ/s828/IMG_E6987.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="805" data-original-width="828" height="392" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ILd7XFU5JE8/YLg6ujKRLjI/AAAAAAAALeI/Z7xs3bLgIWs7DN1tGVZdr9RrxTyfYef5gCLcBGAsYHQ/w403-h392/IMG_E6987.jpg" width="403" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><span style="font-family: Special Elite;">Crocheted this useful gem. 😂</span><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Pkn6psrcY8w/YLg69pEgIBI/AAAAAAAALeU/xB_NMwAgPJUHMkjoLiJf9glfjYEq9DUNgCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_E7093.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="328" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Pkn6psrcY8w/YLg69pEgIBI/AAAAAAAALeU/xB_NMwAgPJUHMkjoLiJf9glfjYEq9DUNgCLcBGAsYHQ/w246-h328/IMG_E7093.jpg" width="246" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite;">TODAY is my Grandma's 99th Birthday!! Can you believe it!? Isn't that great? Last spring, at the beginning of the Pandemic, my parents brought her home from her senior living apartment to stay at their house for four months. It was just safer that way. My Mom sent me these photos. My Uncle drove four hours just to surprise my Grandma and speak to her through the window. It was so sad. She hadn't seen him in a while and we didn't know the next time that she would be able to hug her son.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xevZefgHSp0/YLg7KIqZvhI/AAAAAAAALek/AQ5TRYywtA0MF1RBsK2WzEmBpe5DcDKeQCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_2951.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xevZefgHSp0/YLg7KIqZvhI/AAAAAAAALek/AQ5TRYywtA0MF1RBsK2WzEmBpe5DcDKeQCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_2951.jpeg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><span style="font-family: Special Elite;">After a short visit, he gave her a kiss through the window before he left for home. </span><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qPWtWIa_3wQ/YLg7MDrnWJI/AAAAAAAALeo/kUjOu_oWNtMOo-yLR5TkxKoXnK59dMnlwCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_2947.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qPWtWIa_3wQ/YLg7MDrnWJI/AAAAAAAALeo/kUjOu_oWNtMOo-yLR5TkxKoXnK59dMnlwCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_2947.jpeg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite;">As soon as the snow melted we decided to make the most of our outdoor space for the coming spring and summer. So we made bonfires and roasted marshmallows over it on sticks and made S'mores.</span></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9HbjSGM1bVU/YLg7UcLNYcI/AAAAAAAALew/9gIl5xXVwbAhK0PN2gUCEOAxex7HWaw1wCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_7657.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="348" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9HbjSGM1bVU/YLg7UcLNYcI/AAAAAAAALew/9gIl5xXVwbAhK0PN2gUCEOAxex7HWaw1wCLcBGAsYHQ/w261-h348/IMG_7657.jpg" width="261" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: Special Elite;">I became REALLY into graphing my own daily case counts for our county and annoyed everyone with updates. Until official tracking websites popped up. </span><br /><span style="font-family: Special Elite;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dC7-xf-eQaI/YLg7oV__zfI/AAAAAAAALfA/o4cUUaC4XyEhsxDK27QqsodWJMcgZGnbgCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_E7208.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1254" data-original-width="2048" height="314" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dC7-xf-eQaI/YLg7oV__zfI/AAAAAAAALfA/o4cUUaC4XyEhsxDK27QqsodWJMcgZGnbgCLcBGAsYHQ/w512-h314/IMG_E7208.jpg" width="512" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite;">I started my vegetables from seeds, on a rickety, old clothes drying rack turned shelves, because everyone knows it's a good idea to play with dirt in your bedroom. Over carpet. With two cats and a dog bumping into it everyday. </span></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1uT72Bx89kE/YLg7lv_gfxI/AAAAAAAALe8/Avv5fmO6aDcprR6gBVl84njt70PHVFqqgCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_6946.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1uT72Bx89kE/YLg7lv_gfxI/AAAAAAAALe8/Avv5fmO6aDcprR6gBVl84njt70PHVFqqgCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_6946.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite;">But like always, the sun started shining more and the birds began to sing. Last spring our wisteria vine Harry had the most magnificent blooms!!!</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite;"><br /></span></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TUdC2-iBklk/YLg8JJKIMJI/AAAAAAAALfI/JO4lj-_x2NgKNDT3MIPadzgYrpHrEQhTACLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_7854.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="496" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TUdC2-iBklk/YLg8JJKIMJI/AAAAAAAALfI/JO4lj-_x2NgKNDT3MIPadzgYrpHrEQhTACLcBGAsYHQ/w372-h496/IMG_7854.jpg" width="372" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite;">I grew wildflowers, lots of wildflowers out front to make people smile, and this spring even more have popped up, all on their own!</span></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LFAiM-e5LdU/YLg8Me9TCQI/AAAAAAAALfM/wq5rwHGe3fUipezw5lMiPdUQfeetap1_ACLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_8767.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="452" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LFAiM-e5LdU/YLg8Me9TCQI/AAAAAAAALfM/wq5rwHGe3fUipezw5lMiPdUQfeetap1_ACLcBGAsYHQ/w339-h452/IMG_8767.jpg" width="339" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite;">And here is my extra big, Sunflower. 💓</span></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-j4Vs_ufBDbs/YLg8NCYTPhI/AAAAAAAALfQ/wPNd_PNYIZkNJjp8H8YLY3EbxbG7mFZtQCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_8957.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="519" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-j4Vs_ufBDbs/YLg8NCYTPhI/AAAAAAAALfQ/wPNd_PNYIZkNJjp8H8YLY3EbxbG7mFZtQCLcBGAsYHQ/w389-h519/IMG_8957.jpg" width="389" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite;">The vegetable garden had some success, mostly lettuces and tomatoes. It just ended up being too shady for a lot of plants. I hadn't realized how much shade we actually get in that corner when everything is full and grown in. What a great learning experience though. I had a pumpkin and mellon patch on the lawn. I need to find a picture of that!</span></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TodpmAsT5HI/YLg8Qh69Q-I/AAAAAAAALfU/AAUtzNdGgKMu040J4-UjVtNCTYZIgnjRgCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_8082.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="481" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TodpmAsT5HI/YLg8Qh69Q-I/AAAAAAAALfU/AAUtzNdGgKMu040J4-UjVtNCTYZIgnjRgCLcBGAsYHQ/w361-h481/IMG_8082.jpg" width="361" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite;">Here are my HUGE carrots and pumpkins!!! SUCCESS!! </span>😂😂😂</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mKBlekaHIWg/YLg8Stc7isI/AAAAAAAALfY/eOyD5au1gdc9tDjehfSDMIUfMW3vjZI2wCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_9205.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="532" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mKBlekaHIWg/YLg8Stc7isI/AAAAAAAALfY/eOyD5au1gdc9tDjehfSDMIUfMW3vjZI2wCLcBGAsYHQ/w399-h532/IMG_9205.jpg" width="399" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite;">The herb garden that I kept did much better. I was able to make some mint tea and dried a bunch of different herbs. The lavender smelled so fantastic! I dried it and then displayed it in a vase.</span></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-J1GQsjqeWCk/YLg8VImr7cI/AAAAAAAALfc/fjIDY_QnQoQFWzcAw4ee1UPoi4n17puPQCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_7882.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="515" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-J1GQsjqeWCk/YLg8VImr7cI/AAAAAAAALfc/fjIDY_QnQoQFWzcAw4ee1UPoi4n17puPQCLcBGAsYHQ/w386-h515/IMG_7882.jpg" width="386" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tUycxc5E8D4/YLhPY4Mj2iI/AAAAAAAALnE/4fAbRxyPEj4KQ_ROCBVKE-q9WAjEk04PACLcBGAsYHQ/s1801/VAOS7440.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1801" data-original-width="1440" height="429" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tUycxc5E8D4/YLhPY4Mj2iI/AAAAAAAALnE/4fAbRxyPEj4KQ_ROCBVKE-q9WAjEk04PACLcBGAsYHQ/w343-h429/VAOS7440.jpg" width="343" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite;">In the summer I wanted to spend some time volunteering from home. I was involved in this great project. We were crocheting sleeping mats for homeless people made from "plarn." Plarn is plastic yarn. Yarn made from plastic grocery bags that were flattened, made into strips and connected together to for the largest balls of yarn you have ever seen. The mats are surprisingly durable and soft and perfect for insulating. They keep the cold of a floor at bay. You roll the mats up and they come with a crocheted tie and carrying strap.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--NZq39rdCOc/YLg9LDIeLRI/AAAAAAAALgc/8pSAWSK1_U4OUTR_gYkFvJ_DYBjXsEYKgCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_E8784.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="512" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--NZq39rdCOc/YLg9LDIeLRI/AAAAAAAALgc/8pSAWSK1_U4OUTR_gYkFvJ_DYBjXsEYKgCLcBGAsYHQ/w384-h512/IMG_E8784.jpg" width="384" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite;">We sat outside often on warm summer nights.</span></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Od_CVNDyb8g/YLg85p5qS3I/AAAAAAAALgA/ecPqPHDMR9odr4VrKHKRd_En1kYXGVvwQCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_8778.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Od_CVNDyb8g/YLg85p5qS3I/AAAAAAAALgA/ecPqPHDMR9odr4VrKHKRd_En1kYXGVvwQCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_8778.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite;">We talked. It was incredibly nice spending time with Noah.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SEOcucykKOo/YLg87Hc8_iI/AAAAAAAALgE/1S3ds0coWgkqlHKvsGfq58K9sElcuxbygCLcBGAsYHQ/s1440/VFHU3496.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="1440" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SEOcucykKOo/YLg87Hc8_iI/AAAAAAAALgE/1S3ds0coWgkqlHKvsGfq58K9sElcuxbygCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/VFHU3496.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite;">Gosh I'm lucky to have had this summer with him around the house. We had great conversations about politics and current events. Each day brought something new and surprising to talk about in the evening.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite;"><br /></span></div><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0_nSUkyF6-M/YLg88EW6PWI/AAAAAAAALgI/vqdVJx5VzycQ1lFOhO3Hhe6vGgH0eILngCLcBGAsYHQ/s1440/DTDO7562.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="1440" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0_nSUkyF6-M/YLg88EW6PWI/AAAAAAAALgI/vqdVJx5VzycQ1lFOhO3Hhe6vGgH0eILngCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/DTDO7562.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite;">Politics and society and civics. We got to turn in my voting ballot together and tried to support the causes that we believe in. It was a nerve wracking but exciting time.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BUJ5u88fJnQ/YLhPeyd6UTI/AAAAAAAALnI/qMGesPR__bQ1PUOnzMNqpcYC8NTc-gZyACLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_8395.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="695" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BUJ5u88fJnQ/YLhPeyd6UTI/AAAAAAAALnI/qMGesPR__bQ1PUOnzMNqpcYC8NTc-gZyACLcBGAsYHQ/w521-h695/IMG_8395.jpg" width="521" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><span style="font-family: Special Elite;">Oh and you guys, the food. The FOOD! It was out of control. We literally did not eat restaurant food for 14 months. Instead, we cooked. Jon did a ton of cooking. I'm so lucky. We cooked and baked and budgeted and learned a whole new cookbook worth of recipes. Every time that one of us missed a dish or cuisine, we took it upon ourselves to try to recreate it! That was so incredible. Jon even made ingredients that were difficult to find or have delivered. He made his own ghee for Indian dishes and paneer to go in them for me. Also matzo for the Passover the first year. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite;">We missed Ethiopian food, and while the Injera bread didn't work, there was all kinds of ginger and garlic and greens and lentils and spices. It was WONDERFUL.<br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NoyKB66ojKI/YLg8z-TDl3I/AAAAAAAALf8/KH1sLr56vcktrpx_oXtJhlbs5xE-98-lQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1440/IQFZ5496.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="1440" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NoyKB66ojKI/YLg8z-TDl3I/AAAAAAAALf8/KH1sLr56vcktrpx_oXtJhlbs5xE-98-lQCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IQFZ5496.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite;">There was the painstaking perfection of bagel making.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Jd0mWOfd1rw/YLhNn42qAHI/AAAAAAAALk0/m_i7oi7StvEf73zCVgpoFWhgQHy4On3EQCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/PNFX6919.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2043" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Jd0mWOfd1rw/YLhNn42qAHI/AAAAAAAALk0/m_i7oi7StvEf73zCVgpoFWhgQHy4On3EQCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/PNFX6919.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite;">And bread, too much bread! Fresh loaves once or twice a week. It became Jon's hobby. He ordered hundreds of pounds of flour it feels like. There is a farm in Illinois that grinds to your preference and sells in bulk. His latest endeavor has been Rye bread with Caraway seeds. We've had endless Whole Wheat loaves and Brioche and Julia Child's White Bread. No Kneed bread and Focaccia turned into pizza. Flat bread and homemade pita for fresh falafel sandwiches. Pan Au Chocolate and homemade rolls. I'm telling you, all too much!</span></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-N9m3Oz6wgIw/YLhNpVkHFBI/AAAAAAAALk4/Qw24y_63bTk7QzXy0a0hCc6uyNBJTKj9QCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_0637.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-N9m3Oz6wgIw/YLhNpVkHFBI/AAAAAAAALk4/Qw24y_63bTk7QzXy0a0hCc6uyNBJTKj9QCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_0637.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite;">I went through a "vegan lifestyle" phase (probably in response to all of the bread.) This is my vegan "cheese" made from cashews and nutritional yeast. 😂 During this time, I also tried to become an expert in tempeh and new tofu dishes. We experimented with lots of vegetarian protein sources and ate more bean and lentil dishes than I can count.</span></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TRp9Lm38g5Q/YLhNrJ_arVI/AAAAAAAALk8/2qkbV1hv0ActL2bLAXB840aopktIsOd3ACLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_1457.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TRp9Lm38g5Q/YLhNrJ_arVI/AAAAAAAALk8/2qkbV1hv0ActL2bLAXB840aopktIsOd3ACLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_1457.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite;">There was Jon's Pastie phase. Hand pies with potatoes, carrots and other root vegetables, beef for them, veggie for me. All in a buttery, flakey crust. It was heavenly! </span></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bki1TP4HGoo/YLhNtUOFPqI/AAAAAAAALlA/6g4iNrjbtcg4DY2FEFZQfrkngRmW35nfACLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/JXBG0543.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2042" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bki1TP4HGoo/YLhNtUOFPqI/AAAAAAAALlA/6g4iNrjbtcg4DY2FEFZQfrkngRmW35nfACLcBGAsYHQ/s320/JXBG0543.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite;">When it came to Asian cuisine, we missed it ALL! So naturally, we had to at least try to make some. For Noah's birthday he asked for sushi. Jon found company in Seattle that would send fresh, sushi grade fish on dry ice to you. This isn't something we'd normally do, but it was his birthday and you know. We tried to recreate some of the Vietnamese food that we missed like fresh rolls and vermicelli bowls. Then there was our attempts at homemade ramen and soba and pad thai.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RVBcvCXZRCU/YLhNuhiMohI/AAAAAAAALlE/GxzI5AmHBjIa1bzM2CBPTtFJZ3nuJwvOQCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_0214.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RVBcvCXZRCU/YLhNuhiMohI/AAAAAAAALlE/GxzI5AmHBjIa1bzM2CBPTtFJZ3nuJwvOQCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_0214.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite;">I'm honestly embarrassed to talk about the baking. It was spread out over nearly a year and a half, and we made things for each of our birthdays and holidays. Still it sounds like a lot. My favorite was Jon's chocolate Babka I think. There was also these old fashioned lemon meltway cookies with glaze that I made for us.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-w8haTC2WZBk/YLhObU8-scI/AAAAAAAALmA/isEMK2-QwiUzmpw63v5ZQzafxcbXws1wACLcBGAsYHQ/s1440/ADSH2208.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="1440" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-w8haTC2WZBk/YLhObU8-scI/AAAAAAAALmA/isEMK2-QwiUzmpw63v5ZQzafxcbXws1wACLcBGAsYHQ/s320/ADSH2208.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite;">I was presented with this cake for my birthday! Best birthday, nicest day by the way. This was yellow cake with a mocha icing. Jon also made us carrot cake. There were cinnamon breakfast muffins and blueberry muffins.</span></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4l-_UUs24fg/YLhObWg7ZII/AAAAAAAALmI/BNYJTsbxUUoJhf8ROXef3pzjdcv1TtIqwCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_0012.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4l-_UUs24fg/YLhObWg7ZII/AAAAAAAALmI/BNYJTsbxUUoJhf8ROXef3pzjdcv1TtIqwCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_0012.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite;">My friend in England inspired me to make for the first time "Millionaire's Shortbread." It was a homemade shortbread base, with caramel and chocolate on top. One of the longest processes but worth it. Like most of our desserts, I cut the shortbread into servings and then we froze the rest and had some to eat for quite a while!</span></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rYUvFyty-ik/YLhObYrbBdI/AAAAAAAALmE/TW1vPfBKx6U4L0yjUyQm2KKECqIWMgrnACLcBGAsYHQ/s1440/JRPF1531.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="1440" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rYUvFyty-ik/YLhObYrbBdI/AAAAAAAALmE/TW1vPfBKx6U4L0yjUyQm2KKECqIWMgrnACLcBGAsYHQ/s320/JRPF1531.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite;">The same friend in England inspired me again, this time, chocolate dipped pretzel rods. I thought they came out cheerful.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oEeIIAx4UM0/YLhObnDqjCI/AAAAAAAALmQ/puG4jV2KHqc4rjcHXwoPBQuyOEJYAXmggCLcBGAsYHQ/s1440/SYOT2252.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="1440" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oEeIIAx4UM0/YLhObnDqjCI/AAAAAAAALmQ/puG4jV2KHqc4rjcHXwoPBQuyOEJYAXmggCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/SYOT2252.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite;">I also made peppermint bark for the first time. I don't think I've eaten it before. Maybe? It was so delicious and dangerous to have around the house!</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-I5RawsOf6-s/YLhObiY5KRI/AAAAAAAALmM/dSSTekmCPhYi880BHak6_PbGg-uY8JGswCLcBGAsYHQ/s1440/MMYW7413.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="1440" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-I5RawsOf6-s/YLhObiY5KRI/AAAAAAAALmM/dSSTekmCPhYi880BHak6_PbGg-uY8JGswCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/MMYW7413.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><span style="font-family: Special Elite;">Oh, and before I end with desserts, I have to say, the best thing we did was make a big big batch of chocolate chip cookie dough. We'd roll it up into four parts, wrap them in parchment and freeze. Then we'd bake off one roll or half a roll and have fresh cookies anytime. That worked out great and we have repeated the process several times.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite;">HERE IS THE CRAZY THING- <u>after all of this food I didn't gain weight!</u></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite;">Furthermore, <u>we SAVED a bunch of money each month on food!</u> I'm not joking. It seems crazy to me, but I think that by eating mostly homemade, planning our meals and grocery lists carefully, we managed to do quite well. Dinner leftovers were often lunch the next day and it was fabulous. We never felt deprived, the opposite! I feel as though by being mindful and devoting our time to doing it correctly, we ate a lot more veggies and greens and legumes and just good stuff </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite;">and at a reasonable price. </span><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite;">Switching gears now- the bubble. As summer turned into fall, I knew that we would have a long six months of cool and freezing and snowy weather ahead. I figured that a little sunshine, as much as we could get, would help to keep our spirits up. That and the fact that we could use any extra space for the three of us living day and night in our small house. The bubble is a pop-up kind of clear tent that I found on Amazon. We set it up on the deck, strung some fairy lights and voila! It was perfect!</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-E4OPYyChXPw/YLg9sAyu_EI/AAAAAAAALgo/RwPL1YuDuEI9Vx5zxZVI8Vz7H9x8styEACLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/BXWY6079.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-E4OPYyChXPw/YLg9sAyu_EI/AAAAAAAALgo/RwPL1YuDuEI9Vx5zxZVI8Vz7H9x8styEACLcBGAsYHQ/s320/BXWY6079.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite;">We spent most of fall out there reading and drinking coffee and even working on our laptops. Don't ask me about wintertime and the bubble though. I meant well. We had a little portable heater that was great. It would have been perfect had we ever actually decided to go outside in the cold. 🙆</span></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_O5N9V0ICj8/YLg9t_KSnFI/AAAAAAAALgs/7JoK4iWrijA6bcbzmHMIl4oEl4oiMQ94QCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_E9356.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="473" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_O5N9V0ICj8/YLg9t_KSnFI/AAAAAAAALgs/7JoK4iWrijA6bcbzmHMIl4oEl4oiMQ94QCLcBGAsYHQ/w355-h473/IMG_E9356.jpg" width="355" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite;">In the early fall, (before the second wave) our numbers were down and I started to realize that I could find places outdoors to walk that were less busy than my neighborhood and more open. We ended up taking Josie to run at my old high school quite a bit. We'd throw the ball and she would fly! </span></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-D3ZNCG2As2A/YLg9ymaB8fI/AAAAAAAALgw/Fq9VgnVkbbgspKNRjSLXZC1V_O9K3N1LACLcBGAsYHQ/s1188/Screen%2BShot%2B2020-08-30%2Bat%2B1.03.27%2BAM.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1188" data-original-width="948" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-D3ZNCG2As2A/YLg9ymaB8fI/AAAAAAAALgw/Fq9VgnVkbbgspKNRjSLXZC1V_O9K3N1LACLcBGAsYHQ/s320/Screen%2BShot%2B2020-08-30%2Bat%2B1.03.27%2BAM.png" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite;">We began to explore some new trails, a nature center and a gorgeous nearby estate.</span></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nqgcU5cb_p8/YLg92U_MzgI/AAAAAAAALg0/SEGKauLV__AdevlQ5hkFU9ZqG9k6C8N0ACLcBGAsYHQ/s1794/ESRJ3629.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1794" data-original-width="1440" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nqgcU5cb_p8/YLg92U_MzgI/AAAAAAAALg0/SEGKauLV__AdevlQ5hkFU9ZqG9k6C8N0ACLcBGAsYHQ/s320/ESRJ3629.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ymBCI7Bp9gg/YLg9544loFI/AAAAAAAALg4/j_Csje4pXd0-gSS2k_IZoAUqiXYkL2qqgCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_9252.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ymBCI7Bp9gg/YLg9544loFI/AAAAAAAALg4/j_Csje4pXd0-gSS2k_IZoAUqiXYkL2qqgCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_9252.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite;">In November, Noah celebrated his 16th birthday! I felt so badly that he was all set and ready for his driver's license but couldn't sit for it due to the virus. He worked so hard to log 40 practice hours with us. It's ok, we have an appointment in July now (they are so backed up). Noah is a great sport about it all. Here he is in his present, a "gaming chair." 😎</span></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QIneWUBcJoY/YLg-Xy0jUwI/AAAAAAAALhM/rERqqDRZw2c4-IvlzM82BQ5Aj5Jh9N7HQCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_E9697.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QIneWUBcJoY/YLg-Xy0jUwI/AAAAAAAALhM/rERqqDRZw2c4-IvlzM82BQ5Aj5Jh9N7HQCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_E9697.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite;">Probably the biggest event in our house this past year has been Petey. Petey , the world's best squirrel. It's a long story but I began feeding Petey in the fall. He would come everyday and stare at me in the kitchen through the window until I would bring him some peanuts. Long story short, I trained Petey to instead come to my bedroom window and let me know when he was up in the morning. I would "take his order" (watch the video below) and then as soon as he would see me walk towards the stairs, he would race down to our back door. I'd meet him there with his order and he would eat! Soon Petey invited his friends and now I have a lot of customers.</span></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uM8ksdo3vas/YLg-Z_m1PuI/AAAAAAAALhQ/2Xv5C71rQoYBwwFFF5lDBkBfzQjlNJsbQCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_E9712.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uM8ksdo3vas/YLg-Z_m1PuI/AAAAAAAALhQ/2Xv5C71rQoYBwwFFF5lDBkBfzQjlNJsbQCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_E9712.jpg" /></a>. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dzo_BC1aJC_9o78MhFRwgbFgSuIeBu_W3P3VZVXE0CS9pS6HXXRKsx_9RKIZwVHkEuPCPgKp3kNLNI' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite;">Putting in his order.</span></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--ZVBKchyF5g/YLg-bftZ8JI/AAAAAAAALhU/dFfENOrmBTcvqZrgtWf1JzrAKxsf0mdIgCLcBGAsYHQ/s1440/CFCW2265.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="1440" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--ZVBKchyF5g/YLg-bftZ8JI/AAAAAAAALhU/dFfENOrmBTcvqZrgtWf1JzrAKxsf0mdIgCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/CFCW2265.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite;">It was such a strange year for manufacturing and business. For all companies I'm sure. On the one hand, it was fantastic for us because women were deciding to ditch the hair dye and grow their gray out. We sold out of our two most popular products! On the other hand, Covid-19 really disrupted supply chains and hence the speed of manufacturing. It's taken us a while to get back on track. Excitingly, our new shipment of product will be on sale next week, including a brand new item!! (Which is a surprise, for now.) We spent this slower time to work with a designer on a new color pallet and design direction for labels. That was an interesting process.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8QRHOgjx3RQ/YLg-lQgjSuI/AAAAAAAALhY/4BkEZHZsZe8lWpzFFXgTjgjIWxhA2viYACLcBGAsYHQ/s1200/KGCP2553.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1200" height="342" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8QRHOgjx3RQ/YLg-lQgjSuI/AAAAAAAALhY/4BkEZHZsZe8lWpzFFXgTjgjIWxhA2viYACLcBGAsYHQ/w342-h342/KGCP2553.jpg" width="342" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Qrho5Yt-o-Y/YLhOkfVHQkI/AAAAAAAALmY/zqUUsqJXpZ0zq98HSg3L6dsZ0IXKDIcQACLcBGAsYHQ/s1640/JKDR8116.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="624" data-original-width="1640" height="193" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Qrho5Yt-o-Y/YLhOkfVHQkI/AAAAAAAALmY/zqUUsqJXpZ0zq98HSg3L6dsZ0IXKDIcQACLcBGAsYHQ/w506-h193/JKDR8116.jpg" width="506" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite;">Had some Chanukah at home and Christmas and New Years. Oh and Thanksgiving before that. All quiet but relaxing.</span></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ki5r5-tBBv4/YLhOmJvniKI/AAAAAAAALmc/tFhMBDypS9wkkT3BFCmHelHhuixMLgyrgCLcBGAsYHQ/s1440/ATAP6217.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="1440" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ki5r5-tBBv4/YLhOmJvniKI/AAAAAAAALmc/tFhMBDypS9wkkT3BFCmHelHhuixMLgyrgCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/ATAP6217.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite;">At Christmas I neurotically stressed baked cookies and did a porch drop at my parent's house. It was kind of sad. </span></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PaKc4DjTfHo/YLg-o5KmutI/AAAAAAAALhg/Fn99na5AE3wEnc40pJvIk9z0e7Q2Sr7mgCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/TUAR6638.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1807" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PaKc4DjTfHo/YLg-o5KmutI/AAAAAAAALhg/Fn99na5AE3wEnc40pJvIk9z0e7Q2Sr7mgCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/TUAR6638.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite;">During the winter I became obsessed with the tiny snow sweeping vehicles that would clear the sidewalks. It was weird, I was so into them, I even drew a picture of one. It was my thing for a while. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UmDdHJEBngA/YLhPwCIgb3I/AAAAAAAALnU/t0s_e-6jpR0mZLENOA_olerGCpLTUqFRgCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_0090.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="423" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UmDdHJEBngA/YLhPwCIgb3I/AAAAAAAALnU/t0s_e-6jpR0mZLENOA_olerGCpLTUqFRgCLcBGAsYHQ/w317-h423/IMG_0090.jpg" width="317" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><span style="font-family: Special Elite;">This meant many snowy nights just sitting and watching out of my window. It was weird but so peaceful and nice.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KmXYtExBDr4/YLhPxlcV5qI/AAAAAAAALnY/QeDbZpyxlDwDyhjT4IUxBnI5eu9-KKPvgCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/TMKC0810.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1696" data-original-width="2048" height="416" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KmXYtExBDr4/YLhPxlcV5qI/AAAAAAAALnY/QeDbZpyxlDwDyhjT4IUxBnI5eu9-KKPvgCLcBGAsYHQ/w502-h416/TMKC0810.jpg" width="502" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite;">We took winter walks late at night when no one was out. Absolute quiet.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gKxGVhyvhl4/YLg-qnoa9JI/AAAAAAAALho/A2-g_Vuaa10PfoKqCeRVmY_NUZQpykgKACLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/FNFB9616.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1638" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gKxGVhyvhl4/YLg-qnoa9JI/AAAAAAAALho/A2-g_Vuaa10PfoKqCeRVmY_NUZQpykgKACLcBGAsYHQ/w384-h480/FNFB9616.jpg" width="384" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite;">The same thing along the river.</span></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-As68VzAw6fA/YLg-sQKvlXI/AAAAAAAALhw/Uiz5xE5HeqcqjDPfXcKIiZsYqXlpKnMaACLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_0475.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="396" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-As68VzAw6fA/YLg-sQKvlXI/AAAAAAAALhw/Uiz5xE5HeqcqjDPfXcKIiZsYqXlpKnMaACLcBGAsYHQ/w297-h396/IMG_0475.jpg" width="297" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite;">Then it was spring again! We had a mini seder for Passover. Noah did not want to pose for another family portrait. 🙈</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KOgvkfGI5VA/YLhOs4nmmfI/AAAAAAAALmk/305Qfa2pi889y4h7gvP9qUda1sr6lx0TQCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_1222.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KOgvkfGI5VA/YLhOs4nmmfI/AAAAAAAALmk/305Qfa2pi889y4h7gvP9qUda1sr6lx0TQCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_1222.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite;">The animals did well in quarantine. Hector has grown older in recent years, so we decided to turn our bedroom into a little "senior apartment" for him. He's free to come and go as he pleases, but with Hector's food, water, toys, bed and kitty litter up here, he rarely chooses to navigate the steep stairs anymore. He's content to lounge upstairs in the sun. He actually seems happier than ever , so that's really great. 💖</span></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qjRDU3039HA/YLhOvC9tmBI/AAAAAAAALmo/0AQOl7bpc7cIEvZdNwWXrRqJBUTAXIMqQCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/PDJK8291.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1870" height="378" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qjRDU3039HA/YLhOvC9tmBI/AAAAAAAALmo/0AQOl7bpc7cIEvZdNwWXrRqJBUTAXIMqQCLcBGAsYHQ/w345-h378/PDJK8291.jpg" width="345" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite;">Josie and Alice continue their strange love/hate deal. </span></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oGiVPwi7ob4/YLhOwdW6B3I/AAAAAAAALms/-YXIq2T2wEA-hXi6j-6stJYhbX5olUaQgCLcBGAsYHQ/s1440/IPQU1746.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="1440" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oGiVPwi7ob4/YLhOwdW6B3I/AAAAAAAALms/-YXIq2T2wEA-hXi6j-6stJYhbX5olUaQgCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IPQU1746.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite;">I found out that Josie possess the most perfect proportions for the Golden Ratio!!!</span></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QbgD37l689g/YLhOy-BhsWI/AAAAAAAALmw/_GdkEVQqVNs-qVSP9QqrUNSD_wNtMA2xwCLcBGAsYHQ/s697/MABL7139.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="697" data-original-width="697" height="369" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QbgD37l689g/YLhOy-BhsWI/AAAAAAAALmw/_GdkEVQqVNs-qVSP9QqrUNSD_wNtMA2xwCLcBGAsYHQ/w369-h369/MABL7139.jpg" width="369" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite;">Noah built a fort in his bedroom and slept on the floor for a week. I have no idea. 😐</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-c3Ut7mFVl1A/YLhPpZ9hbeI/AAAAAAAALnQ/Mumn9UR3wEcgqyqWFOitUETbnJ7L-ZrcwCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_0638.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="472" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-c3Ut7mFVl1A/YLhPpZ9hbeI/AAAAAAAALnQ/Mumn9UR3wEcgqyqWFOitUETbnJ7L-ZrcwCLcBGAsYHQ/w354-h472/IMG_0638.jpg" width="354" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite;">And finally, most recently, there has been chess. 😃</span></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wAn83eDDCN8/YLg-u2Bg5pI/AAAAAAAALh0/0Y3Aj24oUt4TxSaB_jZrm94izaAv_PpzACLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_E1875.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wAn83eDDCN8/YLg-u2Bg5pI/AAAAAAAALh0/0Y3Aj24oUt4TxSaB_jZrm94izaAv_PpzACLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_E1875.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite;">Then, almost exactly 14 months to the day that the quarantine started, we became fully vaccinated and life kind of began to open up again. We really don't go many places, but we have visited with our parents which has been great. We hadn't seen Jon's parents in a year and a half. 😰 It was a long time. Noah finally got together with a friend! We're catching up on appointments and a few necessary stores here and there, but for the most part, we stay around home. It feels really good though, at least to know it is safer out there when we need to go somewhere.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite;">I will never live my life in the same way that I did before Coronavirus. At least, I don't think I will. I've learned how much I love the peace, quiet and simplicity of being home, and how much I loath busy stores. I'm content living with less, living more slowly rather than constantly going out. It just works for me.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite;">Finally, one last share. It's funny, even though I missed/miss my friends dearly. I do feel like we've done a good job of regularly keeping in touch and connected. I laugh out loud when I receive a funny meme from one of them. I was looking over some of the items that I saved over the past year. Then I began to sense a theme in them........LOL</span></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Kv5RZOOfQlc/YLg_FqmKEFI/AAAAAAAALiI/lfv5-n1pQq42w9pP8ylLZgr5bBo2r5A8ACLcBGAsYHQ/s998/BCMK7631.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="994" data-original-width="998" height="380" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Kv5RZOOfQlc/YLg_FqmKEFI/AAAAAAAALiI/lfv5-n1pQq42w9pP8ylLZgr5bBo2r5A8ACLcBGAsYHQ/w381-h380/BCMK7631.jpg" width="381" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sMdRgLLt_Vk/YLg_GuvpxLI/AAAAAAAALiM/pxMyzdQ7ZD0PGdpC7nKJI3oZLoIA8eixwCLcBGAsYHQ/s1270/IMG_E8720.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1270" data-original-width="828" height="587" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sMdRgLLt_Vk/YLg_GuvpxLI/AAAAAAAALiM/pxMyzdQ7ZD0PGdpC7nKJI3oZLoIA8eixwCLcBGAsYHQ/w383-h587/IMG_E8720.jpg" width="383" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GzEsPFx9CZE/YLg_IPBqOJI/AAAAAAAALiQ/OCqBXv5f8o4_hZN0jbHH254uGXeXIZ9NACLcBGAsYHQ/s1362/Screen%2BShot%2B2020-11-29%2Bat%2B1.56.27%2BPM.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1362" data-original-width="1050" height="476" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GzEsPFx9CZE/YLg_IPBqOJI/AAAAAAAALiQ/OCqBXv5f8o4_hZN0jbHH254uGXeXIZ9NACLcBGAsYHQ/w368-h476/Screen%2BShot%2B2020-11-29%2Bat%2B1.56.27%2BPM.png" width="368" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eg-cBBy_oq4/YLg_KOv95MI/AAAAAAAALiU/UFbshWw7ouA_q5HauRgC06NsmDzaJSU1QCLcBGAsYHQ/s1304/Screen%2BShot%2B2020-10-07%2Bat%2B9.34.04%2BAM.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1304" data-original-width="994" height="491" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eg-cBBy_oq4/YLg_KOv95MI/AAAAAAAALiU/UFbshWw7ouA_q5HauRgC06NsmDzaJSU1QCLcBGAsYHQ/w375-h491/Screen%2BShot%2B2020-10-07%2Bat%2B9.34.04%2BAM.png" width="375" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Special Elite";">I guess I was learning how to let go of control? 😂😜</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite;">Here are some of my favorite memes of recent. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite;">The first had me seriously laughing out loud. My FAVORITE meme of 2020.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yKO2-JIYkaE/YLg_j3UjRKI/AAAAAAAALi8/vvOyTxChNhwLHriM330EKutHtYIAJCtLQCLcBGAsYHQ/s828/IMG_E6939.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="803" data-original-width="828" height="474" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yKO2-JIYkaE/YLg_j3UjRKI/AAAAAAAALi8/vvOyTxChNhwLHriM330EKutHtYIAJCtLQCLcBGAsYHQ/w488-h474/IMG_E6939.jpg" width="488" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-q4Kr-Cr9z_A/YLg_lUYP6II/AAAAAAAALjA/Iz7btW2Un_E5atJehSimaUn66Xmj504EQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1074/Screen%2BShot%2B2020-07-31%2Bat%2B5.47.49%2BPM.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1074" data-original-width="956" height="402" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-q4Kr-Cr9z_A/YLg_lUYP6II/AAAAAAAALjA/Iz7btW2Un_E5atJehSimaUn66Xmj504EQCLcBGAsYHQ/w358-h402/Screen%2BShot%2B2020-07-31%2Bat%2B5.47.49%2BPM.png" width="358" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-z8Iv274X76c/YLg_m0zpsqI/AAAAAAAALjE/Ian_2XGJRIkaBoLDkSiRwS6lguCxRXyPQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1016/Screen%2BShot%2B2020-03-31%2Bat%2B1.13.59%2BPM.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1010" data-original-width="1016" height="357" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-z8Iv274X76c/YLg_m0zpsqI/AAAAAAAALjE/Ian_2XGJRIkaBoLDkSiRwS6lguCxRXyPQCLcBGAsYHQ/w359-h357/Screen%2BShot%2B2020-03-31%2Bat%2B1.13.59%2BPM.png" width="359" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite;">Working and schooling from home 2020 meme.</span></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GPqo1BCV4Hs/YLg_n8stnTI/AAAAAAAALjI/IETHKLu2x6sP7gTRlwvI8MeM5rbORKrQQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1528/Screen%2BShot%2B2020-03-31%2Bat%2B10.04.46%2BAM.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1056" data-original-width="1528" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GPqo1BCV4Hs/YLg_n8stnTI/AAAAAAAALjI/IETHKLu2x6sP7gTRlwvI8MeM5rbORKrQQCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/Screen%2BShot%2B2020-03-31%2Bat%2B10.04.46%2BAM.png" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><span style="font-family: Special Elite;">And this one! 😂</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite;">(It's NOT true.)<br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RtKYPAijnX4/YLg_wtKTZvI/AAAAAAAALjU/H-rXcpjbat8Zb7ZcTSa-W4OQ2YMzzu6OgCLcBGAsYHQ/s874/IMG_E1717.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="874" data-original-width="750" height="515" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RtKYPAijnX4/YLg_wtKTZvI/AAAAAAAALjU/H-rXcpjbat8Zb7ZcTSa-W4OQ2YMzzu6OgCLcBGAsYHQ/w443-h515/IMG_E1717.jpg" width="443" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><span style="font-family: Special Elite;">And that my friends has been our pandemic year. This is where I've been. Just here. As I watch the world struggling and people hurting in so many different ways, I'm constantly thankful. Constantly aware of how fortunate we've been to weather this time with my family safely and with relative ease. We've been very conscious of giving back to others and to those in need right now and we won't stop. This past year and a half has taught me so much about the world, about being a fellow human, about gratitude and love and just how much we need each other.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><span style="color: #ff00fe; font-family: Special Elite;">Until next time!</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #ff00fe; font-family: Special Elite;">XOXOXOX,</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #ff00fe; font-family: Special Elite;">LAUREN </span><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><span style="font-family: Special Elite;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">\</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Special Elite;"><br /></span></div><br /><span style="font-family: Special Elite;"><br /></span><p></p>Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05093968853372697053noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9902677.post-45617219904012048522020-01-29T16:02:00.002-05:002020-01-29T16:02:31.461-05:00Fake It Till You Make It A Level 2 Snow Emergency<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Oh you guys, I can be so so naive. I can be wide-eyed and gullible when someone hands me a Farmer's Almanac long-range winter forecast.</div>
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You know how it goes, also sprinkle in a couple of winter outlooks from Youtube meteorological hobbyists.....</div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vlV8wQuiA4U/XjHVmb5r5aI/AAAAAAAAK_M/o4yc6g5CrY0JMWMo1tt1C6cS76-ooc4BQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/Screen%2BShot%2B2020-01-29%2Bat%2B1.52.03%2BPM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="328" data-original-width="420" height="311" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vlV8wQuiA4U/XjHVmb5r5aI/AAAAAAAAK_M/o4yc6g5CrY0JMWMo1tt1C6cS76-ooc4BQCLcBGAsYHQ/s400/Screen%2BShot%2B2020-01-29%2Bat%2B1.52.03%2BPM.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dUPp1SWzLJc/XjHVmdw7MpI/AAAAAAAAK_I/pqufB58KTyAj66lihKifPhcuC3NC0tbagCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/Screen%2BShot%2B2020-01-29%2Bat%2B1.51.45%2BPM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="254" data-original-width="414" height="245" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dUPp1SWzLJc/XjHVmdw7MpI/AAAAAAAAK_I/pqufB58KTyAj66lihKifPhcuC3NC0tbagCLcBGAsYHQ/s400/Screen%2BShot%2B2020-01-29%2Bat%2B1.51.45%2BPM.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">... And I turn into a full-blown BELIEVER!!!</span> </div>
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I'm the 42-year-old lady in Michigan who's doing backflips because we're about to get a<b> "<i>good ole' fashioned Michigan winter!" </i> </b>The kind with big, white, fluffy blankets of snow covering everything. Kids building snowmen and snow forts and having snowball fight and snow days off from school. Snow, snow, snow! Racing down hills on bright red sleds and drinking hot cocoa with marshmallows. Watching tiny, strange tractor things with a rotating brush attachments driving down the sidewalk and clearing the snow. </div>
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<br /><iframe width="320" height="266" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/mqg9Hj1viyY/0.jpg" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/mqg9Hj1viyY?feature=player_embedded" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>
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Wearing puffy Moon Boots and seeing our Freezy Freakies mittens reveal hidden color changing messages in the cold. </div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5hdn48-kHK4/XjHZM6wYlZI/AAAAAAAAK_c/UbTsFhUbTEE8lEL5tOBnNLFpi1sJsmIIwCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/Screen%2BShot%2B2020-01-29%2Bat%2B2.11.58%2BPM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="790" data-original-width="622" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5hdn48-kHK4/XjHZM6wYlZI/AAAAAAAAK_c/UbTsFhUbTEE8lEL5tOBnNLFpi1sJsmIIwCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/Screen%2BShot%2B2020-01-29%2Bat%2B2.11.58%2BPM.png" width="251" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">(Oh wait, that was the 80's. We don't have winters like this anymore).</span></div>
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Guys, I was spreading the word to anyone who would listen: "The winter is coming! The Winter is coming!" I acted all macho and self-assured because I was part of the club, I <i>KNEW </i>that this would be a repeat of the epic winter of 2014. Ever hear of the "Polar Vortex" baby? </div>
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In whispers and shouts, and looking cool actions, I let all people know that this was going to be a TRUE. MICHIGAN. WINTER.</div>
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First stop - yes, it was only September, but I was in possession of a <strike>very limited</strike> <strike>rare </strike>e<strike>xclusive </strike>Lands' End 50% off coupon and since I was, you know....... in-the-know about our coming winter's sizable power, I went out and purchased protection. A long puffer coat. So long that on me, this puppy goes all the way down to my ankles!</div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7gf1DeSqXTs/XjHeFpteJzI/AAAAAAAAK_o/LzjmZnZ5oNwq3CZDL-XQlK-G1MdBDnpRACLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/Screen%2BShot%2B2020-01-29%2Bat%2B1.50.45%2BPM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="984" data-original-width="578" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7gf1DeSqXTs/XjHeFpteJzI/AAAAAAAAK_o/LzjmZnZ5oNwq3CZDL-XQlK-G1MdBDnpRACLcBGAsYHQ/s320/Screen%2BShot%2B2020-01-29%2Bat%2B1.50.45%2BPM.png" width="187" /></a></div>
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Give me your best shot you arctic upper-level, low pressure area. I'm ready for you!</div>
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So yeah, things started out very promising. On November 12th, which is three days earlier than the November 15th that my Dad always said Michigan gets it's first snow, we had this!</div>
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I mean, November and we already had 6" inches of snow? Now THAT is a sign, I thought. It's all coming true. This is just the kind of winter that I ordered. I was even so emboldened to tell my little niece and nephew in Florida, who were desperately hoping for snow when they visited for Christmas, that OF COURSE THERE WOULD BE SNOW THEN! This is a repeat of winter 2014 after all, and we would build snowmen together and sled and spend all day outside.</div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-E8U26GeNzjo/XjHfjWsJwmI/AAAAAAAAK_0/GAuxyvLR0XE1yTxw9QTB-v0bLTj_J8qkACLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/Screen%2BShot%2B2020-01-29%2Bat%2B1.49.50%2BPM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="492" data-original-width="328" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-E8U26GeNzjo/XjHfjWsJwmI/AAAAAAAAK_0/GAuxyvLR0XE1yTxw9QTB-v0bLTj_J8qkACLcBGAsYHQ/s400/Screen%2BShot%2B2020-01-29%2Bat%2B1.49.50%2BPM.png" width="266" /></a></div>
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I am the worst aunt in the world. Not only did I get my niece and nephew's hopes up for their first time in real, proper snow, but it was so pitifully dry-as-a-bone, NO SNOW, everything MELTED over here at Christmas, that it was actually warm. It was WARM! Those poor kids had to visit the zamboni's ice shaving pile outside of the indoor ice rink, just to pretend snow when they were here. How sad!</div>
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By Christmas, my foot was in my mouth. I stayed quiet, not proselytizing my beliefs in the coming of winter. By January 1st I had lost all hope. We're staring February down in T-minus 2 days and I've almost lost my will to winter. We've only had one other rapidly melting moment of real snow, and today, there's nary a white spot on the ground. Mostly sloshy, gray blobs. No twinkle or sparkle or cozy, snowy days. </div>
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Now, on the positive side, yesterday my therapist told me that I am a very resilient person, and I would like to hope that this is true. Resiliency comes in many forms, and for me, that includes superstitious, fantasy thinking and rituals! Or AKA, snowman knickknacks. </div>
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Look, desperate times call for desperate measures, and if that means Non-Mother-and Ethan-Allen- Approved, plastic snowman tchotchkes in primary colors, strewn about one's house in order to will winter upon the land, and keep from looking like a fool then so be it! </div>
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(For transparency's sake- old, reheated coffee from this morning and of course I ate more than two cookies. The entire box is sitting here next to me as I type. Nothing is real online.)</div>
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I put snowmen everywhere. I live like it is a jolly, snowy winter. I will manifest winter into existence. It is either that, or be laughed at for my snowy prophecies from early fall.</div>
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Yesterday marked the 22nd anniversary of<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Great_Blizzard_of_1978"> the Great Blizzard of '78.</a> It brings me a small glimmer of hope that large amounts of snow can and do fall this late into the winter. All we need<a href="https://www.bestplaces.net/climate/city/michigan/detroit"> is a 33-incher </a>or so, and then I can rejoice in my original winter proclamation. </div>
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By the way, last night when we took Noah to get some frozen yogurt, the three of us were privy to some insider information from a professional in snow removal. Those companies pay big bucks for </div>
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highly sophisticated weather forecasting services and our informant claims that we're looking at two potential snow events in the coming week. Up to 13" in total, but I shall believe it when I see it, for I am jaded now.</div>
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I guess you could say, I've learned it does not pay to be a big talker about the weather.</div>
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Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05093968853372697053noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9902677.post-2263655348565463552020-01-28T18:50:00.004-05:002020-01-28T22:51:07.231-05:00Knock Knock Knock!Knock knock knock!<br />
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Is anybody out there? I don't expect anyone to have to wait around for me. The How Bourgeois blog has been pretty quiet for a long time!<br />
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I've just been in How Bourgeois Land, over-thinking things I'm sure and trying to live life offline.<br />
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What happened was, that I sort of became.......put off by social media and online culture, and what was starting to be seen as completely normal, i.e. humble brags, a constant parade of "I bought this or that, or use this or that, or went here or there," and of course selfies - of which I have been known to take a few.<br />
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I know that I'm guilty of these things at times too, but I've tried to catch myself before it became all that there was over here too.<br />
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Do you know what I mean, what I'm trying express? Back when blogging began, I fell in love with the medium because I could read stories about other people's lives and I could learn so many different things! For example, there were blogs that taught me how to make my own natural cleaning supplies and how to take good photos and endless pages with topics new to me. It was such a neat and amazing resource! Things began to change though, eventually. I feel like...slowly, the blogging culture, social media culture, it morphed in general from a platform to share and learn, to a platform of showing off.<br />
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Maybe I'm being too hard on social media, maybe I'm over generalizing, but in my heart, I feel that our society has kind of tipped too far into the "me, me, me" zone. I don't want to be part of that. It's just not for me personally.<br />
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Before I began to grow my gray hair out, I wrote about mundane things like cooking and cleaning. Mostly just for fun, a little bit to memory keep. Then, when I journaled here about what it was like to have gray hair at a young age and how I was going to grow it out, suddenly I found myself with a much bigger audience than ever before.<br />
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It was fun for a while, but there is only so much you can discuss about your own hair, and do you want to know something? I REALLY got myself into a pickle with all of the hair blogging because I hate taking selfies. I really, truly dislike taking them. All of those photos on this blog, of myself and my hair, I did it because I felt like I <i>had</i> to post pictures because I was talking about my hair. It's kind of a Catch-22. People were here for the hair posts and I couldn't hair post with out pictures of me and my hair, so I just had to keep going. Many of you have been incredibly kind and patient and open to my occasional homeschool or silly crochet writings, but I didn't want to lose you by posting too much about things that were essentially only of interest to about five of us.<br />
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So, I kind of ran out of hair blogging, hence blogging, steam. That's where our hair line "BY THE WAY, <i>Your Hair Looks Fabulous!</i>" came in. I knew that I needed a break from trying to encourage fellow silver sisters through writing, and figured that there were other, better ways that I could assist people in their transitions to gray. So, we worked very hard to come up with products just for us - the ones that I searched for and couldn't find on the market. Products that ticked all the boxes: more natural, more affordable and specifically made for gray hair needs.<br />
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I am hugely thankful and grateful to say that a year and a half in, the company is doing great and people really seem to like our products. (Thanks guys!!!) The only thing is....I got myself into another pickle. (This one might be in my head). After things started rocking and rolling, I realized that I didn't want to be on social media selling products because it went against so much of what I valued, like....I don't know, being yourself, not feeling the need to be absorbed in beauty culture and consumer culture. I tell you, it is a daily tug-of-war. I want to share more because I honestly know that these hair care items can help and boost the self-esteem of fellow gray-haired men and women, but I also don't want to pressure people to shop. Do I sound crazy yet? Who starts a retail business and then remembers how much consumer culture irks them!!???<br />
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Oh! Wait, wait, wait! There is one more reason that I stopped posting. This is shameful, but guys, in frustration I cut my hair off. Again. My hair was half way down my back, so long and thick and unruly and it had a mind of its own. Summer was coming and that humidity made everything 20 times worse. I just snapped and since my friend, the women who cuts my hair was on leave for the summer, I chopped it myself! (What could go wrong)!? Yeah, EVERYTHING. Everything could go wrong. It was horrible, terrible, I gave myself "micro-bangs" and I went into hiding, so yeah, that is another reason I wasn't online.<br />
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I have this feeling now, that when you start a hair care company, you're not supposed to go and spontaneously cut off all of your hair yourself. Don't look at me, OK!!!<br />
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So then, what IS social media and blogging for? What do I do with this space? I miss it.<br />
Maybe it's to tell you that I saw a squirrel on my roof with a whole piece of pizza in his mouth.<br />
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Or maybe it is to share with you a dream-come-true.....I got to use a trash grabber. It's called the "Nifty Nabber."<br />
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Or maybe it is to get over things and just take some dumb selfies with your dog and not to feel ashamed for taking one.<br />
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I have no idea what blogging and social media should be for me, but whatever it is, you guys, I just want to write again. I want to post online for fun, without having to worry that I'm not publishing enough about hair. I want to blog because it's journaling and that not only saves memories, but it's cathartic.<br />
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Gosh, even this very post has little to no point, so I shall end it here. To those of you who have stuck around, you have my deepest and un-ending thanks and steadfast devotion.<br />
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*EDIT - You guys are so incredibly kind in your comments here and on Facebook. I had some requests for pictures of the short hair cut that I GAVE MYSELF in early summer. Micro-bangs! LOL. I found a couple silly ones. I must please my audience! So without further ado....MORE SELFIES! OMG. 😁😅🙆<br />
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<span style="color: #990000; font-size: large;"><b>Until next time!</b></span><br />
<span style="color: #990000; font-size: large;"><b>xoxoxo,</b></span><br />
<span style="color: #990000; font-size: large;"><b>Lauren </b></span><br />
<br />Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05093968853372697053noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9902677.post-36541875385930116812019-08-14T17:55:00.001-04:002019-08-14T17:55:31.959-04:00Dreaming Of the Simple Life<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="text-align: start;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="caret-color: rgb(28, 30, 33);">THIS is the life I want to live. The quiet, simple, slow life that is clipping homegrown herbs and flowers and hanging them to dry. I feel like I don’t need shopping or fancy or </span></span><span style="caret-color: rgb(28, 30, 33);">anything </span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="caret-color: rgb(28, 30, 33);">fast paced. Just solitude, home and the warm earth. It’s funny because 8 years ago , when we moved here, we thought life in a busy downtown was what we would want. It was a great adventure and experiment! We were coming from a painfully quiet, suburban neighborhood after living in San Francisco bef</span></span></span><span class="text_exposed_show" style="caret-color: rgb(28, 30, 33); display: inline; font-family: inherit; text-align: start;">ore that, and craved more excitement. Now though, at 42 and knowing myself a little bit more, gosh all I want is a small plot of land and silence .</span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="caret-color: rgb(28, 30, 33);">Perhaps part of this yearning has grown out of living across the street from the never ending construction nightmare.</span><span style="caret-color: rgb(28, 30, 33);"> </span><span style="caret-color: rgb(28, 30, 33);">Two YEARS of constant banging with no end in sight yet. They tore most of the beautiful 1920’s church down and are now making it into an office building with a modern glass half, attached to the renovated church half.</span><span style="caret-color: rgb(28, 30, 33);"> </span><span style="caret-color: rgb(28, 30, 33);">I guess we knew what we were getting into when we chanced living somewhere busy. </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(28, 30, 33); text-align: start;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">At any rate, I have vowed to make use of what we have here and could not be more EXCITED to get started building a raised vegetable garden as soon as the weather cools a bit! I have planned and planned and planned some more, and finally know just what to do! The lowest brick patio at the bottom of our yard has never been used. It’s the perfect place for s garden though! Lots of sun and space, just waiting to be transformed . </span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="caret-color: rgb(28, 30, 33);">I’m trying to do it on a dime too, so stay tuned. If I can build it this fall, I’ll start plants from seed inside in the winter/spring and then plant for next year!</span><span style="caret-color: rgb(28, 30, 33);"> </span><span style="caret-color: rgb(28, 30, 33);">If I can’t live the simple life out in the country, I’ll bring the country to me, or at least to a corner of my backyard . Lol.</span></span></span></div>
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Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05093968853372697053noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9902677.post-3788339918620516352019-08-12T17:34:00.004-04:002019-08-12T17:34:30.769-04:00She Chose Us<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Dear friends, I have a bit of an amazing story to tell you, but unfortunately, it starts with very sad news from last March. Out beautiful, sweet fluffy ball of love, Willow, suddenly passed away and we are just heartbroken over it. </div>
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It was an enormous shock and unforeseen. Poor Willow stopped eating her beloved food and cookies and we knew something was very wrong. We went to our vet thinking it could be her teeth, given Willow's fairly young age- about 7 years old, but by the next day, we were sent to an emergency veterinary center and learned that she had advanced lymphoma. </div>
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These were the most heart-wrenching and emotional days that we have ever had. Willow went from her normal self to her body shutting down in less than a week. It was just so sudden......</div>
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I can't tell you how grateful we were for Willow's incredibly compassionate emergency vet and their gentle, supportive staff. They walked us through everything, listened to all of our "what if we did this..." questions, even though we knew that she was very very ill. We discussed chemotherapy, but were told in honesty that little Willow's body was not strong enough to go through it and that chemo therapy might only prolong her life, not cure her. </div>
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She passed peacefully, cuddled up and hugged by us. We were in shock and too broken to talk about it publicly, so I never said anything on social media. Mourning and missing our Willow was something that our family needed to do in private.</div>
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After her death, Jon and I were adamant that we did not want anymore new animals. We've been "pet parents" non-stop for the past 17+ years, and always to multiple pets. Willow's passing hit us hard, and we just wanted to focus on Noah and our other two fur-kids, Hector, our 15 year old cat and Josie, our dog. It has been nearly six months and we think about Willow all of the time and talk about what a sweet girl she was often....We miss her dearly</div>
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And then, just as suddenly, about a month ago, everything changed again. </div>
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<i><span style="font-size: large;">The universe put her right down in front of us, in our own backyard.</span></i> <b> (Even though WE DIDN'T WANT ANOTHER CAT!) </b> She almost LITERALLY walked into our back door, chose us as her family and made herself right at home. It was actually so absurd, that I like to think that maybe Willow, up in heaven, helped to orchestrate the whole thing. How else would a tiny kitten with no Mama and no siblings around, end up in our backyard and decide that she was determined to be part of the family. Friends, I'd like you to meet, <span style="font-size: x-large;"><b><i>ALICE.</i></b></span></div>
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Alice it turns out, was a 6-8 week old kitten that mysteriously turned up in our backyard one day, nearly a month ago. She had a little stick, with a tiny red handkerchief sack tied to the end. (Not really.) And she camped out in our bushes in-between completely antagonizing Josie while playing with all of her toys in the yard. Josie was REALLY beside herself seeing what she did as she looked out of the window.</div>
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<br /><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dzikrRDMul4uo_AWZw_EtUgCqJ27R6AdQMV5uWX_kPr_HCNwqbqquAZWKN7epZ4ZkwBjBr4aSgBKyU' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
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We heard her tiny meows and immediately felt terrible for the poor, little thing. Our plan was to see if her family was near by. Several days went by and nothing, not a single Mama cat, no other kittens. Alice just meowed and played with the balls in our backyard..... AND FOLLOWED US AROUND.</div>
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It was getting slightly silly and worrisome, a tiny kitten all alone. So as soon as we confirmed there was no family near by, we went to work on figuring out how we could get her into a crate and to the vet and put up for adoption!</div>
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Being Alice, the Alice who already decided that she was part of our family, who would run around our yard and play and trail behind us- she easily got into the carrier and happily went to the vet. (Whaaat?)</div>
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Now we all thought that our vet would give her a check-up, run necessary tests, start Alice's vaccinations and put her cute, little self up for adoption in their kitty corner! What really happened was the vet gave her a check-up, ran some important rapid diagnostic test, like for FIV, took samples, gave her a couple of vaccinations and then<span style="font-size: x-large;"> </span><span style="font-size: large;">JON RETURNED HOME WITH HER! 😂</span></div>
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I stayed at home with Josie, who was flipping out, and Jon just came home with her! He doesn't even know <b><i>HOW, </i></b>but it happened so quickly that neither he nor the vet talked about putting her up for adoption and the vet was so happy that were taking care of an orphaned kitty!</div>
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Let me just leave this here- one of my biggest fears is having a wild animal in the house. We consulted no less than two different veterinarians, a veterinary tech and a pediatrician about our rabies fear, our intestinal worm fear, and our everything else fear. They looked at us like we going a bit overboard and urged us to stay calm, everything was going to be ok.</div>
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We went out and bought a 100 pack of sterile gloves, hydrogen peroxide, rubbing alcohol and a brand, spanking new tube of Neosporin, to be on the ready...just in case we were scratched. I even wrote Noah's pediatrician to make sure she thought all of this was ok, we were literally losing our minds. Then, we came up with what I think was a stellar plan, to create a screen to separate kitty from Hector and Josie and the rest of the house, until we had the all-clear on any parasites or other diseases. It also worked perfectly to let them get to know each other from behind the safety of a barrier. </div>
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I'm not going to lie, I couldn't bring myself to go in there for the first three days. I was afraid of getting too close. I couldn't sleep either. We didn't want the responsibility of another pet and I constantly thought, "what are we doing!? "</div>
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After a second vet in our practice reassured us that he thought Alice was completely healthy, and that it truly was ok that she was home with us, I was able to slightly loosen up, and that's when it happened.....</div>
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She stole our hearts. All of our hearts. Well, not Hector's yet, but he'll come around.</div>
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She's like.....cute, and friendly, and of all things, A LAP CAT! All she wants to do if play and then snuggle and nap on your lap! It's kind of pretty adorable. She's such a sweet sweet little girl. She reminds me of Willow.</div>
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Josie seems down with the whole idea too. She actually won't leave Alice's side during the day. They share tiny stuffed animals and Josie lets Alice play with her tail. I am making sure to take Josie on extra car rides and to give her lots of big sister attention.</div>
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Like I said, Hector is Hector. He enjoys sleeping, grumpily hissing at kitty, and pooping in all three kitty litter boxes to show everyone that it is HIS HOUSE. He'll come around....</div>
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We've fallen into a pretty regular schedule around here with her. It goes like this: we wake up Alice in her little room that she still sleeps in. She stretches and then runs and jumps and climbs around like a crazy monkey for the next three hours. The, in the middle of the day she lounges. Lounges on anyone who will hold her or provide a lap. She lounges and purrs and goes to sleep. We have never met a cat that purrs this much and is content to snuggle. It's quite amazing. Then, around 6:00 at night, she gets the "zoomies" again and goes blasting through the house until we put her in her room for night-night around 9:00 or 10:00. When she is a little older and not digging through our houseplants and teething on everything, then she can have her roam of the house at night.</div>
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Oh! I do have to say that Alice is also quite the satisfying eater! She has yet to turn up her nose at any flavor of wet cat food or kibble or cookie. It's kind of refreshing. She also PLAYS with every single toy that comes her way. She's just such an agreeable girl.</div>
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She works with Jon at the kitchen table too, and can already type 60 words per minute. She's a big help.</div>
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We think about Willow all of the time, and Jon and I still look at each other everyday and say: "How did we end up with another animal?" and then roll our eyes and laugh. Alice has been a healing, blessing to us, one that helped us to face our fears and makes us smile and laugh constantly. She helped us to open up our hearts again to more love. </div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">AND EVERY TIME WE SEE A SQUIRREL FROM AFAR, OUT IN THE BACKYARD, WE PANIC FOR A SECOND, UNTIL WE'RE SURE IT'S NOT ANOTHER CAT. 😂😅</span></div>
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Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05093968853372697053noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9902677.post-61328177462394378972019-06-17T23:12:00.003-04:002019-06-17T23:12:31.131-04:00How WE Homeschool High School & Our Path to University!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Hi friends! How is everyone? I hope that you're doing well!<br />
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As another school year comes to a close, I'm reflecting back on this completely unexpected journey into homeschooling that we've been on. By far, the most difficult thing that I have ever undertaken, and in the same breath, one of the most rewarding and life-changing. Just like with many aspects of our lives, there is no, one "right way" in education. I personally don't believe in a one-size-fits-all approach to learning, but I do believe in the gift of finding a student's "right fit."<br />
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A local public school could be fantastic and just the right first for your child. (I was a public school kid!) A private, independent school or an online school or a parochial school or a charter school could be exactly what inspires them to grow. On the other side of a coin, a particular student might thrive on the one-on-one learning of homeschooling, or the freedom of unschooling! What I'm trying to stress is that every child is different, every situation is different, every learning option is different, and they are all completely ok.<br />
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For us, while I was incredibly sad to say goodbye to our school community of nearly ten years, homeschooling has been what works best for our child, so much so, that we've been doing it for over FOUR YEARS now! How!? Still, I can not believe it. This fall will mark our fifth year homeschooling which to me, in hindsight and considering my original view of how I thought our lives would go, is amazing! I also saw my son as a "lifer," at his independent school, a nursery through 12th grader in the same school. Noah changed, his needs changed, we changed with him, and I'm thankful for this always interesting journey.<br />
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One question that I often receive is: "How do you homeschool?" I've gotten this more and more often, especially as we head into the high school years. One of my biggest fears is holding Noah back from any opportunity that he would like in life because of homeschooling. Rest assured, I've spent the past four and a half years reading every single book, research paper, article and personal story that I could get my hands on about homeschooling and homeschooling outcomes. Today I'm happy to say that I feel completely confident that home education will not hinder my child, and in fact, have seen the numbers and read the anecdotes of homeschooled teens launching into the world as successful, kind-hearted, curious, happy human beings!<br />
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I'm far from an expect on home education, but it has been one of my main passions and focus for nearly five years now. When I say I did a deep-dive into learning about....learning, I REALLY mean it! What a joy it has been to live and breath the world of home education, to suss out my child's learning styles, his strengths, weaknesses, needs and passions. It's just been a big ball of curiosity, searching for knowledge and having experiences, just as life should be! I hope to continue this journey and to always seek out more and more insight.<br />
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So with that, I present to you, how <i>WE </i>homeschool high school. Please remember that every single state has different<a href="https://hslda.org/content/laws/"> home education laws</a>, different requirements and regulations. Check with <a href="https://hslda.org/content/laws/">HSLDA</a> or your state's Board of Education to get the details on what is requested of your family. Also, this is just a slice of our lives, <u><b>the beauty of homeschooling is that you get to decide how your child will learn by choosing the resources that he or she thrives with best. </b></u>While my son prefers textbooks and discussions, others spark learning joy kinesthetically, hands-on, or through lecture or in online classes. The options are endless. My biggest advice to you is: <i>DO WHAT WORKS BEST FOR YOUR CHILD. </i><br />
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For high school, Noah has decided on learning mainly from textbooks and live classes. When we first began homeschooling, I was all about hands-on learning, talking field trips, watching movies, reading literature and simply playing! I thought that anything but the classic, dry textbook model would be great. Funnily enough, over the years, Noah has been very direct, loud and clear about the way that he prefers to learn and his desire for what?........yep, you guessed it.......textbooks! So, never write off one way or another to "do" home education. The big picture goal is to help your student find a love of learning, to cultivate passions and curiosity in the world, to make goals and find paths to achieve those goals. To accomplish this- the possibilities are endless. </div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>A short anecdote on learning resources- Computer Gaming -</b></span> I kid you not, <u>my child has learned a heaping amount about geography, history, government, economics, critical thinking and strategy skills from video games.</u> Countries, capitals, 20th century events and historical figures, governmental systems and economics all through computer games! Noah ha<a href="https://store.steampowered.com/app/25890/Hearts_of_Iron_III/">s a couple that he's very into</a> and regularly hops online to play with friends, usually representing a country or government sometime throughout history. It really is a fantastic and an outside of the box way to learn! Additionally, he has friends from all over the globe now and has become pen pals with some. It's been great. So you see, you really can find learning opportunities everywhere.</div>
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First things first - beyond knowing and<b> understanding your state's own homeschool laws</b>, you will want to start thinking about and planning for high school during your child's middle school years if you can. Don't worry if you come to this late or you begin homeschooling during high school, you can always jump in and catch up, but planning and organizing ahead of time has been a great help personally. <a href="https://www.homehighschoolhelp.com/"> Lee Binz of The HomeScholar</a> has been an endless resource and jumping off point into HOW to homeschool high school. She offers FREE <a href="https://events.genndi.com/register/169105139238451455/35aff45fce">online seminars</a> and resources on how to begin and has <a href="https://www.homehighschoolhelp.com/homescholar-store">lots and lots of useful books </a>for sale online and even through your library system. Poke around her website and you will find everything. Additionally, Lee offers more extensive paid classes and coaching on everything from how to make professional high school transcript to getting into competitive colleges. </div>
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After taking one of the HomeScholars seminars this past year, I created our very own<b><span style="font-size: medium;"> <u>Homeschool High School binder</u></span></b>. This tool has undoubtedly helped me to organize and plan. It is also a place to store all important documents in. Best part- it was free! All of the information and printable planning hand outs I found online from Lee, and other helpful sites and blogs. Just google "Free Homeschool Planning Pages," and words like that! There are many free template for planning pages available all over. </div>
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<b>I highly suggest that you piece together a folder for yourself</b>. It's a place to hold all of the things that will come in handy when putting together a portfolio, high school transcripts and college applications. Currently, this is what our binder holds to get you started:</div>
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<li>A year by year list of middle school classes completed (at home or in any kind of setting) and extracurricular activities. Also field trips with different homeschool groups, private lessons, tutoring and sports etc.</li>
<li>Any early high school credits taken while in middles school with subject, class description, curriculum, credit and grade. So, for example, Noah took a <a href="https://outschool.com/classes/united-states-history-for-high-school-students-part-i-yUp2FiPt#usOfe6dA42">high school level American History class </a>this year through Outschool. (he adored it!) Out school offers live, small classes online with seasoned teachers, professors and professions. It's really great. </li>
<li>A survey of Noah at this moment in time. He filled out a questionnaire that we made, everything about his personal goals, academic goals, new things that he wanted to try...etc. We also talk to him about his long-term goals and career planning. Jon and I fully know that he's only 14 and Noah's aspirations will change, but right now he would like to go into politics and become a foreign ambassador one day. So, we included a print out of all the paths to this goal and the things that he would need to accomplish. </li>
<li>Your state's High School Graduation requirements. I listed out all of the credits needed and specifics about each required class. I also searched around for recommended high school sequences and optional credits for different areas of future study. REMEMBER, in many states, a credit course does not only = textbooks. Learn free and creatively whenever you can and if it works for your student! </li>
<li>I mapped out and then printed, a rough outline, 8th -12th grade of the subjects/classes that Noah would study each year and made sure that we reached the credits we would like to. It's a broad 5 year overview that is very helpful!</li>
<li>Then I have pages for each specific year, 8th-12th. On these pages I will list subject and course summary, credit and grade. I will also record here, the curriculum that I used, our literature list for that year, and community service and activities and other accomplishments.</li>
<li>Finally for this first high school section of my binder, I've printed out some great guides and examples of official high school transcripts, which you can find by googling " How to make professional high school homeschool transcripts." There are services that will make them for you, but it's just as easy and nice looking to make or find your own free template and make them yourself!</li>
<li>The second section that I have is tabbed as "College." This feels a little funny, but Noah has been waiting and waiting and waiting for 9th grade, so that he may take some classes at our local community college as a "Dual Enrollment Student." This is where you are both a high school student (homeschooled or in brick and mortar school) AND taking college classes. </li>
<li>Noah was accepted into our community college and passed their placement exam into college level composition, which is fabulous because now he doesn't have prerequisites to take classes. I used my three-hole punch and included in our folder, print outs of ALL college applications, test results and correspondences. </li>
<li>Additionally I have detailed notes from our visit with his college academic advisor, lists of classes that he recommended to Noah to start with, and import information we were given with things like registration dates and guidelines. </li>
<li>FINALLY, beyond all of this, I will be sure to keep copies of all of his best papers, exams and projects etc., in the back or in another portfolio. </li>
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<b>Phew! That was a lot, but worth it!</b><br />
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Now that your planning is out of the way, and you kind of know WHAT you will be learn about each year, now you can move onto HOW you are going to learn each year. Like I mentioned before, sit, talk with your student, observe how the enjoy learning and what they need. Then you can pick your method and/or curriculum.<br />
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My favorite resources for finding out about different books, online classes, co-ops, programs, curriculum sets, kits, groups and so forth, is by going to my homeschool groups on Facebook . You will find hundreds of homeschool Facebook groups. We must have twenty different groups for my metro area alone. You can also join grade-specific forums, learning style specific forums, pages where you throw out questions like- "Good, recent documentary on ocean life?" and you'll receive 15 awesome answer almost instantly. It's really cool! I also tend to read curriculum reviews at <a href="https://cathyduffyreviews.com/">Cathy Duffy Homeschool Reviews</a>, <a href="http://secularhomeschool.com/">SecularHomeschool.com</a> and at <a href="http://homeschoolbuyersco-op./">Homeschoolbuyersco-op.</a> A lot of thought and a lot of fun goes into choosing your curriculum. It's one of my favorite parts. </div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">The following are the curriculum resources that we will be using for our 9th grade year!</span></b></div>
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Noah wants textbooks, literature, live online lecture and in-person classes, so this is what we're aiming for overall. </div>
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<span style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">9th Grade English Composition - </span></b></span></div>
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I'm sorry about the bad picture, but you get the point. We'll be using <a href="https://www.hmhco.com/shop/k12/Write-Source/9780669009064">The Write Source </a> curriculum from textbook manufacturers Houghton Mifflin Harcourt. Actually, most of our textbooks are Houghton Mifflin in conjunction with Holt Mcdougall. You can purchase them online at their own websites and on Amazon, but I have found the best prices by far at the site :HomeSchoolBuyerCo-op. In addition to Write Source for composition and grammar, we have been really enjoying the<a href="https://classicalacademicpress.com/wr-landing-page/"> Writing and Rhetoric series </a>for the past four years from Classical Academic Press and will continue to supplement with them. We like to learn with different resources everyday to keep things fun, so we'll also be finishing up the four book series <a href="https://www.lifeoffred.uniquemath.com/lof-hslangarts.php#.XQQawi2ZNPM">high school language arts series by Life of Fred</a>. If you didn't know that learning about language arts and grammar could be hilarious, then read these books!</div>
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Finally, one of my old favorites, or possibly even, my very favorite- <a href="https://www.movingbeyondthepage.com/default.aspx">Moving Beyond the Page</a>. MBtP has offers full, literature based curriculum packages and individual unit studies for preschool to high school age kids. We've used them for all four years of learning so far and have had a wonderful experience with heir hands-on projects and the great books we've been sent. Noah will be using their literature units. First up, George Orwell's "<i>Animal Farm</i>."</div>
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Before I forget, I have to make two more fabulous Writing/ Language Arts suggestions, both that we may use again at some point this year. <a href="https://bravewriter.com/online-classes">Brave Writer's online writing classes</a> are unique, engaging and allow your student to develop their voice. The online classes are run asynchronously, so you never need to attend at a certain day and time. It's a unique format and I love their books clubs too. Also in the realm of online classes, but this time, live, I can not recommend <a href="https://outschool.com/">Outschool </a>enough. We've enjoyed taking part in writing, history and economics classes so far and will definitely be enrolling in more.</div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Science- Biology and Lab</span></b></div>
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For science this year, we'll have an interesting mix! First, our textbook will be "Biology" by Holt Mcdougall and we are also subscribed to their online Biology supplement for the text book. This includes additional reading and activities. Also, Noah applied for the Secondary School , <a href="https://umdearborn.edu/casl/centers-institutes/environmental-interpretive-center/education-programs/community-programs/homeschool-field-programs">Field Program at the University of Michigan Dearborn's Environmental Interpretive Center</a>! (That was a mouthful.) This program runs from September to June and allows homeschooled teens to be lead by an instructor in nature study and biology on their 300-acre environmental area. The class focuses on biodiversity, the scientific method and becoming proficient at field observation. They will also work on some labs, so this will help to cover our Bio credit and a lab!</div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Math- Algebra 1.</span></b></div>
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Math is "meh." Well, at least if you ask Noah (shhhh....me too!) That doesn't mean it has to be bad. This past year we've been using the online math program, <a href="https://www.ctcmath.com/?gclid=EAIaIQobChMIw_yqmZjq4gIVF_5kCh0qugvLEAAYASAAEgIqbfD_BwE">CTC Math</a>. The thing that's great about this is that CTC breaks everything down into little, 5-10 minute classes, taught online by the teacher. Clear and to the point, no busy work, which is huge for kids who aren't the biggest math fans. Quizzes, tests, practice work is all online, within the program. I get to follow along and watch Noah's progress and assign his sessions. In addition, since we love everything Critical Thinking Co., we are also going to follow along with their <a href="https://www.criticalthinking.com/understanding-algebra-i.html">Algebra 1. text and workbook.</a> The Critical Thinking Co.'s style is anything but dry. No rote, repetitive work, lots of fun visuals and real word questions. </div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Foreign Language - German, Hebrew</span></b></div>
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So, this thing happened last fall where Noah was thinking that maybe he did want to have a Bar Mitzvah eventually. (We now belong to this really amazing temple that is 100% inclusive and all about social justice and human rights. They have a relaxation meditation during services and vegetarian Indian dinners. It's like, the best place ever.) Noah knew he needed to learn Hebrew, among everything else needed for a bar mitzvah, as he's never been to Sunday School or anything like that. Thus began Hebrew tutoring for the past ten months. Somewhere along the line Noah changed his mind about pursuing his Bar Mitzvah, which is ok with us, but his interest in and enjoyment of learning Hebrew has continued! So much so actually, that he's elected to continue lessons throughout summer. Seven years of French class did not seem to spark the same joy in my son, so I am pleased that he wants to keep going with Hebrew.</div>
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Additionally, Noah wanted to pick a second, more commonly taught in school language, and German is something that he has wanted to learn for a long time. We (again) went with Holt's "Komm Mitt" series. What's interesting is that if you know Hebrew and German, you basically, almost understand Yiddish!!! So that is our third language goal, to speak the great language of Yiddish. It's so much fun and dying language, so it would be FANTASTIC to learn.</div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">History- Geography, American History And... ???</span></b></div>
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Noah's favorite subject by far is history. He loves politics and international relations and all that is related. So, being his passion, I don't shy away from providing him with material. Did you know that it doesn't matter what the subject matter is, that a person can hone their reading , writing and analytical skills just by studying what they love? He'll read and write about history gladly, so I have always tried to work in<a href="https://www.thehomeschoolmom.com/interested-interest-led/"> interest lead learning</a> as much as possible.</div>
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This past year, as I mentioned, we started our high school American History credit early. This was done by taking three of the four part, school-year-long <a href="https://outschool.com/classes/united-states-history-for-high-school-students-part-i-yUp2FiPt#usOfe6dA42">American history class on Outschool.</a> The fourth and final section was moved to next fall when he will complete it. Also, fabulous, fabulous curriculum - <a href="https://www.criticalthinking.com/us-history-detective-book-1.html">U.S. History Detective textbook/workbook from The Critical Thinking Co. </a>. Their series are phenomenal like I mentioned a couple of paragraphs ago. Noah loves them! We worked in these textbooks to round out our credit. </div>
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For 9th Grade, we will focus on geography, another area of interest for Noah. Again, I went with Holt Mcdougall's Geography textbook and online supplemental program. I feel like Noah already knows so much about Geography because of his personal interest. I guess we shall see what else there is to learn! </div>
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We will also continue our study of philosophy with various books, and The Critical Thinking Company's "<a href="https://www.criticalthinking.com/you-decide.html">You Decide</a>!" This is an interactive study of the Bill of Rights. </div>
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Rounding everything out, Noah had begun studying for the <a href="https://clep.collegeboard.org/history-and-social-sciences/social-sciences-and-history">CLEP Social Sciences and History Exam.</a> CLEP stands for "College Level Examination Program." Similar to AP Exams, high school kids can sit for subject test in hopes of passing out of these core classes in college. Homeschooled kids often take CLEP and AP exams, just like any other high school student. I had no idea about this until I bumped into the page: "<a href="https://homeschoolingforcollegecredit.com/">Homeschooling for College Credit</a>," and then joined their Facebook group. You will not even believe the opportunities out there!</div>
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Lastly, the plan is to enroll in a history or political science course at our community college for this fall. We're just waiting for them to release their fall schedule of classes and then we will be able to enroll on July 10th! We can't wait!!! We'll start off slow, one class in something he loves, a college study skills course, and then see how things go. </div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">A Brief Word On Homeschoolers Going To College- <i>because they do, all of the time.</i></span></b></div>
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The greatest thing that homeschooling has taught me is that social constraints and norms aren't mandatory and that in fact, it's best to at least question them for yourselves before you decide what to do in your life. Homeschooling taught me that the world is so grand and wide-open and the possibilities and ways of doing things are endless! Isn't that nice? Life is so much more colorful and fluid now. I don't even have the words to explain it. Stepping out of the race, it freed me up to watch and observe from the side-lines, while munching on my popcorn and taking time to live our best lives. </div>
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The point is- you don't HAVE to go to college, and if you want to go, that's fine too! Life has many many more paths that what we originally see on the surface. For myself, looking back, I can't believe it, but I never once questioned the fact that I would go to college. It just wasn't a question where I grew up, you'd go, no discussion. Same thing for my husband Jon, and this is the same expectation that we had for Noah. In fact, saving for college began before he was born, it was just that important.</div>
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Four homeschooled, wild and free years later, I'm actually pretty comfortable with the idea that not everyone needs to or wants to go on to higher education at the university level, and that is completely ok. For example, entrepreneurship is fantastic and does not always need a full, expensive degree. There are high school to career alternatives now, like <a href="https://discoverpraxis.com/">Praxis</a> and<a href="https://lambdaschool.com/about/"> Lambda</a> that develop your employable skills without putting you into debt. I also think that we don't talk often enough about careers in the trades and how they can be successful and satisfying choices. Mostly though, I just want my child to grow up to be happy and with a solid footing as he steps into adult life. Whatever he chooses that to be, no matter what path, I support him and will help my kiddo get there!</div>
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Noah knows that he wants to go to college. Like myself, he's never questioned that fact. He has plans to persue a graduate degree or two as well. So, as his parents, we're doing all that we can to help him get there. My biggest fear when we began to homeschool, was that I'd hinder his ability to apply to and become accepted to colleges. This worry kept me up at night for a long time! It wasn't until I had a year or two of solid research under my belt, that I calmed down and felt satisfied that homeschooling would not hold him back. Not in the least...</div>
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<b><i>SO HOW DO HOMESCHOOLERS GET INTO COLLEGE?</i></b></div>
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First off, every single year, more and more universities are welcoming homeschoolers to apply to their institutions. In fact, quite a few college actually seek out homeschooled applicants for their tendency to be passionate, out-side-of-the-box thinkers! I've checked Noah's top college choices and sure enough, they too have admission sections for homeschooled kids, it's a sign of our changing times.</div>
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Secondly, homeschoolers usually apply to universities exactly the same way that public or private school students do. You fill out the same application, sit for the same SAT or ACT exam, (if you want to) submit the same type of essay. Homeschoolers are awarded high school diplomas just like everyone else, and they are able to easily sit for AP exams too. The only difference that I've found, is that a few universities ask homeschooled applicants for a portfolio of their best work- papers, projects, awards. I actually think getting to show off your accomplishments in this way to an admissions boards is actually an advantage!</div>
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We homeschoolers have endless opportunities for extra-curricular activities to include in our applications as well, just like other students. Sports teams, theater, arts, music, forensics and debate. You name it, there is usually multiple groups and organizations for each interest in your area.</div>
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<b>More excitingly, there is another way that homeschooler get into college</b>, and this is the path that we plan to take- often homeschool kids participate in dual enrollment opportunities at their local community colleges and other four year universities! By concurrently being homeschool AND slowly taking college classes, you can begin to build up college history and credit. Once kids are in their "senior year" of high school, they usually have enough credits to transfer right into a four year university at the same time as their peers! Plus, you already have 2-4 years of college credits and practice under your belts. So for Noah, his goal is to take classes at our community college for 9th and 10th grade, and then he will apply to a four year university near us, that accepts dual enrollment students in 11th and 12th grade. Hopefully, this will set him on a path to transfer into the school that he has his eyes set on in four years. Fingers crossed!</div>
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So you see, homeschoolers, they're not at a disadvantage. It's all about your student learning about themselves, their interests, and coming up with a good plan together. Not only is this doable, but it's seriously interesting and a lot of fun!</div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-m3HSJzDq4Ww/XQf4ZSVZKcI/AAAAAAAAKzE/tYSkre6watwdl0X3vKppzNxFKhYUB0G_QCLcBGAs/s1600/images.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="115" data-original-width="436" height="84" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-m3HSJzDq4Ww/XQf4ZSVZKcI/AAAAAAAAKzE/tYSkre6watwdl0X3vKppzNxFKhYUB0G_QCLcBGAs/s320/images.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Apart from all all of the things above, for high school, we'll be sure to get some volunteer and community service work in. This is actually a nice perk of the homeschool community, as often groups schedule volunteer field trips where you get to find what kind of work that moves you. We have travel opportunities with other students all over the world, and like I mentioned above, every kind of sports team, theater opportunities and art classes. Noah is looking at a high school metal smithing at our local art center.</div>
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Oh! One last thing to touch on, the social aspects of homeschooling high school. We all know this is one of the most asked questions- how do homeschooled kids have a social life, how do they learn to interact and work with others? Rest assured, if your teen wants to have a full, daily, vibrant social life as a homeschooler, they can have one. Home educated teens can take classes AT THEIR LOCAL PUBLIC HIGH SCHOOL, at community college, in homeschool learning co-ops, which are huge and everywhere. They can get together any day of the week with their homeschool groups, with friends, in extracurricular classes, camps and on teams to name a few. My son attends a tutor's home who hosts a homework study group four days a week, part of which is all about the socialization with other teens. So worry not, there are lots and lots of opportunities for kids to get to know each other and work together, just like in school.</div>
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This post has already gone on far too long and I fear that it's made homeschooling high school sound complex, when really, it's not! Believe me, not needing to wake up a sleepy teen at 6:00am (or 8:00am, or 9:00am, or...)is incredibly nice! No rush to get out of the house or daily commute to school. No homework battles or homework for that matter. Just nice, relaxed days, studying things the way that brings a smile to your child's face. It's all worth it and pretty easy once you get the hang of it. When you realize just how much choice and freedom that you have during the high school years, and how many directions you can take in learning, the fun really begins!</div>
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Until next time,</div>
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XOXOXO, </div>
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Lauren </div>
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Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05093968853372697053noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9902677.post-16460039738190139362019-02-12T12:11:00.002-05:002019-02-28T09:59:08.291-05:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://thebtwco.com/"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="1200" height="334" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ALuYXETOqAQ/XGL-OXb10MI/AAAAAAAAKsQ/5eS4hsRxE7MfPciuJyiWQCS_ORzMy8WPACLcBGAs/s640/Mickey%2BFitness%2BEvent.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05093968853372697053noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9902677.post-57933674235604038942019-02-07T06:53:00.000-05:002019-02-07T06:56:47.697-05:00A Match Made in Heaven (Plus a Great Special Offer)!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wkRFdcpNeRk/XEN5RJXsP_I/AAAAAAAAKrE/JwZCxcISjdQq3U6FhRbhg-o80VbGlgP6gCEwYBhgL/s1600/Amper-thanks.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1050" data-original-width="1500" height="448" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wkRFdcpNeRk/XEN5RJXsP_I/AAAAAAAAKrE/JwZCxcISjdQq3U6FhRbhg-o80VbGlgP6gCEwYBhgL/s640/Amper-thanks.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;"><b>Happy (early) Valentines Day</b></span> my wonderful friends, family and Silver Sisters!!! In celebration of this lovey-dovey holiday, we've teamed up with another wonderful hair care line to bring everyone <span style="font-size: large;"><u>AN EXCITING OFFER!!!</u></span></div>
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Friends, I'd like you to meet:<b> <a href="https://quicksilverhair.com/">QuickSilverHair</a></b>! QuickSilver is the fantastic, one of-a-kind creation of Joli Campbell. Joli, a fellow silver sister and curly girl (you can read her interesting story <a href="https://quicksilverhair.com/about-quicksilverhair/">HERE</a>), set out to craft for the silver community a <b>chemical-free and cruelty-free </b><a href="https://quicksilverhair.com/product/quicksilverhair-clay/">hair mask</a> and<a href="https://quicksilverhair.com/product/quicksilverhair-oil/"> hair oil</a> to help us whiten and brighten and shine!</div>
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Her hair mask system for brightening is so unique that there's nothing like it available to us, and I was thrilled when Joli approached me and asked if I wanted to try QuickSilverHair. I said: "YES, I would love to!" almost before she could even get the words out. It was really exciting, as I've been eyeing her line for quite some time. We decided to do a product swap - Joli tried some of our<a href="https://thebtwco.com/"> <i><b>BY THE WAY, Your Hair Looks Fabulous!</b></i></a><b style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"><a href="https://thebtwco.com/">™</a>, </b>and I spent a month using QuickSilverHair.</div>
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This post is about my experience using QuickSilver. It was such a nice nice way to pamper and care for my hair, and something that you might be curious about giving a shot too! You end up with lusciously soft hair, but also have a great, relaxing time! In the process of swapping, we realized that our products compliment each other very well, which I will explain a bit more in-depth later. This is what lead to such a nice idea from Joli - that we offer all of our readers <b><u> <span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">a joint Valentine's Day coupon to QuickSilverHair and The By The Way Company!</span></u></b></div>
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First, let's start with all of the fun that I had while using QuickSilver's<a href="https://quicksilverhair.com/product/quicksilverhair-clay/"> hair mask</a> and <a href="https://quicksilverhair.com/product/quicksilverhair-oil/">oil</a> and my results. Meant to brighten and soften your tresses, the wonderfully hydrating hair mask is made of pure Kaolin white clay. The only other ingredients are organic cornstarch and natural essential oils, so it's extra gentle. I've noticed that the 5 oz. tin of clay and the 50ml. bottle of hair oil has gone a long, long way! I've done three treatments so far and I've still only used up 1/4 of my product if that. I like the value in what QuickSilver offers, as each tin and bottle last a long time.</blockquote>
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Joli is well versed in the needs of those with fragrance and chemical allergies, which is important to me and to many others as well. She uses the pure essential oils only. </blockquote>
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The clay mask is lightly scented and often described as "fresh and clean" with notes of grapefruit, lavender and bergamot. I personally have a difficult time introducing new scents to my own routine and the clay was just fine! To activate the mask, Joli recommends using 7-10 drops of her <a href="https://quicksilverhair.com/product/quicksilverhair-kit/">Hair Oil</a>. This oil has a lovely earthy, fresh smell and again, is made of natural essential oils. There are warm notes of ginger and lavender and a nice nutty scent due to the activating Sweet Almond, Sunflower, Argan and Jojoba oils. It was fantastic with the hot steam of a shower, I felt like I was at a luxurious spa! If you do have very particular scent needs, Joli mentioned that in lieu of her hair oil, you can use a dropper full of your own Argan, Jojoba, or Coconut oil. </blockquote>
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See the scrumptious packaging below? They came in the mail lovingly sent, and I feel they would make a elegant gift for anyone going gray. I could picture giving the set to any silver sister newbie just on her adventure, or gray hair graduate for her birthday, any holiday or just to say: "You're great!"</div>
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After the clay and oil, the only other thing that you need to get your mask ready is some <u>silicone-free</u> conditioner of your choice. This is where we come in! 😃 Joli and I found that our<a href="https://thebtwco.com/products/daily-moisturizing-conditioner"> By The Way Co. Daily Moisturizing Conditioner </a>worked absolutely wonderfully with the mask and oil! After leaving the mask on for 40 minutes, and in conjunction with our silicone-free conditioner, my hair was left as soft as can be. It was shiny, tangle-free and brightened. </div>
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What's more, after some fun discussion, for my second mask usage, I did an experiment with our also silicone-free <a href="https://thebtwco.com/products/purple-conditioner">Purple Conditioner.</a> The results - soft and bright. While those with more yellowing or brassy tones than I have might experience more whitening with purple conditioner, I can also say that I had no purple staining of my hair or scalp after leaving the mask + purple conditioner on for 30 minutes.</div>
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Below is a photo that I took after mixing the QuickSilverHair mask and oil together with our purple conditioner. Doesn't it look delicious!? (DON'T EAT IT!) Joli instructs her customer to mix everything to about a "frosting" consistency, and can I just tell you...... I had the MOST FUN EVER, imagining that I was putting frosting on my hair. I was laughing out loud because it was just so enjoyable. If you decide to us a non-purple conditioner, which is equally great, your mixture will look just as luscious as below, only pure white. </div>
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Before using your hair mask, it is suggested that you wash your hair with a silicone-free clarifying shampoo. Again, our own BTW Co. <a href="https://thebtwco.com/products/clarifying-shampoo">Clarifying Shampoo</a> worked great for this. I washed my hair, slathered on the mask (WOO HOO!!!!) and then relaxed for 30 minutes before washing everything out. Joli sends each order with very specific usage instructions, and you can also find the information on her <a href="https://quicksilverhair.com/mixing-clay-infographic/">WEBSITE</a> with this perfect infographic.</div>
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And there you have it! A match made in heaven for healthy hair this Valentines Day! 💕💕💕</div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #cc0000;">USE THE COUPON CODE </span><span style="color: #674ea7;">BTWHappyHeartsQSH</span><span style="color: #cc0000;"> FOR 15% OFF AT BOTH </span></span><span style="color: #cc0000;">QuickSilverHair </span></span></b><b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #cc0000;">AND</span></span></span></b><b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #cc0000;"> The BTW CO.</span><span style="background-color: white; color: magenta;">*</span><span style="color: #cc0000;"> </span></span></b><b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #cc0000;">FROM FEBRUARY 7 - FEBRUARY 14!</span></span></span></b></div>
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I hope that you enjoyed this little review adventure as much as I did. It's wonderful that more and more people are accepting and acknowledging those of us who, by choice or not, do not color our hair. Even more exciting is the future and possibilities of products out there just for us! 😄😄😄</div>
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<b><span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">Until next time, love your hair and Happy Valentine's Day!!!!</span></b></div>
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<b><span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">xoxoxoxoxox, </span></b></div>
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<b><span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">Lauren </span></b></div>
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<span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;"><span style="color: magenta;">*</span>Don't forget, your can also find </span><span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;"><span style="color: #674ea7;">BY THE WAY,<i> Your Hair Looks FABULOUS!</i></span><span style="color: #cc0000;"> on Amazon with free Prime shipping! We aren't able to offer the 15% coupon there, but you will receive free shipping if you are a Prime member. </span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #999999;"><b style="font-family: catamaran, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">** </b><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "catamaran" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">This post contains affiliate links. For a full explanation, please see my complete disclosure </span><b style="font-family: catamaran, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"><a href="http://howbourgeois.blogspot.com/p/about-how-bourgeois.html" style="text-decoration: none;">HERE</a></b><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "catamaran" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">! Thank you!!! :) </span><b style="font-family: catamaran, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"><span style="background-color: white;">**</span></b></span></div>
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<br />Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05093968853372697053noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9902677.post-25999366543774875652019-01-16T09:31:00.000-05:002019-01-16T10:10:22.851-05:00There's A Reason We Call it: "Life Changing!"<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #666666;"><b style="caret-color: rgb(102, 102, 102); font-family: Catamaran, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">** </b><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "catamaran" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">This post contains affiliate links. For a full explanation, please see my complete disclosure </span><b style="caret-color: rgb(102, 102, 102); font-family: Catamaran, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"><a href="http://howbourgeois.blogspot.com/p/about-how-bourgeois.html" style="text-decoration: none;">HERE</a></b><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "catamaran" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">! Thank you!!! :) </span><b style="caret-color: rgb(102, 102, 102); font-family: Catamaran, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"><span style="background-color: white;">**</span></b></span></div>
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\(^-^)/ Hi friends! I just wanted to pop in, say "hello" and share my honest to goodness recent favorite. Things have been quiet around How Bourgeois because I've just been taking care of my family and starting the new business. We have our first snowstorms of the year coming, so for someone like me, it's super happy and exciting!!! <span class="_5mfr" style="font-family: inherit; margin: 0px 1px;"><span class="_6qdm" style="background-image: url("https://static.xx.fbcdn.net/images/emoji.php/v9/tf2/2/16/1f605.png?_nc_eui2=AeFHsEBXrhOJM0FHnbwpRQJwPnNuFqvBvAEt8L13H76Ub0vr4ztmM2Zelm0octjXgExvHSUEQD7WJ0jZuQdp5QP1ap-oiTZ010jGHJSAPMmexA"); background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: contain; color: transparent; display: inline-block; font-family: inherit; font-size: 16px; height: 16px; text-shadow: none; vertical-align: text-bottom; width: 16px;">😅</span></span><span class="_5mfr" style="font-family: inherit; margin: 0px 1px;"><span class="_6qdm" style="background-image: url("https://static.xx.fbcdn.net/images/emoji.php/v9/tee/2/16/1f601.png?_nc_eui2=AeHDLpm234vnFC2iXS1w3k5IC3FjASqonmfdKIShLTrsdSP8TETah3LDmnxtOPqSUe9_QMNSPC0HmWkP-IJqoaklkLR2GDcMVa-yqEP3mTvIzA"); background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: contain; color: transparent; display: inline-block; font-family: inherit; font-size: 16px; height: 16px; text-shadow: none; vertical-align: text-bottom; width: 16px;">😁</span></span><span class="_5mfr" style="font-family: inherit; margin: 0px 1px;"><span class="_6qdm" style="background-image: url("https://static.xx.fbcdn.net/images/emoji.php/v9/ted/2/16/2764.png?_nc_eui2=AeHiC7sGcJIZXvSs_VWA_qMgjG104GlNSMnkJtwlOWhVlpfqJ0tWQaQTLDhaoyhXpT_4knICmJwYK8KxBoXQJGywd0PCSb37CvpS3ueGfAjgFA"); background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: contain; color: transparent; display: inline-block; font-family: inherit; font-size: 16px; height: 16px; text-shadow: none; vertical-align: text-bottom; width: 16px;">❤️</span></span> At any rate, I can not go a single shower without my leave-in conditioner now. I've been using it for over 6 months and truthfully, it HAS been life changing for my hair. If you are looking for a product to help with coarse gray hair, dryness or frizz, our leave-in really does do the job. Thank you everyone, for all of your support over the years. From the very first day I posted, announcing that I was going to try to grow my gray hair out, to today. You've all be amazing to me. <span class="_5mfr" style="font-family: inherit; margin: 0px 1px;"><span class="_6qdm" style="background-image: url("https://static.xx.fbcdn.net/images/emoji.php/v9/t7c/2/16/263a.png?_nc_eui2=AeHMXaw1Btl9EFugjuR11rFvMfSxnl6CcniAsIAV6hIaHlXN0TF7sSqlBL8uLGeXk76pNkIpcfR1UV7Ytjq_3q4H20Nu7MLu4mC6kuzrk41Bcw"); background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: contain; color: transparent; display: inline-block; font-family: inherit; font-size: 16px; height: 16px; text-shadow: none; vertical-align: text-bottom; width: 16px;">☺️</span></span><span class="_5mfr" style="font-family: inherit; margin: 0px 1px;"><span class="_6qdm" style="background-image: url("https://static.xx.fbcdn.net/images/emoji.php/v9/t1f/2/16/1f64f.png?_nc_eui2=AeE1yQhYzpI1u56SBabkwrLFQs9EZpPHa9LvwiPeyaalTAuZrX0TKMG3ZH72RHv6gxSH5r02yL_CLGsFiLt4T0R8kPnfrtmSjch3gDThRxpr9w"); background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: contain; color: transparent; display: inline-block; font-family: inherit; font-size: 16px; height: 16px; text-shadow: none; vertical-align: text-bottom; width: 16px;">🙏</span></span>Love you and talk soon! XOXOXO, LAUREN</div>
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<span style="color: #1d2129;">PS! If you'd like to check out our "Life Changing Leave-In" Conditioner you can see it on our site </span><a href="https://thebtwco.com/products/life-changing-leave-in-conditioner"><span style="color: blue;">here</span></a><span style="color: #1d2129;"> and on Amazon </span><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Changing-Leave-Conditioner-Hair-Types/dp/B07KLHNK72/"><span style="color: blue;">here</span></a><span style="color: #1d2129;">. </span></div>
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<br />Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05093968853372697053noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9902677.post-63009535201788124942019-01-02T16:19:00.000-05:002019-01-02T16:19:01.923-05:00Katie Goes Platinum -A Fellow Blogging Silver Sister to Inspire!Hey How Bourgeois readers, friends, Silver Sisters and all-around wonderful people! I know that I haven't posted here in a while, but we've been busy getting our hair care line up and running. 💃<br />
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I wanted to stop in though, and share the name of a fellow blogger and Silver Sister. Her kindness and and encouragement as we've started our company has been so appreciated. Beyond that though, Katie is inspiring women (myself included!) who are taking the gray journey, through her wonderful blog content.<br />
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Please visit<a href="https://katiegoesplatinum.com/"> <b><span style="font-size: large;">Katie Goes Platinum</span></b></a> for lots and lots of uplifting stories of women transitioning, product reviews and insight into this whole gray hair adventure! Follow along on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/katiegoesplatinum/">Instagram </a>and<a href="https://www.facebook.com/katiegoesplatinum/"> Facebook</a> too. I love watching Katie's grout progress and so will you.<br />
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Thank you Katie!</div>
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<span style="color: #990000; font-size: large;">xoxoxoxoxoxo,</span></div>
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<span style="color: #990000; font-size: large;">Lauren </span></div>
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Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05093968853372697053noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9902677.post-4052834317907031422018-11-21T13:06:00.001-05:002018-11-21T14:02:56.427-05:00The LOLO METHOD - How I Style and Tame My Gray Hair! <div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><b style="caret-color: rgb(102, 102, 102); font-family: Catamaran, sans-serif;">** </b><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #666666; font-family: "catamaran" , sans-serif;">This post contains links to our own brand and online store. I may be compensated if you purchase the products found at these links. For a full explanation, please see my complete disclosure </span></span><b style="caret-color: rgb(102, 102, 102); color: #666666; font-family: Catamaran, sans-serif;"><a href="https://howbourgeois.blogspot.com/p/about-how-bourgeois.html">HERE</a></b><span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: "catamaran" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://howbourgeois.blogspot.com/p/about-how-bourgeois.html">!</a> Thank you!!! </span><b style="caret-color: rgb(102, 102, 102); font-family: Catamaran, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">**</span></b></span></div>
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Guys, we all know it- gray hair can be a little..........erm......<i><b><span style="font-size: large;">UNRULY</span></b>. </i>Those silver strands that you're growing out can come in with a <b>WHOLE NEW TEXTURE. </b>They can have a mind of their own!</div>
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Think beautiful, sparkling new friends who you invite over for a quiet cup of tea and a civilized chat, but instead they decide to go crazy and have a WILD PARTY on the top of your head!</div>
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To make matters worse, the vast majority of us do not have naturally light blond hair, so those new party-animal friends? Yeah, their antics are EXTRA noticeable when highlighted against your darker, non-white hair.<br />
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Today I'm going to share with you, what tools, products and tips I use to get my hair looking as soft, shiny and frizz-free as I can. I call it <b>"The Lolo Method!"</b> ("Lolo" is my nickname and it's actually not<i> really</i> an official method, but something that I do everyday and it works well, so I'll teach you!)<br />
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Before I begin, remember: <span style="font-size: large;"><i>you can have all the right tools like styling products and brushes, but without knowing how to<b> use </b>those tools they're not going to work! Be patient and practice. Give it your best shot and you'll do great!</i></span><br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;"><u>Step 1. The Set-Up</u></span></b><br />
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Ok, here we go. Let's pretend that you're starting on a day with freshly washed hair, just out of the shower, <span style="font-size: large;"><b>STILL DAMP. </b> </span><br />
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My suggestion is that you use the <a href="https://thebtwco.com/products/purple-shampoo">purple shampoo</a> and <a href="https://thebtwco.com/products/purple-conditioner">conditioner</a> from our....ehemmm....<a href="http://www.thebtwco.com/">ONLINE STORE</a> when you need a bit of brightening of your whites. Or our <a href="https://thebtwco.com/products/clarifying-shampoo">clarifying shampoo </a>when your hair feels a little weighed down from styling product build up. If your hair is good to go, our super moisturizing <a href="https://thebtwco.com/products/daily-moisturizing-shampoo">daily shampoo</a> and <a href="https://thebtwco.com/products/daily-moisturizing-conditioner">conditioner</a> will nourish you hair and help make the texture soft and lovely.<br />
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No matter what you use, starting with damp, hydrated hair is the first step!<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;"><u>Step 2. CAREFULLY De-Tangle and Condition</u></span></b><br />
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So now, this is the part where you want to get yourself something like your fingers, or better yet, a wide-tooth comb like <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Conair-Anti-static-Detangling-Comb-Colors/dp/B002QF4UYY/ref=sr_1_4_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1542730671&sr=1-4&keywords=wide+tooth+comb+for+curly+hair">THIS </a>one. When our hair is wet, it is extra prone to breakage and damage so please be super gentle!!! I grab sections of my wet hair and hold it slack while I comb so that I am not pulling my hair out. Use your finger or wide-tooth comb to simply get ride of any big tangles.<br />
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Next, I take my <a href="https://thebtwco.com/products/life-changing-leave-in-conditioner">Life Changing Leave-In Conditioner</a>, give it a shake and pour a generous sized dollop into my hand. As you use this leave-in, you'll get a better idea of how much your particular hair needs. Feel it out, there's no right or wrong amount! The Life Changing Leave-In is one of my favorite things that we've made. It just makes such a difference! My hair always comes out feeling so much softer, manageable and shiny. It also protects and nourishes with moisture.<br />
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You can gently distribute the leave-in all around your hair using the palms of you hands. Then, I personally follow-up with the wide-tooth comb to help evenly apply it.<br />
Next up is a little bit of our<a href="https://thebtwco.com/products/hair-serum"> Silicone-Free Hair Serum</a>. This is going to give you even more softness and lots of shine! A small amount goes a long way. I start with a dime sized portion in the palm of my hand, rub my hands together and evenly distribute it.<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;"><u>Step 3. Here's the Important Part! The Smooth and Smoosh!!!</u></span></b><br />
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I will now teach you my patented technique for less frizzy hair. ;)<br />
Ok, listen carefully.... so, after experimenting and experimenting, I have FINALLY FOUND SOMETHING THAT WORKS! I've been using this technique and it works every time.<br />
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I carefully comb my hair and make it as straight/smooth as possible on top. Then I use a cream like our <a href="https://thebtwco.com/products/styling-cream">Silicone- Free Styling Cream</a>, or a gel, something like <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Aussie-Instant-Freeze-Sculpting-Gel/dp/B00LSB2U7G/ref=sr_1_1_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1542731972&sr=8-1-spons&keywords=aussie+instant+freeze+hair+gel&psc=1">THIS</a> . I smooth a small amount with the palm of my hands, moving from the part in my hair downward. The trick is, is that you are SMOOTHING down the frizz on the top of your hair. You can smooth all the way to your ends, but this is mostly for the wild gray hairs at the top.<br />
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Now, again, carefully, I gather my hair into a sleek, low ponytail, smoothing my hair down as I go. If your hair is too short for a ponytail, don't worry about this step.<br />
After it is in a ponytail, one that is not too tight, but just snug enough to help keep my hair taunt, I then apply one more layer of my cream to the top of my head, making sure to smooth everything down and then<b> I STOP TOUCHING MY HAIR!</b><br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;"><u>Step 4. Air Dry a Little or Blow Dry While Smooshing!</u></span></b><br />
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You're in the home stretch! Ok, so, if you have time to let your hair air dry a little, then this is always good. I often let my hair dry to partially damp when in the ponytail. While this is going on, I check to see if my frizz is still staying down, and if it's not, I simply put a TINY bit of the styling cream in my hair and I smooth the frizz down again. Then I stop touching my hair! This is part of the trick.<br />
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If you are pressed for time, or if you just want to use your dryer, that's fine too! The concept is the same - smoosh, use gentle tension to keep things smooth, don't mess with your hair too much. When I'm ready to dry, whether it be from the start or after air drying for a while, I turn my dryer onto medium or warm and I angle the air flow down while smoothing the hair on the top of my head with the palm of my hand.<br />
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It's all about having the air flow and your hand and the product smoothing the hair follicle down. Your hair will look flat on top initially, but once you get everything smoothed, later, you can go back and add volume.<br />
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Ok, so dry smooth down, dry smooth down.......<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;"><u>Step 5. Bring in the Round Brush!</u></span></b><br />
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This is the part where I grab my big round brush. You can use any type or size of round brush that you please. Just find something that doesn't pull out your hair. I've found that boar bristle round brushes work well for me. You just need to experiment with your own hair type.<br />
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Proceded to dry your hair with the round brush while also smoothing with your hand. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tmQAdCgLvjM"><b>HERE</b></a> is a good video tutorial on drying your hair with a round brush!<br />
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Finally, I feel like the following trick really really helps to smooth and calm my hair. After I'm done drying, I gather my hair back up into a ponytail or twist it into a bun and let it just "set" for a few minutes. I like to let my hair cool down.<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;"><u>Step 6. Finally, the Last Step (Optional)</u></span></b><br />
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Ok, this final step is optional, but at least for me, it makes a big big difference. I've found that using heat styling to smooth my hair is a super tool. The thing is, we have to be careful not to use anything too hot, or we'll damage and yellow our white hair! Straightening irons and curling wands are awesome tools, but, even on low settings, we are risking all of that damage to our vulnerable hair. What I do use is large hot rollers. I use <a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B007S69QAY?aaxitk=-OVeREn.9o6s6Bk8s.sJWA&pd_rd_i=B007S69QAY&pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_p=3ff6092e-8451-438b-8278-7e94064b4d42&pf_rd_s=desktop-sx-top-slot&pf_rd_t=301&pf_rd_i=hot+roller+set&hsa_cr_id=8347981180401&sb-ci-n=productDescription&sb-ci-v=Conair%20Xtreme%20Instant%20Heat%20Jumbo%20And%20Super%20Jumbo%20Hot%20Rollers%3B%20Bonus%20Super%20Clips%20Included%20-%20Amazon%20Exclusive"><b>THIS</b></a> set and love them very much!<br />
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What I like about hot rollers is that they don't seem to be as scorching hot and damaging as straightening irons and curling wands. Also, with my set, if I watch them, I feel like I can unplug the rollers a bit early, hence making them warm but not too too hot. I think that the velvety flocked covering to my particular roller set, helps to not snag or burn my hair.<br />
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Using the largest diameter rollers that your hair can take, will smooth your hair AND give you great body and bounce! It's a wonderful finish! You can follow up with a tiny dab of serum if needed, but usually I don't, the shine is already there.<br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><b><u>And there you have it! The Lolo Method! </u></b></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">1.) Wash and Prep</span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">2.) De-tangle and Condition</span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">3.) Styling Products</span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">4.) Smooth and Smoosh</span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">5.) Dry with a Round Brush</span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">6.) Curlers</span></b></div>
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I hope this was helpful in your quest to styling your hair. I know that you might have your own tips, suggestions and routines and I'm always more than happy to hear about yours too! Also, for our very curly girl sisters out there, what do you use and do to get your gorgeous curls looking great?<br />
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<b><span style="color: #990000; font-size: large;">Until Next Time, Enjoy Your Hair Silver Sisters!!!</span></b><br />
<b><span style="color: #990000; font-size: large;">xoxoxoxoxo,</span></b><br />
<b><span style="color: #990000; font-size: large;">Lauren </span></b><br />
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Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05093968853372697053noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9902677.post-60656497249584543812018-11-19T13:03:00.001-05:002018-11-21T13:37:27.245-05:00Truth In Marketing<div style="text-align: center;">
<b style="caret-color: rgb(102, 102, 102); font-family: Catamaran, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">** </b><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: Catamaran, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">This post contains links to our own brand and online store. I may be compensated if you purchase the products found at these links. For a full explanation, please see my complete disclosure </span></span></span><b style="caret-color: rgb(102, 102, 102); font-family: Catamaran, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"><a href="https://howbourgeois.blogspot.com/p/about-how-bourgeois.html">HERE</a></b><span style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(102, 102, 102); font-family: Catamaran, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"><a href="https://howbourgeois.blogspot.com/p/about-how-bourgeois.html">!</a> Thank you!!! </span><b style="caret-color: rgb(102, 102, 102); font-family: Catamaran, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"><span style="background-color: white;">**</span></b></div>
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Hello sweet friends! This morning I was trying to take some photos of my hair for our <a href="https://thebtwco.com/"> new online shop</a>. I wanted some nice pictures of what our products can do.<br />
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It seemed simple enough- I planned it all last night as I was falling asleep. I'd wake up, get ready, do my hair and make up extra nice. Take some pictures, runs the errands, then homeschool Noah, take him to his tutors, stop at my Mom's to borrow holiday props for new shop photos, write a blog post, answer the customer service questions, make dinner, pick Noah back up and try to find time to walk on the treadmill. Oh, and water the indoor plants, and get to the grocery store for Thanksgiving prep, and walk the dog, and get my teen to write thank you notes for his birthday gifts.<br />
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All was going ok this morning, at least through the hair and make up. I went downstairs to attempt to take some reasonably usable photos of the front and back of my hair. When I got there though, I noticed that there were dishes in the sink that needed to be cleaned up, and the droopy plants that required my immediate watering attention. Then, as I was just about to start taking pictures, the dog started barking to go outside (AGAIN!) and I had to stand in the cold, repeating to her over and over: "DON'T YOU DARE DIG IN THAT MUD AGAIN JOSIE!"<br />
Josie has had precisely 1,783 baths in the past two weeks, after squirrels dug up our small backyard patch of grass to hide their seeds. She figured out if you dig up the grass, not only can you find the seeds, but that it's fun and you can make HUGE mud piles with all of the dirt and melting snow. We're not thrilled with this new development.<br />
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Back inside and now running late, I was determined to get at least a few good photos. I held up my phone, tried to find the best lighting in our kitchen, and smiled.<i> <b><span style="font-size: large;">A doughy, old, tired me stared back on the screen. </span></b></i>My chipmunk cheeks were in full bloom. The hollow, tired looking under-eyes, that I always hoped I would not inherit, were ever so slightly more pronounced than the blog photos of yesteryear. These past four years of homeschooling have been wonderful, but can sort of run you ragged. I used to spend my daytime getting things done, including exercising and primping and making healthy foodie foods and smiling for the blog! Now my time is split between parenting full-time, homeschooling, running a household and starting a business. This morning, getting those pictures was just so much harder than it was before and I was feeling it. I was acutely aware that I am a 40-something year old woman who is beginning to age and really began to question if I was enough. Enough of everything I needed to be to juggle all of these balls in the air.<br />
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I was near tears as picture after picture just looked "off." Especially when I went back and compared them to the blog photos that I took just four and five years ago. What has happened to me? I've lost my sparkle. <span style="font-size: large;">I don't have what it takes to do all of this!</span> I know very well that this is all relative, and that WE ARE OUR OWN WORST CRITICS, but I felt defeated.<br />
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Instead of beating myself up anymore though, I decided to stop taking pictures for now, maybe I could get better ones later and I really needed to get going on my errands. I hopped into my car, pulled out, and proceeded to almost bump into THE GIANT DUMP TRUCK BLOCKING 2/3 OF THE FOOT OF OUR DRIVEWAY. I got two houses down, when I realized that our street was completely blocked by heavy machinery. I was NOT going on errands right now.<br />
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By the way, did I ever mention to you that they tore down (except for two walls) a big, old pretty church from the 1920's, directly across the street from our house? Now they're building a four-story office building there. Each morning we wake up to another hairline crack in our ceilings from all or the jackhammering. Which might explain........WHY I'M SLIGHTLY ON EDGE!!!!<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>I digress.....</i></span><br />
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<b>As I was coming back inside, it dawned on me that this is what all of this gray hair thing is about - being the true you, and being ok with it! </b><b>Whether we stop coloring our hair for health reasons, or to get away from the chemicals, to save on time or the cost of dying our hair, it all essentially comes back around to self- acceptance and embracing who we really are.</b><br />
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Even more so I realized, this is why we created the <a href="https://thebtwco.com/">By The Way, Your Hair Looks Fabulous!</a> line of products. (I <span style="font-size: large;">promise</span> you, this blog post is not just an advert.) I wanted hair care that would represent a true reality, not a glossy, Instagram filtered version of a "perfect life.<br />
I was frustrated that I couldn't find naturally derived shampoos, conditioners and styling products that I COULD ACTUALLY AFFORD! I was bummed that there wasn't a brand on the shelf that totally understood my crazy, gray fly-aways, the texture of my hair and just why my silvers needed help with shine.<br />
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We've toiled away for years now to create an authentic product to love. I've been spreading the message that the true you is great! But it hit me today, for some reason, I haven't been valuing my authentic self even closely as much as the products- Chipmunk cheeks, tired eyes, dropping the balls and all. I've forgotten to love myself too!<br />
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I might have had a momentary freakout this morning. A woe-is-me moment. It's ok though, that's also being human, being real. I know more than anything, that life is BIG and AMAZING and there's much too much to explore rather than to be stuck inside, pining away for perfection.<br />
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So here I am! The real life me. The not professionally perfect, polished backgrounds, but the best I can do in this moment. If there is one thing you could do for me Silver Sisters and friends, it's to stop today, take a deep breath and remind yourself.........</div>
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<b><span style="color: #990000; font-size: large;">Love you guys!</span></b><br />
<b><span style="color: #990000; font-size: large;">Until next time.</span></b><br />
<b><span style="color: #990000; font-size: large;">xoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxo,</span></b><br />
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<b><span style="color: #990000; font-size: large;">Lauren </span></b><br />
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Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05093968853372697053noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9902677.post-45234319098051069622018-11-10T09:56:00.001-05:002018-11-21T13:37:46.008-05:00Guess What!? We're SHIPPING!!! \(^-^)/ !!!!<div style="text-align: center;">
<b style="caret-color: rgb(102, 102, 102); font-family: Catamaran, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">** </b><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: Catamaran, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">This post contains links to our own brand and online store. I may be compensated if you purchase the products found at these links. For a full explanation, please see my complete disclosure </span></span></span><b style="caret-color: rgb(102, 102, 102); font-family: Catamaran, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"><a href="https://howbourgeois.blogspot.com/p/about-how-bourgeois.html">HERE</a></b><span style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(102, 102, 102); font-family: Catamaran, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"><a href="https://howbourgeois.blogspot.com/p/about-how-bourgeois.html">!</a> Thank you!!! </span><b style="caret-color: rgb(102, 102, 102); font-family: Catamaran, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"><span style="background-color: white;">**</span></b></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: , , "blinkmacsystemfont" , ".sfnstext-regular" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">Guess what!? We're SHIPPING!!!! \(^-^)/ !!!!!!!</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: , , "blinkmacsystemfont" , ".sfnstext-regular" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">I'm thrilled to let you know that pre-orders have gone out and and we're up and running and ready for more! Thank you so much for all of your support, patience and kindness. I can't wait for you to try our products. It's just a dream come true and I'd love nothing more than to help you sparkle and believe in yourself. With lots of love! xoxoxox, Lauren </span><span class="_5mfr" style="color: #1d2129; font-family: , , "blinkmacsystemfont" , ".sfnstext-regular" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px 1px;"><span class="_6qdm" style="background-image: url("https://static.xx.fbcdn.net/images/emoji.php/v9/f1e/2/16/1f60a.png"); background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: contain; color: transparent; display: inline-block; font-family: inherit; font-size: 16px; height: 16px; text-shadow: none; vertical-align: text-bottom; width: 16px;">😊</span></span>Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05093968853372697053noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9902677.post-75373252622038292542018-09-06T22:52:00.001-04:002018-11-21T13:38:03.366-05:00\(^-^)/ WE'RE OPEN FOR BUSINESS !!! \(^-^)/<div style="text-align: center;">
<b style="caret-color: rgb(102, 102, 102); font-family: Catamaran, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">** </b><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: Catamaran, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">This post contains links to our own brand and online store. I may be compensated if you purchase the products found at these links. For a full explanation, please see my complete disclosure </span></span></span><b style="caret-color: rgb(102, 102, 102); font-family: Catamaran, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"><a href="https://howbourgeois.blogspot.com/p/about-how-bourgeois.html">HERE</a></b><span style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(102, 102, 102); font-family: Catamaran, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"><a href="https://howbourgeois.blogspot.com/p/about-how-bourgeois.html">!</a> Thank you!!! </span><b style="caret-color: rgb(102, 102, 102); font-family: Catamaran, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"><span style="background-color: white;">**</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Dear Silver Sisters: I am OVER-THE-MOON to announce that By The Way, Your Hair Looks Fabulous!™ shampoo, conditioner and styling products are now on sale at our new site <a data-ft="{"tn":"-U"}" data-lynx-mode="origin" data-lynx-uri="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.thebtwco.com%2F&h=AT28RbntXBZmDCuJlfXvuWL6UQFOTyaT7OYDpm4gm0P0dd_PM1QYGtg8cZ-08iSu9K2LwfNy3TjyWPNW3tOE2wJ-amkHQHEih5KkH1uzzGrXYPEdBnItsMq6ggVYLeb699h-VDfmEGnlkLbrLjZkMXbBqPFA9bcbiGD1wJxBmyiD-wPv3DIE6AT4MrkjNpSh-Dhs66_iF90k_DiJBtBTViGJJbXqaHbKLw2aa90f3RLOwCq94l5e_LUkpQeSKrBcle7de-ej12jAfkW88UlNg_d4_6IFq9_2cScCguBzeMDx7l8n85W6fwhOJxlvF6xPXppgACSaxAjfyiWAFI7T9SfgjZV41ufAhoCI4mXGEEFqbbPWekq7-_-K7rhY3z0aV33jVax7M1Hd8g8TF7JPvXhCSD2Mx8NKmLIe" href="http://www.thebtwco.com/" rel="noopener nofollow" style="color: #365899; cursor: pointer; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">www.thebtwco.com</a>! I would be really grateful if you would stop by and take a look. You have all been wonderfully supportive as Jon and I have worked to launch the company, and TODAY is the day that you can now help THE MOST by spreading the word about The BTW Co. ac<span class="text_exposed_show" style="display: inline;">ross social media. Sharing our new site in your Gray Hair groups on Facebook would be especially helpful. Thank you!</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Having the opportunity to share my story, learn about yours and be a part of our wonderful community of Silver Sisters has been one of the great joys of my life. I am deeply, deeply appreciative that you have been interested in what I have had to say, and that you have shared your journeys with me. </span></div>
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I love you Silver Sisters! Welcome to a new adventure where we Shine OUR BEST!</div>
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<span style="color: #990000;"><b>xoxoxoxoxo,<br />Lauren</b></span></div>
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Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05093968853372697053noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9902677.post-65473085555033866492018-08-24T10:16:00.001-04:002018-11-21T13:38:13.944-05:00OUR LIST IS LIVE!!!!!!<div style="text-align: center;">
<b style="caret-color: rgb(102, 102, 102); font-family: Catamaran, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">** </b><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: Catamaran, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">This post contains links to our own brand and online store. I may be compensated if you purchase the products found at these links. For a full explanation, please see my complete disclosure </span></span></span><b style="caret-color: rgb(102, 102, 102); font-family: Catamaran, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"><a href="https://howbourgeois.blogspot.com/p/about-how-bourgeois.html">HERE</a></b><span style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(102, 102, 102); font-family: Catamaran, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"><a href="https://howbourgeois.blogspot.com/p/about-how-bourgeois.html">!</a> Thank you!!! </span><b style="caret-color: rgb(102, 102, 102); font-family: Catamaran, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"><span style="background-color: white;">**</span></b><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Friends! Thank you so so much for your amazing response to my announcement this week. All of your support and encouragement was incredible! I'm thrilled to share our products with you - our new haircare brand, "By the Way, Your Hair Looks Fabulous!</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #545454; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">™</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">" will be up and running by September 6 at the latest! If you would like to receive updates and be notified as soon as we are ready to launch, we're creating a mailing list NOW! I'd love it if you would please send your name and email address to </span><a href="mailto:hello@thebtwco.com" style="background-color: white; color: #1155cc; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;" target="_blank">hello@thebtwco.com</a><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"> to receive information about our new brand. We take privacy seriously and will never give your contact info to a third party. </span><br />
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Silver Sisters, if you are looking for hair care products that won't turn your beautiful whites yellow, but instead will hydrate and add brightness ad shine, then our products are for you! Our <b>purple shampoo and conditioner</b>, our <b>moisturizing daily shampoo and conditioner,</b> <b>clarifying shampoo</b>, <b>incredible leave-in conditioner, hair serum and styling cream</b> are made with many naturally-derived ingredients and are: </div>
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- Paraben-free</div>
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- Sulfate-free</div>
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- Silicone-free</div>
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- Non-GMO</div>
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- Gluten-Free</div>
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- 99% Vegan (there is a honey derivative in three of our products)</div>
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- Leaping Bunny approved and not tested on animals!</div>
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<b>And, all of this goodness will be available at an affordable price! </b></div>
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As someone who went gray at a young age and then struggled with the chemicals in most hair dyes, I decided to take the leap almost ten years ago and let my silvers shine. What I've found over the years is that we truly lack natural, safe, affordable products to care for our unique hair needs. That's why we are brining this product line to you. It is our mission to help empower all of my Silver Sisters out there to stand tall and feel their best. To sparkle!</div>
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*As always I can't thank you enough for helping us to spread the word as we begin this new adventure. <b>Please share with your family and friends, and most of all in gray hair groups on Facebook,</b> as I am not allowed to self-advertise. Thank you! Thank you! THANK YOU Silver Sisters!!! </div>
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<b><span style="color: #990000; font-size: large;">xoxoxoxoxo!!!!! </span></b></div>
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<b><span style="color: #990000; font-size: large;">Lauren </span></b></div>
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<a href="mailto:hello@thebtwco.com" style="color: #1155cc;" target="_blank">hello@thebtwco.com</a></div>
Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05093968853372697053noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9902677.post-70062211933055351352018-08-23T16:24:00.000-04:002018-11-21T13:38:29.664-05:00Some Exciting News!!!!<div style="text-align: center;">
<b style="caret-color: rgb(102, 102, 102); font-family: Catamaran, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">** </b><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: Catamaran, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">This post contains links to our own brand and online store. I may be compensated if you purchase the products found at these links. For a full explanation, please see my complete disclosure </span></span></span><b style="caret-color: rgb(102, 102, 102); font-family: Catamaran, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"><a href="https://howbourgeois.blogspot.com/p/about-how-bourgeois.html">HERE</a></b><span style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(102, 102, 102); font-family: Catamaran, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"><a href="https://howbourgeois.blogspot.com/p/about-how-bourgeois.html">!</a> Thank you!!! </span><b style="caret-color: rgb(102, 102, 102); font-family: Catamaran, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"><span style="background-color: white;">**</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129;">Hi friends! I have some really <b>EXCITING NEWS!!! </b></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129;">Today I went to the salon for a much needed trim, and when I came home, posted a picture on my Instagram. Your responses were so kind and I decided it was the perfect time to share little surprise with you! I </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129;">had quite a few questions asking what kinds of products that I use on my hair and well.............what I've been using<b> <span style="font-size: large;">IS MY OWN, NEW PRODUCT LINE!!!!!</span></b></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span class="text_exposed_show" style="color: #1d2129; display: inline;">My husband Jon and I have spent a long long time coming up with a line of shampoos, conditioners and styling products specifically for Silver Sisters!!! (Although, six of the eight products can be used on ANY hair color or type.) I saw a need in the market for <b>NATURAL</b>, paraben-free, sulfate-free, silicone-free (etc) products for gray hair that were <b>AFFORDABLE</b> and would leave you with soft, shining, vibrant hair! I am so excited and can't wait to share more with you guys. Our products will be available for order in September. More info to come soon, the moment I have it. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span class="text_exposed_show" style="color: #1d2129; display: inline;">If you PLEASE could, it would be a HUGE help to Jon and I if you would spread the word about our upcoming line to any family or friends who might enjoy it, and ESPECIALLY in any Gray hair groups on Facebook or anywhere else on Social Media, as most places you are not able to self-advertise. Thank you, that would help me more than I can say. We poured our heart and soul into these products -from one Silver Sister to another, so we can help make this journey a little brighter. </span></span><span style="color: #1d2129; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"> Love you guys! THANK YOU!!!!</span><br />
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<span class="text_exposed_show" style="caret-color: rgb(29, 33, 41); display: inline;"><span style="color: #cc0000; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b>xoxoxoxox,</b></span></span><br />
<span class="text_exposed_show" style="caret-color: rgb(29, 33, 41); display: inline;"><span style="color: #cc0000; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b>Lauren</b></span></span>Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05093968853372697053noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9902677.post-12576219753029220032018-07-10T22:36:00.000-04:002018-07-10T22:36:36.447-04:00Super Exciting, Hair Product SECRET, and What I Use on My Skin! <div class="separator" style="caret-color: rgb(102, 127, 153); clear: both; color: #667f99; font-family: "Courier New", Courier, FreeMono, monospace; font-size: 15.84000015258789px; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 15.84000015258789px;"><span style="font-size: 15.84000015258789px;">Ohhhh Silver Sisters, I'm guessing that you might have heard it by now, that today I started making short Instagram Story videos. I've been posting all day long, and I just can't seem to stop. It's so much fun and a lot easier than sitting down to blog. This is all quite embarrassing and awkward honestly, and I feel about two decades too old to be making Instagram videos. I'm throwing my worries out though, it's time that I diversify my tech and find easier ways to share with you. If you're interesting in seeing my short clips, be sure to subscribe to</span><b><span style="font-size: large;"> <span style="color: magenta;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/howbourgeois/">How Bourgeois on Instagram!!!</a></span></span></b></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 15.84000015258789px;">At any rate, two quick things for this post- the first is a super exciting hair product </span><b style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: large;">secret </span></b><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 15.84000015258789px;">that I just can't share in full yet, but hope to soon! The second note is about skin care. A very kind reader asked today if I could share what I use on my skin. I appreciate the interest and I'm flattered that she wanted to know, but I'm always so worried about my skin and would love any product suggestions from you too!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 15.84000015258789px;">The same dear reader also asked if I could share the hair care products that I'm currently using, and I wish so much that I could! The only thing is...I can't. Not yet. I HOPE I can sometime soon....</span></div>
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I'm really sorry for the teaser, but I've been working on something for a long time, and testing out some fabulous products that are just for Silver Sisters! They're natural too. 💖 I promise, you'll be the first ones to know if and when I'm able to tell you more! 🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏</div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 15.84000015258789px;">The second bit is in response to the question: "What skin care products do you use?" It was very nice to be asked, but I'm not convinced that my routine is even close to a good one. I have wrinkles and crow's feet and the occasional blemish too. None of this is fun and I'm completely open to hearing about products that my readers love and use. Maybe they will help me!</span></span></div>
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<b>For what it is worth, here are the simple products that I use and feel work well! </b></div>
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First, I will say that my skin tends to be on the dry side. I'm 41 and struggle with the beginnings of fine lines and wrinkles and sun spots/ freckles in the summer. I had a basal cell skin cancer removed from my forehead a couple of years ago. 😥 It was from years of not wearing sunscreen as a teenager and in my 20's, especially when I would be at the beach on Lake Michigan. I really really really regret it. I'm incredibly thankful that my dermatologist caught the spot, and ever since I've worn mineral sunscreen diligently every single day. </div>
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Soap-wise, I just use a very gentle Oat and Honey bar of soap from Trader Joes! It's affordable and non-irritating and it takes all of my makeup off easily. Next I moisturize both morning and night with</div>
<b><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B008HBMRRS/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B008HBMRRS&linkCode=as2&tag=howbour05-20&linkId=ae295d16c5a37d4c377a0d9de1b77544" target="_blank">Burt's Bees Intense Hydration Day Lotion </a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="//ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=howbour05-20&l=am2&o=1&a=B008HBMRRS" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /></b>. I genuinely love this lotion. I was looking for something that was inexpensive, yet still natural and would work. It's very hydrating and has helped a lot with my dry skin, and the Clary Sage claims to help with fine lines. I think it has! When I am gifted an Origins Cosmetics giftcard, or able to splurge, I do swear by their <a href="https://www.origins.com/product/15352/11645/skincare/moisturize/moisturizers/starting-over/age-erasing-moisturizer-with-mimosa"><b>Starting Over Age-Erasing Moisturizer.</b></a> Really, I saw a nice reduction in my wrinkles and would use this moisturizer always if it was more within my budget. Origins has a nice points program though, and as I purchase my concealer and pressed powder from them, I usually rack up enough points to receive something for free each year. Which, leads me to the next product, one that I chose as my freebie! It's the High-Potency Night-A-Mins Mineral Enriched Renewal Cream. I put this on at night as an extra wrinkle cream and an hydration booster. It seems though, that they're only now selling it <a href="https://www.origins.com/product/15354/36067/skincare/moisturize/face-oils/high-potency-night-a-mins/skin-refining-oil">as a skin refining oil online</a>. It's worth a look!<br />
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Finally, sun protection. That's my big thing. You know, it's funny because I often forget to put it on my neck and chest and especially in my Insta Stories, the sun damage shows! I need to remember to get it everywhere.<br />
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It's a personal decision for myself, to do my best at avoiding chemicals that I can. So, I stick with mineral or mostly mineral sunscreens. I ABSOLUTELY adore and recommend <b><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B006HI60EY/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B006HI60EY&linkCode=as2&tag=howbour05-20&linkId=71f90f23350f899e0ea9f29a2fd8f85c" target="_blank">COOLA Mineral Sunscreen </a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="//ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=howbour05-20&l=am2&o=1&a=B006HI60EY" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" />. </b>It is specifically for the face and comes in a 30 SPF, unscented, matte form that is tinted and has just the faintest bit of coverage. It blends in with any skin tone and is like wearing a primer that kind of "photoshops" you. 😅 The matte finish is perfect for the hot summer, I can't say enough about my Coola. 💖 <br />
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Finally, when I know that I am going to be outside for a while and want a higher SPF, I use<br />
<b><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B007U54P36/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B007U54P36&linkCode=as2&tag=howbour05-20&linkId=8af3fbb4b3095e59696331057d132e4f" target="_blank">La Roche-Posay Anthelios 50 Tinted Mineral Sunscreen</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="//ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=howbour05-20&l=am2&o=1&a=B007U54P36" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /></b>. It was recommended to me by a friend and I've heard that many many people like this light-weight mineral sunscreen. It feels a bit tacky going on, but it dries quickly and unlike most mineral sunscreens, it leave no white cast!<br />
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So there you have it! At least the part about my facial products. I'll be sure to keep you up to date as I find more winners.<br />
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<b><span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">Until next time!</span></b><br />
<b><span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">xoxoxo,</span></b><br />
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<b><span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">Lauren </span></b><br />
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Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05093968853372697053noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9902677.post-41716479140774464352018-07-09T20:21:00.001-04:002018-07-09T20:21:22.243-04:00A Letter to the Worried Mom<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
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Dear Worried Mom,</div>
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<b><span style="color: #a64d79; font-size: large;">Today</span></b> was a big day, a monumental day! I just want to throw my hands in the air and yell it from the rooftops: "MY SON WENT TO A MINI-CAMP today!" Not only did he go to a mini-camp, but he went happily to a new place, without any kind of worry. No phone calls home to pick him up, no night-before-jitters. "Bye Mom!" he said and went right.......out.....the.door.</div>
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Six hours later, Noah walked back in from his rock climbing adventure, took a shower and then LEFT AGAIN for a friends' house. </div>
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Why might this be such an exciting day in our home? (I know that every summer, thousands of kids across the country attend day camps.) The reason that I'm beside myself with excitement and joy, is because this was a first for my child. Never in his life has Noah gone to a school or class or day camp or workshop or tutor willingly for the first time and without any fear. Such a sigh of relief it is to do something that feels just totally normal- pack a lunch and send the kid off with a smile. </div>
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The reason that I'm sharing and writing this post (with Noah's permission), is because I<b>'d like to say something to all the Moms out there who are struggling with an "outside of the box" kid.</b> The kind of child who never seems to go with the flow, never does the things that everyone else's child is doing at the time. The kid that you love with ALL of your heart, but who exhausts you because he or she is just more intense, takes more energy and time, and logistics and desperate prayers in the night. <b><span style="color: #a64d79; font-size: large;">I'm here to tell you -</span><span style="color: #a64d79; font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"> BE PATIENT MAMA, THEY WILL DO IT WHEN THEY ARE READY, I PROMISE YOU. </span></b><b><span style="color: #a64d79; font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">It'll be ok. 😊🙏💖</span></b></div>
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<span style="caret-color: rgb(166, 77, 121);">When Noah was about a year old, we enrolled in a Mom and Tot class. I'd take him, and it was great, but he never seemed to want to do what the other babies and toddlers were doing throughout the year. He didn't want to join in circle time for songs and puppets, or leave the table where he was snacking, even when everybody else had left. He had no signs of wanting to walk at 13 months and was the very last one in his preschool class to potty train. Each time that I worried or felt that I must be doing something wrong as a parent, to have have the loan kiddo in the bunch; my wonderful, life-long friend Andrea from the Mom and Tot days would say to me gently: "<u style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">Don't worry, he'll do it when he's ready.</u>" I would take comfort in her words as Andrea was already the mother of fantastic four-year-old twins and the sweetest toddler. I just knew she must know something about all of this.</span></div>
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<span style="caret-color: rgb(166, 77, 121);">It might have taken thirteen and a half years as a parent, but I feel as if today was the quintessential moment that all of my trust and belief in this bit of parenting wisdom was absolutely solidified. I've known it for a while, I lived and breathed and and forced myself to go forth with the deep conviction that he'd do it when he was ready. Today though, it was the perfect illustration of this great adage.</span></div>
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<span style="caret-color: rgb(166, 77, 121);">While I have Andrea to credit as my first patience guru, many many others have uttered the same words to me over the years. <b>There's a reason that we pass this maxim down to each other, and I just want you to know that it's true!</b></span></div>
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<span style="caret-color: rgb(166, 77, 121);">For some of you who are newer readers, you might not know that we unexpectedly and without choice, found ourselves homeschoolers in the fall of 2015, when Noah was entering the fifth grade. It turned all of our lives upside down in a matter of days and challenged every iota of my vision and assumption of what his schooling would look like. What helped me to adapt and not fall completely apart during that time, to take a deep breath and have faith that I was meeting my child where he was at, was most certainly the book "</span><a href="https://www.simplicityparenting.com/" style="caret-color: rgb(166, 77, 121);">Simplicity Parenting</a><span style="caret-color: rgb(166, 77, 121);">." Simplicity Parenting and the educational philosophies that honored the natural difference in children's own timetables. Their compassionate teachings showed me that rushing these timetables was of little if not detrimental use. </span></div>
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<span style="caret-color: rgb(166, 77, 121);">Had I not already searched for answers in books and seminars as to why my little guy was able to do surprising things like read at three, but couldn't handle the emotional demands of a school day like his same-age peers, I would not have come across the philosophies of child development from</span><a href="https://www.simplicityparenting.com/about-simplicity-parenting/about-kim-john-payne/" style="caret-color: rgb(166, 77, 121);"> Kim John Payne</a><span style="caret-color: rgb(166, 77, 121);">, </span><a href="https://neufeldinstitute.org/" style="caret-color: rgb(166, 77, 121);">Gordon Neufeld,</a><span style="caret-color: rgb(166, 77, 121);"> </span><a href="https://www.johnholtgws.com/" style="caret-color: rgb(166, 77, 121);">John Holt</a> and <span style="caret-color: rgb(166, 77, 121);">"</span><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Conscious-Parent-Transforming-Ourselves-Empowering/dp/1897238452/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1531171810&sr=8-1&keywords=conscious+parenting" style="caret-color: rgb(166, 77, 121);">The Conscious Parent,</a><span style="caret-color: rgb(166, 77, 121);">" by Dr. Shefali Tsabary. These educators, doctors and child development experts, helped me to have the amount of trust needed in Andrea's message to finally embrace where we were at, rather than let the wistful feelings and doubt get the best of me.</span></div>
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<span style="caret-color: rgb(166, 77, 121);">I appreciated the message of Simplicity Parenting so much so, that I enrolled in their </span><a href="https://www.simplicitycommunity.com/flc-info/" style="caret-color: rgb(166, 77, 121);">Family Life Coach Training</a><span style="caret-color: rgb(166, 77, 121);"> last fall. It was an excellent opportunity and I hope that someday, I will be here online or in person, helping parents to find more family peace and simplicity.</span></div>
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<span style="caret-color: rgb(166, 77, 121);">I wanted my child's inner voice to be one that said: <span style="font-size: large;">"I can do it!"</span> I wanted him to view any of his differences as uniqueness instead of short-comings, his goals not yet obtained as exciting puzzles, not hurdles. It was all about acceptance, encouragement and cooperative solution finding. </span></div>
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<span style="caret-color: rgb(166, 77, 121);">So, for example, earlier in my parenting career, when Noah would have a complete meltdown each morning before school, or not be able to go forward with a field trip or be sent home in tears from day camp, I would crumble into my grief for myself and him. Then I would do what many well-meaning people with less sensitive, more typical kids would suggest to me - I would "stay strong" and make him jump right back into that class or camp the same way the next day. I did what I thought I was supposed to do, less be labeled as a "push over," a "helicopter parent," someone that was not "in control," of their child. So I pushed and tried to hold back my own tears when seeing his. I sent Noah to school, enrolled him in camps and classes. I R.S.V.P.'ed "yes" to birthday parties that were difficult for him and accepted playdates that I knew would end in burnout. Instead of stopping, listening to my inner voice, following my heart and honoring the needs of what my child was so outwardly displaying to me year after year, I just kept doing what I was <i>thought </i>was the right thing to do.</span></div>
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<span style="caret-color: rgb(166, 77, 121);">By the time he was ten, I just couldn't do it anymore. I was burnt out, Noah's joy was waining. It was time for a paradigm shift. <b>I LET GO</b>. Instead of making him do what society prescribed as normal, I tried to listen. I listened to what he was feeling and why. We talked through the knowns, and the parts he didn't know just yet about himself. We partnered in attaining goals and got a team together with some of the most caring and supportive people. We tried new things together, on HIS timeline and I celebrated each little victory when he struck out on his own. He was, and I was... HAPPY. We found our peace. </span></div>
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<span style="caret-color: rgb(166, 77, 121);">Fast forward to today: here is a thirteen year old boy who started a new camp without a hitch. He asked to take piano lessons, guitar lesson, golf lesson and goes all on his own. He happily spends summer weekends in Northern Michigan with our family, without his parents and we have to practically drag him home from loud raucous study sessions, full of teens. In fact, he's become so suddenly independent that Noah begged and pleaded to us in June, to allow him to fly BY HIMSELF, ACROSS THE ATLANTIC to join his tutor/our beloved friend in London who would be finish up speaking at a conference for ADHD and different learners. Then, they were going to spend two weeks, visiting friends and traveling around England. I wish we had been able to get it together in time, next summer...</span></div>
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<span style="caret-color: rgb(166, 77, 121);">The little boy who found school and birthday parties and vacations to be too much, who wanted to stay home in his cozy home and routine, he's now a member of Monday Night School with other Teens at our temple, about to start a junior cadet program with The Civil Air Patrol, and holds the ultimate goal of starting history classes at our local community college when he is in 9th grade. <b>He says: "Mom, it's ok, you can <span style="font-size: large;">just drop me off.</span>" </b></span></div>
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<span style="caret-color: rgb(166, 77, 121);">😀😀😀 😀😀😀😀😀😀😀 💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖</span></div>
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<span style="caret-color: rgb(166, 77, 121);">So worried Mama, whether your young child is more timid or cautious or fearful than most others. If your kiddo is struggling to begin reading or cries at the sight of math or takes forever to potty train, just know, they will do it when they're ready, and that it will be ok.</span></div>
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<span style="caret-color: rgb(166, 77, 121);">Seek out the professional developmental or educational support that they need to thrive and be their best. Don't be ashamed to take their hand and work through things TOGETHER and listen to your heart.<b><i><span style="color: #a64d79; font-size: large;"> </span></i></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="caret-color: rgb(166, 77, 121);"><b><i><span style="color: #a64d79;">Be their biggest cheerleader</span></i></b></span><b style="caret-color: rgb(166, 77, 121);"><i><span style="color: #a64d79;"> and keep your hopes high-your positivity will nurture your child's inner voice and help your them to grow.................</span><span style="color: #c27ba0;">more than you can ever imagine.</span><span style="color: #a64d79;"> </span></i></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b style="caret-color: rgb(166, 77, 121);"><i><span style="color: #a64d79;">🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟</span></i></b></span></div>
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<span style="caret-color: rgb(166, 77, 121);">You're doing better than you know worried Mom! </span><span style="caret-color: rgb(166, 77, 121);">Keep up the good work!</span></div>
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<span style="caret-color: rgb(166, 77, 121);"><span style="color: #cc0000;"><b>With love,</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="caret-color: rgb(166, 77, 121);"><span style="color: #cc0000;"><b>Lauren </b></span></span></div>
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<span style="caret-color: rgb(166, 77, 121);"><span style="color: #cc0000;"><b>xoxoxoxoxoxo</b></span></span></div>
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Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05093968853372697053noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9902677.post-79341933561502603952018-05-19T14:24:00.001-04:002018-05-19T14:24:49.999-04:00Growth<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Growth, it's one of those elusive things that just kind of sneaks up on you. Unless you're a teenage boy, growth doesn't happen overnight. In fact, you can grow so slowly, whether it's your maturity or your character or your HAIR, that you don't even realize that anything changing! Well, that is, until one day you say: "HUH. Something is different..."</div>
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This is exactly what has been going on with my hair. Silver sisters, I think a lot of you might know the struggle- you're slogging through your gray hair grow-out and it just feels like it is taking FOREVER! Right? You've been there too?</div>
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Even after our hair is all one-ish color and we've got some length, at least to me, it still didn't feel like my hair was growing as quickly as I wanted it to. </div>
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Last spring I walked into the salon and asked my sweet, wonderful, super-gray-hair-cheerleader of a <a href="https://www.newyousalon.com/team.html">stylist Lydia</a> to just give me the chop! Luckily for me, every time I come in with a major over-haul idea, she patiently talks me through what I might or might not like, gives me alternative ways to achieve the look that I'm going for and lets me decide from there. This is also known to me as : "A.K.A. Keeping me from cutting all my hair off when it's 85 and humid in Detroit, but seriously regretting the move 12 hours later." (Thank you Lydia!!!)</div>
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So last spring, when I turned up with a bunch of short, short hairstyles, Lydia helped me to realize what I would like the most is a bit longer, angled bob. That cut is the photo above in the upper left hand side. Fast forward to this spring, about a year later, and it hit me that my hair was actually starting to get longer. In fact, when I compared two photos, one from the day of my cut and one from this spring, I was amazed to see how much my hair had grown! It just kind of snuck up on me.</div>
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The reason that I'm telling you all of this is because I thought maybe, just maybe the multivitamin that I began taking last year, helped to speed up my hair growth. I'm putting it out there that I am not a scientist or a doctor or a nutritionist, so I don't know for sure, but I do think that after taking the SmartyPants Women's Complete with fish oil and Biotin, that my hair began to get longer and stronger and my nails did as well.</div>
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I know there is a lot of controversy out there as to whether or not you actually need a multi, or if they are good for you. I know there is controversy over ingredients, dosages and even the fact that these are "gummies." You need to do what is right for you, and if you're up for trying them like I did, much luck to you! I happen to think they taste yummy and never miss a day.</div>
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At any rate, what I take is <a href="https://store.smartypantsvitamins.com/products/womens-complete">SmartyPantsWomen's Complete</a>. You can find them on Amazon and at Target, really all over. As a Silver Sister, I find that when we share from our experiences, it helps to make this journey a little easier. </div>
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<span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;"><b>Until Next time!</b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;"><b>xoxoxoxoxoxoxo,</b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;"><b>Lauren :)</b></span></div>
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Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05093968853372697053noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9902677.post-54999512118789359102017-09-11T11:41:00.000-04:002017-09-26T20:43:33.841-04:00Losing My Graith - Gray Hair Faith<b><i><span style="font-size: x-large;">Have any of you ever had the same experience? Do you also go through periods of doubt? I have a feeling that these might be universal Silver Sister feelings.........</span></i></b><br />
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There comes a point, after you've grown your gray hair all the way out, when it looks "normal" compared to....let's say the "skunk stripe" phase that you start to think less about it. You walk around with your gray hair for a while, a few months, a year. You see your reflection in storefront windows as you pass by, and in the bathroom mirror, and no longer does your reflection shock you. You're not surprised, you don't ask yourself: "who is this woman staring back at me?" It's just simply you, and you don't devote as much time thinking and worrying and questioning the gray.</div>
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That's what happened to me at least. After a few years of being a full-fledged "Silver Sister," I kind of stop analyzing it all. I thought more about most other things, and less and less about my hair color.<br />
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Then this summer, something happened. I can't tell you why, but the "looks" started getting to me again. I began to notice the stares more often. Here and there, everywhere that I went, my HEAD would get the stares! Was I imagining this?<br />
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I was so good at letting the puzzled looks go when I was growing out my hair. In the beginning, most people would give my half white, half dark brown hair at least a side-glance. I understood it, I looked looney! I would look at myself too! 😅😂<br />
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Once it was all grown out, I remember still getting little looks from time to time. From what I figured, I was a younger person with a head full of white hair- so not something that most people were used to seeing. It was also before the 20-somethings began to bleach their hair and dye it gray! "Hashtag Granny Hair," was not a thing yet.<br />
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It was because I could understand and sympathize with the human impulse to glance at something surprising or different, that I was able to brush them off to the point of not noticing the looks anymore. Not noticing them for a long time.<br />
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Then this summer happened. I have no idea what it was. Why was I suddenly getting more looks or maybe just noticing them again? Not just looks, but more like....you know the stares that people can do, that I myself can do when I'm daydreaming and I don't realize that I'm holding my gaze at someone in the grocery store a few seconds too long. The gazes when your mouth is kind of open and you're trying to figure out what exactly are you looking at? You know those?<br />
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Well, I got those stares, daily, multiple times, everywhere I went it seemed! I could almost read their minds from the expression on their faces: "Wait, is she old or is she a young person with white hair?" "Um....did she dye her hair white or does she have some problem and her hair went gray?" "Why in the world would she go gray?" Things like that. That's what I *think* they were thinking.<br />
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<span style="text-align: left;">And all this looking just got to me. I began to feel insecure, like a minor freak. I worried that all these sets of eyes were connected to a brain that thought: "WHY would she ever do that to her hair!" At first, I wanted to make sure that I just wasn't being paranoid. I need to know if I was imagining it. So, Jon and I went out on errands, to places like Costco and the grocery store. I let him know what I was worried about, and asked him to quietly observe and see if people really did stare at my hair. I also asked him to give me the honest-to-goodness TRUTH. Sure enough, ten seconds into Costco.....one look, two looks, three glances and on.</span></div>
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<b>Validation! I was not (so) crazy. </b><br />
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That's when I lost a little bit of my GRAITH. My gray hair faith. Faith in the knowledge that I was doing the right thing for me. Sure, it was good to avoid the hair dye that caused me allergies and avoid the chemicals that I had chosen not to use anymore. When I stopped coloring my hair I saved time, money and future stains to all my towels, but was this still enough to be worth it? Worth all of these stares?<br />
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We talked in the car, talked in the store, and talked again at home. Jon patiently listened to my worries and insecurities. I told him that sometimes I just wished that I was brunette again so I could simply blend in and avoid any attention. I didn't want to be a gray haired person anymore. I went through the pros and cons of coloring my hair and keeping it white. My husband, ever the diplomat, encouraged me to make the right choice for myself, and that he supported me either way. Either way? EITHER WAY!? "Come on" I said, "Just make this easy and make the decision for me!" But, he wouldn't.<br />
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In the days that followed, my feelings of grabulous (gray fabulousness) were at an all-time low. I was seriously considering dying my hair! I feared though, that if I should do this, I would lose the respect of many a silver sister and reader. I was too scared, and I just didn't know how to remedy these sad emotions.<br />
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Enter the pivotal moment of my graith rebirth, summer 2017! 😆😜 I hope for those of you who also struggle with your graith, that you have trips to Costco like this too........<br />
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The day I began thinking about coloring my hair, a few minutes after the "last stare that broke the Lauren's back," I said: "Jon, that's it. I can't look like such a weirdo anymore. I need to dye my hair!"<br />
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But no more than two isles later, the hair Gods must have been looking down on me, because a young GUY called out. I kid you not, called out to me from his table, (after I turned turned down his offer of "The Worlds Best Pillow,") and said "Hey! Your hair is really cool." Ha! What? Who, me!? "Yes," he said. "I really like your hair."<br />
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Now, I know what you are thinking, he's just trying to get me to buy a pillow and all, and this might be true! But he seemed so genuine and we got into a conversation about my hair, and I don't think he was trying to fool me. This young man said that he liked the gray, and then worried that he might have said something wrong after I thanked him for saying that and told him that I was tired of being gray though . He asked if it was difficult to get my hair to that color, and asked what I would dye it next. This made me smile. I said it was just my natural hair color, and he was shocked! Oh young people.....you're so young. I wish I was so young. I am so old now....... 😫😭😭😭<br />
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Seriously though, it was very kind of him. I thanked the pillow salesmen and then I was on my way to the potato salad holding my gray head a bit higher.<br />
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Wouldn't you know it, three seconds later in the potato salad isle, the most wonderful, sweet, kind woman came up to me and said: "I just love your hair!" I couldn't believe it. Maybe I thought....the universe was giving me a sign to <i><b>not</b></i> to dye my hair. "Thank you!" I said. She went on to point to her beautiful streak of pure white hair, and to talk about the ordeal of trying to figure out how she was going to get through the grow-out process. Then she candidly told me about her health issues, including MS, and how she wanted to stop applying chemicals to her body. That was very moving to me. What a brave woman. We talked a little more and I even shared my blog with her. I mentioned the support groups for men and women on Facebook, where we all encourage each other through the hard parts.<br />
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I went into Costco that day longing to color my hair, and I left with a renewed understanding of why I'm on this journey. I think it's to band together with others out there who are struggling with their own reasons for having to bare their natural hair. Without each other, I don't think it would be possible. For myself included! It was the brave women that went before me, that stopped coloring their hair, and shared their pictures, triumphs and struggles online. Without them, I would never had made it a month or even a week. I owe so much to my silver sisters, and that's why, with this purpose, I will keep going. I have my faith in this crazy journey the call "going gray" again.<br />
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<b><span style="color: #990000; font-size: large;">Until Next Time!</span></b><br />
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<b><span style="color: #990000; font-size: large;">xoxoxoxoxox,</span></b><br />
<b><span style="color: #990000; font-size: large;">Lauren </span></b><br />
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<br />Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05093968853372697053noreply@blogger.com28tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9902677.post-51275605784767967912017-09-07T09:34:00.002-04:002017-09-27T07:33:41.131-04:00The Holy Grail of Hair Products! If You Want Silkier, More Shiny Gray Hair, Try These Two!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XRF1jqCL27Q/WbE7cn1j2-I/AAAAAAAAKSY/IT__qEuCjOIH4ePXdoG8zF37DTOjSwyugCLcBGAs/s1600/slide_341346_3519352_free.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="797" data-original-width="1200" height="424" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XRF1jqCL27Q/WbE7cn1j2-I/AAAAAAAAKSY/IT__qEuCjOIH4ePXdoG8zF37DTOjSwyugCLcBGAs/s640/slide_341346_3519352_free.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Are you ready?<b><span style="font-size: large;"> <i>Do you want to know about the two products that have CHANGED my hair!?</i></span></b> The two <b><span style="color: magenta;"><u>easy to find and affordable</u></span></b> items that have basically stopped my never ending search for the <b><span style="font-size: large;">holy grail of products? </span></b>I've been testing them out all summer long, and now I can not only personally recommend them to you, but I can firmly say that are now essential routine.</div>
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Before I tell you though, let me just touch on the equally important first step that you need to do in order to set the stage for bright and shiny looking hair - find a great shampoo and conditioner! Particularly one formulated for gray and white hair. They're often called "purple" shampoos and conditioners. They work to keep your whites white and to make sure the dull, yellowed tones that can so often develop on light hair, away! </div>
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I've been through my fair share of "purple" shampoos and conditioners, and I've written about them over the years on the blog. In the end, I found my favorite duo more than a year ago, that I continue to use today and feel confident in recommending. </div>
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It's the <b style="font-size: x-large;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00T3HITEA/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B00T3HITEA&linkCode=as2&tag=howbour05-20&linkId=a8b2625044a39069ee7cf0327ba3f326" target="_blank">Joico Color Endure Violet Shampoo and Conditioner</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="//ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=howbour05-20&l=am2&o=1&a=B00T3HITEA" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /> </b>and I use them regularly to keep my hair looking its best. Sulfate and paraben-free, and in GIANT 33.8 oz bottles, these two last me at least three months each time I purchase them. After playing around with these two, you'll begin to notice your white hair being a bit lighter and brighter. Take note, and try to figure out how often you need to use these purple products and for how long to leave them on your hair before rinsing to get your perfect result. Once in a while, when I used them too many times a week, or I go a few extra minutes before rinsing, my hair gets a temporary purple/gray cast. That said, I quickly realized that I only need to leave the shampoo and then conditioner on for a minute to get my optimal results, minus the purple. Play around, this set of shampoos and conditioner is so incredibly worth it!</div>
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Ok, the moment you have all been waiting for! So....... at the end of spring, I was just tired of my frizzy flyways and I felt like I wanted my hair to be shinier. Summer was coming and for me, that means HUMIDITY and crazy hair! I decided to look for something new. A product or two that would help me accomplish my goals - more shine, less coarse frizziness and something to hold my style, even in outdoor heat and humidity. </div>
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The problem was, because I had been pretty rigid about holding myself to only more natural products, I kind of tried everything already! Then one day I was at Target, in the haircare aisle. I passed by on the shelf an old friend, a familiar logo. It was John Freida's Frizz Ease line. As a teenager with curly, wild hair, Frizz Ease was a lifesaver for me and I used it everyday. Over time though, I stopped. I didn't want to use conventional products with all of their ingredients and I had heard that silicon wasn't great for keeping white hair white. So, as an adult, Frizz Ease never crossed my mind.</div>
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I'm not sure what prompted me to pick up a bottle of the <span style="font-size: large; font-weight: bold;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000P9DS4Q/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B000P9DS4Q&linkCode=as2&tag=howbour05-20&linkId=6667b81f91c48a09b67e3438fd34cc33" target="_blank">Extra Strength Frizz Ease Serum</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="//ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=howbour05-20&l=am2&o=1&a=B000P9DS4Q" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /> </span>or the<span style="background-color: white;"><b><span style="font-size: large;"> <a href="https://www.amazon.com/John-Frieda-Moisture-Barrier-Hairspray/dp/B006OHM542/ref=pd_sim_194_1?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B006OHM542&pd_rd_r=XYTFANPEVM6PACV0XZWN&pd_rd_w=oWeds&pd_rd_wg=EqNu5&psc=1&refRID=XYTFANPEVM6PACV0XZWN"><span style="color: blue;">Frizz Ease Moisture Barrier Firm Hold Hairspray</span></a></span></b>,</span> but I think it was simply <span style="font-size: large;">hair desperation!</span></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-C_oB_C8SPEo/WbFF4MVs5mI/AAAAAAAAKS8/5cYjkPvG2Nw8WTEyJL55sHV4JitPEZQMQCLcBGAs/s1600/Photo%2Bon%2B9-6-17%2Bat%2B9.05%2BAM%2B.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="1001" height="459" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-C_oB_C8SPEo/WbFF4MVs5mI/AAAAAAAAKS8/5cYjkPvG2Nw8WTEyJL55sHV4JitPEZQMQCLcBGAs/s640/Photo%2Bon%2B9-6-17%2Bat%2B9.05%2BAM%2B.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I'm so glad that I let myself just try it out. It's been over three months and not only have I<b> <u>NOT </u></b>noticed any "yellowing," but my hair is SIGNIFICANTLY softer, less coarse, less frizzy, and more shiny! The serum has not dulled my hair, even with daily heat styling. <b>I'm pretty sure this is because I take the time to regularly use my purple shampoo and conditioner. I really keep up on my end, combating the yellowing. This is a good point to remember. </b>The hairspray was a God-send in the summertime. My hair pretty much stayed smooth and didn't go bonkers in the humidity. It was also great to keep my flyaways down and I feel like the spay adds a touch of shine.</div>
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Here's an odd picture of the back of my hair too, for some reason....</div>
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You can see, for somebody that normally has fairly thick, unruly and frizzy hair, these two products certainly help for everything to lay nicely and to calm down!</div>
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I'm not just trying to sell you products. Truly, these are things that I have found through years of weeding through all kinds of brands and items. These are "tools" that I would recommend in a heartbeat to any Silver Sister on the street. I like sharing what I've found works, so I can give back to others as they helped me in the beginning of my gray hair adventure. I hope that some of these tips and products will help you too, and that you'll go forward with confidence and a smile on your own journey!</div>
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<b><span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">Until next time.....</span></b></div>
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<b><span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">Shine on my Silver Sisters!!!</span></b></div>
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<b><span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">xoxoxoxo,</span></b></div>
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<b><span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">Lauren </span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: magenta;">**</span><span style="color: #7c7c7c;"> </span>This post contains Amazon affiliate links. For a full explanation, please see my complete disclosure<a href="http://howbourgeois.blogspot.com/p/about-how-bourgeois.html"> HERE</a>! Thank you!!!<span style="color: #7c7c7c;"> </span><span style="background-color: white; color: magenta;">**</span></span></b></div>
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Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05093968853372697053noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9902677.post-50498988974280856122017-09-05T12:19:00.000-04:002017-09-05T12:19:20.186-04:00The State of the Noah (and Lauren) Address<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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And just like that.....he went back to school!<br />
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In the springtime, when Noah went to an admissions visit at his old school for evaluations, I wasn't sure about everything. Would my child be ready for what they call the "rigor and pace" of the middle and upper school? Was it a good decision to toss him back into the fast moving currents of a competitive private school? Didn't I whole-heartedly embrace the message in the movie "<a href="http://www.racetonowhere.com/">Race to Nowhere</a>, " - that the current American educational model promotes painfully over-scheduled extracurriculars, crushing academic pressure, nearly inevitable student burnout and the loss of a free childhood? I did! I did believe all of these things. (I still do honestly).</div>
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So that's why, after his three-day visit in April, after they delivered the news that he was accepted back in, I looked Noah squarely in the eyes and said: "Do you want to do this? Are you ready to commit?" He squirmed in his chair, scratched his head and let out a sigh. "Ohhhh I don't know what to do," he said, "It's a lot of work." I also thought, "It's a lot of tuition!"</div>
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The three of us decided that until Noah was sure that he wanted to return and SURE that he was up to the challenge and committed to doing his best, school could wait. I loved homeschooling in theory anyway, loved the"good days," at least, and the fun adventures and the excitement of learning in new and dynamic ways. I love the slow pace and the freedom, and most of all, living outside of the what society dictates. I LOVED BEING A Non-joiner, it THRILLED me! </div>
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So with a bit of fear and some worries of regret, I turned down the school contract for the 2017/2018 year and we went on our way. </div>
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Then summer hit. Summer, long stretches of day when Noah's study group at his tutor's was not in session. His soul outlet for social interaction beyond the "playdates" that he so actively resists. All he wanted to do now was play his online computer games, game while talking to friends over Skype. Nothing could entice him to willingly go do something else, no trip to the pool or a lake, no museum, park, movie, playground or even amusement park. He just had zero interest in anything other than his video games. We kept up with our plans to homeschool year-round, which included summertime math and writing, but getting my tween to sit down and do that was like pulling teeth. Not like it was easy for any part of the past two years, but the older Noah became, the more complex it got, the more I waited for his intrinsic motivation to kick in.</div>
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One day, in the beginning of August, I came home to find him sitting in front of his computer yet again, unmoved, in exactly the same spot that I saw him hours before. Something inside of me just surrendered. It's like they say- a switch just flipped. Involuntarily, I swear, something made me blurt out words I did not think I would ever blurt! "<i><b>Noah, I can't do this anymore. You need to go back to school.</b></i>" And just as shockingly, he replied instantaneously with an enthusiastic: "<b><i>Ok</i></b>!"</div>
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That was perplexing....for us both! So it was, a conversation and a few emails later, that Noah was back at his old school, re-testing his math, visiting for orientation, and today, he <b><span style="color: orange; font-size: large;">JOYFULLY </span></b>rode off on his bike....</div>
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*On a side-note, as excited and super happy as I am for us all to have this new chapter at school, I can't deny that I have carried with me a bit of sadness for the loss of our homeschooling days and the truly wonderful homeschooling friends that we've made. I feel as though NOTHING else in my life has changed me as much as the experience of Noah unexpectedly leaving school and having to find our way. Homeschooling taught a most valuable thing- that <b>LIFE IS OURS TO MAKE IT.</b> That you CAN do what you need to do, that you CAN do what your child needs. That you DON'T have to let others pressure, scare or worry you into taking the path that you think is not right for your son or daughter. While I had heaping amounts of encouragement and support from friends, family, teachers and doctors, a few warned me that homeschooling could be a disaster, that once I stop trying to FORCE him back into school, that he will NEVER go back!</div>
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Well, look at Noah now- happily going back to school under his own steam. Happy and healthy, not worried or anxious at all. A fine writer, a great reader, a boy who can carry his own in math. Friend of friends and eager to start an after school history club. HE'S FINE! I'm so grateful that I listened to my inner voice and didn't let fear stop me form doing what I felt was best for us.</div>
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My dear readers, no matter what you face in life, whether it's a parenting issue, or your career or making a huge decision, know that it's ok to follow your heart and if your heart is telling you to, take a little break from following the flock. It will be ok. 💗</div>
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So what's an ex-homeschool Mom to do? Well, for me, it included a new 6:00am wake-up call, the re-instament of my Blogilates routine:</div>
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Some laundry, some cleaning, an errand, a dog walk, the ironing, dinner prep and a lot of coffee. A LOT of coffee....</div>
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One of my newest ex-homeschool Mom duties though, is to hopefully off-set some of the tuition costs through working on this blog and other places in this vast blogosphere. Also, I STARTING AN ONLINE CLASS and TRAINING in a week!!! More on this in another post, but hopefully, it will lead me to being able to support, encourage and coach YOU in the near future! 😉💗😉</div>
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In the meantime, Josie and I promise to not waste anymore time playing around with the Photo Booth app. </div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oiFFPfR96dQ/Wa7G_lvWvEI/AAAAAAAAKRQ/EvB6lJFm0vs_Rg6CvtWRbKwqc3XNR-8_ACLcBGAs/s1600/Photo%2Bon%2B8-31-17%2Bat%2B10.21%2BAM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="1080" height="266" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oiFFPfR96dQ/Wa7G_lvWvEI/AAAAAAAAKRQ/EvB6lJFm0vs_Rg6CvtWRbKwqc3XNR-8_ACLcBGAs/s400/Photo%2Bon%2B8-31-17%2Bat%2B10.21%2BAM.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Instead, I'll come to you next time with my <i style="color: magenta; font-size: x-large; font-weight: bold;">NEW FOUND HAIR PRODUCT </i><i style="color: magenta; font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">LOVE</span></i><i style="color: magenta; font-size: x-large; font-weight: bold;"> </i>that has smoothed out and added shine to my hair unlike any other product before it. I've been testing this for you guys for a few months, and since there hasn't been any issues, I'm excited and ready to share!!! </div>
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<span style="text-align: left;">Ok, this is my cue. I'm off to figure out dinner. I think it's going to be something easy tonight, like this </span><b style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.the-girl-who-ate-everything.com/2014/10/one-pan-cheesy-chicken-broccoli-rice.html?utm_content=buffere9214&utm_medium=social&utm_source=pinterest.com&utm_campaign=budgetbytesbuffer">One Pan Cheesy Chicken, Broccoli and Rice</a></b><span style="text-align: left;"> from</span><a href="http://www.the-girl-who-ate-everything.com/" style="text-align: left;"> the Girl Who Ate Everything!</a><span style="text-align: left;"> I'll let you know how things turn out, and for more of my top-pick recipe, from family meals, to vegetarian, Trader Joe's dishes and healthy selections, please visit </span><b style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://www.pinterest.com/howbourgeois/">How Bourgeois' Pinterest page!</a></b></div>
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<b><span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: large;">Until next time!</span></b></div>
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<b>Well, almost. Today still counts, right? It's September, it's the first day of school! It qualifies as "fall," right?????</b></div>
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<b><span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: large;">xoxoxoxoxoxoxo,</span></b></div>
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<b><span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: large;">Lauren </span></b></div>
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Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05093968853372697053noreply@blogger.com3