tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34896520833631797172024-03-05T07:18:27.891-05:00I'll Tell You Later, Betty...A blog about a liberal Quaker mother surviving a move to the deep south. Witty, satirical, and sometimes moving but always entertaining.Kellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04040085494657860788noreply@blogger.comBlogger136125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3489652083363179717.post-43378768329495913762013-11-07T23:12:00.000-05:002013-11-21T12:25:04.362-05:00First There Were Two...Let me begin by letting you in on a little secret.<br />
I married a Frenchman.<br />
Sounds exotic does it not? In fact, I like to say we honeymooned in France for the first nine months of our marriage. And we did. Except my Frenchman is really a Renaissance man born and raised in Indiana. With the heart of a Frenchman and a fabulous grasp of the French language that throws off many a French national, he set off to embrace all that is French. Uh, that is except for me. Don't get me wrong, he embraces me but I am not French...just your basic American with a pretty good hold on sarcasm as a second language. But I digress. So back in 1993 after we wed, we set off on an adventure. With my PhD candidate husband, we got to live in Grenoble, France while he was on an exchange teaching program at the Universite Stendhal teaching English to French college students.<br />
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What was I going to do all day? I didn't speak the language. And, keep in mind, this was back in the day when people wrote letters to communicate and we went to a pay phone to call home to the States. Dear foreign gods that makes me feel ancient. So suffice it to say, I wasn't able to sit in a cafe all day playing Candy Crush on Facebook with my iPad. Est alors, I did what every French person does. I walked. I walked to the boulangerie practically two to three times a day. In the morning for a pain au chocolat and then a baguette for lunch and dinner. Keep in mind, this is the woman who can speak "hello", "please", "thank you" and "good bye" in French like a native. So my pain au chocolat supplier and I had begun to recognize one another. It was time to branch out with my French. I decided to ask her how much <strike>my drug of choice</strike> the pain au chocolat was. It went something like this:<br />
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Me: "<span class="short_text" id="result_box" lang="fr"><span class="hps">Combien pour le</span> <span class="hps">pain au chocolat?" (How much for my hooch?)</span></span></blockquote>
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My Drug dealer: <span class="short_text" id="result_box" lang="fr"><span class="hps">"</span></span><span class="short_text" id="result_box" lang="fr"><span class="hps"><span class="short_text" id="result_box" lang="fr"><span class="hps">trois</span> <span class="hps">quatre-vingts</span></span></span><span class="hps">"</span></span></blockquote>
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Me: "<span class="short_text" id="result_box" lang="fr"><span class="hps">Répéter</span> <span class="hps">s'il vous plaît." (Repeat please -with a very nervous smile on my face)</span></span></blockquote>
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My Drug Dealer: "<span class="short_text" id="result_box" lang="fr"><span class="hps">trois</span> <span class="hps">quatre-vingts</span></span>"</blockquote>
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Me: "<span class="short_text" id="result_box" lang="fr"><span class="hps">Répéter</span> <span class="hps">s'il vous plaît." (Repeat please -but said very s-l-o-w-l-y since I didn't know the word for "slowly")</span></span></blockquote>
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My Drug Dealer (with a line of annoyed French people behind me ready for a second revolution): "Three eighty" - said in a surly voice.</blockquote>
Hanging my head in shame I paid the woman, grabbed my little bit of flaky chocolatey goodness and went to eat away my sorrows at failing miserably with my first attempt at branching out with the French. At this rate I am sure I will never make it through nine months if "eighty" translated is "four twenties". I was doomed.<br />
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Ah, did I forget my secret weapon? I had my Frenchman! Hearing him speak French was all the aphrodisiac a newlywed needed. And eventually I became more adventurous and willing to use my dismal French. I embraced my mistakes and today they make for great stories at cocktail parties.<br />
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But who am I kidding?<br />
Cocktail parties?<br />
More like birthday parties or pizza parties or play dates and if we are lucky an adult beverage (for the adults) is included! Years later my Frenchman is now a tenured French Professor and I am a seasoned (because they don't give tenure in my line of work) clinical social worker. We have a 13 year old son and an 8 year old daughter that keep us busy. The Professor gets to travel to France at least once a year with his work. But me? I get to stay home with the kids.<br />
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Uh-huh. <br />
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You see, traveling abroad, as you all may guess, requires planning, time off to go, and, oh, income. A humanities professor and a social worker aren't exactly making the big bucks. So the professor embraces his inner Frenchman every year while we hold the fort down until he returns. We want to go to France as a family. The kids are ready for their French adventure. But having lived abroad plus being attached to our sanity, we knew that when we went as a family to France we would need to stay in an apartment. This is where our desire to travel abroad as a family and <a href="http://www.gowithoh.com/" target="_blank">Go with Oh</a> paths converged. Who better to test an <a href="http://www.gowithoh.com/" target="_blank">Go with Oh</a> apartment in France than the Professor, his sarcastically witty wife and their two children? We would really put that apartment to the test. And I have found the perfect one.<br />
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In the 11th Arrondissement, <a href="http://www.gowithoh.com/vacation-paris-apartments/ref_4424/?arrival=2014-06-10&departure=2014-06-17&zone=CDG&sid=s_527c3704b7dd0&s_id=s_527c3704b7dd0&PRODUCT_TYPE=apartments&adults=2&children=2&babies=" target="_blank">Go with Oh</a> offers this <a href="http://www.gowithoh.com/vacation-paris-apartments/ref_4424/?arrival=2014-06-10&departure=2014-06-17&zone=CDG&sid=s_527c3704b7dd0&s_id=s_527c3704b7dd0&PRODUCT_TYPE=apartments&adults=2&children=2&babies=" target="_blank">Charming Art Studio</a> that has a little bit of everything for the whole family. I am imagining I might open the door and find <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Am%C3%A9lie" target="_blank">Amelie</a> sitting on the couch dreaming up her next adventure.<br />
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And then I see the terrace and my breath catches just a bit. Room to breath. To just take it all in. -<i>That is if the kids will be quiet for two minutes and stop asking me where they can get some real food around here and when are we going to see the <a href="http://www.tour-eiffel.fr/" target="_blank">Eiffel Tower</a></i>- Back to my fantasy...<br />
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Oh, but wait, what did I read? Does this apartment come with a mini-Mac and wireless internet? My kids will think they have died and gone to heaven. Come on...who am I kidding...I will think I have died and gone to heaven too. The last time I was in France the closest thing we had to the internet was our friend's <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Minitel" target="_blank">Minitel</a>. Curious? Follow the link and learn something new, my dear readers. But having internet access may<strike> shut my children up </strike>keep our children occupied while my husband and I catch our collective breaths on the terrace and reminisce about when it was just the two of us.<br />
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This lovely slice of Paris that we could call our own for a week also has a beautiful eat in kitchen, a soaker tub and the best part is that it is dripping with character and atmosphere. I swear if I lived in this apartment for more than a week I would be speaking French fluently. Maybe <a href="http://www.gowithoh.com/" target="_blank">Go with Oh</a> and I could try a little experiment. Think of the news we would make! We'd become an internet sensation.<br />
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No? Uh, okay. I'll settle for the week then. Perhaps the next time we can test those fluency waters.<br />
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Well, first there were two and now there are four. And we can't wait to expand our children's world view beyond where they live today. <a href="http://www.gowithoh.com/" target="_blank">Go with Oh</a>'s choice of apartments in Europe is exciting when imagining the options we would have traveling in Europe and the United Kingdom. Whether it is in France or other European destinations, <a href="http://www.gowithoh.com/" target="_blank">Go with Oh</a> gives you the opportunity to feel like you are living there and not just visiting.<br />
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Now that is worth the price of admission...even for a professor and a social worker.<br />
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Our daughter when she was 2 wearing my t-shirt I wore as a kid. </div>
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See? We've been prepping for years, <a href="http://www.gowithoh.com/" target="_blank">Go with Oh</a>.</div>
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UPDATE (11/21/2013): I did not win the <a href="http://www.gowithoh.com/" target="_blank">Go with Oh</a> blogger contest. I have to say I was very hopeful and very disappointed. Their properties are gorgeous and provide so many options to those of us who are secretly (or not so secretly) Europhiles. Maybe next time...sniff, sniff.<br />
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<br />Kellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04040085494657860788noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3489652083363179717.post-83694523735979936012013-04-23T22:07:00.001-04:002013-11-05T15:44:45.711-05:00Kitchen Renovation RevealLet me help the BIG REVEAL by prepping you with a couple of "before" pictures so you get an idea of the kitchen we lived with for 2 or so years.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/4886464579/" title="kitchen - before by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img alt="kitchen - before" height="333" src="http://farm5.staticflickr.com/4100/4886464579_1cf973f64d.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
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Patrick had taken off all the doors to the cabinets when a brief surge of DIY juice passed through him never to return. And, by the way, the cool sink is still in our backyard if anyone is interested.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/4887067380/" title="kitchen 2 before by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img alt="kitchen 2 before" height="500" src="http://farm5.staticflickr.com/4114/4887067380_8ca1bfe709.jpg" width="333" /></a><br />
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This served as extra cabinet space. And as you can see, the floors were definitely tired.<br />
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We used <a href="https://hdapps.homedepot.com/SATDMyProjectWeb/launchMP.do" target="_blank">Home Depot's Kitchen design services</a> in Simpsonville to bring this kitchen into the 21st century. Eli, God bless her and her patient soul, designed the kitchen. And with great gnashing of teeth walked through many design questions and changes that we had.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/8578116769/" title="Untitled by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img alt="Untitled" height="333" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8505/8578116769_daf73f5616.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
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And our contractor, Kenny, along with two other fine Southern gentlemen, gnashed their teeth as well over the four months it took to bring it to where it is today. It is a relief to have a contractor that you can trust and know that he is committed to doing a job correctly. I'm sure there were many curse words used when they were not in my presence but in front of me they were nothing but gentlemen.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/8438345421/" title="Untitled by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img alt="Untitled" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8371/8438345421_26b325f565.jpg" width="333" /></a><br />
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The renovation happened in fits and starts. And there were fits thrown. But in the end we have a beautiful and functioning kitchen.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/8646024862/" title="Untitled by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img alt="Untitled" height="333" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8402/8646024862_ef7d93e53a.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
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Even the 1970's Jenn Air stove has gotten a new life.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/8644924123/" title="Untitled by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img alt="Untitled" height="333" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8265/8644924123_35f9a1f62a.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
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And thanks to Eli's design we can easily get in and out the back door.<br />
Oh, and we have a dishwasher for the first time in our adult life.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/8670537830/" title="Untitled by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img alt="Untitled" height="333" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8099/8670537830_0ef762569d.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
Love our open shelving.<br />
And the wooden floors? Well, Kenny worked his fingers to the bone for these floors. Thank you, Kenny!!<br />
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And now for some details that make me happy.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/8646022984/" title="Untitled by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img alt="Untitled" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8262/8646022984_208655ed0a.jpg" width="333" /></a><br />
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The pendant light over the sink makes me happy...the blinding light bulb not so much.<br />
Any suggestions?<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/8644926623/" title="Untitled by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img alt="Untitled" height="333" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8240/8644926623_fe554ee1b3.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
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Love the open shelving! There was much researching because we wanted something with some design appeal but also functional. <a href="http://www.housetweaking.com/2012/08/24/open-shelving-in-the-kitchen/">This blogger showed off her Ikea shelving</a> and I was sold. I didn't show it to Patrick but just went right ahead and asked a friend who was passing through Charlotte to pick us up a couple. He obliged AND gifted them to us...sweet guy, that Michael. So if you want your own, head on over to Ikea. Gotta love the Swedish sensibility.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/8646026508/" title="Untitled by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img alt="Untitled" height="333" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8534/8646026508_408cb5fcd8.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
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Patrick and I are sparring over objects that get put on these shelves. Some <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tchotchke" target="_blank">tchotchke</a> have disappeared since these photographs.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/8646025440/" title="Untitled by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img alt="Untitled" height="333" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8266/8646025440_55204f3f46.jpg" width="500" /></a> <br />
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But then...surprise...they show back up again...then disappear again.<br />
The great tchotchke war on East Maple.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/8646023458/" title="Untitled by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img alt="Untitled" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8110/8646023458_6540b1571a.jpg" width="333" /></a><br />
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The inspiration that finally convinced me Patrick was right about the wall color.<br />
Yes...you read correctly. Patrick was right.<br />
He was not only right about that but I have to concede one more thing.<br />
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The 1970's Jenn Air Stove that came with the house adds a retro cool vibe to the kitchen that I in absolutely NO WAY anticipated it would.<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/8644927799/" title="Untitled by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img alt="Untitled" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8102/8644927799_04c4a5859c.jpg" width="333" /></a><br />
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We did have some concern that the open cabinet that we originally desired was going to look odd and off balance in the kitchen. But I have to say I love it. Just wish I was taller to reach the shelves.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/8646026084/" title="Untitled by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img alt="Untitled" height="333" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8526/8646026084_a20c5f5b6e.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
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I knew I wanted something in the back of the cabinet to coordinate with the color in the kitchen. I was losing hope that I'd find something stylish and reasonably priced. But while trolling <a href="http://www.carolinapotteryusa.com/">Carolina Pottery</a> in Columbia I came across this <a href="http://www.themacbethcollection.com/mm5/merchant.mvc?Screen=PROD&Store_Code=macbeth&Product_Code=shelf-liner" target="_blank">fabulous shelf liner</a>. I snatched it up for half the price it is online (yeah for me!) and ran home to put it up...in a very ADD fashion. Leave it to say if you look at it too long while visiting our home you'll notice where I got a little hurried in the process.<br />
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And then there is the functionality of the kitchen too.<br />
For instance, the drawer below has a hidden compartment that stores more utensils.<br />
Very useful in a small kitchen.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/8676051175/" title="draw collage by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img alt="draw collage" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8262/8676051175_f50ce8f3eb.jpg" width="250" /></a><br />
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And a concealed trash bin is a good thing too.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/8644920409/" title="Untitled by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img alt="Untitled" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8122/8644920409_a16172fe0c.jpg" width="333" /></a><br />
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Love this faucet and this deep single bowl sink... even though our dear contractor insists everyone wants a double bowl sink.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/8646021664/" title="Untitled by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img alt="Untitled" height="333" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8524/8646021664_ea7ab07884.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
But have you noticed one thing missing?
We have a backsplash dilemma.
It is too late to add the small granite lip that traditionally goes with a counter top for reasons I won't bore you with. We had thought we'd do a white subway tile but then we just hit a wall and decided to wait. But in the mean time we worry about water hitting the walls around the sink and grease around the stove. Any design input would be gladly welcome...but may not be taken. <br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/8646024862/" title="Untitled by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img alt="Untitled" height="333" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8402/8646024862_ef7d93e53a.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
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Overall, we are very pleased with the end result of months of hard work from Kenny and his crew...therapy sessions with Eli...and many dishes washed in the bathroom sink.
Kellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04040085494657860788noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3489652083363179717.post-58206232019177388312013-02-20T22:05:00.000-05:002013-03-21T22:07:39.426-04:0050 Shades of Steel GrayThe kitchen is close to becoming a working kitchen again. <br />
I'm not sure if I remember what that is.<br />
Between waiting on cabinets...and waiting on more cabinets we have been without a kitchen since December 10, 2012.<br />
On February 18, 2013 our granite counter tops, sink and faucet were installed. So, in theory, we should be able to wash dishes in our kitchen. Here are the granite guys drilling the hole for the faucet.<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/8579217586/" title="Granite counter tops are being installed today! by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img alt="Granite counter tops are being installed today!" height="333" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8509/8579217586_257a79b8b9.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
We were told that it would be no problem to install the faucet in the center of the sink. Sure there would be room to operate the faucet and install the back splash! Plumbing it should be no problem.<br />
Famous. Last. Words.<br />
So what do you do when the installers drill a hole in your beautiful granite counter top that isn't going to give you a functional faucet? You add a soap dispenser and have them drill a new hole for the faucet off to the side of the sink. Crisis adverted.<br />
The granite type is "Steel Gray". I am in love with it. It is a great entry level granite that looks great with the cabinets and color on the walls.<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/8578116157/" title="Untitled by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img alt="Untitled" height="333" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8241/8578116157_8a7463427b.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
But the saga continues...<br />
<br />Kellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04040085494657860788noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3489652083363179717.post-61084713955846509492013-02-09T12:43:00.000-05:002013-04-21T20:01:39.319-04:00Castle of CabinetsThe cabinets arrived under the cover of darkness. I was so excited. It was really happening now. We're getting a new kitchen! The delivery guys decided to drive their big rig into our front yard to bring the cabinets into the house. Most of you know how our front [cough, cough] yard looks. Well 18 wheels later it is much prettier (please note the snarky remark).<br />
<br />
Where does one put a kitchen full of cabinets before they are installed in your actual kitchen, you may ask? Well, in our house they were put in our living room.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/8439433616/" title="Kitchen Cabinets arrived last night...prize to the person who can guess what Anna is watching! by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img alt="Kitchen Cabinets arrived last night...prize to the person who can guess what Anna is watching!" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8373/8439433616_a9e2d386aa.jpg" width="333" /></a><br />
<br />
Big prize for anyone who can guess what show Anna is watching.<br />
<br />
Well, Kenny and John arrived on December 30th ready to install all those pretty cabinets. And all seemed fine.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/8439433326/" title="Cabinets are going in..eventually...ran into a snafu that will slow things down. by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img alt="Cabinets are going in..eventually...ran into a snafu that will slow things down." height="333" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8044/8439433326_bd841e1717.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
<br />
Until it was discovered that one cabinet was going to be too big for the way the plumbing and install was planned on the contractor's end. Our Kitchen Designer worked with us to return that cabinet and order a new smaller sized cabinet to replace it. Almost everything else would have to wait until that cabinet arrived. We were told it would be expedited and to expect it in two weeks. <br />
<br />
That was a month ago...grrrr.<br />
<br />
But in the mean time we've had a new window installed.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/8438347449/" title="Untitled by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img alt="Untitled" height="333" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8234/8438347449_7af05f963f.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
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I've also painted a ton of trim. And during a visit from my parents my dad and I scraped, sanded, and primed old trim that had peeling latex on top of enamel paint.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/8458032507/" title="Scraping Collage by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img alt="Scraping Collage" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8525/8458032507_bc21c508b3.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
<br />
And we had a paint color dilemma.<br />
Most of the time if you were to pick up a multiple color swatch at a paint store and asked the Professor and I which color we preferred, he would chose the lightest color and I would go to the darkest color. Trying to avoid crazy indecision we met in the middle and chose this color:<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/8458032985/" title="Color of the kitchen walls...who comes up with these names? I want that job! by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img alt="Color of the kitchen walls...who comes up with these names? I want that job!" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8241/8458032985_b715dd326e.jpg" width="333" /></a><br />
<br />
"Desert Hotsprings".<br />
I demand to know who gets paid to sit around naming paint colors! I want that job.<br />
Well, it turns out that "Desert Hotsprings" looked a little too country for our tastes with the new stain on the kitchen floor. Then the Professor surprised me. He suggested this color...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvPg0nKTe0qTRx_339y4iIbsIDymNMGJ95FHCGUAmkoO7y118QPxH1IZKW9GVWAgYWQfeRhmxtJFy6AiHbeFj2_7x9W_PPbLrVxRO91UQWZs3m9FvKZgIR-yAWgRcZ62jk-GnpeN8UWiA/s1600/hh.frolic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="237" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvPg0nKTe0qTRx_339y4iIbsIDymNMGJ95FHCGUAmkoO7y118QPxH1IZKW9GVWAgYWQfeRhmxtJFy6AiHbeFj2_7x9W_PPbLrVxRO91UQWZs3m9FvKZgIR-yAWgRcZ62jk-GnpeN8UWiA/s320/hh.frolic.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
This my dear friends is Sherwin Williams "Frolic"(again with the names...Frolic...really?). Frolic is on the dark end...the bright end...the sunglasses are required end and yet, he picked it. And I, believe it or not, argued with him. Okay. That part is believable. I didn't run to the paint store immediately like I had fantasized I would if he ever went there. But eventually I did and when they mixed that color I had to admit I was nervous.<br />
<br />
Once it got on the walls though, I was hooked. I wanted to frolic in the kitchen. I can't wait to frolic in the kitchen...soon.<br />
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<br />Kellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04040085494657860788noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3489652083363179717.post-51718888782793762452013-01-23T11:50:00.000-05:002013-02-09T11:52:50.844-05:00Temporary Digs...Here's a glimpse of our temporary kitchen... <br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/8439431494/" title="Our dining room made temporary kitchen/pantry...all the banging has done a number on those pics hanging huh? by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img alt="Our dining room made temporary kitchen/pantry...all the banging has done a number on those pics hanging huh?" height="333" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8186/8439431494_c9b98cf04e.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
<br />
All the banging has set the pictures off kilter just a smidge.<br />
So the dining room has become our eat in kitchen. We packed up the entire contents of the kitchen. Some shelving was moved into the dining room for a temporary pantry and to store basic cooking utensils and plates etc. Our trusty Ikea table from the butler's pantry is now our prep station. Thanks to the kindness of family and friends we have a griddle and a hot plate that has seen a lot of action. Along with our microwave, slow cooker and grill we're managing to cook meals just fine.<br />
<br />
What is the most annoying thing about the temporary kitchen? <br />
Anything involving water. <br />
Washing dishes...cooking and draining pasta...making coffee all are more complicated now. But let's take a moment of gratitude here. It is merely an annoyance. We are renovating our kitchen NOT living in a developing country. I think we'll manage just fine.Kellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04040085494657860788noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3489652083363179717.post-85259615398100114702013-01-15T22:03:00.000-05:002013-01-15T22:03:08.381-05:00A Month of Letters<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9WLGe6DRAMCq3cLBVVICfY90cjw2VQOqupZtuoP-1RQiHsbyW12vhHync_6QaQGPaL7Dw1L2_NE_ZgHzpfEj49tvlVB7U46uP2eleURbXe2ipwqk8P5eQITiEIm5QxRugtAyFq-3_l5I/s1600/LetterMo2012header2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="155" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9WLGe6DRAMCq3cLBVVICfY90cjw2VQOqupZtuoP-1RQiHsbyW12vhHync_6QaQGPaL7Dw1L2_NE_ZgHzpfEj49tvlVB7U46uP2eleURbXe2ipwqk8P5eQITiEIm5QxRugtAyFq-3_l5I/s400/LetterMo2012header2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
On September 2011, <a href="http://www.maryrobinettekowal.com/journal/month-of-letters/">Mary Robinette Kowal</a> made a move many of us couldn't ever imagine doing. She took a vacation from the internet for an entire month, asking her friends to communicate with her only through letters. She came to the realization that...<br />
<blockquote>
<i>When I write back, I find that I slow down and write differently than
I do with an email. Email is all about the now. Letters are different,
because whatever I write needs to be something that will be relevant a
week later to the person to whom I am writing. In some ways it forces me
to think about time more because postal mail is slower. “By the time
you get this…” It is relaxing. It is intimate. It is both lasting and
ephemeral.</i><br />
<i>
</i><i>How so? I find that I will often read the letters that I receive
twice. Once when I get them and again as I write back. So, that makes it
more lasting. It is more ephemeral because I don’t have copies of the
letters that I write and I am the only one who has copies of the letters
that my correspondents write. So, more ephemeral.</i><br />
</blockquote>
Mary's decided to turn February into a <a href="http://lettermo.com/">Month of Letters</a>,
in which she challenges herself and everyone who decides do join to
write and send at least a piece of postal mail every day. Here are the
rules:<br />
<blockquote>
<ul>
<li><b>Mail at least one item through the post every day it runs</b>. Write a postcard, a letter, send a picture, or a cutting from a newspaper, or a fabric swatch.</li>
</ul>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<ul>
<li>
<b>Write back to everyone who writes to you.</b> This can count as one of your mailed items.</li>
</ul>
</blockquote>
Since moving so far from the people that I love I have come to appreciate the mail I receive from them in a way I never did when we lived just up the road from each other. I also am realizing how I have not really told them in a lasting way what they mean to me. But here is my chance.<br />
<br />
Of course, most of you know I am an Employee Assistant Program Consultant for the USPS. They provide such a service that many times goes unnoticed or unappreciated. And the USPS needs our help. Here is chance number two.<br />
<br />
Are you up to <a href="http://lettermo.com/">Mary's challenge</a>? If you'd like to hear from me click on my "contact me" link on the side bar to send my your address.<br />
<br />
Now grab your stationery and stamps and start writing! Kellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04040085494657860788noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3489652083363179717.post-36953459778665374352012-12-31T22:30:00.000-05:002013-01-11T15:27:08.158-05:00I'm Dreaming of a White Christmas...Christmas of 2012 we dreamed of a white Christmas.<br />
No traveling hundreds of miles to celebrate with family...(wiping a tear away as she types).<br />
We stayed home because of this... <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF4Kw-2_yn7anw-4qccX02nSc4cMzP_Pw1_LS3JHQvllK8b7Fj8p9exucznLcP8je79pp6Zd_FaMJ44L9l6qBwG4IrCHhFi3YBxRqzGqc2KLU_JmSdFyOqeVFVv-vMxiyXtURMCAGBG4k/s1600/IMG_1809.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF4Kw-2_yn7anw-4qccX02nSc4cMzP_Pw1_LS3JHQvllK8b7Fj8p9exucznLcP8je79pp6Zd_FaMJ44L9l6qBwG4IrCHhFi3YBxRqzGqc2KLU_JmSdFyOqeVFVv-vMxiyXtURMCAGBG4k/s400/IMG_1809.JPG" width="400" /> </a></div>
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Our kitchen renovation finally began on December 10th. That's a whole 'nother blog post or two or five. Suffice it to say we needed to stay close to home. Stuff had to be attended to.</div>
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But before the renovation started a couple of other great Christmas joys occurred. I'm sure you are dying to know what those are, right? Well, of course there was the Clinton Christmas Parade.</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/8369243876/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Christmas in Clinton by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img alt="Christmas in Clinton" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8334/8369243876_662f6c517d.jpg" /> </a></div>
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And this year, Anna was in the parade with Dance South where she takes gymnastic lessons.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/8368287131/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Anna parade by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img alt="Anna parade" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8050/8368287131_9bd6f3c910.jpg" /> </a></div>
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And the second joy is seeing dear friends. My and Patrick's college friends gathered for the 25th year in a row to celebrate "Friends' Christmas". Twenty five years does not seem possible. I am still a Spring Chicken...in some circles. Here we are posing...we love to pose.<br />
<br />
Strike a pose...<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/8369399886/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="25 years Collage by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img alt="25 years Collage" height="640" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8492/8369399886_5df579f930.jpg" width="320" /> </a></div>
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We rented a cabin in Brown County. The same one we rented for year 20. Not much has changed except we are a tad more creakier and a bit wrinkly. Except for me...I am still a Spring Chicken. </div>
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Sadly, Patrick didn't join us. Logistics were not on his side and he was gracious to be Daddy to the kids while I got to laugh at the same jokes, dance to the same tunes and kiss on the same people. So I knew that he had to be included. That's when I remembered <a href="http://www.flatstanleybooks.com/" target="_blank"><i>Flat Stanley</i></a><i>. </i>I needed a Flat Patrick. He was coming to Friends' Christmas!</div>
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Now if you look closely in the pictures above he is in every one of them. In fact he was all over Nashville. That guy really gets around. Baby Jesus never looked better. If you want to see the "Flat Patrick Series head on over to <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/sets/72157632493240208/" target="_blank">my Flickr account</a>.</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/8368335093/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Untitled by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img alt="Untitled" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8049/8368335093_c80739445f.jpg" /> </a></div>
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When I got back home we decorated the tree. Just by looking at the beautiful Christmas tree you'd think decorating was a blessed memorable event. Memorable... yes. Blessed...no. Nothing says Merry Christmas like fighting kids and a screaming mom. Next year I'll decorate the tree with a spiked mug of hot cocoa with Ollie gazing at the lights and my favorite Christmas tunes playing in the background...ahhhh.</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/8369353172/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Untitled by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img alt="Untitled" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8084/8369353172_47941e0bd5.jpg" /> </a></div>
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Winter break in Clinton is not complete with trips to Sonic. Especially when our Pittsburgh friends come to visit. I'm sure Martha is jealous about right now.</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/8369247504/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Untitled by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img alt="Untitled" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8048/8369247504_f2e989796d.jpg" /> </a></div>
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The yearly gingerbread house was made and eaten.</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/8369435406/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Gingerbread House Collage by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img alt="Gingerbread House Collage" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8048/8369435406_d73204e24c.jpg" /> </a></div>
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And then finally Santa arrived...</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/8369245012/" title="Untitled by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img alt="Untitled" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8327/8369245012_b390ec4d42.jpg" /> </a></div>
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This was Gavin's first year of being in on the magic. I'm pretty sure there was some grieving going on in that stinky middle school boy's heart. But he didn't let the "cat out of the bag" for Anna. That was our little Christmas miracle.</div>
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Christmas morning was full of joy...</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/8368370073/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Christmas Morning '12 Collage by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img alt="Christmas Morning '12 Collage" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8237/8368370073_b738471d48.jpg" /> </a></div>
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There was Christmas Ball Frenzy thanks to Gramma Cece.</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/8368369885/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Christmas Ball Collage by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img alt="Christmas Ball Collage" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8471/8368369885_4ee6ba78b2.jpg" /> </a></div>
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And how do you ring in 2013 when you have no kitchen to cook in? Fondue, of course.</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/8369426064/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Happy 2013 Collage by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img alt="Happy 2013 Collage" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8511/8369426064_727d87f9d5.jpg" /> </a></div>
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It was a sweet quiet holiday season. Next year you all are invited to come spend Christmas with us. </div>
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Kellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04040085494657860788noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3489652083363179717.post-56397932478954529822012-12-22T12:10:00.000-05:002013-02-03T12:12:55.804-05:00Baby, baby, baby ohhhh!<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/8438350347/" title="Look who we found in the basement! by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img alt="Look who we found in the basement!" height="333" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8373/8438350347_a9647a48e0.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
We have walls.<br />
And Justin Bieber as our general contractor.<br />
<br />
Real lighting in the ceilings was installed and the walls mudded.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/8438348565/" title="Untitled by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img alt="Untitled" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8098/8438348565_2bb513463b.jpg" width="333" /></a><br />
<br />
Oh, and under this...<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/4887067606/" title="kitchen floor - before by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img alt="kitchen floor - before" height="332" src="http://farm5.staticflickr.com/4096/4887067606_bc3808a1eb.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
<br />
was this...<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/8438343233/" title="...and underneath the "tile"...breathing a sigh of relief...wood floors. by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img alt="...and underneath the "tile"...breathing a sigh of relief...wood floors." height="333" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8221/8438343233_67d56d7370.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
<br />
Hardwood floors!<br />
We all breathed a collective sigh of relief that we didn't have to install linoleum.<br />
<br />
That is until Kenny, our super hero of a contractor, began the sanding process. Then I'm sure he was breathing a few choice words under his polite Southern breath.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/8438347199/" title="One coat of paint (Desert Hotsprings) and now the floors are being sanded. by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img alt="One coat of paint (Desert Hotsprings) and now the floors are being sanded." height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8518/8438347199_256edb99f4.jpg" width="333" /></a><br />
<br />
But they are on their way to beautiful...<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/8439436672/" title="Floors are sanded and ready for stain. by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img alt="Floors are sanded and ready for stain." height="333" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8518/8439436672_9bd7ac720e.jpg" width="500" /></a> <br />
<br />
A little stain and they'll be transformed.<br />
<br />
Next installment soon...<br />
<br />
<br />Kellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04040085494657860788noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3489652083363179717.post-81784671642172148232012-12-10T11:55:00.000-05:002013-02-03T11:56:10.613-05:00The Great Kitchen Renovation: Step One...Demoliton.Well the day actually arrived.<br />
After what seemed like a decade of fretting, arguing, and compromising over a kitchen design, I am pleased as punch to say our kitchen now looks like this...<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/8439432896/" title="And the demo begins! by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img alt="And the demo begins!" height="333" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8195/8439432896_66e5aeb913.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
<br />
It used to look like this...<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/4886464579/" title="kitchen - before by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img alt="kitchen - before" height="333" src="http://farm5.staticflickr.com/4100/4886464579_1cf973f64d.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
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And this...<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/4887067380/" title="kitchen 2 before by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img alt="kitchen 2 before" height="500" src="http://farm5.staticflickr.com/4114/4887067380_8ca1bfe709.jpg" width="333" /></a><br />
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But there is joy in seeing this...<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/8439435982/" title="on your mark...get set...go! by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img alt="on your mark...get set...go!" height="333" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8500/8439435982_350869b883.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
<br />
Because it represents so much more than just the beginning of a kitchen renovation.<br />
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Next installment soon!Kellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04040085494657860788noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3489652083363179717.post-54816541888855121402012-11-26T19:20:00.000-05:002013-01-10T19:23:19.516-05:00We Are So Grateful for...Family.<br />
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We were able to travel to Ohio and Indiana to celebrate Thanksgiving with both families. Knowing that we possibly weren't going to be there for Christmas made the time even more dear.<br />
<br />
Thanksgiving day was spent in Ohio with the Kileys at Kevin and Laurie's Loveland home 2.0! They have been through a trying year (and more) of renovations. They could have been on Renovation Realities quite honestly. But they forged through and we got to reap the rewards of spending quality family time in their lovely home.<br />
<br />
The weather was warm enough for Gramma Cece to take a spin on the scooter...<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/8318802118/" title="Grandma on a scooter! by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img alt="Grandma on a scooter!" height="333" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8359/8318802118_d1c941a33f.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
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Uncle Scott showed off his new guns...<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/8317745317/" title="Uncle Scott showing off his guns! by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img alt="Uncle Scott showing off his guns!" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8212/8317745317_06a608725f.jpg" width="333" /></a><br />
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Aunt Shannon and the girls took the flatcoats for a walk...or did the dogs walk them?<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/8318813622/" title="Untitled by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img alt="Untitled" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8499/8318813622_b0fef52ece.jpg" width="333" /></a>
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The boys stood still long enough to get a picture...<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/8317754449/" title="Kiley Cousins by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img alt="Kiley Cousins" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8218/8317754449_deacfa309e.jpg" width="333" /></a><br />
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And the girl cousins got their craft on with Aunt E-E...<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/8318807558/" title="Untitled by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img alt="Untitled" height="333" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8216/8318807558_5e333c4309.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
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Kevin, once again, out did himself in the gorgeous new kitchen!<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/8317749373/" title="The master turkey carver by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img alt="The master turkey carver" height="333" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8497/8317749373_cc1d6bce24.jpg" width="500" /></a> <br />
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While Erin outdid herself with the cranberry sauce. Although I have to note she made a wicked apple kuchen that we all loved.<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/8317749887/" title="Untitled by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img alt="Untitled" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8220/8317749887_b40f0b2811.jpg" width="333" /></a><br />
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Dinner was served...<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/8318810066/" title="Untitled by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img alt="Untitled" height="333" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8216/8318810066_4cd187629b.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
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And thanks was given...<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/8317752333/" title="The Kiley family Thanksgiving by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img alt="The Kiley family Thanksgiving" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8220/8317752333_8167300efb.jpg" width="333" /></a><br />
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Laurie had dish duty in her beautiful kitchen...<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/8317761519/" title="Untitled by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img alt="Untitled" height="333" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8504/8317761519_20c5d8b6fd.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
<br />
And a football game was watched...<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/8318819282/" title="What's Thanksgiving without a little football? by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img alt="What's Thanksgiving without a little football?" height="333" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8219/8318819282_9804dfb77b.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
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And then we went over the river and through the woods to Indiana for the Gallagher Thanksgiving.<br />
Cousining ensued. Raphael, we discovered, has become quite the pastry chef and brought us his meringues to sample. I dare say they were better than Gaga Debbi's!<br />
<br />
After dinner, cookies from <a href="http://www.linnesbakery.com/cpsiteframepage.lasso?-token.lpuserref=118876.113129" target="_blank">Linne's bakery</a> were brought out for dessert for the kids.<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/8318820206/" title="The treat of the day at the Gallagher Cousins' Thanksgiving...cookies from Linnie's Bakery! by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img alt="The treat of the day at the Gallagher Cousins' Thanksgiving...cookies from Linnie's Bakery!" height="333" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8356/8318820206_2a4fdc2042.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
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Do you think they were disappointed with the dessert?<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/8317955181/" title="Untitled by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img alt="Untitled" height="333" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8358/8317955181_a2381ddfce.jpg" width="500" /></a> <br />
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I got to snuggle with my youngest nephew, Phillip...<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/8318823160/" title="Aunt Kelly gets a snuggle in with nephew Phillip by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img alt="Aunt Kelly gets a snuggle in with nephew Phillip" height="333" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8502/8318823160_fe3eef4630.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
<br />
While Aunt Cindy gave Anna a crochet lesson...<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/8317764549/" title="Aunt Cindy teaching Anna to crochet! by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img alt="Aunt Cindy teaching Anna to crochet!" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8351/8317764549_9fc9310434.jpg" width="333" /></a><br />
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While our resident photog, also brother, father, uncle and son, was caught giving out photography advice...<br />
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An attempt was made to get all the cousins together to get a picture. First we got this one...</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/8317765633/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="a gaggle of Gallagher cousins... by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img alt="a gaggle of Gallagher cousins..." height="333" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8495/8317765633_c003e70295.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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Then this gaggle of Gallagher cousins decided to do this...</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/8319176440/" title="Untitled by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img alt="Untitled" height="333" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8217/8319176440_ca4031c1b7.jpg" width="500" /></a> </div>
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One last photo with Gaga and Papa and their new puppy, Maggie before we headed back (sniff, sniff)</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/8318824156/" title="One last pic before heading back down south...<sniff, sniff> by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img alt="One last pic before heading back down south...<sniff, sniff>" height="333" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8496/8318824156_e7831d8580.jpg" width="500" /></a> </div>
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How grateful we are to be surrounded by the people we love. </div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/8318824714/" title="Thanksgiving 2012: Cousining at it's best by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img alt="Thanksgiving 2012: Cousining at it's best" height="333" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8353/8318824714_5f765f0013.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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It makes us want to jump for joy!</div>
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<br />Kellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04040085494657860788noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3489652083363179717.post-90775590862915231322012-10-31T20:00:00.000-04:002012-11-16T12:15:28.845-05:00Could it be the last?<br />
We have a middle schooler.<br />
Dressing in costume to get candy from strangers is no longer acceptable behavior.<br />
But he wanted copious amounts of candy.<br />
So what does any self-respecting middle schooler do?<br />
Well, you wear a costume that only a middle school gamer would love.<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/8190192121/" title="Middle School Cool...final costume of his childhood...sniff, sniff. by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img alt="Middle School Cool...final costume of his childhood...sniff, sniff." height="333" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8059/8190192121_f6d1d5645e.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
Can anyone guess who or what he is?<br />
[crickets chirping]<br />
Well, my uninformed friends and family, he is a <a href="https://minecraft.net/" target="_blank">Minecraft</a> creeper. <br />
Because I am such a cheapskate I scoured the internet for a like minded mother who blogs and found one. <a href="http://mamaneedsahobby.wordpress.com/2012/09/22/thinking-inside-the-box-a-minecraft-halloween-costume/" target="_blank">Mama Needs a Hobby</a> set me up. That, a free cardboard box and a coworker with an awesome color printer and my middle schooler was ready to pillage the neighborhood.<br />
<br />
My second grader had grander plans.<br />
And I loved them.<br />
We had found an gnome costume for Mr. Ollie Wienerkins. Oh the universal shame for dogs on Halloween. But we gloriously joined in the night of shame and dressed our dachshund like a gnome. Anna decided he was Gnomeo to her Juliet.<br />
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So I was in charge of making her look like Juliet. And, to be quite honest, because I am not full of vim and vigor these days, it didn't take too long to put it all together. Here's the whole gang on Halloween night.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/8191269192/" title="Gnomeo & Juliet and a Minecraft Creeper by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img alt="Gnomeo & Juliet and a Minecraft Creeper" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8061/8191269192_84674eefc9.jpg" width="333" /></a><br />
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This years Halloween Party brought lots of little ones with their 'rents. We kept it low key this time and I didn't go crazy on cooking and baking. Gotta love warehouse shopping in situations such as this. Plus friends who bring yummy food to share.<br />
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Here is my one easy but fun thing I did for food this year thanks to my obsession with Pinterest:<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/8190186381/" title="Who can resist Jack-o-lantern vomit? by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img alt="Who can resist Jack-o-lantern vomit?" height="233" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8339/8190186381_afbe28fd00.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<br />
After all, who can resist jack-o-lantern vomit?<br />
<br />
That and fake mustaches and you've got yourself a party!<br />
I came across stick-on mustaches somewhere before the party and snatched 'em up! (I love the verb "snatch"...hmmm, but I digress). And just as I thought, they were a hit at the party. I love that a picture can tell it better than me.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0ZVDCFVDyHuqYPUcYBE22gLEVD6M4H9Hhhc3JKJ-JPEnC_NTY4KkuJHLCBhIB7oC7ikDHNRJVapSrU6GBC6gbkkVFof8GV9KKuNOylqTyKl6RNR8pzjzH5RGmGixS4vQUwH3AI64SnkU/s1600/'Stache+Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0ZVDCFVDyHuqYPUcYBE22gLEVD6M4H9Hhhc3JKJ-JPEnC_NTY4KkuJHLCBhIB7oC7ikDHNRJVapSrU6GBC6gbkkVFof8GV9KKuNOylqTyKl6RNR8pzjzH5RGmGixS4vQUwH3AI64SnkU/s320/'Stache+Collage.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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There were all sorts of secret personalities that came out at the party that night! Loved it!!<br />
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Before all the trick or treaters ran off to pillage we gathered them around the Magnolia tree for the traditonal Halloween picture.<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/8190191667/" title="A gaggle of goblins by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img alt="A gaggle of goblins" height="233" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8344/8190191667_8aa4a5d60a.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
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The gaggle of goblins did not disappoint.<br />
<br />
And while we out trick or treating we were serenaded by a mad accordianist.<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/8191277850/" title="There was even an accordion player in College View playing creepy music (I think he stole one of our mustaches) by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img alt="There was even an accordion player in College View playing creepy music (I think he stole one of our mustaches)" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8202/8191277850_4633ee7c1a.jpg" width="333" /></a><br />
Note: his mustache is real.<br />
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We all had a great time and I'm sure next year we'll do it again. But maybe the creeper will stay home and hand out candy. Who knows...maybe he has another Halloween in him...we can hope.<br />
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Until then, here's hoping your Jack-O-Laterns light up the night so you can find your way home.<br />
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<br />Kellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04040085494657860788noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3489652083363179717.post-8578507454046981872012-10-22T14:41:00.000-04:002012-11-16T14:43:15.801-05:00It's Fall...you know what that means, right?It's time to decorate for Halloween and head to the pumpkin patch for some over priced pumpkins!<br />
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First we've gotta dig the graves...<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/8191265484/" title="Untitled by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img alt="Untitled" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8478/8191265484_329f3f1332.jpg" width="333" /></a><br />
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Then the graveyard inspectors must determine the gravestones are installed properly<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/8190181801/" title="Untitled by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img alt="Untitled" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8206/8190181801_b5d954ef7b.jpg" width="333" /></a><br />
Then the witch gets on her broom and flies away!<br />
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The graveyard is ready to be spooked!<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/8190184051/" title="Untitled by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img alt="Untitled" height="233" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8207/8190184051_b950b77ac3.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
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Now for the inside of the house...<br />
Every spooky house needs some blackbirds perched on a old jar of arsenic.<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/8190181475/" title="Untitled by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img alt="Untitled" height="233" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8058/8190181475_200ed2e7b0.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
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And a mantle dedicated to skulls and general creepiness.<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/8191264274/" title="Untitled by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img alt="Untitled" height="233" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8068/8191264274_98edc272f1.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
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I think the spirits here were musically talented. <br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/8190180603/" title="Untitled by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img alt="Untitled" height="233" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8066/8190180603_b7c5d55327.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
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Once the house had been creepified it was onto the pumpkin patch.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPubXIT5IVIolS9mu1YYRSahgbiBbdpBLPcqj3ay2_eHbJUaQAUk7j6yaxt6FwXdCtjrWcnYpGqiLV2Owsxi3vzCurDsU1srb7E5R3qAQUA6y20HefLeYDln-LSV8-obsyfKm5Hqf4sCA/s1600/Pumpkin+Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPubXIT5IVIolS9mu1YYRSahgbiBbdpBLPcqj3ay2_eHbJUaQAUk7j6yaxt6FwXdCtjrWcnYpGqiLV2Owsxi3vzCurDsU1srb7E5R3qAQUA6y20HefLeYDln-LSV8-obsyfKm5Hqf4sCA/s320/Pumpkin+Collage.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
I'd like to say the experience matches the pics you see here. But basically it was a lot of yelling and complaining. So we may for go the pumpkin patch experience next fall. There oughta be an age limit for that kinda of thing. Instead of charging you for how much the pumpkins weigh they should charge you for how much your kid weighs. Would eliminate a lot of pumpkin patch grief in my family, I tell you.<br />
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So here they are all jack-o-laterned up...lovingly cleaned and carved by moi...once again an overrated childhood experience. Both kids totally grossed out by the cleaning. And even though they chose what we all thought were simple designs, they both shut down and begged me to finish it.<br />
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<br />
But we are ready now to spook and be spooked.<br />
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<br />Kellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04040085494657860788noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3489652083363179717.post-89205534299462363392012-08-21T22:34:00.000-04:002012-08-21T22:34:23.694-04:00A New School YearReally?!<br />
We have a middle schooler and a second grader?<br />
How can that be? Someone please help me understand how quickly time passes yet can seem like an eternity all at the same time. Where is a metaphysicist when you need one?<br />
<br />
So three out of four of us get the Summers off then have to transition all over again to 9 months of getting up to an alarm clock. Oh, how I wish it was four out of four. But hey, we are lucky to have an academic parent in the family who graciously parents our kids during the summer and after school. Since we've lived here they haven't had to have any kind of after school care or summer camps because of two working parents. We are fortunate to have this arrangement.<br />
<br />
Call me jealous.<br />
<br />
So without further adieu...I present those returning to school for the 2012-2013 academic year.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/7834862254/" title="Gavin's first day as a Middle Schooler...notice shirt is not tucked in yet. by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img alt="Gavin's first day as a Middle Schooler...notice shirt is not tucked in yet." height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8282/7834862254_3e23d8684c.jpg" width="333" /></a><br />
Officially in Middle School now...<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/7834860376/" title="Anna's first day in 2nd Grade. by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img alt="Anna's first day in 2nd Grade." height="500" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7128/7834860376_25cf2e942c.jpg" width="333" /></a><br />
Officially in Second Grade now...<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/7834862774/" title="Our 6th grader...sniff,sniff. by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img alt="Our 6th grader...sniff,sniff." height="233" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8432/7834862774_91517beb6e.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
He was 7 when we moved here...oh, dear lord.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/7834861106/" title="Our 2nd Grader by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img alt="Our 2nd Grader" height="233" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7126/7834861106_ee96a3b203.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
Where did our baby go?<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/7834863432/" title="First day of school for everyone EXCEPT Ollie. by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img alt="First day of school for everyone EXCEPT Ollie." height="233" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8443/7834863432_8644f075ab.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
Ollie is sooo ready for them all to go back to school.<br />
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<br />Kellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04040085494657860788noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3489652083363179717.post-74065824139699560872012-06-16T15:17:00.000-04:002012-07-01T15:25:18.934-04:00Breaking News: American Girls Take Over ClintonWarning: some photographs in this post may contain content that is too graphic for those suffering from <a href="http://common-phobias.com/Pedio/phobia.htm" target="_blank">PEDIOPHOBIA</a><span class="st"><a href="http://common-phobias.com/Pedio/phobia.htm" target="_blank"></a>.</span><br />
<br />
<span class="st">You have been warned. </span> <br />
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Saturday, June 16, 2012...just like any Saturday in June it seemed, until seven girls and nine American Girl Dolls descended on the Maple Street house. The ruse was a certain seven year old girl's birthday party. But really they were intent on taking over the world...starting with Clinton, South Carolina.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/7480967246/" title="Untitled by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img alt="Untitled" height="233" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8157/7480967246_89e6d28ebf.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<br />
This photo confirms what some of us have thought all along. The American Girl Company is poised to take over the world.<br />
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But first the ruse.<br />
<br />
It's not every day a girl turns seven. <br />
Anna requested an American Girl Party about 7 days before the actual party day. <br />
Super mom to the rescue.<br />
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There were the decorations:<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/7480956020/" title="Untitled by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img alt="Untitled" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8008/7480956020_357377ed51.jpg" width="333" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/7480957560/" title="Untitled by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img alt="Untitled" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8027/7480957560_4bde47b9a2.jpg" width="333" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/7480959182/" title="Untitled by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img alt="Untitled" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8151/7480959182_f717b9c7fa.jpg" width="333" /></a><br />
<br />
And the goodie bags:<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/7480961170/" title="Untitled by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img alt="Untitled" height="500" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7280/7480961170_7833f9ff56.jpg" width="333" /></a><br />
...complete with a cool rock star vest for each doll made from the material seen in the picture. You can find this no sew tutorial at <a href="http://www.18inchdollclothesz.com/blog/no-sew-vest.html" target="_blank">Free Sewing Patterns for American Girl Dolls</a>.<br />
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And the cake:<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/7480962378/" title="Untitled by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img alt="Untitled" height="233" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8009/7480962378_06c470d091.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
Since when does a "7" look like an upside down "L"? The answer...when an inexperienced cake decorator, aka me, does the cake. I was hoping it would look like this except two tiered with the damask pattern:<br />
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But as you can plainly see I deserve to be featured in <a href="http://www.cakewrecks.com/" target="_blank">Cake Wrecks</a> with what actually came to be. But, hey, it was for a bunch of kids who really thought it was pretty. That counts for something, right?<br />
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Finally the activities:<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/7480965818/" title="Untitled by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img alt="Untitled" height="333" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8016/7480965818_872f35fae2.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
Here are the crafty materials used to make birthday crown for the dolls<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/7480964180/" title="Untitled by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img alt="Untitled" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8006/7480964180_af59644280.jpg" width="333" /></a><br />
And Anna making a template. If you scroll up you can see all the dolls with their finished crowns. Scary, I know. <br />
Notice the fabulous no sew rock star vest on Anna's doll. <br />
La-Dee-Dah.<br />
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We also made matching bracelets for the dolls and girls from patterned duck tape.<br />
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The Menu:<br />
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The guests and birthday girl were served easy things for Super Mom to prepare.<br />
<ul>
<li>Pink Lemonade</li>
<li>Bagel bites mini pizzas</li>
<li>Chips</li>
<li>Fruit Kabobs</li>
<li>Not so fabulous red velvet cake and ice cream.</li>
</ul>
They ate it all up!<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/7480968712/" title="Untitled by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img alt="Untitled" height="233" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8020/7480968712_f36b966ba7.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
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Presents were opened:<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/7480977562/" title="Untitled by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img alt="Untitled" height="233" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8155/7480977562_ebfd9c38a2.jpg" width="400" /></a> <br />
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And the dolls were once again brought under our control...phew, we save Clinton and possibly the world from imminent destruction.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/7480978882/" title="Untitled by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img alt="Untitled" height="233" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8007/7480978882_3c65c4ced7.jpg" width="400" /></a> <br />
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This breaking news has been brought to you by "I'll Tell You Later, Betty", your source for all news that is worth reading about...if you happen to be a fan.<br />
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<br />Kellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04040085494657860788noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3489652083363179717.post-34304997051778087432012-05-29T21:31:00.000-04:002012-05-29T21:31:07.469-04:00Goodbye Mr. Chips...The school year has ended.<br />
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Anna, our sweet girl, is saying goodbye to Mrs. Harmon.<br />
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She is the only teacher Anna has had at Clinton Elementary. We were fortunate that she decided to loop from kindergarten to first grade. Sadly, others won't get the chance to be lovingly taught by her for she is retiring this year. Now that doesn't mean she won't be teaching others. I suspect that will continue. Just not as an elementary teacher, sadly enough.<br />
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A few weeks ago, Miss Crafty, otherwise known as Anna, was writing a card to Mrs. Harmon. When she showed us the completed note she had written our hearts melted reading it. So right then and there we decided this would be Mrs. Harmon's Teacher/Retirement gift. We set about finding some nice scrapbook paper and a suitable frame to commemorate what, I'm sure, many first graders have felt about Mrs. Harmon over the years. Anna just happened to capture it beautifully. <br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/7298133778/" title="Untitled by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img alt="Untitled" height="500" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7243/7298133778_a5cf8b0b19.jpg" width="333" /></a><br />
Translation: <i>Dear Miss Harmon,
I wish we could stay and learn more with you. It was fun being your student. You're my favorite teacher to me. You are a best teacher a girl could have.</i><br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/7298134484/" title="Untitled by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img alt="Untitled" height="500" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7222/7298134484_3e9aca1f58.jpg" width="333" /></a> <br />
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sniff...sniff...<br />
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And to make matters more heart wrenching, our first born is no longer an elementary student. We couldn't be more proud of Gavin this past school year. He stepped up his academic game and discovered that studying really pays off. He had some great teachers this year to help him as well. But he was especially fond of Mrs. Underwood, his science and math teacher. She too is retiring this year. When Gavin saw what Anna had done for Mrs. Harmon, he asked us if he could do something like that for Mrs. Underwood. Gavin is our perfectionist. I knew that this would be a challenge for him because he struggles his humanness. Simple mistakes can upset his entire world (and thus ours too) and the aftermath can be exhausting both for him and us. After three attempts at a thank you note, he was finally satisfied with what he had written. Blood, sweat and tears went into this, dear readers.<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/7298132890/" title="Untitled by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img alt="Untitled" height="500" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7077/7298132890_96f238b225.jpg" width="333" /></a><br />
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So our not so little boy is moving onto middle school.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/7298132112/" title="Untitled by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img alt="Untitled" height="500" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7224/7298132112_88e0da6c0f.jpg" width="333" /></a> <br />
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When we moved to Clinton almost four years ago now, we were trepidatious about the education our kids would recieve in a small rural county in South Carolina. And although we still struggle with living a world away from family and dear friends, we have come to learn that education comes in many forms and not just from one source. Both our children have had elementary teachers that gave their all and were genuinely committed to our kids' welfare. Along with our committment to our children's education, you couldn't ask for a better team.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/7298102724/" title="Untitled by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img alt="Untitled" height="233" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7096/7298102724_5e9edc9912.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
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Kellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04040085494657860788noreply@blogger.com0Clinton, SC 29325, USA34.4726276 -81.880656234.420266600000005 -81.9596202 34.5249886 -81.8016922tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3489652083363179717.post-91520523382312954742012-03-01T22:03:00.004-05:002012-03-01T22:58:15.997-05:00Epic Bathroom RenovationIt is done.<br />The bathroom renovation that started in November of 2010 is done.<br />Collective heavy sigh.<br />Now, it is not the bathroom I had dreamed of.<br />It is not the bathroom I had hoped for.<br />Nor is it the bathroom I had planned on.<br />But...<br />it is the bathroom that is completed and much better than I had imagined it could be.<br /><br />After firing the first contractor in July of 2011, we took a hiatus to recover from the "trauma" of a botched job. We didn't attempt to hire another contractor to finish it until December 2011. He (and I am quoting him) turned chicken shit into chicken salad. God bless him.<br /><br />You might remember that we started <a href="http://laterbetty.blogspot.com/2010/11/let-demolition-begin.html">demolition of this bathroom in the fall of 2010</a>. We were sure then if the contractor was up to the job and so we asked him to hold off while we made some design decisions. He returned to begin the work in May of 2011. Have I told you we don't do change well?<br /><br />So he came and he brought his undisciplined ADHD mind with him. Thank god for our plumber/electrician who was able to ask the right questions to us to help us process what the heck our contractor was doing AND not doing. The final straw came when I came home from work to find he had laid the shower tile in the wrong pattern. Who doesn't know what a subway tile pattern is in the age of subway tile?<br /><br />It was a xanax kind of moment, my friends. If only I had had one. But I called him and told him he was done and to pick up his tools the next day. I hated doing it but had to do it. Nicest guy you'd ever meet. Just don't have him do detail work if you hire him. Having paid him a good chunk of money we wondered if this was going to be the world's most expensive cheap looking bathroom ever. So for several months we had a bathroom with no working anything while we decided what to do next.<br /><br />In comes the plumber/electrician who asked all the right questions. Now he's someone I can trust. And he measures twice (maybe even three or four times) and cuts once. He kindly came in and cleaned up someone else's mess.<br /><br />So without further ado, I give you befores and afters...<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/6799250060/" title="Before & After Bathroom by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7184/6799250060_8855a3af92.jpg" alt="Before & After Bathroom" height="252" width="400" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/6945007951/" title="Before & After Bathroom 2 by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7202/6945007951_a1e7dfffa8.jpg" alt="Before & After Bathroom 2" height="252" width="400" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/6798886588/" title="Before & After Bathroom 3 by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7059/6798886588_d1a240e56c.jpg" alt="Before & After Bathroom 3" height="252" width="400" /></a><br /><br />Oh and this scary thing...<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/4887066660/" title="master bath 2a - before by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.staticflickr.com/4120/4887066660_4fbf431a8b.jpg" alt="master bath 2a - before" height="500" width="333" /></a><br /><br />has been replaced by this...<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/6939769255/" title="Untitled by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7058/6939769255_228ebcd076.jpg" alt="" height="500" width="375" /></a><br /><br />Some details I like...<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/6939765607/" title="Untitled by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7053/6939765607_21598e4276.jpg" width="400" height="275" alt=""></a><br />Shampoo cubby in the shower<br /><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/6939766353/" title="Untitled by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7178/6939766353_a4b791e6b0.jpg" width="375" height="500" alt=""></a><br />I love the style of this vanity. Where did I get such a gorgeous thing? <a href="http://www.costco.com/Browse/Product.aspx?Prodid=11181991&whse=BC&Ne=5000000+4000000&eCat=BC|114|1240&N=4000382%205000107&Mo=19&No=19&Nr=P_CatalogName:BC&Ns=P_Price|1||P_SignDesc1&lang=en-US&Sp=C&topnav=">Costco</a><br /><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/6793654048/" title="Untitled by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7207/6793654048_86dce14e91.jpg" width="400" height="233" alt=""></a><br />Added glass knobs to the vanity. Did you know <a href="http://www.hobbylobby.com/">Hobby Lobby</a> has a ton of unique handles and knobs?<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/6939768069/" title="Untitled by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7194/6939768069_184cfdaed2.jpg" width="400" height="233" alt=""></a><br />Enamored with my spa hotel light fixture<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/6793656412/" title="Untitled by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7049/6793656412_140532bc0b.jpg" width="375" height="500" alt=""></a><br />And the last detail I want to share with you is the shower curtain. I can't tell you how disappointed I was when I came home with the perfect shower curtain only to find it was about 14 inches too short. We needed an 84 inch long curtain. They are generally sold in length of 72 inches. Grrrrrr.<br /><br />All the extra long shower curtains were tacky, plastic and expensive. So the simplest solution was to add length to a regular shower curtain. I had considered buying regular drapes to use as a shower curtain but I would have had to learn how to do button holes or punch grommets. I wasn't up for that learning curve. But, as luck would have it, I found a table runner at Target on clearance and it was the perfect dimensions for what I needed. Thank you Target for once again coming to my rescue. I sewed that baby on there and, voila, an extra long, one of a kind shower curtain.<br /><br />And....scene.Kellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04040085494657860788noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3489652083363179717.post-1510525825803550782012-01-15T10:00:00.001-05:002012-01-15T16:19:21.835-05:00Auld Lang Syne 2011I've been a bad blogger in 2011.<br />Very Spotty.<br />If I may be frank, dear readers (those of you who have stuck around), I do not multi-task very well. I'd like to think that I do. Heavy sigh. But I don't. What I do well is hyper-focus. Let's give a shout out to Attention Deficit Disorder! <br /><br />So here I am trying to give you a Reader's Digest version of the past year or so. And with my homage to RD it will also be sanitized to avoid dwelling on those parts of 2011 where I or others were not performing at our best. Ugly bits will be left out on purpose. Whining is not an attractive quality. So fasten your seat belts. <br /><br />Here we go...<br /><br />In <span style="font-weight:bold;">August</span> Gavin entered 5th grade and Anna became a first grader. They both are having a stellar academic year.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/6656719051/" title="IMG_3227 by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7008/6656719051_72db5cd0d5.jpg" width="333" height="500" alt="IMG_3227"></a><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Gavin-10 years old<br />First Day of 5th Grade</span><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/6656715421/" title="IMG_3226 by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7027/6656715421_125aff42ac.jpg" width="333" height="500" alt="IMG_3226"></a><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Anna Mae-6 years old<br />First Day of 1st Grade</span><br /><br />In <span style="font-weight:bold;">September</span> our artist in residence created a treasured birthday card. She truly gives my heart wings.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/6656756995/" title="IMG_3290 by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7033/6656756995_654e5e861d.jpg" width="400" height="268" alt="IMG_3290"></a><br /><br />In <span style="font-weight:bold;">October</span> the holiday season commenced with our annual Halloween Party. It kinda surprised me...<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/6657142359/" title="Photo on 2011-10-24 at 07.16 #2 by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7149/6657142359_eceb7cb58e.jpg" width="400" height="233" alt="Photo on 2011-10-24 at 07.16 #2"></a><br /><br />But we managed to throw a good "pre-kicker" to Trick or Treating.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/6657178817/" title="IMG_3415 by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7001/6657178817_a44e6e7537.jpg" width="400" height="275" alt="IMG_3415"></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/6657181885/" title="IMG_3421 by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7159/6657181885_63acea0691.jpg" width="375" height="500" alt="IMG_3421"></a><br />Because if you have enough vampire teeth, any party can be a success. Just ask these adorable party goers...<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/6657188779/" title="IMG_3422 by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7022/6657188779_f768379751.jpg" width="400" height="275" alt="IMG_3422"></a><br />Love, love, love, the owl in perched on her hat.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/6657170683/" title="DSCN0448 by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7019/6657170683_06070df06e.jpg" width="400" height="233" alt="DSCN0448"></a><br />Gavin and his crew made quite the statement<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/6662940803/" title="316069_2566738052747_1383054914_4165228_2051444913_n by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7163/6662940803_6cc0cf868f.jpg" width="400" height="233" alt="316069_2566738052747_1383054914_4165228_2051444913_n"></a><br />Anna and her bff, Rachel.<br /><br />For one Halloween party, Anna went dressed as a Mexican Sugar Skull. Did I mention I love Halloween?<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/6663160911/" title="My creation by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7024/6663160911_9678bc3be8.jpg" width="400" height="253" alt="My creation"></a><br /><br />In <span style="font-weight:bold;">November</span> we adopted a geriatric dachshund. He's somewhere between the age of 6 and 10 according to the vet. The kids are in love. He's growing on the adults. Anna and Gavin named him Mr. Ollie Wienerkins but to friends and family he's just Ollie.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/6663206951/" title="IMG_3464 by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7018/6663206951_5b6e259055.jpg" width="400" height="275" alt="IMG_3464"></a><br /><br />We traveled to Indiana to be with family on Thanksgiving. This is what traveling in the car for nine hours will do to you. <br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/6670472259/" title="IMG_3494 by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7154/6670472259_00dfaa52d3.jpg" width="400" height="233" alt="IMG_3494"></a><br /> <br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/6670182179/" title="IMG_3567 by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7024/6670182179_ab91aee421.jpg" width="400" height="233" alt="IMG_3567"></a><br />Thanksgiving day we were with the Kileys. And this pretty much sums up what we did all Thanksgiving Holiday. If only someone were to feed me...and I looked so cute doing it. But currently, sweet Miren has the corner on cuteness.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/6670185439/" title="IMG_3575 by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7022/6670185439_36be9fc66b.jpg" width="400" height="275" alt="IMG_3575"></a><br />The Kiley clan's Thanksgiving Feast<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/6670194801/" title="IMG_3594 by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7025/6670194801_b59dc93d3c.jpg" width="400" height="233" alt="IMG_3594"></a><br />Aunt Shannon gave early Christmas gifts to the girls. But the best gift from her was the day before...<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/6670176623/" title="IMG_3562 by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7172/6670176623_8f283446cb.jpg" width="400" height="233" alt="IMG_3562"></a><br />I tell you, there was no happier girl in the state of Indiana that day.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/6670188435/" title="IMG_3586 by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7151/6670188435_656dcd3816.jpg" width="333" height="500" alt="IMG_3586"></a><br />The cousins stood still just long enough for me to prove they were all together<br /><br />Mostly this is what they looked like...<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/6670192111/" title="IMG_3588 by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7154/6670192111_3230674090.jpg" width="400" height="275" alt="IMG_3588"></a><br /><br />Then it was on to the Gallagher's for Feast #2.<br /><br />Shenanigans ensued...<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/6670204175/" title="IMG_3608 by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7175/6670204175_d5d7eb419d.jpg" width="400" height="275" alt="IMG_3608"></a><br /><br />And bites of dessert were sneaked...<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/6670212591/" title="IMG_3626 by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7153/6670212591_dae6e80a77.jpg" width="400" height="233" alt="IMG_3626"></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/6670199949/" title="IMG_3601 by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7147/6670199949_3ee5e72313.jpg" width="400" height="233" alt="IMG_3601"></a><br />Great Aunt Libby told the best "knock knock" jokes.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/6670198025/" title="IMG_3600 by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7173/6670198025_99f282ae96.jpg" width="333" height="500" alt="IMG_3600"></a><br />And handsome Phillip and his momma, Aunt Cindy (along with all the other kids) laughed at 'em all.<br /><br />It was a beautiful autumn full of family, laughter, and life.<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/6657197797/" title="IMG_3455 by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7151/6657197797_83941c23a4.jpg" width="400" height="275" alt="IMG_3455"></a><br /><br />Then Christmas sneaked up on us...<br /><br />There was a Clinton Elementary PTO Winter Wonderland Dance. Pulled off fabulously by fantastic volunteers! Think "controlled chaos". Then the next weekend I had the pleasure of flying to the Windy City to celebrate Christmas with dear old friends from college. Much drinking and inappropriate behavior occurred...and laughter, lots and lots of laughter. So good for the soul, old friends laughing together about the same things they have laughed about for 24 years.<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/6703368845/" title="IMG_3794 by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7012/6703368845_a4d8570e8f.jpg" width="400" height="233" alt="IMG_3794"></a><br />Because nothing says Christmas like anti-diarrheal medicine.<br /><br />Then came the annual Clinton Christmas Parade...<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/6670602343/" title="IMG_3718 by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7175/6670602343_5b70869746.jpg" width="400" height="275" alt="IMG_3718"></a><br />I'm not sure what they were going for here. Marie Antoinette would be horrified.<br /><br />And we made what I think will be Gavin's final visit to Santa.<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/6670625255/" title="Scan by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7157/6670625255_0ba0ae2595.jpg" width="333" height="500" alt="Scan"></a><br />If he's a good big brother it won't be Anna's last.<br /><br />Christmas arrived.<br /><br />Santa didn't disappoint.<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/6670714609/" title="A 21st Century Christmas Morning by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7021/6670714609_b059ae98fe.jpg" width="400" height="233" alt="A 21st Century Christmas Morning"></a><br />And we had ourselves a 21st Century Christmas Morning. No eyes were shot out this year. Well, there's always next year.<br /><br />Then the kids and I packed up and headed to Indiana.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/6670737743/" title="IMG_3966 by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7173/6670737743_8637186aaf.jpg" width="400" height="275" alt="IMG_3966"></a><br />We were given a white Christmas. Sweet gift, Mother Nature. Thank you, dear.<br /><br />And here we are, 15 days into the new year.<br />Once again playing catch up with myself. But I wish you all great and wonderful things for 2012. <br />May you find joy in small things and laugh often.Kellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04040085494657860788noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3489652083363179717.post-67961254501621854072011-07-07T20:37:00.003-04:002012-11-16T12:16:25.547-05:00For a Brief Moment<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/5913538865/" title="Untitled by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img alt="" height="500" src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6005/5913538865_c5b4c585cf.jpg" width="357" /></a><br />
<br />
For a brief moment I am centered.<br />
I am calm.<br />
I breathe in...<br />
...and I breathe out.<br />
This old soul greets me in the morning and welcomes me back home in the evening.<br />
And for a brief moment I am centered.<br />
I am calm.Kellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04040085494657860788noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3489652083363179717.post-49568848640596265322011-07-01T18:33:00.001-04:002011-10-17T11:57:10.599-04:00The Happiest Place on Earth: Day Two<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/5816590625/" title="Two kids on a Disney high by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5105/5816590625_2282ec443f.jpg" alt="Two kids on a Disney high" height="500" width="375" /></a><br /><br />It was a perfect day in the Magic Kingdom.<br />And they are right.<br />It is the happiest place on earth. It is intoxicatingly happy.<br />The high lasted several days.<br />But I am not a Disney Addict. It is a very pricey drug.<br /><br />We arrived for the opening show. When the gates opened we followed Alice. You know, Alice, as in "Alice in Wonderland". I felt like Alice myself as we headed for the Teacups. The boys veered off to go to a race car ride which later they deemed as "lame". But the Teacups did not disappoint our need for childhood glee.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/5817150668/" title="Anna loved the Tea Cups! by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2026/5817150668_3dcc19bece.jpg" alt="Anna loved the Tea Cups!" height="233" width="400" /></a><br />Does that face not scream "childhood glee"?<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/5817150434/" title="Untitled by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5157/5817150434_8b40f001a4.jpg" alt="" height="500" width="375" /></a><br />There's nothing like spinning your little heart out.<br /><br />Then we were off to "Small World". The kitsch factor did not disappoint. And the kids loved it. We traveled around the world in about seven minutes.<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/5817151546/" title="Untitled by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5197/5817151546_11b7831cd6.jpg" alt="" height="233" width="400" /></a><br />"Welcome to the Happiest Cruise that ever sailed"<br /><br />Everybody sing along...<br /><object type="application/x-shockwave-flash" data="http://www.flickr.com/apps/video/stewart.swf?v=71377" classid="clsid:D27CDB6E-AE6D-11cf-96B8-444553540000" height="300" width="400"> <param name="flashvars" value="intl_lang=en-us&photo_secret=4e470242b4&photo_id=5816588385"> <param name="movie" value="http://www.flickr.com/apps/video/stewart.swf?v=71377"> <param name="bgcolor" value="#000000"> <param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><embed type="application/x-shockwave-flash" src="http://www.flickr.com/apps/video/stewart.swf?v=71377" bgcolor="#000000" allowfullscreen="true" flashvars="intl_lang=en-us&photo_secret=4e470242b4&photo_id=5816588385" height="300" width="400"></embed></object><br /><br />Gavin rode his first roller coasters. The first was the <a href="http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/parks/magic-kingdom/attractions/big-thunder-mountain-railroad/">Big Thunder Mountain Railroad</a>. This whet his appetite and he was ready for <a href="http://disneyland.disney.go.com/disneyland/space-mountain/">Space Mountain</a>. But his Dad was not as the Fast Pass for it was not at a time when he would be in the park. And I really really really don't like roller coasters. But I sucked it up and waited in line with Gavin to <STRIKE>plunge to my death </STRIKE> ride Space Mountain. Did I mention that I don't like roller coasters? The wait was shorter than it indicated which gave me less time to get totally crazy anxious. And in less than ten minutes we were getting off the ride. I survived and Gavin got to say he rode Space Mountain.<br /><br />While in Tomorrow Land we rode<a href="http://disneyland.disney.go.com/disneyland/buzz-lightyear-astro-blasters/"> Buzz Lightyear Astro Blasters</a>. This was a really fun ride that brought out some healthy competition among the family because you laser shoot at targets through out the ride. At the end of the ride your score appears. Gavin beat the socks off us all.<br /><br />One of the unique features that you may run into in Tomorrow Land is the talking trash can. Anna carried on quite the conversation with this little guy never realizing there was a man in the crowd operating it and talking into a a little mic that changed his voice.<br /><br /><iframe width="420" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/csyRLuf7PuE" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe><br /><br />In Adventureland we climbed aboard the <a href="http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/parks/magic-kingdom/attractions/pirates-of-the-caribbean/">Pirates of the Caribbean</a>. We were amazed to see people of all ages, clear up to way old timers, enjoying the magic of Disney World. When we got off the ride look who we ran into.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/5817166464/" title="Cap'n Jack Sparrow is one handsome pirate by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2308/5817166464_ca8db3ba45.jpg" width="333" height="500" alt="Cap'n Jack Sparrow is one handsome pirate"></a><br />He is easy on the eyes. I'd swab his deck any day.<br /><br />We left the park around four to rest and get some dinner. <br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/5817174254/" title="The Fambly at MK by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2100/5817174254_ae23332452.jpg" width="333" height="500" alt="The Fambly at MK"></a><br /><br />The professor and Anna decided they were not going to return for the Main Street Electrical Parade and fireworks. No amount of convincing could change their minds. They stayed poolside at the hotel and watched a movie outside. Gavin and I, however, were jonesing for a little more of that Magic Kingdom drug. I so wished they had come.<br /><br />We returned to find Magic Kindgdom packed to the gills. They tape off where you can stand during the parade. We got back too late to grab a prime spot. So we really had to squeeze in somewhere, claim it and wait for the parade to start.<br /><br />But just watching the castle change colors was magical. It was beautiful.<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/5817174662/" title="Untitled by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2802/5817174662_008a17030d.jpg" width="400" height="233" alt=""></a><br /><br />When the parade began my jaw dropped and I didn't pick it up until the last float paraded by. Between the parade, the show between the parade and the fireworks, and the fireworks I realized our admissions to the park were worth every penny.<br /><br />Here's a taste of the <a href="http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/parks/magic-kingdom/entertainment/main-street-electrical-parade/">Main Street Electrical Parade</a><br /><object type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="400" height="300" data="http://www.flickr.com/apps/video/stewart.swf?v=71377" classid="clsid:D27CDB6E-AE6D-11cf-96B8-444553540000"> <param name="flashvars" value="intl_lang=en-us&photo_secret=a0fd0b4f1a&photo_id=5816617377"></param> <param name="movie" value="http://www.flickr.com/apps/video/stewart.swf?v=71377"></param> <param name="bgcolor" value="#000000"></param> <param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><embed type="application/x-shockwave-flash" src="http://www.flickr.com/apps/video/stewart.swf?v=71377" bgcolor="#000000" allowfullscreen="true" flashvars="intl_lang=en-us&photo_secret=a0fd0b4f1a&photo_id=5816617377" height="300" width="400"></embed></object><br /><br />After the parade there was a show in front of the castle that was technologically amazing. It's called "The Magic, the Memories, and You". As many as 500 images shot that day project onto the castle each night the show is presented, producers estimate. Disney PhotoPass photographers capture guests creating new memories as they “smile for the castle.” So it could be that night we were part of the castle show. I'm embarassed to say that it brings a tear to my eyes even to watch it now. <br /><iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/bh1-4UTeXUY" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe><br /><br />The fireworks had me at Tinker Bell...the REAL LIVE Tinker Bell flying down from the castle to get the fabulous fireworks show started. We had a fabulous time at Disney World. I know we'll go back again someday to get another infusion of that happiness drug that they do so well.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/5816645009/" title="The end to a magical vacation by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3630/5816645009_b3212e68b0.jpg" width="333" height="500" alt="The end to a magical vacation"></a>Kellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04040085494657860788noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3489652083363179717.post-20968194963971396442011-06-30T16:00:00.000-04:002011-08-19T23:11:27.125-04:00The Happiest Place on Earth: Day One<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/5817211780/" title="A perfect day at MK by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3184/5817211780_e151d5cd72.jpg" alt="A perfect day at MK" height="500" width="333" /></a>
<br />
<br />Two weeks before school was out the Professor throws out the idea of a surprise trip to Disney World. Knowing that this would most likely be the only time we would go, I was torn. Do I turn him down and hold out for a longer more planned trip or do I jump on the offer knowing that the Professor's Disney World Willingness Window could slam shut at any moment, never to open again? Well, I decided to embrace spontaneity. And thanks to to my friends who are DW <strike>fanatics</strike> experts, I was given great advice that made our trip wonderful. For not only was it spontaneous, it was also short. We only spent two full days in Disney Parks. What parks would we chose? Which days would we go to which parks? How would we get to every thing we wanted to see? Could I satisfy my Disney itch with this 2 day scratch? Could I keep this a surprise from the kids for a whole two weeks? Yes, I had two weeks to plan the ultimate two day Disney World vacation on a budget. The pressure was on.
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<br />After much gnashing of financial teeth, we decided to stay off Disney Property. Yes, it had been my dream to stay on property to so we would have an a full Disney experience. But the reality was the only option that was really affordable were the value resorts. Their rooms boast two double beds. That would have contributed to our DW nightmares. Settling the kids down and then keeping them up with Mama's snoring was not what we wanted to happen. But I found a great affordable off property hotel. <a href="http://www.tripadvisor.com/Hotel_Review-g34515-d112082-Reviews-Holiday_Inn_Resort_Lake_Buena_Vista-Orlando_Florida.html">The Holiday Inn Resort Lake Buena Vista</a>. What sold me on it was that they offered kid suites for a remarkably reasonable price. The parents had their own king size bed and in a separate little nook the kids had a bunk bed.
<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK8jowo3G7SSu95sY-uSDA0K56aD2bdmcwKAyNlfrGmQOOoInP8bQqUGKhViKH0OJVGqEEbMP-to-0481GNuhdXfqEuKPAG_CdrqU720mXJ4G5rG3joWHm0jLTh5_AnBldjJvy23Yrqpw/s1600/kidsuite.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK8jowo3G7SSu95sY-uSDA0K56aD2bdmcwKAyNlfrGmQOOoInP8bQqUGKhViKH0OJVGqEEbMP-to-0481GNuhdXfqEuKPAG_CdrqU720mXJ4G5rG3joWHm0jLTh5_AnBldjJvy23Yrqpw/s320/kidsuite.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5642676672146658898" border="0" /></a> I'd like to say no arguing occurred over where to sleep but I'd be lying. But we all had good nights sleep for a reasonable price. Plus, the hotel had a very nice pool and the kids ate free at the fine dining establishment, Applebee's. It was a ten minute drive to the parks so we took an afternoon swim break both days. I was worried we'd miss out on something but it really renewed our energy for the rest of the visits to the parks. The kids didn't even complain about leaving the parks.
<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/5816645463/" title="Pool breaks in the afternoon were a must by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5221/5816645463_9f38e81be5.jpg" alt="Pool breaks in the afternoon were a must" height="233" width="400" /></a>
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<br />So we started our adventure by taking the kids out of school one day before school ended for Summer break. I had made Disney World Journals with free pages from <a href="http://www.themouseforless.com/downloads/kids/journal.shtml">The Mouse for Less website</a> and planned to give them to them when we told them. We secretly packed the car and got them up early and told them we were going on a trip. Lots of questions ensued. Expecting this, we had hints prepared until we crossed the Florida state line. Then at the welcome rest stop we stopped to rest and reveal the surprise. I had glorious visions of the kids being gleefully surprised and bluebirds landing on everyone's shoulders to carry us to Disney the rest of the way. Reality had other plans.
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<br />It was about an eight hour drive. And the excitement about going to Disney fueled us the rest of the way. When we checked into the hotel we were pleasantly surprised about the accommodations and the amenities. However, we decided to get a taste of Disney World for free and headed over to <a href="http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/destinations/downtown-disney/">Downtown Disney</a>. It was a great way to ramp up the excitement for all things Disney. Since it is mostly like an outdoor mall it was all I could do not to shop like crazy. But I knew we'd have lots of opportunities to buy lots of <strike>crap</strike> souvenirs over the next two days.
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<br />We loved the Lego store. Yes, that is all made from Legos. And I'm telling you, this one was one of the simple displays. Fantastic!
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<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/5816569837/" title="Untitled by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3495/5816569837_f30e098a61.jpg" alt="" height="233" width="400" /></a>
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<br />I had bought both the kids lanyards before we left hoping they would jump on the pin collecting boat. The Disney Pins are an inexpensive way to have souvenirs of your visit with feeling like you are breaking the bank. When the kids went into the pin shop they were on board!
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<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/5817135828/" title="Untitled by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3604/5817135828_ebafde5e38.jpg" alt="" height="275" width="400" /></a>
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<br />Speaking of being on board, we hopped aboard one of the ferries that go to the resorts to check out what we were missing. We decided to hop off at the <a href="http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/resorts/port-orleans-resort-french-quarter/">Port Orleans Resort</a>. How is it that Disney can go over the top and yet it doesn't feel like it's over the top?
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<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/5816569161/" title="Untitled by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3465/5816569161_daf2476188.jpg" alt="" height="500" width="375" /></a>
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<br />We headed back to the hotel, had a swim and set the alarm clock. We wanted to get to Epcot before it opened. Having used <a href="http://ridemax.com/">Ridemax</a> to plan our time in both parks we were set to go. Ridemax was recommended to us by a very highly organized friend and it was worth every penny. Ridemax is a computer software program designed to help you create custom wait-time-reducing itinerary for Walt Disney World. But first we had to pick up the tickets which I had purchased on line. Even that had surprises. Disney buttons for everyone! Anna's birthday was in two weeks so she had a button with her name announcing it was her birthday. Every <strike>employees</strike> cast member (every one plays a role in the magic at DW) that came into contact with her wished her a "Happy Birthday, Princess Anna". She was in six year old girl heaven. Gavin got a "It's my first trip to Disney" pin to wear. Both kids were welcomed by so many cast members. We loved it. So once we had the tickets we were off to <a href="http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/parks/epcot/attractions/test-track/">Test Track</a>. Ridemax instructed us exactly when and where to wait to get onto this ride. While waiting we had our first sighting...Minnie!
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<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/5816570069/" title="Untitled by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2556/5816570069_d8e63b8f2b.jpg" alt="" height="233" width="400" /></a>
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<br />Anna got a hug and she was hooked. She wanted more. "When can I see her again, Mama?"
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<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/5816570287/" title="Waiting for Epcot to open...Anna got a hug from Minnie. by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5061/5816570287_cb8d4e9c98.jpg" alt="Waiting for Epcot to open...Anna got a hug from Minnie." height="233" width="400" /></a>
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<br />The cast members started us off in a count down to opening the park. It was quite exciting! And sooner than you could say, "Gentleman, start your engines", we were in our car at Test Track. Which we all loved. Upon leaving the ride we grabbed <a href="http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/guest-services/fast-pass/">"fast passes"</a> just in case we had time to do it again. In fact, Ridemax worked so well we did everything we wanted to do and more!
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<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/5816570517/" title="Test Track here we come! by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2145/5816570517_d538e52649.jpg" alt="Test Track here we come!" height="275" width="400" /></a>
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<br />Flickr is storing many photos of us trying to do all kinds of things to the Epcot Ball. Here's my personal favorite. Imagine me saying in my evil villain voice, "I vill crush you!"
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<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/5817144900/" title="I will crush Epcot...crush it. by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5147/5817144900_169f673953.jpg" alt="I will crush Epcot...crush it." height="275" width="400" /></a>
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<br />The kids wanted to meet characters so we started the stroll of the countries where we could take in sights and the kids might have sightings of real cast members. You see we gave them each a generic baseball cap for the characters to sign when they met them. This got Gavin's competition juices stirring. He was bound and determined to fill that hat up with signatures even if it meant meeting princesses. Epcot has a venue where you can meet lots of characters at once...in air conditioning. We thought that was ideal...until we saw the wait.
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<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/5817139742/" title="Character Spot...wait seemed too long...ended up doing it later in the day by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5194/5817139742_d40a5a6ccc.jpg" alt="Character Spot...wait seemed too long...ended up doing it later in the day" height="233" width="400" /></a>
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<br />Back to strolling the countries. But we also took a break to swim and when we came back after dinner the line for the character spot was manageable. Now we have a whole lot of memories, signatures and fun to remember.
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<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/6061028240/" title="Disney Characters by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6082/6061028240_3023af91c2.jpg" alt="Disney Characters" height="400" width="400" /></a>
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<br />We had a great time at <a href="http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/parks/epcot/">Epcot</a>. It was a good first day choice.
<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/5816581383/" title="Family at Epcot by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5191/5816581383_60f4047d61.jpg" alt="Family at Epcot" height="275" width="400" /></a>
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<br />After finding a good spot to watch the fireworks we sat on a bench, had some wicked expensive ice cream and people watched. It was a beautiful evening.
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<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/5817150166/" title="Epcot at night...before the fireworks. by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3153/5817150166_4f2f2574d6.jpg" alt="Epcot at night...before the fireworks." height="233" width="400" /></a>
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<br />After the fireworks we headed back to the hotel to crash. Anna was so darn tired she announced she didn't want to go to the Magic Kingdom the next day. The Professor reminded her that the Haunted Mansion was there and we had to see that. She perked up and said "Fine but I won't stay for the fireworks!" We didn't argue with her at that point. Little did we know she would stick to her guns.
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<br />Kellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04040085494657860788noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3489652083363179717.post-84975445249207055292011-06-26T19:05:00.005-04:002011-06-26T20:34:35.301-04:00Where Did Spring Go?We have been busy here on Maple Street.<br />Shall I catch you up?<br />How about a snap shot of the last few months?<br /><br />First off on this snap shot journey is Gavin's first science fair. He received a 2nd Place Ribbon for his project: "Whose Mouth is cleaner: A Dog's or a Human's? Rest easy humans...we win. <br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/5874375953/" title="Gavin's 1st Science Fair by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5149/5874375953_cfdfffcfb9.jpg" width="375" height="500" alt="Gavin's 1st Science Fair"></a><br /><br />Then on March 15th Anna had a fight with the storm door and the storm door won. Twelve stitches and a very embarrassed little girl resulted. We've taken to saying she was riding her unicorn through a glitter storm and that's how she got those wicked cool scars.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/5874952032/" title="Storm Door Stitches by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5158/5874952032_f21eb188bd.jpg" width="400" height="275" alt="Storm Door Stitches"></a> <br /><br />The local Army Reserve Unit does a Fall and Spring Fun Run. Gavin has run them every year since being here. Anna started last Fall and questioned, "Why do they call this a fun run if it isn't any fun?" Well, she decided to run this Spring too and came in first in her class...being the only one in her class. <br /><br />Gavin came in second this time. But the real story is that he gave his second place medal to a classmate of his who ran but came in last. He thought he deserved something too. This classmate gets teased by some of the kids at school for being overweight but he was out there running; giving it his best. At school on Monday morning, Gavin brought in his medal and gave it to his friend at recess.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/5874412655/" title="IMG_2388 by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3232/5874412655_2c4d87fa0a.jpg" width="400" height="275" alt="IMG_2388"></a><br /><br />Gavin played on a Spring soccer league in Greenville this past spring. It was a step up from YMCA soccer. It is a joy seeing him do something he loves. I wish I could have gotten better pictures but then Mama would need a better camera. Hmmm...I see a valid argument for an upgrade here.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/5874440631/" title="CESA Spring Soccer 2011 by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5039/5874440631_456e11d42c.jpg" width="357" height="500" alt="CESA Spring Soccer 2011"></a><br /><br />I had the delight of being the PTO president for Clinton Elementary this year. During teacher appreciation week, in early May, we did many things for our teachers. One event that was a lot of fun was our "Chalk It Up to Our Teachers". We chalked up the sidewalks around the school with messages of thanks for all they do.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/5875028640/" title="Chalk it up to Our Teachers... by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3183/5875028640_47118565f6.jpg" width="400" height="233" alt="Chalk it up to Our Teachers..."></a><br /><br />Anna had her Spring recital. Her violin lessons continued and so did her improvement. We hoped to get her in a Suzuki Camp this Summer but it didn't turn out to be possible. We continue to love Miss Nancy.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/5874485299/" title="Untitled by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5183/5874485299_deba858f01.jpg" width="375" height="500" alt=""></a><br /><br />And, of course, every Spring another group of seniors graduate. It's always fun to attend the end of the graduation ceremony at Presbyterian College. It's not every day you get to hear the bagpipes play.<br /><br /><object type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="400" height="300" data="http://www.flickr.com/apps/video/stewart.swf?v=71377" classid="clsid:D27CDB6E-AE6D-11cf-96B8-444553540000"> <param name="flashvars" value="intl_lang=en-us&photo_secret=e2d7de3b5e&photo_id=5874569459"></param> <param name="movie" value="http://www.flickr.com/apps/video/stewart.swf?v=71377"></param> <param name="bgcolor" value="#000000"></param> <param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><embed type="application/x-shockwave-flash" src="http://www.flickr.com/apps/video/stewart.swf?v=71377" bgcolor="#000000" allowfullscreen="true" flashvars="intl_lang=en-us&photo_secret=e2d7de3b5e&photo_id=5874569459" height="300" width="400"></embed></object><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/5875043002/" title="IMG_2569 - Version 2 by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5077/5875043002_658fe358d9.jpg" width="396" height="400" alt="IMG_2569 - Version 2"></a><br /><br />And finally, on Mother's Day I flew to Birmingham, Alabama to be a part of a team of co-workers who were deployed to support USPS employees impacted by the tornadoes that tore through that state the at end of April. While we were there for one week we worked with over 1,000 postal workers all over the state. One picture ( this one taken in Tuscaloosa) does not even begin to describe the destruction and devastation these people experienced AND are still experiencing to this day. Assistance and help are still needed.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/5875065334/" title="Untitled by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3169/5875065334_cae452eaae.jpg" width="400" height="275" alt=""></a><br /><br />We seemed to move toward Summer vacation at full speed after a very busy Spring. Summer unofficially begins in South Carolina in May. Flip flops and sunscreen are required. And we welcomed it with a surprise trip to the "happiest place on earth". But that is another story.Kellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04040085494657860788noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3489652083363179717.post-14653697801172639112011-06-16T15:38:00.000-04:002011-09-24T16:20:27.105-04:00The Summer of SixOur baby is six.<br />How can that be?<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/6178957326/" title="Untitled by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6163/6178957326_bbfa0560e3.jpg" width="400" height="275" alt=""></a><br /><br />She insisted on writing her own invitations.<br />Such a big girl...sniff, sniff.<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/6178953670/" title="Anna's 6th bday by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6166/6178953670_13a9b40d4d.jpg" width="400" height="350" alt="Anna's 6th bday"></a><br /><br />Her request for a party was simple. A texas sheet cake with horses all over it.<br />Check.<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/6178955386/" title="Untitled by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6180/6178955386_5a2ca4f78e.jpg" width="400" height="275" alt=""></a><br /><br />A pinata.<br />Check.<br />If you remember her <a href="http://laterbetty.blogspot.com/2010/06/can-it-be-that-my-baby-is-five-years_28.html">5th birthday</a> you know how I feel about pinatas.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/6178956244/" title="Untitled by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6180/6178956244_9abc296564.jpg" width="375" height="500" alt=""></a><br /><br />No living rainbow colored horses were killed at this birthday party<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/6178433379/" title="the crime scene...pobre pinata. by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6170/6178433379_0458b956ba.jpg" width="400" height="233" alt="the crime scene...pobre pinata."></a><br /><br />Pink and Orange Decorations.<br />Check.<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/6178432049/" title="Untitled by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6177/6178432049_d80a0436f2.jpg" width="400" height="233" alt=""></a><br /><br />Classic tissue paper pom poms.<br />Love 'em.<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/6178957904/" title="Untitled by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6163/6178957904_afc3efcfd2.jpg" width="400" height="275" alt=""></a><br /><br />And girlfriends.<br />Check.<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/6178957606/" title="Untitled by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6177/6178957606_97b8404335.jpg" width="333" height="500" alt=""></a><br /><br />We all sang "Happy Birthday" and made it official. She is now six years old...sniff, sniff.<br /><object type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="400" height="300" data="http://www.flickr.com/apps/video/stewart.swf?v=71377" classid="clsid:D27CDB6E-AE6D-11cf-96B8-444553540000"> <param name="flashvars" value="intl_lang=en-us&photo_secret=2688e93619&photo_id=6178979072"></param> <param name="movie" value="http://www.flickr.com/apps/video/stewart.swf?v=71377"></param> <param name="bgcolor" value="#000000"></param> <param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><embed type="application/x-shockwave-flash" src="http://www.flickr.com/apps/video/stewart.swf?v=71377" bgcolor="#000000" allowfullscreen="true" flashvars="intl_lang=en-us&photo_secret=2688e93619&photo_id=6178979072" height="300" width="400"></embed></object>Kellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04040085494657860788noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3489652083363179717.post-11968338322395396502011-04-25T00:10:00.005-04:002011-04-26T21:27:02.800-04:00Spring Comes To the House on Maple Street<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/5628269487/" title="IMG_2283 by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5065/5628269487_0fbb1dcbe1.jpg" width="400" height="275" alt="IMG_2283"></a><br /><br />Our yard may be unkempt and a little worse for wear but Mother Nature decided that we deserved some Spring beauty as much as the next person. This little pearl of a flower is called the green dotted snowdrop. Isn't it precious?<br /><br />We also have an invasive weed growing in our yard that I fell in love with when we lived in France. Back then ignorance was bliss. I didn't know it was an invasive weed. I just loved how it framed the old buildings in the medieval villages we visited. Ah, wisteria, why do you you have to be so wild? It's too much work to tame you. I don't have the time...I have children. But I love you, none the less. Thank you for invading my tired little yard.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/5628270903/" title="IMG_2306 by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5150/5628270903_8743358d75.jpg" width="400" height="500" alt="IMG_2306"></a><br /><br />And even though we cut down all the overgrown azalea bushes hiding our sweet little house...<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/4742793292/" title="house1 by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4123/4742793292_4ce74b97d5.jpg" width="400" height="275" alt="house1"></a><br /><br />...one petite specimen survived hidden among some brush along side of the drive way.<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/5628854374/" title="IMG_2309 by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5229/5628854374_6af3e2a833.jpg" width="400" height="275" alt="IMG_2309"></a> <br /><br />And in the backyard, near the side door is a Camellia bush. It's like a rose bush without all the trouble. Plus it's an evergreen and sometimes even blooms in the Winter. Originally from Japan, they have found a home in South Carolina. I'm so glad we have one in our yard. <br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/5628853130/" title="IMG_2291 by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5306/5628853130_5f1fa754f3.jpg" width="400" height="275" alt="IMG_2291"></a><br /><br />But not all Spring beauty is obvious. Sometimes you have to look for it. And as you know dear readers, I have become enamored with the plethora of mushroom varieties growing here in South Carolina. And our back 40...yards didn't disappoint mama. And I so want to know what kind of mushrooms these are...they could be edible. How fun would that be? So maybe one of you would feel inspired to be a mushroom sleuth. There may be a yummy mushroom meal in your future.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/5628270517/" title="IMG_2296 by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5145/5628270517_4a4693d932.jpg" width="400" height="500" alt="IMG_2296"></a><br /><br />Here is specimen number two:<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/5628853364/" title="IMG_2295 by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5221/5628853364_bedfa47324.jpg" width="400" height="300" alt="IMG_2295"></a><br /><br />I've done a little search but haven't been able to identify them yet. But I love them just the same.<br /><br />Finally, in all its delicate glory, a dogwood bloomed right outside our breakfast nook door. The blooms stayed for what seemed forever. But eventually they fell to the ground to be replaced by tender leaves.<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/5628852250/" title="IMG_2277 by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5302/5628852250_3aa694fa77.jpg" width="400" height="275" alt="IMG_2277"></a><br /><br />Thank you, Mother Nature, for the sweet gift you bestowed upon us undeserving lazy gardeners. We're so grateful.Kellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04040085494657860788noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3489652083363179717.post-75866372056808595182011-04-24T21:44:00.000-04:002011-05-08T11:46:13.700-04:00Spring has SprungOur whirlwind Spring Break trip to Indiana consisted of two egg hunts in two days. The kids were beside themselves in Easter Candy joy.<br /><br />The Gallagher Cousin Chaos was a sight to behold. Mr. and Mrs. Easter Bunny even made an appearance<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/5691663675/" title="Gallagher Spring Egg Hunt by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5144/5691663675_57d1decd86.jpg" width="400" height="400" alt="Gallagher Spring Egg Hunt"></a><br /><br />An impromptu egg hunt ensued with the Kiley Cousins. Small, intimate but challenging, the hunt seemed to scratch their egg hunt itch.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/5691667631/" title="Kiley Spring Egg Hunt by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5222/5691667631_e396395d67.jpg" width="400" height="400" alt="Kiley Spring Egg Hunt"></a> <br /><br />Or so we thought...<br /><br />...Presbyterian College has a community Easter Egg Hunt the Sunday before Easter. I thought it was the perfect opportunity for a yummy Spring Brunch before the hunt. After all, we live right across the street from the college and if the kids get to fill their baskets with candy shouldn't we parents get something out of it too. I have to say, I went a little overboard on the whole brunch thing. Plus, I was scarily organized...just ask the Professor. Those of you who know me know that isn't one of my strong suits.<br /><br />The table setting was being guarded by two lovely lime green gnomes. Know that I am strongly resisting the urge to use the word <a href="http://www.urbandictionary.com/define.php?term=tablescape">"tablescape"</a>. That word is like nails on a chalkboard for me but thanks to Sandra Lee on "Semi-homemade" it has become THE word in my head to describe how I decorated. But I won't use it...I am remaining strong. <br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/5691606619/" title="IMG_2361 by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5261/5691606619_10464b9d04.jpg" width="400" height="500" alt="IMG_2361"></a><br /><br />Every plate had an adorable chocolate chick...from Aldi's, no less.<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/5692177446/" title="IMG_2362 by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5303/5692177446_0d98896919.jpg" width="400" height="300" alt="IMG_2362"></a><br /><br />And the menu was yummy too. It had some healthy options for those watching their weight. And some not so healthy options for those who wanted to indulge. A veggie fritata and a spinach quiche didn't make it in the picture.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/5691606147/" title="IMG_2359 by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5068/5691606147_0cf59948c9.jpg" width="400" height="300" alt="IMG_2359"></a><br /><br />The <a href="http://www.skinnytaste.com/2011/04/pineapple-bliss-cupcakes.html">Pineapple Bliss Cupcakes</a> were a hit! Who knew that healthy and delicious can co-exist? Check out the blog, <a href="http://www.skinnytaste.com/">Skinny Taste</a>. It won't disappoint...I promise.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/5692177746/" title="IMG_2364 by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5264/5692177746_16e81d8fea.jpg" width="400" height="275" alt="IMG_2364"></a><br /><br />So we all enjoyed a lovely brunch and then headed over to Presbyterian College for the hunt. Even the Easter Bunny showed up. Help me understand this because I can't wrap my head around the whole Easter Bunny thing. Now, Santa is a believable holiday character. There could be a jolly old man that leaves presents at your house. But how freaky is it that a giant rabbit leaves Easter baskets for kids and hides eggs? Do kids really fall for that one? Did I? I guess my girl does.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/5691607793/" title="IMG_2365 by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5105/5691607793_14c8d0d696.jpg" width="400" height="500" alt="IMG_2365"></a><br /><br />There was face painting, jump houses, and cookies-n-punch at the Egg Hunt. It was quite the affair. Then the scary hunt began...it was an onslaught of screaming children practically clawing each other to get the most eggs. AND...there were 3 golden eggs. You know there were a huge amount of disappointed kids and 3 very happy ones.<br /><br />Anna's best friend, Rachel was there. They are so cute together. <br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/5692179020/" title="IMG_2368 by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5065/5692179020_0719d5fa5b.jpg" width="400" height="300" alt="IMG_2368"></a><br /><br />You can really see the bond they share. Childhood friends...so sweet.<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/5692179520/" title="IMG_2370 by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5261/5692179520_e6328398ea.jpg" width="400" height="239" alt="IMG_2370"></a><br /><br />The day was beautiful. The kids were happy. The grown-ups were content. A nearly perfect day. A nearly perfect Spring.Kellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04040085494657860788noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3489652083363179717.post-91499700276675278232011-02-13T23:22:00.001-05:002011-02-13T23:29:10.573-05:00A Fairy Happy Valentine's DayThe artist in residence created this little number for today's holiday. Doilies, stickers and a 5 year old's imagination are a powerful combination.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgkiley/5443608003/" title="Fairy Happy Valentine's Day by missmonkeymae, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5172/5443608003_2a6e84a95c.jpg" width="500" height="333" alt="Fairy Happy Valentine's Day" /></a><br /><br />To all those loved by me and mine both far and near, know that you are on my heart today and most other days too. How blessed I am to have so many wonderful people to love.Kellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04040085494657860788noreply@blogger.com1