tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24884083853179925462024-03-13T09:06:31.174-03:00Blind Dog ChroniclesA couple of West Coast city folk headed to rural Maritimes for a simpler life. This blog is about transitions, trials, triumphs, interests, food and life in the country in general.Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06452387658787807176noreply@blogger.comBlogger107125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2488408385317992546.post-45443147882748873132014-01-12T14:26:00.000-04:002014-01-12T14:26:11.045-04:00Making a way where there is none, and the weather, of course!<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">OK.... that's a misleading subject title. There's always a way. It's about finding it. That's basically what I've been doing. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Now, about the weather, what else does one who lives in the country with dogs ramble about? Ahhh, it's a quiet life with much less 'noise' and stress.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">It's been so long since I last blogged about anything (outside of a new puppy announcement) so I forget were I left off. Vague memories of struggling to get my little Etsy shop going and being jobless are coming to mind. I'm too lazy to go rummaging about in past entries.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Jango is the cutest little dog! He's a joy, smart and sensitive... almost one year old already. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I've gotten myself a few steady clients that I do some graphic design work for and I'm determined to put more effort into my store. I tend to get distracted too easily so my goal will be to stay focussed and committed to at least one listing per day. I keep asking myself, "How hard can that be?" Well.... apparently, I have a stumbling block to push out of my way. I HATE, LOATHE and STRUGGLE with writing the descriptions. I get through it eventually but when I'm stuck and researching similar items to help me determine a price point, I get lost in other sites. It's crazy.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I have winter on my side when it comes to indoor time and making good use of it. And what a roller coaster winter it's been so far. On New Years day, I made a video in -20ºC temps to document all the snow we got in December. We had several storms and below normal temperatures starting earlier than usual. Yesterday, it went up to 8ºC but not until early evening, staying that way overnight. And, wow... did it rain! It's going to be mild all week and that will mean lots of snow melt, a river of water passing through the property and eight very muddy paws to deal with several times per day. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="344" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/yADbax7lPW8" width="459"></iframe></span>Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06452387658787807176noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2488408385317992546.post-17633414343960758772013-09-16T19:01:00.001-03:002013-09-16T19:01:50.737-03:00Jango. Rhymes with tango<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">It's forever ago since I last blogged. Life just got busy and I don't seem to do busy very well anymore. I could go morning to night and never be caught up so I'm just going with the flow and prioritizing. It's far more relaxing.</span><div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We got a puppy in the spring. While we hoped for a purebred Australian cattle dog, it was too difficult to find one without putting it through the wringer of shipping him to us. And the expense. We have other priorities so we put aside our wants and deal with our needs. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">WE didn't NEED a puppy. Our Blind Guy, Colby did. Being an ACD means lots of stimulus and we can only throw a ball so many times. He's free to roam the yard but he was getting bored, I think. He always had our other dog, Mikey.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Jango is a mix of Australian cattle dog, Australian shepherd and border collie. He's 7 1/2 months old now and is my sweetheart. He's a mama's boy and a darn good frisbee catcher (well, he's still a bit off on his landings but he's loving his new 'thing'). He's also been wonderful for Colby. They have tons of playtime, both with us and each other. Takes a bit of pressure off when we have other things to tend to. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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This succession of photos starts at 8 weeks of age (end of March) and ends at six months of age (end of July). His growth spurt in the first couple of months was amazing. Sharp teeth, puppy breath, and full of mischief. See the last photo for proof. We only left him alone for a very short while. Hubs was mowing the lawn and I scooted off to the store for groceries. It only happened this one time although we did have to curb his love of not-good-for-eating type plants. He learned very quickly. He's one smart and sweet little guy.<br />
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Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06452387658787807176noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2488408385317992546.post-20557254919856842922013-06-23T11:12:00.002-03:002013-06-23T11:12:41.824-03:00Bird Song<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Wow... it's been a long time since I blogged. Life has gotten busy as I endeavor to become self-employed. I have a few irons in the fire... some freelance work, an online <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/FabFindsGentlerTimes" target="_blank">store</a> finally launched and my foot in the door at the Post Office, just relief work but 'foot in the door' is a good thing.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I'm working on new listings for my shop and listening to the most beautiful bird song. I heard this bird singing last night at midnight when I took the dogs out. The full moon made it seem like dusk and this bird was singing it's heart out. So many different sounds!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Hubs and I heard it this morning and we noted it's mimicking bird song of robins, sandpipers and more. I did a google search for our region and it may be a catbird. Whatever bird it is, I am delighted with its singing and hope it says around. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This video is for sound only as I was just standing in my doorway hoping to capture the sound and it worked wonderfully! These are just a few of the different sounds coming from this lovely bird.</span>Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06452387658787807176noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2488408385317992546.post-80355083743892560972013-02-19T00:18:00.000-04:002013-02-19T00:18:14.891-04:00Snowstorm, Snowblower & Birds<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Yesterday's massive blizzard spared us no mercy. The end of our driveway is so vulnerable to the drifting snow brought on by the nor'easters. Add to that the plows, pushing heavy mounds of snow up the slight incline and into the driveway. It's so depressing. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">As Hubs began clearing snow this morning, he was hearing a wretched clunking sound. In the video below, I said the tranny was gone but it was actually the gear that drives the wheels. Kinda good news (if there can possibly be good news to being snowed in with a failing snowblower). The snow could still be cleared but the bad part was pushing a 385 lb machine manually on a double-wide 60 ft (or longer) driveway. Factor in a stomach flu, a bad back, shoulder, hip and more.... well, you get the picture. It was a big and painful ordeal!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I have no clue who the troops might have been. It's farm country and tractors with snowblower attachments abound. We'd have figured it out but didn't have to after all. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Tomorrow, we'll take a drive into town and purchase a new blower - a 13 hp Honda! It wasn't in our budget whatsoever but needs are needs so it must be done. One HUGE bonus is our tax refund was much more than what I figured and will cover almost half the cost. And it's 'lady' friendly, too so I can operate it. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Our Ariens served us well for almost 9 winters but it's tired now. It was too much for me to handle so I was never able to go out and relieve my pain-ridden Hubs. Now that we're going to be better equipped to handle what comes, watch our next couple of winters be nearly snowless. Isn't that the way? </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06452387658787807176noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2488408385317992546.post-12183646503235898742013-01-10T23:27:00.004-04:002013-01-10T23:27:57.377-04:00Visitors!<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I was over-the-moon happy to see these lovely visitors meandering through our front yard this morning. I ran for my camera and hoped my blurred vision wouldn't be transferred though the lens. I was not disappointed.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06452387658787807176noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2488408385317992546.post-71346683531522921132012-11-16T10:47:00.000-04:002012-11-16T10:47:03.388-04:00Where have I been?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Life moves slowly in the country. Things don't change much so blogging about nothing is kinda boring.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I'm in a transitioning stage since gainful employment is scarce and, when found, you're required to speak both French and English. I could easily go on a rant about balance, fairness to all, how the majority in this province are not bilingual. I'll spare you because, to me, the subject has gotten old and we <i>did</i> choose to live in a French community, after all. But still.... everyone knows English. So, whatever. I need to move on and find ways to survive without this monkey on my back. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Oh.. I'm sorry. Do I sound bitter? Nah... I just have moments. I honestly didn't know it would be like this when we came here regarding the language issue. There are four Maritime provinces where jobs are not plentiful or desirable or good paying and I kinda knew that. I thought I'd be able to find something in my trade with enough pay to make a long commute worthwhile. I was naive.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I'm learning a bit about myself, though. Seems I have a mountain to move. I need to break through an invisible barrier that's holding me back in order to launch my vintage online store. Like, I really need to get on this! I've laboured over my photos, gotten positive feedback from great friends who visit my other blog where I post images, researched my wares and added to my growing list of great finds. So, what's stopping me now? Well, that's a good question. I'm dealing with it and chipping away at the 'thing' so I can get this show on the road. I have made small steps and there's just one more big one to make. I'm literally on the threshold of crossing over the last barrier. I've never seen myself as a 'fearful' person so this has been an ordeal. I'm not giving up! <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: xx-small;">I think that deep down I don't believe in myself.</span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">In early October, I took Colby, blind guy to the vet about his left eye. It didn't look good and I feared the worst. My gut feeling was right that he might lose the eye. He had glaucoma as well as an ulcer on the eye so three days after calling the vet, he was in surgery. It wasn't cheap and I'm thankful we had the means to deal with the costs but those funds were designated for other things. Let's just say the timing was really bad.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">(above)</span> was the day after his surgery. The cone was hell for him. Bad enough he's blind. That cone had him so disoriented. He didn't know his way around, would walk head-on into a wall or cupboard door and just stand there. I couldn't see him going through 2 weeks of this. He had pain meds for five days which made him sleepy and as much as I didn't like giving him meds, it was a small comfort to know he wasn't suffering more than he could have been.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">That cone, though! Arrrggh. I did some online research about other options and learned about this Optivisor, then managing to track one down in the nearest 'city' after a few phone calls. What a relief! It was too long and he had a hard time eating his food so I cut it back. After a week or so, I was able to take him out with his favorite squeak ball and throw it a few times. He lives for that. Being a working dog by nature, it's important for him to have a 'job' so three or four times a day, he's busy doing what a dog's gotta do. Rainy days are a real drag for him so sometimes I'll suck it up and not worry about how wet and muddy he'll get (or how bad of a hair day I'll have). He's healed now and back to his barky, goofy self. More importantly, he's not in terrible pain anymore. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06452387658787807176noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2488408385317992546.post-82083993657733302432012-10-21T21:14:00.001-03:002012-10-21T21:15:21.409-03:00Peak colour of our maples<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">What a difference a few days makes to our maples! The sun was filtering through them and I just had to try and capture the beauty. We are blessed.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06452387658787807176noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2488408385317992546.post-89026645009465865982012-10-20T20:41:00.000-03:002012-10-20T20:41:20.248-03:00October Greetings..<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Wow... so long since I last blogged. Why? Cause I don't really have much to share except for the fact that I still fully believe and embrace the fact that I live in a quiet and peaceful land that is close to paradise. I've not forgotten my first year here exclaiming to my Hubs (like everyday), "Look where we landed! It's so beautiful here." </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">OK.. maybe that's not quite true that I don't have much to share but I don't wish to only whine and bellyache publicly about things that are temporary. Things like unemployment and the prospects of finding gainful employment perceived as bleak. Not a local? Don't speak French? Don't bother to apply! Do I wish to commute an 80 km plus round trip for minimum wage? Nope! Gas prices, my aging car and winter driving diminish the value of a decent income, never mind the hours of unpaid commute time and stress levels through the roof. Nope... not for minimum wage. I may as well be working for $5/hr. Seriously. These things can take a toll, leave one feeling 'dull' and sometimes afraid. It tends to cause me to behave like an ostrich with its head in the sand. Did you know that's just a comical portrayal of denial? I'm not facing things that I need to deal with and the good news is that I'm aware of that fact. An opportunity to do something about it!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">But I digress. Autumn here has been slow to come yet summer has slammed the door in our faces at times with abrupt temperature drops and then teasing us once again with warm, balmy days. I recently took my camera out with me one gloomy day and was not impressed with the fall beauty I had seen at dusk just the night before. All I got was this, from a park that is drop dead gorgeous in spring (if you know just the right time to go). Pretty building but fall colours were not grabbing my attention as I drove through the entire park. *yawn*</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Only days later, I was throwing the ball to my blind guy.. he's just recovered from surgery, by the way. Poor guy had to have his left eye removed due to glaucoma. We struggled in every way about it but it was the best thing for him and he's happy and pain free now. That's all that matters. So, I was spending time with the boy and I turned behind me to admire the way our maples were changing colour and the way the sun was filtering through the trees.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">When I look around me, right in my own back yard, I remember how much I have to be thankful for and how much beauty surrounds us. I don't have to go anywhere else to find it. All the other stuff... it will work itself out. I know this to be true. I have an inner peace about it and I have a realistic plan. My plan has obstacles but it's OK. I'll conquer them. Meanwhile, I have this and so much more....</span></div>
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Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06452387658787807176noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2488408385317992546.post-90399480756547236812012-08-01T09:59:00.000-03:002012-08-01T10:00:31.280-03:00Quahog Diggin'<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">It's been a wonderful summer! When spring comes early with warm temps and sunny days, it makes the summer feel more like two seasons instead of one short, fleeting flash in the pan. I love it! </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I was invited by a friend to go digging for quahogs yesterday. It was an interesting experience. I was told to bring aqua shoes and a rubber glove as you feel with your foot for the quahogs and dig them out by hand. One of the ladies who met us there wore socks; a seasoned pro I'm sure as she had the biggest haul.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I will do this again, soon! The smaller ones are best eaten slightly raw, steamed just until the shells open. If cooked more than that, they tend to be tough and chewy. I think I'll cook up the larger ones to freeze for a savoury seafood chowder to enjoy when the weather cools.... with some homemade biscuits. Nom, nom!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06452387658787807176noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2488408385317992546.post-35650547472938115982012-06-22T21:32:00.000-03:002012-07-02T10:59:37.525-03:00Walking with a View<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I've been walking quite regularly now since early April, something I've wanted to do for such a long time but didn't want to do alone. Now, I have a walking partner, a lady who lives not far from me and is committed to doing her body good, like I am. We do a 7 km walk along the river and these are some of the views we enjoy. It's never boring, never taken for granted that I live in such a pretty part of the Maritimes.</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">I should explain... this heritage house was built in 1863 and</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">used to be the post office. T</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">heir back yard is a paradise.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span id="goog_964977542"></span><span id="goog_964977543"></span></span>Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06452387658787807176noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2488408385317992546.post-50155810765964220532012-05-30T00:09:00.002-03:002016-04-25T00:31:49.953-03:00Ahhhh... Spring<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We've had an early spring with a proper mix of rain, sunshine and warm temps. Normally, we're seeing the first buds of May a bit closer to June but this year we've been blessed with a good three weeks more of the gorgeous beauty we are privy to in the province many just pass through. Fools!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Herons all lined up in a neat little row</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The river's bounty has blessed the locals with some nice sized trout. In past years, I have watched from my window many a fisherman, battling the black flies and mosquitos and wondered how they had the patience to sit with rod in hand, hour after boring hour. I never actually saw anyone catch a fish but I never sat watching for too long. It was... well, </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>boring</i></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Osprey over the river looking for a meal </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">However, this year seems to have brought an abundance of life in and to the river. There's so much going on which makes for great entertainment! Today I tried to capture an osprey hovering over the water before dive bombing for a fish. Too bad a tree at the edge of our property got in the way. I did get a shot but not so impressive. He's about 100 feet away and my camera ain't all that for these kinds of close-ups. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">My next attempt was to get a shot of all the herons lining up on a tiny sandy bar; this being about 200 feet away. A bit of a stretch but I'm sharing it with you anyway. I would like to go and sit at the river's edge and try for some action shots or video that are a daily occurrence right now. How I'd love to video an osprey splashing down and flying off with a big fish! </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Eagles, common mergansers, Canada geese (the babies are the cutest) and mallard ducks, to name a few, are frequent visitors. I spotted a kingfisher yesterday, perched along the power lines and was recently thrilled to watch a peregrine falcon swoop by so low I'm sure it would have clipped me in the head had I been in its path. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">And I caught a glimpse of a turkey vulture flying low along the river's path before disappearing behind the neighbour's house. Normally, they're quite high up and I don't get to see the details of their heads. It <i>was</i> rather ugly. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Yes, it's a very busy time at the river and the reality that comes with it is there's good eatin' for birds of prey. But I try not to think about that part.</span></div>
Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06452387658787807176noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2488408385317992546.post-46928410803007344662012-05-06T10:28:00.000-03:002012-05-10T00:32:00.702-03:00Loving the Lean Part... it's a wrap!<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Well, I kinda dropped the ball on this overly long subject. Mmmmm... yea, so I'll get it wrapped up for once and for all. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-a-Ft7VTdynE/T6Z6Acd_yGI/AAAAAAAABCM/jjw_P77BypA/s1600/Pinching+Pennies+Pig.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="249" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-a-Ft7VTdynE/T6Z6Acd_yGI/AAAAAAAABCM/jjw_P77BypA/s320/Pinching+Pennies+Pig.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Back in the early 80s, I had a crossroads experience which involved walking away from my life. Make that life <i>style. </i>What followed was a huge step back financially. I have always been so very practical but this was a big change for me. I learned how to shop for deals... how not to pay full price for items but still get quality. I also learned that I love the challenge. Gotta bloom where you're planted, right? Eventually, though (and thankfully), I would end up with a trade (huge learning curve) where the pay was pretty decent. I didn't have to struggle with stretching that dollar quite so far.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">At the same time as my earning potential was increasing, hubs and I were working towards a goal... homeownership without a mortgage. This was easy done because we earned more than we needed and just didn't move up the material ladder, if you know what I mean. We didn't feel we were make huge sacrifices. We simply lived where rent was cheaper, we kept and maintained our older cars and didn't go nuts buying all kinds of toys.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">It paid off but now I find myself challenged once again with how far I can stretch that dollar. It feels different from way back then. In the demographics where we live, there are incredible bargains to be found. Finding them thrills me.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">In the process of finding bargains, I have managed to create a tidy stash of lovely vintage goods. This has been my 'hobby' for over ten years. I can't recall when I got bit by the bug but I've always been drawn to things from gentler times. I love the patinas that items carry, the quality of when things were actually built to last and often wonder about the people who originally owned these common household belongings that end up in thrift shops and yard sales.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">So, with regards to my current situation: jobless state plus my <strike>hoard</strike> inventory of <a href="http://www.fabfindsgentlertimes.blogspot.ca/" target="_blank"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: yellow;">fab finds</span></a> <i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">(pssst... that yellow text is a link *wink)</span></i> equals self-employment opportunity. This makes sense and would be a dream come true. I've never really taken it seriously before but now I must. It's almost like I'm a little bird being pushed out of the nest... again; story of my life.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Ideally, I will obtain gainful employment. Realistically, the opportunities are proving to be rare. This new venture is about my only option for now and I'm in the process of preparing for it as push becomes shove, or when the rubber meets the road. I'll post when that happens. Don't see any "if" in there.</span>Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06452387658787807176noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2488408385317992546.post-54700510053005743782012-04-23T01:06:00.000-03:002012-05-07T08:38:52.566-03:00Living Lean... not the lovin' part yet<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UfX8aIQuFXU/T5TS_Amsi4I/AAAAAAAABAY/JVdcH_ghth4/s1600/decisionmaking2.s600x600.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UfX8aIQuFXU/T5TS_Amsi4I/AAAAAAAABAY/JVdcH_ghth4/s320/decisionmaking2.s600x600.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I'm hoping this leads to a wrap. It's so hard for me to condense all the events that have led me to this point. And I tend to get distracted... really easily. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">So, the winds of change are ripping through me as I stand at this particular crossroad and evaluate my options (or lack thereof). I've considered going freelance but I have to be honest and say that my preferences and, more importantly, my strengths are on the technical side of what happens between design and the placing of ink on paper. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I can do design well enough but there are giants in the land that carry degrees (this is often a requirement) plus many of them know html, CMS, CSS and whatever else needed for web design; these skills are often thrown in as an asset. Personally, I see web design as a separate trade from prepress which is a separate trade from design. Apparently, one has to wear many hats in the digital world of print these days. I have no formal training in design and I've never had the opportunity to learn web design. As well, I've been basically flying solo for the past seven years. Make that 7.5 years, but who's counting? That's like 100 years in today's digital world of change.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I do have key technical skills many designers are lacking when it comes to preparing for putting ink on paper. I know spreads and chokes, rich blacks, creep, pagination, knockouts, overprints, metallic inks, dies, imposing perfect bound vs. saddle stitch magazines, dealing with cross-overs and yada, yada, yada. I critiqued designer's work so it would come through the other side as intended. It was critical for jobs to be 100% correct when it hit the presses. Press down time meant hundreds of dollars per hour lost in production. In 20 plus years, I went from analog prepress (a five year apprenticeship) to digital prepress - producing colour proofs, bluelines, film and plate making, and finally the transition of computer to plate (CTP). All manner of troubleshooting was required along the way and everything had a tight deadline. I had to know a lot of stuff. As you can see, </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I have learned valuable skills and, yes, I really can pull off reasonable design work. If only I could get my foot in the door. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Now, here</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> is the major hurdle... a major beef that I could rant endlessly about. I don't read French, write French or speak French. It matters not that I may not be dealing with the public directly, that I would be working alongside colleagues that are bilingual. It matters not that the majority of New Brunswickers are Anglophones. The powers that be have decided to make this fine province officially bilingual. And that coveted diploma I obtained? Useless. It's just a piece of paper, but that's another rant that I'd rather not get into. *sigh*</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Without French, I'm basically deemed unemployable unless I want to work at Subway, Tim Hortons, Home Depot, etc. earning minimum wage, commuting 1.5 hrs each day and losing a week's pay on gas. Factor in a new car payment as my aging car would surely get 'tired' and I would have two weeks of minimum wages to live on but I'd be putting in a 50 hr. week including the travel time. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I've also learned the ways of the locals (from their mouths to my ears). The jobs that are hard to come by are generally reserved for their 'own', whatever that means. I'm told that 'good' jobs are given to relatives or friends but they have to post the job to the general public by law. I don't know how true that is but I think I might have experienced the bad end of it. I applied for a job that I was fully qualified for and I didn't even get the courtesy of an interview despite my follow up correspondences with them. You see, they had the job posted for TWO months. Seems they forgot it? I did find it odd that the only place it was posted was on Kijiji. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">So... there's that path which looks grim. I'm eyeing a new path that would be like a dream come true but it looks like I'll have to continue this in yet another entry. I tried to condense it but the rant part is feeling good. </span>Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06452387658787807176noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2488408385317992546.post-55324779119822301612012-04-21T23:31:00.001-03:002012-05-07T08:38:18.777-03:00Living Lean Part Two...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gNW8Axxqemg/T5NlILR-1EI/AAAAAAAAA8g/olPIqfyVk40/s1600/IMG_2887.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gNW8Axxqemg/T5NlILR-1EI/AAAAAAAAA8g/olPIqfyVk40/s320/IMG_2887.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">When we arrived here in rural New Brunswick, settling into our 'forever' home, my feet didn't touch the ground for a year. The beauty outside my window that greets me each morning is never taken for granted. The cultural changes, however, took time to adjust to and I had concerns about small town living. I carry a horrendous experience from my teen years, when my Mom moved me and my two younger sisters to small town PEI. I would leave home at the tender age of 17 and vowed to never live on the East Coast again. Famous last words.</span><br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dv_00_8MjHs/T5NnD1xD6KI/AAAAAAAAA8o/4v0-F_cjnPk/s1600/Mist.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="170" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dv_00_8MjHs/T5NnD1xD6KI/AAAAAAAAA8o/4v0-F_cjnPk/s320/Mist.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Now, as a (ahem) mature adult, I'm here on the East Coast and it's been OK. One of the hurdles has been finding work but naive me thought "No problem! I have a skilled trade with 20 years experience!" I said I was naive, right? </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I was told one had to have a diploma in order to get a job.... any job. Nonsense! I have a trade. But wait! There are not many printers in the area and the demand for prepress technicians is almost non-existent. Uh oh. Red flag waving. And wait! This is a bilingual province. I'm not bilingual.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I found out I could attend full time school for a year and a half, receiving benefits for the duration. And by gosh, by golly, I got that coveted diploma. With honors, I might add. I had to work during the summer in order to continue with my schooling and was fortunate to work from home for a small print shop in a neighbouring Maritime province. Things were working out for me.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">After finishing school I continued working for this sad little company. Trust me on the sad part. Unfortunately, the boss was a head case, highly abusive... name calling, swearing, yelling at me; a head gamer who toyed with my wages and emotions, accusing me of all manner of things that are totally not my character. I would tolerate this nonsense for five years. FIVE. LONG. YEARS! </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Last August, I couldn't do it anymore. I was either going to have a nervous breakdown, a stroke, an aneurysm, a heart attack or a combo of any two or three. I quit. Just like that. It was a desparate decision. I was miserable.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I'm standing at the crossroads and the winds of change are blowing. More like howling. What's not to love about it? Well..... <i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">to be continued</span></i></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06452387658787807176noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2488408385317992546.post-40124139352035843332012-04-19T09:04:00.000-03:002012-05-18T19:37:39.121-03:00Living Lean and Loving It...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Jo1HC6uLSMk/T4__JanhKII/AAAAAAAAA8U/IwuEDYu-dnA/s1600/crossroads.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Jo1HC6uLSMk/T4__JanhKII/AAAAAAAAA8U/IwuEDYu-dnA/s320/crossroads.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">A fellow blogger and friend posted a link on Facebook about a family living on $20,000 a year. And they pay rent! The home is beautifully decorated and they're close to an incredible beach. They have my respect.</span><br />
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</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Sometimes life moves in directions you hadn't planned. Sometimes? Let's be real here and make that <i>oftentimes. </i></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i><br /></i></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Seven years ago I <strike>had</strike> left a good job with good pay. So did Hubs. We realized when we met (nineteen years ago) that we might not always be in that position so we created a goal to work towards. That goal became owning a home which then became the plan to make the dream of homeownership a reality. Yea... something like that.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We had no debt so this was a good start. We lived way below our means which was pretty simply done. All it meant was that we didn't move up the ladder of higher rent and bigger, more expensive things. We still enjoyed day trips to our favorite places, eating in trendy restaurants and didn't have the financial pressure of those unexpected expenses that happen to all of us. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">In eleven years, we were able to reach our goal and I was chomping at the bit to get on with the plan. So, we bought our house here in the East Coast country, clear across Canada. A big move to say the least. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">That was seven years ago. Much has changed. Things we didn't plan for, hurdles we didn't think existed. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I am at a crossroads of sorts. It's not bad. I get excited about it really. I'm about to venture down a new path but I can't finish this just now. I'm getting ready to go walking with a friend. This is becoming my daily requirement. Finally.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Oh, in case you're wondering about the subject header? I'll get to that later. Hopefully, tomorrow and I plan on keeping my blog exercises in better shape.</span>Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06452387658787807176noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2488408385317992546.post-36265658691530186352012-02-23T20:39:00.001-04:002012-02-23T20:45:36.542-04:00Pretty things....<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
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</div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-10hlWFExO50/T0bASyfgHsI/AAAAAAAAA3w/lRrfta_OtMs/s1600/Monet+Rolo+Chain+Necklace+A.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-10hlWFExO50/T0bASyfgHsI/AAAAAAAAA3w/lRrfta_OtMs/s320/Monet+Rolo+Chain+Necklace+A.jpg" width="229" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Monet rolo chain necklace</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> </span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fPodJJFl_lE/T0bAaucd4JI/AAAAAAAAA34/qF5H6-h6ybg/s1600/Monet+Rolo+Chain+Necklace+B.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fPodJJFl_lE/T0bAaucd4JI/AAAAAAAAA34/qF5H6-h6ybg/s320/Monet+Rolo+Chain+Necklace+B.jpg" width="193" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This beauty is 30 inches long and has the feel of quality.</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tWf_HW6G2Pg/T0bdFH2h8zI/AAAAAAAAA44/MwuT9m0GJWw/s1600/Pink+&+Rhinestone+Screwbacks+B.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="172" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tWf_HW6G2Pg/T0bdFH2h8zI/AAAAAAAAA44/MwuT9m0GJWw/s320/Pink+&+Rhinestone+Screwbacks+B.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">So gorgeous! These are 12 kt gold filled and in excellent condition.</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aS8BY8Fsh1s/T0bAnFMRMnI/AAAAAAAAA4I/U392jkW_B7E/s1600/Pink+&+Rhinestone+Screwbacks+A.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="198" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aS8BY8Fsh1s/T0bAnFMRMnI/AAAAAAAAA4I/U392jkW_B7E/s320/Pink+&+Rhinestone+Screwbacks+A.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Are these not to-die-for? Seriously!</span></td></tr>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qFWSEjSNUNg/T0bAuzEAT7I/AAAAAAAAA4Q/sv7mAHEXPTw/s1600/Pink+&+Rhinestone+Screwbacks+B.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"></span></a></div><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PyLKfPPSY-I/T0bALRaKvTI/AAAAAAAAA3o/v0aFks9BD00/s1600/Daisy+Earrings.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="250" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PyLKfPPSY-I/T0bALRaKvTI/AAAAAAAAA3o/v0aFks9BD00/s320/Daisy+Earrings.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Milk glass clip-ons. The pedals are 'strung' on and 'wiggly'<br />
</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-O3hMQMthyoM/T0bZjbKQZJI/AAAAAAAAA4o/kn6YyjhKugo/s1600/Chanel+Box+Lips+&+Hearts.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-O3hMQMthyoM/T0bZjbKQZJI/AAAAAAAAA4o/kn6YyjhKugo/s320/Chanel+Box+Lips+&+Hearts.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Chanel gift box. Need I say more?</span></td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-j70GWe_-dDY/T0bZ877syoI/AAAAAAAAA4w/4w7DMahiJCo/s1600/Chanel+Gold+&+Silver+Box.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="256" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-j70GWe_-dDY/T0bZ877syoI/AAAAAAAAA4w/4w7DMahiJCo/s320/Chanel+Gold+&+Silver+Box.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">... only to say <i>another</i> Chanel gift box. Hello!</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06452387658787807176noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2488408385317992546.post-86112675923193032362012-01-08T12:13:00.001-04:002012-01-08T15:29:42.143-04:00Hearty Soup for the Soul<div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This past year has been challenging, to say the least. In an economy and demographic where work is hard to find (and I'm not bilingual which is a BIG issue here), I felt that I had to terminate my job working offsite for a small printer in PEI. It was more than I could endure on a personal level and it was starting to affect my stress levels. The other party refused to acknowledge their treatment of others. And then we had to say goodbye to our sweetest dog, Mikey who we tried to save but could not. A tough decision, indeed.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I've been cleaning up my computer and came across a graphic file I put together from a 'story' I found online.</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">It's beautiful and touches my heart. I hope it touches yours. You will have to click on it to be able to read it unless you have special super powers.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yhGpTmjPmGg/Twm_ZUKOGOI/AAAAAAAAA2M/5ktosCDH9kk/s1600/MyQuilt.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yhGpTmjPmGg/Twm_ZUKOGOI/AAAAAAAAA2M/5ktosCDH9kk/s320/MyQuilt.jpg" width="244" /></a></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div>Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06452387658787807176noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2488408385317992546.post-57298589292561112002011-12-11T22:40:00.003-04:002011-12-12T08:19:14.103-04:00Excitement at the river's edge<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">It's a bit of a distance for my camera to capture good quality video but this was too exciting not to capture. There were several (at least five) juvenile eagles and three or more adults. I couldn't see past my neighbour's and since I was in my PJs, standing on the porch, I was a bit limited but I know there were more. Suddenly, something caused them to scatter... I'm not sure what. And then it was over. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">If you have your sound up, you can hear them (and then you can hear Colby who didn't like that I was on the porch while he was stuck inside).</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I was glad to be privy to this magnificent event, let alone getting it on video. What a treat! Today, I watched two of the juvenile eagles jostling with each other in flight. No time to get my camera, though. Burn!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/gDSUsdDAX9M" width="420"></iframe></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/oS5Oic4RTKo" width="420"></iframe></span>Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06452387658787807176noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2488408385317992546.post-25472919432158623792011-12-08T23:03:00.000-04:002011-12-08T23:03:41.898-04:00Bleh!<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">It's been a while since I posted. I mean to keep my blog alive because I find it's a good exercise for me. It's a healthy thing to do (well.. for me, it is). </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">My life is in the midst of transition. It feels like hell.. lots of turmoil and as I look forward, I see nothing but a blank wall. It's a season of change. One day I'm up and then I'm down. I have plans that excite me and then fear sets in. Some aliens came and stole some of my brain matter. They hail from the planet Hormone. I've been left in a fog but I understand it's not permanent. Yup.</span><br />
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</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">All kidding aside, though.... I quit my work-from-home dream job that became a living nightmare. My prospects of future work given the demographics of where I live are not good. I live in the country. I live in a French village and the province I live in is bilingual. I have a skilled trade that I worked hard at for over 20 years and when I came to this place (that I still love) I went to 'ZERO' as far as employment goes. I'll never work at the level I once did and I'm eyeing early retirement. That just sounds so surreal.</span><br />
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</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I have no regrets quitting my job. I was torture and I'll not go on about it. Let's just say that it was a no brainer proving just cause for quitting and I was accepted to receive employment insurance. I hate it so much but grateful for it. </span><br />
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</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Recently, our beloved dog Mikey and best friend in the world got very sick and we tried to save him but we couldn't. It's a huge loss. My hubs is devastated as they were so close. Our blind guy, Colby really misses him, too. We're trying to keep him busy with play time but the weather's been miserable so it's a challenge. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We're making sure to give him lots of love and cuddles. Time will help to ease the pain. It's only been one week.</span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7ZLK0ol0c3U/TuF51kzULiI/AAAAAAAAA2E/ui4XkRVLlJ0/s1600/IMG_1872.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7ZLK0ol0c3U/TuF51kzULiI/AAAAAAAAA2E/ui4XkRVLlJ0/s320/IMG_1872.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">So, that's it. I know this is just a season. Better things are in store and I'm still so very thankful for so many things. I'm thankful I'm not in that abusive work relationship. It was horrible. I'm thankful that I have EI (really thankful). I'm thankful that I have my hubs and my Colby, and CeCe, my cat, too. I can tell she misses Mikey cause she's not being bad to the bone at all. I mean, she hasn't even scratched my favorite vintage red chair since Mikey 'went away'. </span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-s245qidiHd8/TuF24KCpb5I/AAAAAAAAA18/R_B0NdNwBuc/s1600/NiceMike.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-s245qidiHd8/TuF24KCpb5I/AAAAAAAAA18/R_B0NdNwBuc/s320/NiceMike.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
</span>Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06452387658787807176noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2488408385317992546.post-26041392117199152412011-11-21T22:47:00.001-04:002011-11-21T22:48:24.042-04:00Slow Death of my Bedside Clock<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">A few years back, I found the cutest vintage alarm clock on eBay. I was smitten but when it arrived, it looked rather dirty, the kind that cleaning won't remove. I had really wanted a rhinestone alarm clock but they sell for more than I'm willing to pay. So, I settled for something that was cute and affordable.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Hubs said he could give it a fresh coat of paint in an off-white and it turned out much better than I could have hoped for. Then I got to thinking... I could still have my vintage rhinestone clock so I set about fitting and glueing a strand of glittery rhinestones around the bezel. Perfection!</span><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hID8d2kpaw4/TssEYvdxA3I/AAAAAAAAA1M/aV5ohhrnFOw/s1600/CreamFloweredEdge+Clock.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="253" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hID8d2kpaw4/TssEYvdxA3I/AAAAAAAAA1M/aV5ohhrnFOw/s320/CreamFloweredEdge+Clock.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The clock that I love.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Well, all good things must come to an end. The power had been shut off several times during our mudroom reno and resetting the time more times than normal proved to be too much for my clock that I love. I had noticed for some time that the inner workings were getting tired. The 'teeth' around the ten after mark have worn down and the minute hand just stays in the same position... minute after minute after minute. I'm so sad. It was perfect beside my bed, the clock that I love. </span><br />
<div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I looked online at some vintage clocks but my needs take huge priority over my wants right now so I just went to a 'big box' store and bought a Baby Ben wind up clock... no batteries, no electricity. I just have to remember to wind it everyday. It's a boring little thing with a smoky acrylic crystal. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">And then I got to thinking... I have this sweet vintage clear rhinestone choker with some pretty blue stones and it might spruce up my boring Baby Ben, plus I'm still using a vintage embellishment. After a bit of a struggle applying glue, which I had to do in stages, it's OK. Darn cute, really but it's not fitting with my color/decor theme and it's not the clock that I love which is now retired to my mantle, just for the sake of looking pretty. My 'new' clock with the vintage bling will grow on me, I'm sure, over time but it's not about form over function. It serves a purpose. I just want it prettied up.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8Wr6VJrsQ7U/TssI_JFMvWI/AAAAAAAAA1c/68VujLKUUEw/s1600/Baby+Ben+with+Bling.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8Wr6VJrsQ7U/TssI_JFMvWI/AAAAAAAAA1c/68VujLKUUEw/s320/Baby+Ben+with+Bling.jpg" width="316" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Adding bling to boring.</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VWBPscQeqqY/TssI2don1zI/AAAAAAAAA1U/EMsL7SHbZzM/s1600/BabyBen+Nightstand.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VWBPscQeqqY/TssI2don1zI/AAAAAAAAA1U/EMsL7SHbZzM/s320/BabyBen+Nightstand.jpg" width="286" /></a></td></tr>
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</span></div>Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06452387658787807176noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2488408385317992546.post-34295657665531695702011-11-15T00:41:00.000-04:002011-11-15T00:41:27.718-04:00Yard Sale!<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">It's high time I got this online yard sale going. I don't know what's stopping me. I have this fear of the unknown... jumping in head first and then realizing I forgot to test the waters. It's foolish of me... I can't explain it. How hard can it be to list items with clear photos and honest details on each item? I get tripped up on the shipping costs, the payment transaction (I have a seller's status eBay account AND paypal). So, what's my problem? I don't know! I wanted to blog for a year before I started one. </span><br />
<div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">So anyway, everything shown on this blog and over <a href="http://fabfindsgentlertimes.blogspot.com/" target="_blank"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: yellow;">here</span></a> is up for grabs (you will need to visit the archive pages which should be simple enough since there aren't many). I've included a "contact me" button on both blogs so if there's interest in any item, please message me, be sure to include your contact info and I'll be happy to answer any questions. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Over the course of the next few (or several) days, I'll be listing things on eBay so once I've managed to work my way into it, and past the learning curve, then I'll happily supply my 'sellers name' or whatever it is one searches for when looking for a particular seller's items. I'm not new to eBay, really. I've been a buyer over the years. The selling part, though, is quite a different matter.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Meanwhile... here's a few more things added to my purge list.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nlyeUT3ZuVo/TsGCLIZRR4I/AAAAAAAAA0c/8jFwges142E/s1600/Angel+Candle+Huggers.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nlyeUT3ZuVo/TsGCLIZRR4I/AAAAAAAAA0c/8jFwges142E/s320/Angel+Candle+Huggers.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Sweetest vintage angel candle huggers in mint condition</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I recently acquired two Tom Kuhn vintage yoyos (circa 1998). Now, I don't 'yo yo' and I don't (or didn't) know much about them. I just saw these beautiful hardwood yoyos (in their original boxes) and snapped them up. I was delighted to find they are quality made and retail in the $50 range (each). I have the <i>Sleep Machine</i> and the <i>Roller Woody</i>. Perhaps they'll find their way under someone's Christmas tree this year and for a great price, too!</span><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qkghPcDb4ao/TsGLgXu3zGI/AAAAAAAAA0k/UDp6eNQI5TU/s1600/tom+kuhn+roller+wood.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="193" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qkghPcDb4ao/TsGLgXu3zGI/AAAAAAAAA0k/UDp6eNQI5TU/s320/tom+kuhn+roller+wood.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Hardwood (maple) and just a beautifully crafted yoyo</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">'Yet another pair eye-grabbing chunky 80's earrings... there more in here or my other blog. Pretty sure I double posted some pics, too. It's confusing when you mix two blogs with the same content. Oh well... my blog, my rules. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_aJKrolRt3M/TsGPJdTvbkI/AAAAAAAAA0s/7919aS_A64o/s1600/Chunky+blk_white+80s+earrings+scale.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_aJKrolRt3M/TsGPJdTvbkI/AAAAAAAAA0s/7919aS_A64o/s320/Chunky+blk_white+80s+earrings+scale.jpg" width="255" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Now, this is chunky! Clip-ons if you're wondering.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oWeqnnVXF2g/TsGPb6ZOR1I/AAAAAAAAA00/2j_s_3-AvsU/s1600/Chunky+blk_white+80s+earrings.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oWeqnnVXF2g/TsGPb6ZOR1I/AAAAAAAAA00/2j_s_3-AvsU/s320/Chunky+blk_white+80s+earrings.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Maybe I should wear these for part of a day<br />
and see how they feel. Do they appear to be staring at you?</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Here's some tamer vintage earrings by Raynor Inc. Not too much found online about this company but the pearl earrings have genuine pearls and 14k gold filled which a step up from gold plate. The twisted 'loop' earrings have GF stamped backings but the posts read 14k gold so it's possible these are more than gold filled but I can't say for sure.</span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-bottom: 0.5em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; padding-bottom: 6px; padding-left: 6px; padding-right: 6px; padding-top: 6px; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LdP3PkxifWg/TsHMN7UO9LI/AAAAAAAAA1E/OmN3Sli98wo/s1600/Vintage+Rolyn+Inc.+Pearl+earrings.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="234" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LdP3PkxifWg/TsHMN7UO9LI/AAAAAAAAA1E/OmN3Sli98wo/s320/Vintage+Rolyn+Inc.+Pearl+earrings.jpg" style="cursor: move;" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px; padding-top: 4px; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Pretty and delicate.<br />
</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FE6_J6FAh2I/TsHMJtzbX1I/AAAAAAAAA08/znXNBcWYefw/s1600/Vintage+Rolyn+Inc.+earrings.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="278" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FE6_J6FAh2I/TsHMJtzbX1I/AAAAAAAAA08/znXNBcWYefw/s320/Vintage+Rolyn+Inc.+earrings.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">14k gold stamped posts. Can't say for certain if earrings<br />
are gold or gold filled but they are lovely.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
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</span></div>Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06452387658787807176noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2488408385317992546.post-79999203159573644212011-10-25T12:08:00.006-03:002011-10-25T18:05:40.854-03:00What's YOUR vintage flavour?<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I'm understanding that 80's jewelry is making the rounds in the vintage arena. Really, now... the 80s were not THAT long ago. OK, not to me. Time flies so much faster after 30ish. Yeah, that must be it.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WwGQpdki8MI/TqbN1SlPfEI/AAAAAAAAAxE/6-jlaHlctpw/s1600/Blue+Stone+Gun+Metal+earrings+80s.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="254" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WwGQpdki8MI/TqbN1SlPfEI/AAAAAAAAAxE/6-jlaHlctpw/s320/Blue+Stone+Gun+Metal+earrings+80s.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Late 80s earrings.<br />
I think I'm upset that anything I bought new is<br />
now considered to be a collectible item.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I must confess that even though I frequently wore costume jewelry, looking back makes me shudder at the tackiness of the 80s style. Most jewelry back in that era was oversized and chunky. Well, naturally, big hair and big shoulder pads need big jewelry!</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ezL4LWpgSro/TqY3w6PmA5I/AAAAAAAAAwc/q4OrehlKn98/s1600/80s+Pearl+Chain+and+Earrings.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="295" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ezL4LWpgSro/TqY3w6PmA5I/AAAAAAAAAwc/q4OrehlKn98/s320/80s+Pearl+Chain+and+Earrings.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Mid 80s necklace and earrings. Is this considered vintage?<br />
Really?</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Now, these earrings below are more along the lines that make me look twice. The thing for me is I have no occasion to wear them <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">(they were whispering my name)</span>. I live in a tiny village and typical outings involve going to one of two very small towns to do my grocery shopping. My other activities involve treasure hunting at local thrift shops (all three of them) and yard sales or playing with the dogs in the yard. Glittery earrings don't quite work in these settings any more than dressy shoes with three inch heels. But still... they're pretty and nice to look at.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-n4_kDbo7E24/TqY6CdSddzI/AAAAAAAAAwk/yzyP6n5m52o/s1600/Aurora+Boealis+Earrings+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-n4_kDbo7E24/TqY6CdSddzI/AAAAAAAAAwk/yzyP6n5m52o/s320/Aurora+Boealis+Earrings+2.jpg" width="276" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">My kind of eye candy!</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
</span>Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06452387658787807176noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2488408385317992546.post-67087639323199237222011-10-20T23:12:00.009-03:002011-10-21T12:08:53.228-03:00Too much stuff...<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I'm not a hoarder. I just have lots of stuff. I love stuff... mostly old stuff - vintage stuff. And I have lots of it. I can't stop my love of finding stuff and I can't keep all my stuff because I'm running out of places to put some of it and the little stuff just gets put into a jewelery box or something and forgotten.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I'm going to get rid of some of my stuff and have me a yard sale but not in my yard. Several items of what I'm showing here is stuff that was sold as junk jewellry. How delightful to learn I acquired silver and gold sold as costume jewelly. My kind of junk. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">When it comes to the vintage stuff, many here don't know or appreciate the value of old stuff. To them, it's just old stuff. To me, and perhaps you, it's a found treasure. It carries the feel of less complicated days... carefree and innocent. It has character, patina and was made with integrity. Does that sound odd? Made with integrity. Maybe I should say it was made to last, with quality in mind instead of mass produced and cheaply done.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Lots of my stuff is on my other blog... <a href="http://fabfindsgentlertimes.blogspot.com/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #93c47d;">fabfindsgentlertimes.blogspot.com</span></a> but there's so much more that I haven't taken photos of yet. Too much lovely stuff. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Here's some lovely stuff but it's not necessarily old stuff. Just great stuff.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jPgDWfHCHzk/TqC5_jrYzWI/AAAAAAAAAvE/AxH2GuMHxYM/s1600/Snake+Chain+Pendant.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jPgDWfHCHzk/TqC5_jrYzWI/AAAAAAAAAvE/AxH2GuMHxYM/s320/Snake+Chain+Pendant.jpg" width="247" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Snake chain and pendant, stamped .925 Italy</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gwKsEASFyBk/TqC6C7JL9YI/AAAAAAAAAvM/Sklm3R4zPlo/s1600/Silver%2526Clear+Stone+Ring+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="293" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gwKsEASFyBk/TqC6C7JL9YI/AAAAAAAAAvM/Sklm3R4zPlo/s320/Silver%2526Clear+Stone+Ring+3.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">.925 silver ring with cubic zirconia<br />
(not sure of the stone, actually)</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BUUdooq6Zyg/TqC6bYd63FI/AAAAAAAAAvU/ekT9zR2oqqg/s1600/Monet+Silver+Choker.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BUUdooq6Zyg/TqC6bYd63FI/AAAAAAAAAvU/ekT9zR2oqqg/s320/Monet+Silver+Choker.jpg" width="277" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Beautiful silverplated Monet choker.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tnqHjc3zyAY/TqC6vGoiMnI/AAAAAAAAAvc/Qcjp_8dUjlQ/s1600/Pearl%2526Silver+Choker.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="195" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tnqHjc3zyAY/TqC6vGoiMnI/AAAAAAAAAvc/Qcjp_8dUjlQ/s320/Pearl%2526Silver+Choker.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Choker made of silver beads and</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">what I believe to be potato pearls</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UsHGpG7gwD8/TqC63qiCnQI/AAAAAAAAAvk/oUdZpenP7mA/s1600/Zodiac+Gold+Watch.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UsHGpG7gwD8/TqC63qiCnQI/AAAAAAAAAvk/oUdZpenP7mA/s320/Zodiac+Gold+Watch.jpg" width="193" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Ladies Zodiac Automatic 60's watch in 18kt gold</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AHAuuo0zEWc/TqC7AtC2rSI/AAAAAAAAAvs/3LR1iOdqfwU/s1600/Pearl+Clutch+%2526+Earrings.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="242" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AHAuuo0zEWc/TqC7AtC2rSI/AAAAAAAAAvs/3LR1iOdqfwU/s320/Pearl+Clutch+%2526+Earrings.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Pretty vintage clutch purse and earrings.<br />
Wouldn't these be a lovely accessory with that little black dress?</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8ubfFet-eKI/TqDMZvgj-GI/AAAAAAAAAv0/zxNCMmy1smI/s1600/Silver+Pendant1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="231" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8ubfFet-eKI/TqDMZvgj-GI/AAAAAAAAAv0/zxNCMmy1smI/s320/Silver+Pendant1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Pretty little silver (.925) necklace, most likely for a child.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VlWBzSW0hGM/TqDNLFWUI8I/AAAAAAAAAv8/QKXvK3TVUAU/s1600/Silver+Rope+Bracelet.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="244" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VlWBzSW0hGM/TqDNLFWUI8I/AAAAAAAAAv8/QKXvK3TVUAU/s320/Silver+Rope+Bracelet.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Silver (stamped .925) bracelet.<br />
This is perfect for a small wrist. </span></td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dPf96tlhhWs/TqDOaOzUmwI/AAAAAAAAAwE/D6t2vr0MKc0/s1600/Silver+multi-strand+Necklace2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dPf96tlhhWs/TqDOaOzUmwI/AAAAAAAAAwE/D6t2vr0MKc0/s320/Silver+multi-strand+Necklace2.jpg" width="175" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">A whopping 120 grams of silver snake chain.<br />
Stamped .925 Italy.<br />
</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Emnxq1yCaWw/TqDO_jbxskI/AAAAAAAAAwM/UmzebCy8Rmk/s1600/Silver+Multi-strand+Necklace.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="234" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Emnxq1yCaWw/TqDO_jbxskI/AAAAAAAAAwM/UmzebCy8Rmk/s320/Silver+Multi-strand+Necklace.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">There are 21 stands of silver chain in this stunning necklace.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-baen3Ynh7K0/TqDUvh24xOI/AAAAAAAAAwU/9C64wcfXC7Q/s1600/Blue+Turqoise+and+Silver+Earrings.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-baen3Ynh7K0/TqDUvh24xOI/AAAAAAAAAwU/9C64wcfXC7Q/s320/Blue+Turqoise+and+Silver+Earrings.jpg" width="281" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Blue turquoise and silver earrings.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06452387658787807176noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2488408385317992546.post-791988628294239202011-10-15T00:41:00.005-03:002013-04-19T22:44:54.373-03:00About that reno...<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Hubs to me</b>... Why did you show that photo of the siding to your brother?</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Me.</b>... <i>Which</i> one?</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Hubs</b>... The one where the siding doesn't quite line up. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Me</b>.... Oh, Sweetie. It's not out <i>that</i> much. You're too fussy. He won't even notice. <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">(umm... </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">actually, </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">he did notice)</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Hubs.</b>.. It looks bad. It makes me look bad.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Me</b>... No, it doesn't look bad at all. Hey, did you know if you tilt your head all the way towards your left shoulder it looks perfectly lined up. It does. Try it.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Hubs</b>... </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Me</b>.... Hey! Where'd ya go? </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Seriously, though. A major undertaking, done solo by a perfectionist who is not a builder and who suffers immensely with 2 herniated discs, 2 compacted discs (</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">and lots of spasms)</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">, a torn right rotator cuff that often causes a lack of feeling in his hand, a damaged sternum from a work injury, a damaged ankle from a break as well as severely torn ligaments (worse than the broken bone) that still causes him great pain after THREE years and there's even more that he suffers from but you get the picture, right? </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I don't ever look for perfection in the things done around our humble home. I love the little imperfections as they serve as reminders that we are just human, not perfect but doing our best. To me, those little things that aren't perfect are akin to the patina on a vintage treasure. They show character. Overall, the addition was well done; he does his homework and refuses to cut corners. It's a solid 2x6 construction with great attention paid to those things that will prevent issues down the road (like rodent prevention, for one)... ewww.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bcCoAQ4XqYk/Tpj47Y0FYnI/AAAAAAAAAus/gHjKIlIcsg8/s1600/North+wall+looking+east.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="289" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bcCoAQ4XqYk/Tpj47Y0FYnI/AAAAAAAAAus/gHjKIlIcsg8/s320/North+wall+looking+east.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">At present, (pics to come) the insulation and vapor barrier is completed inside. Hubs needs a break now and is chewing on how he's going to finish the interior. Wainscot on some walls, the style and size of closet, etc. The roof (to be re-shingled next year) and rafters are original and not to code. That is to say, not 16 on center and with materials being as 4 x 8, it's a lot of extra work with regards to drywall and such. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">It had been debated whether to completely replace the roof or keep it. We found the wood to be in excellent condition so he decided to keep it.</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I've probably caused Hubs much more 'labour' just by having him explain to me why this can't be done like 'such and such' because of the not-to-code rafters. I listen but I'm like a deer in headlights. I get it but I try to find ways to offer easy solutions for Hubs. I should just practice the fine art of shut-up instead. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This is our inspiration pic for the east wall that faces the river. I can't wait. Just focus on the bench seating and vintage table. Our layout won't allow for all the other gorgeous elements in this gorgeous photo.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1apdhH8V2SE/Tpj7YRhwZJI/AAAAAAAAAu0/avamRY1-ePU/s1600/Nook+Inspiration.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1apdhH8V2SE/Tpj7YRhwZJI/AAAAAAAAAu0/avamRY1-ePU/s320/Nook+Inspiration.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Inspiration pic for our nook.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
</span>Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06452387658787807176noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2488408385317992546.post-63248731358538597462011-09-19T22:18:00.000-03:002011-09-19T22:18:47.180-03:00Reno Update....<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Things have come a long way since my last post with the mudroom reno. It's such a relief to have this near completion. We feared the attached garage wouldn't make it through another winter. During the course of the demo, it was discovered that the posts on the north wall that the structure sat on were just pounded into the ground without any cement footings. Any wonder it was sinking, rotting from the ground up and prone to some serious frost heaves! </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-632QbCWPFbc/TnfkFzXvQVI/AAAAAAAAAtg/2LzMrIcBIaw/s1600/DSC00160.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-632QbCWPFbc/TnfkFzXvQVI/AAAAAAAAAtg/2LzMrIcBIaw/s320/DSC00160.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Stairs to the cellar... where I don't need to go!</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kHrLlxph8os/Tnfj4s5lxmI/AAAAAAAAAtc/ifEvRuQCN9s/s1600/DSC00161.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kHrLlxph8os/Tnfj4s5lxmI/AAAAAAAAAtc/ifEvRuQCN9s/s320/DSC00161.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Looking at the north wall</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SdO2tFD0l9I/TnfkTpAzrpI/AAAAAAAAAtk/wQyuRVjld6Q/s1600/DSC00159.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SdO2tFD0l9I/TnfkTpAzrpI/AAAAAAAAAtk/wQyuRVjld6Q/s320/DSC00159.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vbr8AumI1vU/Tnfje07G0BI/AAAAAAAAAtU/kgRWiDHDpXA/s1600/DSC00163.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vbr8AumI1vU/Tnfje07G0BI/AAAAAAAAAtU/kgRWiDHDpXA/s320/DSC00163.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">New shingle on mud room & back of house next year</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3YfoiIUzb2U/TnfjDyvOg1I/AAAAAAAAAtM/8ScCa9tydTM/s1600/DSC00312.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3YfoiIUzb2U/TnfjDyvOg1I/AAAAAAAAAtM/8ScCa9tydTM/s320/DSC00312.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Entrance on west side</span></td></tr>
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kTA366v2Bnc/TnfiRoNjOSI/AAAAAAAAAs4/MihL4Mw3gL4/s1600/DSC00328.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kTA366v2Bnc/TnfiRoNjOSI/AAAAAAAAAs4/MihL4Mw3gL4/s320/DSC00328.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uWSIJHrTGhg/Tnfhbb8-daI/AAAAAAAAAso/pcG8Vs6-6rw/s1600/DSC00332.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uWSIJHrTGhg/Tnfhbb8-daI/AAAAAAAAAso/pcG8Vs6-6rw/s320/DSC00332.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-r4dTu5WnBIM/TnfhOn4jfpI/AAAAAAAAAsk/AJeUHumM-eU/s1600/DSC00333.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-r4dTu5WnBIM/TnfhOn4jfpI/AAAAAAAAAsk/AJeUHumM-eU/s320/DSC00333.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-P_qMZz5dA7g/TnfesJqcJ4I/AAAAAAAAAsY/yZODNxsqcqU/s1600/West+wall+looking+north.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-P_qMZz5dA7g/TnfesJqcJ4I/AAAAAAAAAsY/yZODNxsqcqU/s320/West+wall+looking+north.JPG" width="288" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Looking at the east wall. Skirting to come to keep rodents out.</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nElqtlLlz5I/TnfepZR98CI/AAAAAAAAAsU/7gsOnX1YJok/s1600/West+Entrance.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nElqtlLlz5I/TnfepZR98CI/AAAAAAAAAsU/7gsOnX1YJok/s320/West+Entrance.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Coming along... lattice will go and hardy board skirting added</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4NC2qyTVqns/TnfeiahprEI/AAAAAAAAAsM/YagEr0JjSN0/s1600/West+Wall+with+Stairs.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4NC2qyTVqns/TnfeiahprEI/AAAAAAAAAsM/YagEr0JjSN0/s320/West+Wall+with+Stairs.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Temporary stairs. Wrap around deck next summer?</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_dz_Ay9mUA0/Tnfel2nBTnI/AAAAAAAAAsQ/dF1bnpzjvYA/s1600/North+Wall+looking+south.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_dz_Ay9mUA0/Tnfel2nBTnI/AAAAAAAAAsQ/dF1bnpzjvYA/s320/North+Wall+looking+south.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">A deck will cover the ugly, old cement garage floor</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QZnOkrzWEPE/TnfmbG-81UI/AAAAAAAAAto/_F1LSnVitO4/s1600/EastWall+Skirting.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QZnOkrzWEPE/TnfmbG-81UI/AAAAAAAAAto/_F1LSnVitO4/s320/EastWall+Skirting.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Skirting being added to keep rodents out</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Our new mudroom is built with 2 x 6 lumber, up off the ground on post techs that go about 8 ft into the ground. The floor is insulated and under that is fine wire mesh to keep the rodents out. We're almost there... needing some exterior finish work and then interior insulation, drywall and floors to do. Such a big improvement!</span>Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06452387658787807176noreply@blogger.com6