tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-58458046592012588872024-03-12T20:45:49.284-07:00Scratch the SurfaceTammy Thttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01165042373196146406noreply@blogger.comBlogger137125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5845804659201258887.post-75437144508692498152019-01-21T06:00:00.000-08:002019-01-21T06:00:04.204-08:00Deep Thoughts: Why I'm Not Tidying Up with Marie Kondo <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Are you busy tidying up and folding clothes and deciding if things give you joy? I feel like I'm being part of the crowd right now, but I'm not taking part in the craze. There are multiple reasons why I'm not. </span><div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">One reason is I am somewhat of a maximalist. When I love something I really love it. I collect coffee table books, earrings, and apparently lipgloss. When I love something I love it hard! I find that there are a few things that give me so much joy I go all in. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">But I also try and go for quality when I buy these days. And I try and buy carefully which I hope leads to less need for a big clean out. Though I love trying new things, I tend to be fairly brand loyal leading to no need for excess. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">There are some things I learned when I read her book some time ago. Steve and I went thru all our paperwork and weeded out so much that wasn't needed. We looked at the girls' artwork and schoolwork with them and decided what to keep. And we went thru a bunch of our old photos to cull them down to the important ones. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We are such regulars at the thrift stores that it feels normal to keep a bag always on hand for items to take in for donation. I usually feel like it's reasonable to donate a pair of shoes if I bring a new pair in. And clothing is something that I try to keep to a reasonable amount. I think it's okay to have things that you are really attached to, and things that come and go. As long as there is a balance of course. I guess you could call me maximalist with minimalist leanings! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">What do you think? Do you find it easy to purge? Do you deal with your possessions in a different more novel way? I would love to hear your method! </span></div>
Tammy Thttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01165042373196146406noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5845804659201258887.post-66336789580697302752019-01-14T06:00:00.000-08:002019-01-14T06:00:08.669-08:00Field Trip: Goodwill Outlet Seattle <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Have you seen the video <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QK8mJJJvaes&list=RDQK8mJJJvaes&start_radio=1">Thriftshop</a> by Macklemore? It was the first time I had seen the Goodwill Outlet in action and it made me curious. (and it may play in my mind when I'm thrifting) I have always loved the thrill of the hunt associated with thrifting, and this just seemed next level. I read up on other peoples experiences with an outlet and it doubled the curiosity. There were great finds, unusual finds, and just plain crazy experiences. It sounded like something I wanted to try. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Steve also decided that he was interested and it turned into a family day at the <a href="https://seattlegoodwill.org/locations/16">Goodwill Seattle Outlet</a>. Our girls are gifted at finding cool things, Kate especially so. They both have their own style and know what they are looking for. They were ready to dive in and find the cool stuff. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Digging thru bins of thrift store clothing can be dirty work. Sam opted to wear gloves, and I saw some people there face masks. I was good with a good swipe with a baby wipe after. This place is huge, and there are a lot of bins to dig thru. There are major amounts of bins out in lines. And bins come out of the back all the time. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">We stuck to the bins full of clothing and shoes, though there are all kinds of things to be found. I picked up a huge dinosaur robot, but as it wasn't working I put it back. Kate found multiple pairs of shoes and we found tons of clothes and a blanket that we will keep in Steve's car for road trips. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The pricing is by pounds and is weighed out when you check out. There are bags available but I think in the future we will bring our own...maybe even a big <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Ikea-901-491-48-Frakta-Storage-Blue/dp/B00MJC4U08/ref=sr_1_4?s=home-garden&ie=UTF8&qid=1547431342&sr=1-4&keywords=ikea+bags">IKEA bag</a> that we used to move Sam into school. It was crazy just how much we decided to buy, even after going thru our cart and putting stuff bag. Even crazier was what we brought home! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Sam found this cute jumpsuit that is going to be so much fun when the weather turns. Kate brought home three pairs of shoes, there were numerous tee shirts and sweaters. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The shoes I'm wearing are from the Outlet. Nine West booties that I'm guessing cost less than $5. And they look brand new. Our total for a cartful of loot? $44.32, and day of entertainment. What do you think? Is this something you would try doing? I'm excited for our next visit and curious what the find of the day will be. What would you expect to find? </span>Tammy Thttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01165042373196146406noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5845804659201258887.post-10854215924618321522019-01-07T06:00:00.000-08:002019-01-07T06:00:00.182-08:00Deep Thoughts : Fresh Slate <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">How are you this New Year? Are you a resolution type person? I have to admit I have never really been about them. They just seem like another way to beat myself up if I fail again. And it seems there are very few resolutions that I tend to keep. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">There are however, some ways that others have been approaching this clean slate of a new year that I find intriguing. The first one was having a theme. Maybe the theme is to be fearless in most things. Maybe it's being gentle with yourself. Or maybe it's about making relationships priority. I love that this is a guiding principle that helps you with all your choices during the year, while giving you room to fail. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Another way that some approach things is with a word of the year. This can be another guiding principle that gives you room to fail, but also guides one choices. I have done this in the past, with various results. I have chosen words that suggest taking more chances, and others that are related to motivation. They've both been helpful. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">But a friend posted something that really resonates with me this year. She just said "less." I've modified this for myself for the year. And in my mind that means this:</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">less comparison, more contentment</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">less striving, more doing</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">less business, more action</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">less mindless eating, more satisfaction</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">less mindless scrolling, more connection</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">less stuff, more meaning</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">less mindless aggravation, more movement</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">less detachment, more love</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Thats what I'm considering this year. I'm hoping it will give me some direction in how I approach this clean slate. I get excited about it every year, and I hope that this year the drive to do things well will last. Do you have resolutions, a word or anything that you use to give your new year shape? I would love to hear how others approach the year! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">(ps. All these photos were taken at <a href="http://www.electricbeetjuiceco.com/">Electric Beet Juice</a>, a delicious local restaurant that has an array of healthy salads, sandwiches and smoothies!) </span></div>
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Tammy Thttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01165042373196146406noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5845804659201258887.post-39224287622457395872018-11-05T06:00:00.000-08:002018-11-05T06:00:05.463-08:00Field Trip: Star A-Frame Tiny Cabin, Cedar Bloom, OR <br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">On our recent road trip to the California Redwoods and back up the Oregon coast Steve and I had a few special nights planned. We planned to spend a couple of nights camping in his car, then a few nights in some funky spots. One we were really excited about was in Cave Junction, Oregon with <a href="https://www.hipcamp.com/">hipcamp</a>. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Steve found these incredible little cabins when planning for the trip. Tiny little A-frame cabins with twin beds and with a roof that tilts up to form an awning.The <a href="https://www.hipcamp.com/oregon/cedar-bloom/star-a-frame-tiny-cabin">Star A-Frame Tiny Cabin</a> is located in Cave Junction, Oregon, a little town near the Redwoods. We loved how sweet and snuggly they looked and looked forward to something that seemed a little adventurous. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">We knew we were traveling in the off season so we expected that the many cabins,yurts and tent spots onsite might be vacant. What we didn't expect was to be the only ones there...on 100 acres. We were met by one of the hosts who explained the amenities, then left to our own devices. We hung out in the cabins for a while, enjoying the quiet then took a walk to the river. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">After dinner in town we were back at the cabin snuggled under comforters and woolly blankets enjoying the view of the stars thru the wall. We stayed warm even when the temperature dropped. And though I had to make a bathroom run to the composting toilet it was an easy walk from our cabin. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">The next morning Steve and I had time to relax and enjoy the cabin. Steve ran to get us coffee from Dutch Brothers and we spent time just hanging in bed with the awning up. Then we spent some time in the sauna, before showering in the gorgeous outdoor shower that overlooked the river. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">The only company we had the entire time were there was the two cats that live there. They followed us around everywhere, including the shower! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">Have you tried hipcamp? They have such a huge array of camping options, from tents to cabins to more unusual experiences. I love quick getaways in the Fall and Winter so we are bookmarking cabins as options for the future. If you are interested in trying them, you are welcome to use my code, TAMMYTHIELE to receive ten dollars off. And let me know what you think! </span>Tammy Thttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01165042373196146406noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5845804659201258887.post-3451404750989243282018-09-24T06:00:00.000-07:002018-09-24T06:00:02.326-07:00Deep Thoughts: Sunday Drives with Steve <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Today Steve and I decided to head down to Mt. Vernon and check out the <a href="https://shop.elsagedesigns.com/pages/valley-made-market">Valley Made Market</a> and do some goofing around. One of my favorite people, Kari of <a href="https://www.renderskincare.com/">Render Skincare</a> told us about it so we headed out. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">What started as one stop turned into many, which is what made today magical. We used to drive through this area more when Steve's Mom lived in Oak Harbor and a friend had a cabin in the area. Now it seems we don't get to explore there enough.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Today though we made it a point to stop at little stands on the side of the road. We enjoyed the drive thru the farmlands and the autumn color. We took time to talk and talk and talk. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We realized that this is our life now. This freedom to head out the door at will. To stop where we want and eat what we feel like. It feels almost like it did when we were newly married. And it feels good! We worked to make sure that we gave our marriage attention even with the girls at home. We are glad to say that we like each other and are excited for this time together. It feels crazy to say that we saw a movie, went to two markets, went out to drinks and dinner, and still got some things done around here. We feel energized and ready to make some changes. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This doesn't mean we don't miss Sam. We talk to her daily and are gathering the next bunch of things to send to her at school. It just means we are doing our thing and enjoying it. It means we are happy that we worked to make sure we would be interested in one another when the girls moved out. I'm hoping this feeling lasts, as we are planning a road trip in October which will mean a lot of time together, and some tests (hello trying to give a guy directions!) And though I joked with Steve about our new demographic if we were taking Sunday drives, I think I could really learn to enjoy them. </span><br />
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<br />Tammy Thttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01165042373196146406noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5845804659201258887.post-11392309274883987052018-09-17T06:00:00.000-07:002018-09-17T06:00:10.578-07:00Deep Thoughts: Ch-ch-changes <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Well it finally happened. This past weekend we took Samantha to Central Washington University to start her new life as a college student. It was an easy transition, and a really hard one. Getting on the road was the easy part as she is a pretty organized person. And she didn't balk at me too much for making a vinyl at work to announce our road trip. We figured all we could do to mark the occasion would make it fun. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The ease was due in part to a facebook board for CWU parents where someone had the suggestion to buy <a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00OS47EDK/ref=nav_timeline_asin?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1">IKEA zipper bags</a> for transferring stuff. They were a huge help in packing and I know they will come in handy when Sam is bringing dirty laundry home! We also brought a bag of treats for the helpers we knew would be helping us unpack and move all her stuff. This is about when I think everything became real for all of us. The nerves hit and all the worries started including wondering if she was bringing too much stuff. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> As a freshman she had the bonus of having 'movers & shakers' who came to the car in the line up and unloaded everything! We didn't touch a box. They took everything to her room so all we had to do was check in and get a room key. It's such a smooth process which really helped since this is when the nerves really kicked in. Once all the boxes are in you just get down to it and unpack. Oh, and meet the roommate and realize this is your new "home."</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">It wasn't until the next day when we were about to leave that emotions really hit. This is when things became hard. There were lots and lots of tears and questions. It's hard watching your kid struggle, especially when you know they are doing the right thing. We just comforted her the best we could. There are two pieces of advice that I left her with and I have to say Steve and I are applying them to ourselves as well. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">The first is to be vulnerable. I often find other people will share with me once I start the conversation. She will definitely not be the only one fighting homesickness or struggling with this new normal. And talking about it can only make it feel easier. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">The second is to take it one day at a time. Thankfully CWU has a program where there are a lot of mandatory sessions freshman have to attend and a lot of fun things they can choose to. So far she has taken part in a color rave (where they basically spray paint on you while you dance!), attended a volleyball game, and is on a dodgeball team! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">The surprise has been Steve's response. He has been hit hard by her being gone, and is a bit off his game. I have been doing okay so far, but I know it will really hit me in the coming weeks. I have been fortunate to have great friends checking in, and will make sure to take my own advice and take things one day at a time. And soon enough this will feel like our new normal. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>Tammy Thttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01165042373196146406noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5845804659201258887.post-77731897215853461532018-09-04T06:00:00.000-07:002018-09-04T06:00:06.724-07:00Deep Thoughts: Tracking Time <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I know it's been quiet around here. I have been trying to figure out what to say about what has been going on. It's been a little bit of preparing, a little big of goofing around, a little bit of crying. Sam moves to college in two weeks and it's starting to feel real, yet still feel dreamlike. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">We've spent the summer trying to fit all the fun things in...swimming in the lake, visiting Seattle, hitting IKEA for random little things, and spending as much time together as a family as possible. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">And I thought it would be the big things that would be memorable. I thought I would be telling you it was the evening spent at the drive in that was amazing. Or the day Sam and I spent in Seattle at a Korea Beauty pop up. But it's actually been the in between times that have stuck in my mind. It's been listening to Sam and Kate talking and laughing upstairs. It's been random times in the car, all of us chatting and talking together. A spontaneous breakfast, or a random time of us all sitting together sharing a funny youtube video or story. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I have been trying to stay fully present in the moment and stave off the sadness that I know is on the fringes. It seems that Steve and I have wandered thru parenthood making it up as we go along. We have no idea what things will look like going forward. Yes, I am really excited for Sam and all that college will mean to her. I am at the same time mourning a moment in our family that is coming to an end, much as I mourned the moment we realized our time of having babies was over. They are all too quick, these moments. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">So I try and stay present and let the emotions roll thru me. And if I'm quiet in this space it's because I am trying to get my bearings. I will be back. Steve and I have some adventures planned and I will talk about what life looks like when I have the words for it. In the meantime you will find me soaking up the good stuff and the last of summer. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>Tammy Thttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01165042373196146406noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5845804659201258887.post-83814810451208153042018-08-13T06:00:00.000-07:002018-08-13T06:00:10.354-07:00Field Trip: Gato Verde Sunset Cruise <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Some time ago our book group had the chance to have our meeting aboard the <a href="https://www.gatoverde.com/">Gato Verde</a>, and as you can imagine little talking about the book took place. Ever since then Steve and I have been talking about booking a sunset cruise and finally made that happen recently. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The sunset cruise is a 1.5 hour cruise aboard the first plug in diesel electric hybrid charter boat on the West Coast. Thankfully, we had plenty of wind on our night out to see Todd, our captain work his magic with the sails, and soon we were under way out into the bay. We were paired with four other wonderful people and with plenty of room on the boat you could choose to be social or not. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Steve and I spent a lot of time either in the seat he was pictured in earlier, in the nets, or a combo of both. There is something so peaceful about sitting in the nets, suspended over the water, with the occasional spray hitting you. Being on the water makes you feel incredibly removed from everything, though it's just a bit of time out of your day in the middle of the week. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The Gato, being a 42 foot long catamaran makes for a smooth ride with just a bit of fun when you hit the waves. Steve caught a bit of spray when he was sitting in the front, though Todd seemed to be able to predict when we would hit and give us fair warning. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">And as far as the sunset part? It was timed out perfectly to see it! Steve and I moved to the back of the boat to chat with Todd and see the beginning of it. But he was sure to maneuver the boat in such a way that we had a perfect view of it from the front as he brought the boat in. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The sunset is the perfect ending to a relaxing trip. We are now thinking we may need to make it a summer tradition. The cost is reasonable enough that we would even consider bringing our girls. They offer many different types of trips if you are looking for something more. And if not I highly suggest booking your sunset cruise <a href="https://www.gatoverde.com/book-now">here</a>. </span><br />
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Tammy Thttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01165042373196146406noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5845804659201258887.post-12784229763722100022018-08-06T06:00:00.000-07:002018-08-06T06:00:10.141-07:00Field Trip: Zootunes with Psychedelic Furs & X<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Recently I had the good fortune to receive tickets from my friends Diane & Perry to see the Psychedelic Furs & X at the <a href="https://www.zoo.org/zootunes">Zootunes </a>concert series at the <a href="https://www.zoo.org/">Woodland Park Zoo</a>. I hadn't been to a concert there since my 20's and was excited to experience it again with friends from college and our daughter Kate (who was given a ticket from Pam! We are so lucky with generous friends!) We brought Sue, my roommate from college down with us so we were ready to reminisce. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">A bonus for us is the doors open around 4:30 and the show starts around 6, with everything being over by 8:30. This was a Sunday show which made it completely doable for us in Bellingham to get to and home in time to get ready for the week. There are a few more shows before the summer is out including <a href="https://www.ticketfly.com/purchase/event/1664646?utm_source=WPZ_Website&utm_medium=2nd_announce">Pink Martini</a> which would be a perfect way to end the season. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">You can bring in your own chairs, blankets, and picnics. It's a relaxed atmosphere which for my friends meant two of them watched the Furs show from right by the stage! The rest of us enjoyed dancing in our seats mixed with standing and dancing. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">And really, when they sang 'Love my Way' there was no choice but to stand! It is so crazy to me how music can really transport you to a place in time and the Furs take me back to my time in college and directly after in a way few bands do. They make up a large part of my soundtrack to that time. Not to diminish X, who made me so happy when they sang 'Breathless!' </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">All this music and time with friends from college made me a bit nostalgic. With Sam leaving for college, and Kate hitting her twenties, it also made me realize I have a wish for them. A wish that they will find a group of people that will push them and help them find out new things about themselves that they wouldn't find out otherwise.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> Diane pictured in the photo above with me exposed me to new music, art and ways to thrift that made my life so much richer. She was also the first to really show me what it looked like to live with a real vision of what you were about and I loved it. She was curated from her room, to her wardrobe and it's incredible. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Pam has been always completely and honestly herself. She has given me nothing but true, heartfelt friendship and I will never feel completely worthy of it. In college we had some hard, deep conversation and we continue to do so. I will never feel judged by Pam and hope she feels the same.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Can you tell by the photo above that Sue has been nothing but trouble from the get go? She was the one behind most of the jokes, pranks, and the funnest times I have ever had in my life. With those sweet good looks she rarely got in trouble for it! Sue is still one of my closest friends and continues to be know as trouble! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I hope for our girls that they can find and grow friend groups that challenge them and make them consider new ideas. I know that Sam has a strong group of friends here and I hope they are able to stretch with her as she heads off to college. And that she develops new ones. I will be curious to see what her soundtrack is while she is making those friends. </span>Tammy Thttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01165042373196146406noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5845804659201258887.post-48692274760011091762018-07-23T09:41:00.000-07:002018-07-23T09:41:02.814-07:00Field Trip: Moorea Seal, El Borracho, SoDo Murals, Oh My! <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">When Kate found out <a href="https://www.mooreaseal.com/">Moorea Seal</a> was gearing up for a Five year Anniversary Party she requested the two of us take a day and spend it in Seattle together. It had been some time since we had hung out just the two of us so it was long overdue. We grabbed some hot drinks, some CD's and hit the road. Though traffic was a brute (the Bite of Seattle among other things was going on) it was worth it once we dumped the car and hit all the spots on our wish list! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The main reason we went of course was to shop at Moorea Seal's party and wish her well! I met Moorea some years back at an <a href="http://www.urbancraftuprising.com/">Urban Craft Uprising</a> where she was doing a book signing...I believe for her first book. She has never failed to be kind, warm and a whole lot of fun! Kate had never met her and spent an evening shopping, drinking and winning a prize after being warmly greeted. It was worth braving the crowd to see Moorea so happy and celebrating! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">After running around downtown we needed some sustenance and boy did we find it at <a href="https://www.elborracho.co/">El Borracho</a> in Pike Place Market. Kate is eating vegan and can you believe that plate of nachos is vegan? It was mind blowing and according to her delicious! Meanwhile I was perfectly happy with my caesar salad and guacamole. And sitting outside on a summer night really can't be beat. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">On the way out of town we were able to find something we were both really excited to see. It's called <a href="https://sodotrack.com/">SODO Track</a>, a 2 mile long corridor of murals along a transit way between Royal Brougham Way and Spokane Street. We were able to park near the Sodo Transit station and walk around to see a few of them. The one above is by <a href="http://www.daleast.com/">DALeast</a>, an artist from China. I was drawn to the movement and the color, and imagine that it translates well even from the moving buses and trains. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Kate was drawn to this piece by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/paola_delfin/">Paola Delfin</a>, an artist from Mexico City. The artist said she was inspired by the tracks theme of "movement and progression" and applied it to her subject. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">And probably my absolute favorite from the ones we could see is this piece by <a href="http://www.jillianevelyn.com/">Jillian Evelyn</a>, an artist living in LA that paints females that express themselves with eyerolls and cigarettes. She's someone that I'm now following and completely in love with her art. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">Having a day with Kate was wonderful on so many levels. Seeing her out and about in Seattle as an adult is so different from when she was a little girl afraid of the crowds. She is confident, fun and ready to search out all the cool experiences. Having her ask me to spend the day with her was a sweet surprise and made me realize it was time for me to make more dates like this. Maybe next time will find us on a bus searching out the rest of these murals. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.bellinghamfarmers.org/">The Bellingham Saturday Market</a> Some time ago Steve decided this would be an easy Saturday date for us that we could make happen on a regular basis. It would be a way for us to pick up some groceries and some treats while spending some quality time just us. It's a win-win on so many levels! It's also been a fun way to support some of our favorite vendors, like <a href="http://www.gatheredconfections.com/">Gathered Confections</a> with her delicious treats, and <a href="http://samishbay.com/farmers-markets/">Samish Bay Cheese</a> with Steve's favorite cheeses to snack on. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><u>Berry Picking </u> Sam and I had the fun of getting to pick strawberries and raspberries in the same day. There is something about the taste of fresh berries that says summer to me. It only takes a few hours, some time to prepare them for the freezer, and you can have that taste all year. We head to <a href="https://boxxberryfarm.com/?v=7516fd43adaa">Boxx Berry Farm</a> which we find easy to navigate and we can end with a strawberry shortcake if you choose! We are thinking we may head back there again for blueberries. Having all the berries available for smoothie bowls makes the entire family so happy. </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><u>Mural Walk</u> Something new that we have been doing is searching out murals when we are in new areas. I'm not sure if it's a summer thing, but the mural we found above certainly feels fun and summery! There's something so fun about public art and it's an easy (and free!) thing to do a search for it in the summer weather! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><u><a href="http://www.bellinghambells.com/">Bellingham Bells Baseball </a></u> This is a favorite of Steve's summer activities! He loves taking in a game on a warm summer evening. Sam will run if she sees that mascot, but Kate is game for a good photo! I'm not hugely into baseball, but enjoy a bratwurst, beer, peanuts and people watching! And It's easy getting into these games involving minor league players. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><u><a href="https://www.7-eleven.com/">Slurpee</a></u> Sometimes all you need, or all you have time for is just a taste of something that makes it feel like summer. Most times that means a s'more for me, but for something a little less involved there is a good old slurpee. I prefer mine with cola on the bottom, something cherry on top. It has the added bonus of reminding me of childhood. How do you you slurpee? </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><u>Hit a Park</u> Sometimes all you need is to just get yourself to a park and either take a picnic, a slurpee or a drink of your choice or just your favorite person and relax. The above photo was taken at a park in Seattle waiting for sunset but we have plenty of parks here in Bellingham. There are parks on the water, one's that have concerts, and even the new one that is still in progress. While writing this I found a printable map of all the parks of Bellingham that I link <a href="https://www.cob.org/documents/gis/maps/parks-open-space-planning-map.pdf">here</a>! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">This is just what we have been up to so far! We still have a few things that we have in mind to do before summer is over. We are talking about going to Canada to play mini golf at a park Kate has found. And Steve and I are getting ready to book an evening cruise on <a href="https://www.gatoverde.com/book-now/">Gato </a></span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://www.gatoverde.com/book-now/"> </a></span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://www.gatoverde.com/book-now/">Verde</a> which we have talked about for a couple of summers! There is swimming in the lake still to do, another trip to the drive in and I am sure there are a few other things for us to come up with! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Is there anything that you are planning on that really says summer for you? What are you most excited about? </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">We have just come off the very busy time of Sam's Graduation and party and all of a sudden things feel very quiet. This is the time when I typically feel blue and can even catch a cold or some other type of sickness. When everything comes to a full stop it can be difficult for me to get my bearings and shift down. In the past this would have come with a freak out and worry that it would lead to a full drop into a depression. Instead I have found that this is just a time of collecting energy, creativity and regrouping before we tackle the next big thing. There are a couple of things I have learned to do in this time to take care of myself. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">1. Eat Well. Steve is very sweet to me when I am down and sweetly takes care of breakfast on the weekends. He is the creator of the gorgeous bowl above. I don't ascribe to any special diets, I just try to listen to my body and what it needs. Which might mean chocolate, or it might mean a bowl full of fruit! Snacks are always kept on hand!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">2. Get Outside. Getting outside and disconnecting from social media is almost always a good idea! When I'm feeling low I don't always feel generous when I see all the good things happening with others. So it's a good attitude adjustment to just get out and do our own thing. Sam and I did some berry picking in the rain and it was dirty, fun and just what I needed! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">3. Do what you Love. This weekend our whole family took a little trip to Value Village and did some thrifting which is something we all enjoy. There I found a pair of clean, fun, polka dot Vans for a steal and they just make me happy to look at! Shopping is something that I used to turn to to make me happy in the past. While this is shopping, we consider it more of a hunt. It's usually full of laughs as we charge each other to try on the most outrageous things we can find! A few hours later we leave after spending less than thirty dollars! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">4. Look for the Beauty. I make fairly regular trips to our public library and noticed this gorgeous mural in process the other day. Unexpected color like this makes me so happy. Somehow the effect from seeing it lingers. When I posted on my instagram stories it became clear I'm not the only one thats moved by things like this. A sweet friend found the artist for me. Her name is Gretchen Leggitt and her instagram can be found <a href="https://www.instagram.com/g2legit/?hl=en">here</a>. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I hope this is some benefit to you. I know now that this is just a phase for me and that I soon will be back to 100% and ready to tackle the next thing. There are two things actually. Getting Sam ready for college. And Steve and I have decided to go on a road trip for our 25th wedding anniversary which will probably include some sort of car camping. There's nothing like a bit of research, planning and anticipation to get things going again. (Thankfully I have a very loving husband keeping an eye on me so that things don't get out of hand!) How do you deal with the ups and downs in your emotions? Any tips? </span>Tammy Thttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01165042373196146406noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5845804659201258887.post-24511984670480810202018-06-25T06:00:00.000-07:002018-06-25T06:00:06.203-07:00Setting the Scene: Grad Party/Pool Party <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Whew! We did it! We are officially done with Graduation season and feel like we finished it with a flash of color and fun! With friends and family in our little backyard we were able to celebrate Sam! There were some fun little details that went into it that I thought I would share here. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">When Sam and I started talking about her party we started with a theme and a few elements to build it on. One of the first things we pulled was this funny little mug her Grandmother had sent, then thrifted a few more for arrangements around the food tables. Some salads, a bucket of cheese popcorn and a five pound bag of gummy worms that we scattered around (and completely went through!) and we were set for snacks. (one of the salads that everyone loved is this <a href="http://www.freutcake.com/in-the-kitchen/salad/grilled-mexican-corn-salad/">Grilled Mexican Corn Salad </a>from food blogger <a href="http://www.freutcake.com/">Freutcake</a>!) </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The next idea we landed on was one of a pool party since we have a group of pool floats that we thought would be fun for decor. Steve and I bought a small pool, filled it with drinks and ice, and voila! And can I tell you how excited I was to find a rose named Pool Boy?! We attached a bottle opener to the flamingo keeping watch in the background and we were set there! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The next thing I was pretty set on was fun ice cream treats. We ended up flagging down our sweet ice cream "lady" and bought some treats directly from her that we couldn't find at our local grocery stores and then mixed them with the usual suspects. Steve came up with the funny idea of just placing our small extra freezer in the backyard for a help yourself situation witch was so much fun we have joked that we will keep it there all summer! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The last element that I really wanted was a <a href="https://tattly.com/">Tattly</a> tattoo station. We have included Tattly's in most of our recent parties and they were just as much a hit at this one as others. It's always a great mixer, and we love seeing what people pick. We are thinking of sending Sam to college with a mix of them so that she can set them out in her dorm for an easy talking point!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">What else does a party need? Just friends. Friends that are ready to relax, mix and mingle, and just celebrate with you. It was amazing to have friends here that have been with Sam since preschool! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">And for me its was wonderful to have friends there from college, from baby group, and from my work. If we didn't have people to share this crazy ride it just wouldn't have been the same. And it's what makes party planning so fun. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Yes, we were celebrating Sam. We were also celebrating all those that have been there supporting us, figuring out things with us, and helping us get there. That is what made all this so much fun! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I don't know about you, but life has been a bit crazy for us over here! With Sam graduating, Kate moving back, Steve's family in town, a party to plan, and other things we have a lot going on. You are left with a pair of two completely stressed out people. It used to be that I could put on a sappy movie, cry my eyes out and feel better. This time around I wanted something a little more active that would really work out some of these feelings I have been either holding back, or that have been simmering right below the surface.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">That's where <a href="https://www.rageindustry.com/">Rage Industry</a> comes in. Steve and I read about it some months ago, and were recently reminded of it when they did something similar on an episode of the Bachelorette. We figured this would be just the ticket for a fun date that would help us both work through some extreme emotions. We booked the <a href="https://www.rageindustry.com/booking.html">Double Trouble service</a> and headed down to Seattle for some fun! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">We were greeted by Leslie, the owner and found that they have been open about a year (since April 2017). She said that things have been going well, as we would imagine since there are so many things to be angry or frustrated about these days. We were shown the wall where you chose your items (we were allocated 36 for our scheduled time) and got down to business.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Steve and I each had a crate to fill and got down to business. We chose a mix of beer, wine and other items to break. I found a couple of heavy ashtrays (that were amazing to go after with a sledgehammer!) and we ended up adding a couple of large vases from a dollar pile that were very satisfying to smash. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Before you head back to the room where you go crazy you are given safety gear and a locker to store your things. You are encouraged to make a playlist that you can synch to a waiting speaker that they thankfully set up for you since you are a bit goofy with all the gear. There is a wall of "weapons" that you can choose from that ranges from sledgehammers, golf clubs, bats and a crowbar. Once they start the timer you get to it!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">There are a couple of surfaces available to "rage" on, including a stack of tires that you can use to stack items on or just go crazy on! It was crazy to see what broke easily, what would shatter allover the room, and how quickly the time went and how sweaty and spent we were in the time allotted. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">This is us straight after. Can you see the steam in my glasses? We are unhurt and feeling like we left it in the Rage room. I would say it was better for me at this time than a sad movie as far as working through some emotions. It was a great date for us at this stage in our marriage and I think it would be an incredible way to learn about someone early in a relationship! I may also send Steve back for some time there alone to just go crazy by himself when work stress is getting to him. And I can think of all sorts of occasions to give a give certificate from there. What do you think? Would you try it? </span>Tammy Thttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01165042373196146406noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5845804659201258887.post-22546950323154836142018-06-11T06:00:00.000-07:002018-06-11T08:01:31.908-07:00Deep Thoughts: Beauty and Terror<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Like many of you I have been doing a lot of reading following the deaths of Kate Spade and Anthony Bourdain. I could say I have been struggling to understand, but as someone that has experienced depression and is familiar with mental health issues I sadly find it not to much of a reach. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Life is hard. It's a struggle and it can be scary and difficult at times. When I have been in the midst of depression it's like a big cloud descends and I feel nothing. No joy, no light. Just grey. And once that hits it's hard to reach out. You know what you should do, but you just don't have the energy or frankly the will to do those things. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I can't even tell you what prompts me to tend to myself in these moments. I do know that having touched the depths, I feel like I can appreciate the highs a bit more. Much like the ease of water when you are thirsty. I wouldn't wish depression on anyone, but I understand it makes me who I am.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I think I appreciate most the posts that encourage us to pay attention to others. Not just the ones that appear to be in pain, but to all we hold dear. I was first diagnosed by a therapist that suggested that I laughed far too much in a way that seemed false. He was right. It was a front that I has found easy to put up. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I don't have much to add to the conversation. Just that I will be watching my friends and hugging more freely, and hope you will too. I found the following quote in one of the many discussions and thought it was fitting. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Let everything happen to you. Beauty and terror. Just keep going. No feeling is final. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">-Rainer Maria Rilke </span></div>
Tammy Thttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01165042373196146406noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5845804659201258887.post-80407341686506892722018-06-04T06:00:00.000-07:002018-06-04T06:00:08.828-07:00On My Rader: A Modern Take on Class Jewelry by GLDN<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uHtOL_9FJBo/WxNf9M9oyzI/AAAAAAAABz8/88iC-xUwvjE8naywwQe4oxV0RYn44y94QCLcBGAs/s1600/bellingham-blogger---GLDN--3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="920" data-original-width="750" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uHtOL_9FJBo/WxNf9M9oyzI/AAAAAAAABz8/88iC-xUwvjE8naywwQe4oxV0RYn44y94QCLcBGAs/s640/bellingham-blogger---GLDN--3.jpg" width="520" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">During this year a lot of information came home with regards to graduation. When the packet came home with all the deets for Sam's graduation gown and cap it also came with an order form for class rings. Sam was not impressed with what was on offer, though we both thought it would be nice to have a piece of jewelry to mark the occasion. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">During a conversation with my lovely friend Emma that works at <a href="https://www.gldn.com/">GLDN</a> we both realized that there were pieces they offer that would be perfect as a modern take on class jewelry. Rings and necklaces that you would want to wear everyday rather than just bring out for reunions. We found there were quite a few pieces that would lend themselves perfectly to commemorate ones graduation while still be modern enough to wear every day. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">So <a href="https://www.gldn.com/">GLDN</a> kindly gifted Sam with a couple of pieces which I thought I would share here! She is so excited she hasn't taken them off since she opened the box! The first piece she chose was the <a href="https://www.gldn.com/shop/personalized-wrap-ring">Personalized Memoire Ring</a>. She is able to have a subtle piece that celebrates her graduation that she can wear anytime. And if her reaction to it is any indication she will be wearing it daily!</span><br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vlOtmNkmCb8/WxS3Qk_aCFI/AAAAAAAAB0w/ebG_jdsh6DIfbH5Piti2QQatrBh-_r0YwCEwYBhgL/s1600/bellingham-blogger---GLDN--5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="908" data-original-width="750" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vlOtmNkmCb8/WxS3Qk_aCFI/AAAAAAAAB0w/ebG_jdsh6DIfbH5Piti2QQatrBh-_r0YwCEwYBhgL/s640/bellingham-blogger---GLDN--5.jpg" width="528" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The next piece Sam chose was the <a href="https://www.gldn.com/shop/personalized-marseille-necklace?rq=marseille">Personalized Marseille Pendant Necklace</a>. This time she decided to have 2018 set in Roman numerals and it turned out so beautifully. My photo doesn't do it justice. Again, it's one that she can wear anytime and feel cool. And I like that these pieces feel like the start of a jewelry wardrobe. Pieces that you can collect over time and wear forever. </span><br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TQpRQNR7LW0/WxS3EkN1V4I/AAAAAAAAB0o/VQUu6Hu8cWIM0Jlwmme8YfjzeQ2HMxPMgCEwYBhgL/s1600/bellingham-blogger---GLDN--2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="954" data-original-width="750" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TQpRQNR7LW0/WxS3EkN1V4I/AAAAAAAAB0o/VQUu6Hu8cWIM0Jlwmme8YfjzeQ2HMxPMgCEwYBhgL/s640/bellingham-blogger---GLDN--2.jpg" width="503" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">A friend overheard our planning and decided to order a couple of pieces for her daughter. She also chose the <a href="https://www.gldn.com/shop/personalized-wrap-ring?rq=personalized%20memoire">Personalized Memoire Ring</a> but decided to do it in a different finish, font, and use Roman numerals. I love that while they are both subtle they have a very personal feel to both. (Again my photo doesn't do this ring justice!)</span><br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-r1MfoF3hSy8/WxS3Azq-qzI/AAAAAAAAB0g/8Aqa746nWngXzwoGsyVKK7WVPH-8QebAgCEwYBhgL/s1600/bellingham-blogger---GLDN--1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="655" data-original-width="750" height="558" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-r1MfoF3hSy8/WxS3Azq-qzI/AAAAAAAAB0g/8Aqa746nWngXzwoGsyVKK7WVPH-8QebAgCEwYBhgL/s640/bellingham-blogger---GLDN--1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">My friend ordered a second piece for her daughter as well. We were talking about all the feelings we are having about our girls leaving for college and she decided she wanted a piece that would remind her daughter that she was always with her. So she decided on the <a href="https://www.gldn.com/shop/mila-small-disk-bracelet">Mila Disk Bracelet</a> with a simple heart design.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Sam is considering the <a href="https://www.gldn.com/shop/kissy-face-friendship-set">Kissy Face Friendship Set</a> as a graduation gift for a friend that she will be away from when she leaves for college. It would be a modern and cool update on the "best friends" necklace from junior high!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">This idea turned out even better than I could imagine. Everything is made in La Conner by hand and all the pieces come on a card signed by the maker. And the fun part? GLDN has extended an offer of $5 off any order (expires July 1st). Just include the promo code GRAD2018. Let me know if you decide to try them! </span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VsPUC8UzQdI/Wwt-YOvW_fI/AAAAAAAABzg/xlShKzRfHo8UuYbvWgSqwYG8a8wTh1l7QCLcBGAs/s1600/bellingham-blogger---girls--4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="750" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VsPUC8UzQdI/Wwt-YOvW_fI/AAAAAAAABzg/xlShKzRfHo8UuYbvWgSqwYG8a8wTh1l7QCLcBGAs/s640/bellingham-blogger---girls--4.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">We are fast approaching the graduation of our youngest daughter and it feels like a marker in our journey as parents. This part of our journey as their guides is over, and a new one begins. Just like that they are practically adults and it's time to relate to them in a different way. We have grown along with them in ways I would have never predicted. I have been stretched. I have been tested and challenged. And it's all been incredibly worth it. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Steve and I always knew we would like to have two kids. And that they were both girls was a bonus for me as I grew up with a sister. Sure they fight. Sure they drive each other crazy. But in the end they have each other and I can't think of a better gift. No one else can relate to the stories they can tell of growing up in our crazy household. No one else can commiserate about their parents trying to keep things equal but not always succeeding. </span><br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Yx7JsZX-R7I/Wwt-Ume1y2I/AAAAAAAABzs/SgFZIPrxokYDRzc3RYOrdilSB3IjJwmxgCEwYBhgL/s1600/bellingham-blogger---girls--3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="750" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Yx7JsZX-R7I/Wwt-Ume1y2I/AAAAAAAABzs/SgFZIPrxokYDRzc3RYOrdilSB3IjJwmxgCEwYBhgL/s640/bellingham-blogger---girls--3.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">And hopefully we have done well by these two women. And will continue to do so. Our relationship doesn't end, it just changes considerably. I love talking with them honestly about things I would discuss with my girlfriends and not having to censor myself. They are smart, they are honest and they are funny. We are proud of who they are and that they are ours. We are also proud that they are their own people who are learning to navigate in the world on their own. They are figuring things out and trying things on. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> We are happy to release them to the world, knowing they always have a landing place with us. That they will never have to worry about being out there in the world alone. That family is where they started and where they end. We love these humans that we are proud to know and call ours. And we are excited to see where their adventures take them. This adventure is only beginning. For them and for us. </span>Tammy Thttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01165042373196146406noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5845804659201258887.post-48760427998601644832018-05-14T06:00:00.000-07:002018-05-14T06:00:05.739-07:00Deep Thoughts: Mother's Day Thoughts <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Today is Mother's Day and I have enjoyed breakfast in bed, gifts and cards from our girls, a picnic, some thrifting and a relaxing lovely day. Now I am here feeling thoughtful and grateful. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">This year has been full of loss and heartache for friends I am close to. My own relationship with my mother is strained, making Mother's day feel a bit complicated. All this is a constant reminder that Mother's Day isn't all sunshine and flowers for all women. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">This is a love letter to all women. That support one another. That are mourning a loss. That are hoping this will one day be a day to celebrate in the future. We mourn together. We celebrate together. And we hold one another up. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">This motherhood thing is not easy. It's something I would never survive without my friends. They are many and they are varied. Some are mothers, and some are not. All are special to me. Today I celebrate my women friends. Both mothers and otherwise. Cheers to them. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>Tammy Thttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01165042373196146406noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5845804659201258887.post-58736350753882573242018-05-07T06:00:00.000-07:002018-05-07T06:00:12.289-07:00Field Trip: Yellow Co. Tour Stop in Seattle (and some thoughts on Self Care)<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Yesterday Samantha and I had the great fun of attending the Seattle stop of the Yellow Co. Tour. The thing that made me really want to attend (besides the incredible speaker they had lined up!) was the fact that one of the creators of the organization, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/joannawaterfall/?hl=en">Joanna Waterfall</a> is someone I had met years ago at a blogging conference. It just felt like a sign that we should go!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The <a href="https://yellowco.co/">Yellow Co.</a> is an organization that is all about empowering women to figuring out how to make their purpose match their passions. This tour stop theme was self care. I'm all about this topic and was happy to hear what the different women had to say about it. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">First up was <a href="https://www.mooreaseal.com/">Moorea Seal</a>, a woman for whom my admiration grows every time I'm around her. She shares openly and vulnerably in an age of trolls and criticism and has no fear of speaking passionately about the things she cares about. She spoke eloquently on making sure that while we pursue a career we are passionate about, that we take care of the personal. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Next up were two women that I follow on instagram and it was wonderful to see them in real life. Brandy Brown, of <a href="http://www.maraboudesign.com/">Marabou Design</a> answered questions along with Deborah Shepherd of <a href="http://brokeminimalist.com/">The Broke Minimalist</a>. They had a lot to say about having a business, setting boundaries, and taking care of yourself in the process. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.mollymoon.com/">Molly Moon</a> was next up and she took to the stage with her sweet baby Odessa in arms. This was my first time hearing her speak and I was so taken with her smarts, drive to make a difference, mixed with a love of connection. She was funny and wise and I hope to see her speak again in the future. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The speakers ended with Joanna interviewing Sharon Lee of the<a href="https://lihi.org/tiny-houses/"> Low Income Housing Institute</a>, the "Do Good" Partner of the tour. She shared about the Tiny housing project she is a part of to help with the homeless crisis in Seattle, and shared about her journey in getting to this point. She also had some things to say about self care! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I thought it would be easiest to summarize everyone's thoughts on self-care to talk about them. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Moorea Seal - Occasionally it means therapy. Journaling. Working on self thru goals and self-reflection. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Brandy Brown - Time with friends. And occasionally just time doing nothing. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Deborah Shepherd - Meditation. Prayer. Journaling </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Molly Moon - The occasional massage. Visits to the "naked spa" (The Korean Spa in Lynnwood)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Sharon Lee - Swimming in the many different pools of Seattle. Getting a massage. Dim Sum.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I just wanted to put all the different responses together to show the variety. I have a concern that "self-care" is going to become another thing that we start to see on instagram along with the gorgeous bath setting and the candle, the bath salts and the perfect shot. And it's great to see all these gorgeous shots. What I hope we don't do is compare and shame ourselves about our own care. I had a conversation about this with Moorea before she spoke and we both agreed that sometimes self-care looked like McDonalds fries and three hours of Netflix, something you probably wouldn't see a post about. And it's okay. Whatever works for you is self care. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I just want to encourage you to take care of yourself how you see fit. Wether it's moving your body, getting a massage, or just sitting still in your car before picking up your kids. It's just important to do it. Whatever it looks like. On Saturday after the conference for me it looked like a cone from Molly Moon. Today it looked like a <a href="https://barre3.com/">b</a></span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://barre3.com/">arre3</a> class. What does self care look like for you? </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>Tammy Thttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01165042373196146406noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5845804659201258887.post-6006550739057769442018-04-30T06:00:00.000-07:002018-04-30T06:00:05.277-07:00Get Thrifty: Prom Dress Thrifting <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Samantha just had her last Prom of High School this past weekend. We had decided that we would thrift her dress as we had others so we started a few weeks early to give ourselves plenty of time. We've had some good luck with thrifting regular items as well as special occasion dressing at this point so I thought I would share a few pointers. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">1. Have an inspiration.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">With special occasion dressing I think it's really helpful to have an inspiration to search for. In this case Sam was moved to search for something you would see in a movie from the 80's! We found photos of the dress from the prom scene of Footloose and the final scene of Sixteen Candles and started from there. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">2. Take photos.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">It's one thing looking at yourself in the mirror, but it's something else looking at a photo. There is a remove that makes it a bit easier to be objective about if a dress is working or not. We will often take a quick photo of something we are considering then delete it right away just for the moment of peeking at it. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">3. Be Open to Surprises.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Though Sam was hoping for something along the lines of her inspiration pieces, we both knew that we might not find what she was hoping for. So we were both open to finding something different. This green dress was something special that we both thought might fit the bill. It was a vintage Jessica McClintock that with a little love we though could be a head turner. But we decided to look just a little bit more. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">4. Bring along someone you trust.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Thrift shopping can sometimes be a tedious thing though we find it fun. It's helpful to bring along someone that has the same love for it that you do, and that can see possibility in the racks along with you. (and maybe keep you laughing as you search!)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">5. Have a tailor you trust.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">We found the dress that we knew would be the one with a little work (that cost $5!). We love and trust Tommy the Tailor downtown and ran it down to them immediately to make sure there would be plenty of time to get it tailored. It needed the sleeves and neckline worked on but otherwise it was ready. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">6. Remember the extras</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">We have been really fortunate to work with Rebecca of <a href="http://rebeccasflowershoppe.com/">Rebecca's Flower Shoppe</a> and she really outdid herself for this one. Sam decide to really go for it with the Sixteen Candles look. We shared the inspiration photos with Rebecca and decided to go for a flower headband due to costs. Rebecca decided to go ahead and make Samantha the crown, and graciously gifted it to her! We were so surprised and stunned, and it just made her look that much more special! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">So what do you think? Did she do it? We were pretty happy with her look! Her dress with the tailoring cost a total of $30. I love that she brought the Sixteen Candles look into the present! </span>Tammy Thttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01165042373196146406noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5845804659201258887.post-88413134234851047622018-04-23T22:13:00.000-07:002018-04-23T22:13:12.412-07:00On My Radar: Creative Flowers for Prom <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Now that college is on the horizon for Sam it feels like we are checking off all the last things to do with High School. Last football game, last band trip, last spring break. This weekend will be her last Prom. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">With that we started talking about what she is wanting flower wise and what she has done in the past. She pointed out that she has rarely done anything conventional and we laughed over how true that is! One of our favorites was her first homecoming dance. She was going with a group of friends and we thought it might be fun to be really different. Steve and I found a balloon man at the Bellingham Farmers Market and he was game to help! Who wouldn't love a balloon corsage? </span><br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ozrRgHfDBgQ/Wt6YkA5v1cI/AAAAAAAABwA/pGns3clGK6UFmWFzMohsUYOeIJwkE4N7gCEwYBhgL/s1600/bellingham-blogger--corsage--2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="563" data-original-width="750" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ozrRgHfDBgQ/Wt6YkA5v1cI/AAAAAAAABwA/pGns3clGK6UFmWFzMohsUYOeIJwkE4N7gCEwYBhgL/s640/bellingham-blogger--corsage--2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Another very special corsage/boutonniere combination was the next year's Homecoming which Sam went to with a boyfriend. They both decided to make one another's flowers which turned out amazing! They both included little special keepsakes to each others flowers that they could keep after the flowers faded. Sam's was made with a leather bracelet and she made her date's with a special metal framing. And Sam's included plants that were actually alive, so she was able to plant them! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Sam went to a dance with the son of a friend of mine from college which was mind blowing for me! We knew he was easygoing and game for her to go really out of the box for his boutonniere. We had been noticing tropical flowers had been becoming very popular in our favorite advertising so we thought they could be an option. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">We found Rebecca at <a href="http://rebeccasflowershoppe.com/index.htm">Rebecca's Flower Shoppe</a> to be incredibly game and helpful. She created the incredible boutonniere above. And she was more than helpful with Sam making her own, helping with the idea of the wire. We are working with her for this year's Senior prom and are so excited to see what she comes up with. The reveal </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">will come soon, but until then I can show you her inspiration. A scene from 16 Candles...</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">It makes me feel extra sentimental, both for her and for me. This is such a throwback for my time in High School. I can't wait to see it all come together. And to see her wearing her dance flowers one last time. Anyone else feeling nostalgic? </span>Tammy Thttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01165042373196146406noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5845804659201258887.post-8715774289227554782018-04-16T06:00:00.000-07:002018-04-16T06:00:05.326-07:00Field Trip: Bellingham Farmers Market<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Steve and I have had a standing date every Saturday to the <a href="http://bellinghamfarmers.org/downtown-market/">Bellingham Farmer's Market</a>. It just reopened for the season and it was time to re-institute our weekly date! Since it's Kate's 21st birthday weekend we decided to let her join us...just this once. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">We are new converts to fresh eggs ever since we tried those of Steve's co-worker Matt's farm, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/mcintyrefamilyfarm/?hl=en">McIntyre Family Farms</a> so that was one of our first stops. The eggs are delicious, gorgeous and it makes us feel good knowing the farmer (and Steve is excited knowing they use <a href="https://www.scratchandpeck.com/shop/">Scratch & Feed Feeds.</a>..his new workplace product). It will be a weekly stop for us for sure. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Next we thought a grilled cheese sounded warming on a rainy day so we grabbed a classic from <a href="https://www.somethingcheesytruck.com/">Something Cheesy</a>. We treated Kate to a gorgeous plate from <a href="https://www.instagram.com/cafevavilov/?hl=en">Cafe Vavilov</a> that was almost too beautiful to eat. Kate is a vegan and it was a variety of delicious veggies and spreads. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">After eating there we realized they had used <a href="http://www.ravenbreads.com/">Raven Breads</a> on their plate which led us to the idea of making fancy avocado toasts so we decided to bring home our own loaf of Raven's bread and multi colored radishes. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">We ended our tour of the Market with a couple of treats for Kate...a vegan cookie from <a href="http://www.gatheredconfections.com/">Gathered Confections</a> and a flower bouquet. It wasn't quite the date it usually is, where we have a chance to catch up with one another, talk freely about family matters, and hopefully just goof around together. But it was a wonderful time of being with Kate and hopefully making her feeling a bit loved. And the toasts we made for dinner were works of art! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I love our dates to the Market to get a chance to connect, both with each other and our community. Is there a market you like to frequent? Is there something that you like to pick up from there? Tell me what to look for! </span><br />
<span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 105px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 36px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 105px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 36px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 105px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 36px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span><span style="background-color: #bd081c; background-position: 3px 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; background-size: 14px 14px; border-bottom-left-radius: 2px; border-bottom-right-radius: 2px; border-top-left-radius: 2px; border-top-right-radius: 2px; border: none; color: white; cursor: pointer; display: none; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; left: 105px; line-height: 20px; opacity: 1; padding: 0px 4px 0px 0px; position: absolute; text-align: center; text-indent: 20px; top: 36px; width: auto; z-index: 8675309;">Save</span>Tammy Thttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01165042373196146406noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5845804659201258887.post-28893496095703014972018-04-09T06:00:00.000-07:002018-04-09T06:00:10.683-07:00Field Trip: McIntyre Family Farm <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Thanks to Steve's new job at <a href="https://www.scratchandpeck.com/">Scratch and Peck Feeds</a> we are all getting an education into a whole new world. We've always been interested in farms and where our food comes from. Now Steve has co-workers that own their own farms and lucky us, we get to visit! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We were invited out to "lampapalooza" at <a href="https://www.instagram.com/mcintyrefamilyfarm/">McIntyre Family Farm</a> by Steve's co-worker Matt & his wife Jena to see all the newborn lambs! I can't think of a better way to welcome spring. Even better, it's helpful in battling the minor depression I am battling that seems to rear it's head this time of year. Family time & baby lambs here we come! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We were allowed straight into the pen with their flock of icelandic sheep with all the babies! All the animals were very calm about us being in with them and around the baby lambs. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">With Matt's help and quick reflexes we were able to hold them too! They are the sweetest and just snuggle in! They were warm and sweet and hard to put down. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The lamb that Sam is holding is only two days old! The mothers are very calm about allowing us to hold the babies. They hang around nearby but show very little distress. The funniest part is when Sam got down low with them all and the lambs started trying to chew on her coat and boots! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Of course with Steve being a newbie to chicken feed we had to visit the chickens of which they have about 200! Sam was a bit terrified, especially when she paid a visit to the chicken coop and was followed by a whole crew of chickens curious about what she was doing! The McIntyre's sell their organic eggs along with various wool products at the <a href="http://www.bellinghamfarmers.org/">Bellingham Farmers Market</a> and the <a href="https://qafma.net/">Queen Anne Farmers Market</a>. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Snuggling with babies, learning about chickens and being out in the spring air (rain or not!) was the perfect antidote to any kind of lingering blues. We actually started the day with a breakfast of their eggs which may become a standard once we re-start our Saturday dates at the Market. </span>Tammy Thttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01165042373196146406noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5845804659201258887.post-88500868775979789582018-03-26T06:00:00.000-07:002018-03-26T06:00:58.692-07:00Deep Thoughts: Seasonal Suffering <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Spring is here, and yet I still feel like I'd rather be cuddled up on the couch watching Netflix. With the crazy weather here that moves between sun and freezing rain one can feel a little nutty and off kilter. Throw in a little seasonal affective disorder and things can get really stupid. I have a few ideas of how to combat the ugly feelings until ready to fully embrace spring and all the good things it holds. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><u>Eat Well:</u> When I'm depressed I would love to just bury my head in a bag of potato chips. But that leaves me feeling even worse than before. Instead we try and be sure to eat fresh foods and as many veggies as possible. Favorites around here are buddha bowls...a mix of a grain, a protein, veggies and dressing. And a great grab and go breakfast are overnight oats...easy to change up to have many different flavor profiles. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><u>Schedule:</u> Staying to a schedule helps me keep from just staying in my pajamas or sweats all day. My mom used to say do one chore and one fun thing a day and that seems to be pretty good advice. If I can accomplish something and have one fun thing to look forward to it keeps me moving forward. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><u>Self-care:</u> I know the this word is getting overused, but it truly is important. And it looks different for everyone. A favorite for me is a bath in my most favorite coconut milk bath soak from <a href="https://www.herbivorebotanicals.com/collections/all/products/coconut-milk-bath-soak">Herbivore Botanicals</a>. Reading or a movie are other ways I keep myself reasonably happy while I wait for my creative spark to return. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Support: I feel so lucky to have friends and family that understand and support me when I'm blue. At work we have a happy light on all day. We also have a station of essential oils available for all that ails us. My husband is the best at just being there when I need him. He doesn't try to fix things, just runs the bath, makes the dinner, or gives the hugs. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The last thing I do? Plan ahead. I know this is just something to go thru and that it will truly feel like Spring to me soon enough. Having things to look forward will help to get me there. Right now there is a visit to <a href="http://www.seattleartmuseum.org/">SAM</a> on the calendar along with a visit to the new juice place in Bellingham and maybe a drink (or two) at the new tiki bar that has opened. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I have decided to treat these blues as a downtime. A time of conserving energy before getting out there again. A quote that I have seen on pinterest says "There is nothing in nature that blooms all year long. So don't expect yourself to do so either." So, I don't beat myself up about them and I hope if you suffer with me that you don't. And that everyone watches out when we are operating at full power! </span>Tammy Thttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01165042373196146406noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5845804659201258887.post-63310842462596722082018-03-19T06:00:00.000-07:002018-03-19T06:00:13.323-07:00Deep Thoughts: Getting Out of Your Comfort Zone <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Today I did something that may seem unremarkable to some, but to me it felt like a big step. I stepped out of my comfort zone and went mountain biking. I believe the last time I went was before Steve & I were married and let's just say it didn't go well. There was lot's of mud and crashing and lots and lots of swearing. All of it me. I think I even threw the bike at him at one point. I decided then and there that it wasn't my thing and never looked back. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Mountain biking is a huge part of Steve's life. Our daughters love it too. We live in a wonderful area full of trails. Steve is always great about taking part in the things I love. He's been wanting me to join them for a while. So I decided I would go for it. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Today we decided to take an easy ride on the <a href="http://www.co.whatcom.wa.us/2069/Interurban-Trail">Interurban Trail </a>to Larabee State park. It was about a six mile ride all around. We found an spot on the trail with a view to have a quick bite to eat before heading back. What is it about eating outside that makes food taste better?</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> The views were gorgeous from the bike. There were small waterfalls, views of the bay from the trail, and the smell of campfires in the air. It really is a wonderful way to experience the area. Watching Steve enjoying the thing he loves is pretty special too. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Hanging out with the two of them on bikes was really fun. I don't know if I would make it a regular thing, but I'm not as scared of it anymore. I would definitely do it again and try an even longer ride. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Pushing myself out of my comfort zone gave me some special time with Steve and Sam I would have missed. I feel proud for something again that used to really scare me. I'm trying to make sure that I don't miss out on anything. Life feels too short. And this is a start. </span><br />
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