tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36304401589041056522024-03-05T14:35:57.290-08:00the cul-de-sacwhere life slows downthe cul-de-sachttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03622419820177151021noreply@blogger.comBlogger118125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3630440158904105652.post-40692825555313199492013-07-07T08:18:00.001-07:002013-07-09T20:37:19.636-07:00Cozy Back Porch<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Last week, I shared my parents' <b><a href="http://thecul-de-sac.blogspot.com/2013/07/a-porch-for-all-seasons.html">welcoming front porch</a></b>. This week, I am pleased to share their screened-in back porch, which is cozy, intimate, and also used year-round.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">The focal point of the back porch is the gas fireplace surrounded with limestone excavated during the house construction. The mantle was custom made from local cedar. The use of local materials is in keeping with Craftsman tradition.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">My step-dad, an accomplished wood-worker, handmade this beautiful dining table from local cedar as well:</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0higoiEJFlcZLSf_wPLY9GMVsgnvX5EzGmjDFG3pypY5FuODaRtJOwhxO4K8K4YuxamJn1fdhWlWtl75guVM0fI-37MlJ0mXFHD4dNZg8AJYZVj6ksMWY4vLSMD0H-zPUN_ZzHsSRDwHP/s720/Back+Porch+Custom+Dining+Table+Sitting+Area+Decor.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0higoiEJFlcZLSf_wPLY9GMVsgnvX5EzGmjDFG3pypY5FuODaRtJOwhxO4K8K4YuxamJn1fdhWlWtl75guVM0fI-37MlJ0mXFHD4dNZg8AJYZVj6ksMWY4vLSMD0H-zPUN_ZzHsSRDwHP/s640/Back+Porch+Custom+Dining+Table+Sitting+Area+Decor.jpg" style="cursor: move;" width="640" /></a><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">The back porch is furnished with comfortable all-weather furniture. The floors are stained and scored concrete and are very practical for our climate and cleaning.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Decor is intentionally rustic, using mostly vintage finds and emphasizing the lakehouse theme.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I especially love the vintage water skis:</span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">The porch is wonderfully cozy during the winter holidays, when my mother adds vintage and rustic Christmas decor. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">My parents always have a project ready for my girls when they visit. Here, they are making pinecone bird feeders:</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX5gxlEABzjP9kG0CO9PjWwPcJhC6Vh86sQnBVSy51YTbxkvmkB5gweySi53SCQt-8a5zjERxBn8QvtadG1sT62fajdLG1Ii7CXTTY2H1vHW9GOdNrsElXzcSJ9YLSIfqWQZnXiykK1fqz/s480/Back+Porch+Crafts+Children+Making+Bird+Feeders.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX5gxlEABzjP9kG0CO9PjWwPcJhC6Vh86sQnBVSy51YTbxkvmkB5gweySi53SCQt-8a5zjERxBn8QvtadG1sT62fajdLG1Ii7CXTTY2H1vHW9GOdNrsElXzcSJ9YLSIfqWQZnXiykK1fqz/s640/Back+Porch+Crafts+Children+Making+Bird+Feeders.jpg" width="472" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">And of course, there is no better place to enjoy hot cocoa:</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKW-_G5PyjhAdRxODqITA90dlzD58K8Zbsu-j_ePiy7nz5SfFYGhCdceICRL8NU5RuV7nx20QgC9d8W8qeqMbun5HFRiBkzeXOBEW7IbYetY_yG7bvTsDMn1953a5BX8Z8AEKmPJWkVZ2b/s720/Back+Porch+Fireplace+Hot+Cocoa.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKW-_G5PyjhAdRxODqITA90dlzD58K8Zbsu-j_ePiy7nz5SfFYGhCdceICRL8NU5RuV7nx20QgC9d8W8qeqMbun5HFRiBkzeXOBEW7IbYetY_yG7bvTsDMn1953a5BX8Z8AEKmPJWkVZ2b/s640/Back+Porch+Fireplace+Hot+Cocoa.jpg" style="cursor: move;" width="640" /></a><br />
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Sharing with <a href="http://www.betweennapsontheporch.net/">Between Naps on the Porch</a> and <a href="http://www.savvysouthernstyle.net/">Savvy Southern Style</a>.</div>
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<b><i>New to the cul-de-sac? Please consider following via <a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/en/blog/5053829">BlogLovin'</a>, GFC, or email! </i></b>the cul-de-sachttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03622419820177151021noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3630440158904105652.post-86126372449429111112013-07-02T19:01:00.003-07:002013-07-07T08:36:11.276-07:00A Porch for All Seasons<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8UYoqQEkrhWL4obt0rEU37ak48TtHr5dWefhxcJzHneh5xnVVIqXK71dq8HyZ-ikBjyhdZ1sGmy37E3EUN0_MoEv4VtuyfuHrsS-wiQiX-sOgLEgJzyg4oXTTFW97Gbo8sIiPaaZiY3vy/s1600/Porch+Custom+Cocktail+Napkins.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8UYoqQEkrhWL4obt0rEU37ak48TtHr5dWefhxcJzHneh5xnVVIqXK71dq8HyZ-ikBjyhdZ1sGmy37E3EUN0_MoEv4VtuyfuHrsS-wiQiX-sOgLEgJzyg4oXTTFW97Gbo8sIiPaaZiY3vy/s640/Porch+Custom+Cocktail+Napkins.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Today I'm honored to feature my parents' front porch. When they built their Craftsman-style lakehouse nine years ago, my parents envisioned their front porch as the centerpiece of their leisure time. That vision became a reality, for whether throwing boisterous porch parties in the fall, or casually entertaining friends for happy hour, or hosting their granddaughters for tea parties, or reading the newspaper in the morning, or napping on the porch daybed on hot summer afternoons, when home, my parents can almost always be found on the porch. All year round.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgUWFFVsoyoCjSvGJGf53qQtW2c0S1h3Fby3LyG_WtQfQzEe63nOZaszx7UhWLSLD5DuoApbgAxq3qZx6WgoHv3g3F_YSBW526pQdXB03b7ZVmYFJ_2ndGN-Iy_BWRVTysmT8gzHfARfbp/s1600/Front+Porch+Spring+Morning+White+Furniture+Blue+Ceiling.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgUWFFVsoyoCjSvGJGf53qQtW2c0S1h3Fby3LyG_WtQfQzEe63nOZaszx7UhWLSLD5DuoApbgAxq3qZx6WgoHv3g3F_YSBW526pQdXB03b7ZVmYFJ_2ndGN-Iy_BWRVTysmT8gzHfARfbp/s640/Front+Porch+Spring+Morning+White+Furniture+Blue+Ceiling.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIgWMFxpIAHu7cslBygb__ou8PTjp9xRjKsEsvh9KAezh4grb22UAA_s7lPtu1un3epWHYZttJ827d-emoYHRXonENOd6202_pWkf7BJnWqX4jHiwAXTO9IX-nDHopv7WUc7vWOYmshjHF/s720/Porch+Long+View+Red+White+Blue.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIgWMFxpIAHu7cslBygb__ou8PTjp9xRjKsEsvh9KAezh4grb22UAA_s7lPtu1un3epWHYZttJ827d-emoYHRXonENOd6202_pWkf7BJnWqX4jHiwAXTO9IX-nDHopv7WUc7vWOYmshjHF/s640/Porch+Long+View+Red+White+Blue.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">The porch is long and spacious, and with ceiling fans, good lighting, composite flooring, and comfortable furniture, very functional. You'll also note the the "haint" blue ceiling, traditional in Southern porches to ward off haunting spirits (and wasps!):</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhX4sgrOOww8692hfU0C_MGd75_S4TwxybX5WLTEoiGJPigmHeSVOShyGrdyuQ4HWTnAegYAHeQP4AIwIAcRVBUL5XnDQzdgxDzLO_qTUk9eQTUqHStOHCt2MszP_CEtpkzNLCui92kPu7F/s1600/Porch+Red+White+Blue+Long+View.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhX4sgrOOww8692hfU0C_MGd75_S4TwxybX5WLTEoiGJPigmHeSVOShyGrdyuQ4HWTnAegYAHeQP4AIwIAcRVBUL5XnDQzdgxDzLO_qTUk9eQTUqHStOHCt2MszP_CEtpkzNLCui92kPu7F/s640/Porch+Red+White+Blue+Long+View.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">My mom takes porch decorating seriously. From the vintage red bicycle at the porch steps to the antique croquet set and roller skates, to the worn quilts adorning the rocking chairs, every element of the porch decor encourages guests to relax and have fun.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw77ywMAO9teAS0D-C0nwO0JzUuQZevWqcbrnlR1R-tSZqYKJRQBzBxVI41aSzEm_y7E8LjXdPgo1oTO9LvNLZd8hAvV8ojDFzkUxZ9gNFMtKWOHKaEvNc00zGUiffwXmcUct8jDBuBBow/s479/Porch+Vintage+Croquet+Set.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw77ywMAO9teAS0D-C0nwO0JzUuQZevWqcbrnlR1R-tSZqYKJRQBzBxVI41aSzEm_y7E8LjXdPgo1oTO9LvNLZd8hAvV8ojDFzkUxZ9gNFMtKWOHKaEvNc00zGUiffwXmcUct8jDBuBBow/s640/Porch+Vintage+Croquet+Set.jpg" width="424" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTjosmXWG3CHjNBs-ST8Lm3xcIVcpOoiKN-haKjJbsA6ej2D60BB6erfak42AHQ_iO0erz65LlWULguMf_8N_yPbXIUNJHtA1YVdvaJXlcR62XS5aEb9tUQoFapLWZvHj3S9iQzl1DAjIy/s720/Porch+Vintage+Red+Bike.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTjosmXWG3CHjNBs-ST8Lm3xcIVcpOoiKN-haKjJbsA6ej2D60BB6erfak42AHQ_iO0erz65LlWULguMf_8N_yPbXIUNJHtA1YVdvaJXlcR62XS5aEb9tUQoFapLWZvHj3S9iQzl1DAjIy/s640/Porch+Vintage+Red+Bike.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPywc9NmRfmuGeNqiPrWmHKvxFJKk8bwG5wOa0XSWzPOMfC9AOFQEMolXSaLIJVp0SbEnZo1MVMfn1tNrX_E43LLgVuiwxYWc_butXu1uLfqH6xUBPZKZlcCl473FlE2Sn3GIB1nA8p9oj/s1600/Porch+Vintage+Coca+Cola+Case.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPywc9NmRfmuGeNqiPrWmHKvxFJKk8bwG5wOa0XSWzPOMfC9AOFQEMolXSaLIJVp0SbEnZo1MVMfn1tNrX_E43LLgVuiwxYWc_butXu1uLfqH6xUBPZKZlcCl473FlE2Sn3GIB1nA8p9oj/s640/Porch+Vintage+Coca+Cola+Case.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">But it's the dynamic seasonal decor that helps the porch make memories. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Here are some views of this <b>Porch for All Seasons</b>.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b>On spring mornings:</b></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpvxmrBbeLpltdcKDfvT2YEj37n08x5fwtL2zcAYg8lsNzg25AxaQrNsyiN5Dl1s76RdeNobrwZRMTgHEKbwqMpWv0jA07TRZihyLz2jErOsua53OB8-7LaEHLsqEfggUJx8Y38YZXZ0iJ/s1600/Front+Porch+Spring+Morning.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpvxmrBbeLpltdcKDfvT2YEj37n08x5fwtL2zcAYg8lsNzg25AxaQrNsyiN5Dl1s76RdeNobrwZRMTgHEKbwqMpWv0jA07TRZihyLz2jErOsua53OB8-7LaEHLsqEfggUJx8Y38YZXZ0iJ/s640/Front+Porch+Spring+Morning.jpg" style="cursor: move;" width="640" /></a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5BQS_wXW6VCPq8QVEqR-rmS3772mMuHzQh7wW29IrKX6unaP_nr7EZiGa2mU7eL6atoj7HiKhsOmN2q5M-kK3GcbUdWMNtYHr9OuOhCPfRYK3InxHSlg_8VZQP5gRpM7J92jHg451Nvkh/s1600/Front+Porch+Spring+Swing+Flowers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5BQS_wXW6VCPq8QVEqR-rmS3772mMuHzQh7wW29IrKX6unaP_nr7EZiGa2mU7eL6atoj7HiKhsOmN2q5M-kK3GcbUdWMNtYHr9OuOhCPfRYK3InxHSlg_8VZQP5gRpM7J92jHg451Nvkh/s640/Front+Porch+Spring+Swing+Flowers.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCXZhy1M3HAtu-zsCaSVdhDEwFiCU0MFHGic3C05OLMXfZeG2tkD1AvAORMDLw4uKV5rWbqeT5b4x0aFIp8_2Nj0-G4HcKdBIAU55E_2saP1YbXBng7w2qlr7_HvHRyAGQ5WEmmSQ3K6EF/s1600/Front+Porch+Swing+Summer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCXZhy1M3HAtu-zsCaSVdhDEwFiCU0MFHGic3C05OLMXfZeG2tkD1AvAORMDLw4uKV5rWbqeT5b4x0aFIp8_2Nj0-G4HcKdBIAU55E_2saP1YbXBng7w2qlr7_HvHRyAGQ5WEmmSQ3K6EF/s640/Front+Porch+Swing+Summer.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b>On the Fourth of July:</b></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhEH8VFSPKl3rXUypea6YUuXKDurE3aUs3wc-LUIJwUtX4RLC1wuCofmtCh2JaF6OPYJL32vQXwcr3iJTEp4PIT80F1-aCjVkuzVkT83xPH7Wc6tcf8MVTq-BPihW5tRZRYPhfQwr5G2n8/s1600/Front+Porch+Fourth+of+July+Flag+Buntings.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="430" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhEH8VFSPKl3rXUypea6YUuXKDurE3aUs3wc-LUIJwUtX4RLC1wuCofmtCh2JaF6OPYJL32vQXwcr3iJTEp4PIT80F1-aCjVkuzVkT83xPH7Wc6tcf8MVTq-BPihW5tRZRYPhfQwr5G2n8/s640/Front+Porch+Fourth+of+July+Flag+Buntings.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJhOle2Nb8mPfQIFumP2N84SdNLfu-fmRSPcE9t9jXXwodxdVJea6TmCa84WGfAwKalH11YZQDNDHxhMj1l1k5Hkc9226GHOxUK6PoEeApfihhiyWIhEbBSMn2PlESTZ8S111ddkHUVNrJ/s1600/Front+Porch+Independence+Day+July+Fourth+Decor+Flags+Red+White+Blue.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="446" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJhOle2Nb8mPfQIFumP2N84SdNLfu-fmRSPcE9t9jXXwodxdVJea6TmCa84WGfAwKalH11YZQDNDHxhMj1l1k5Hkc9226GHOxUK6PoEeApfihhiyWIhEbBSMn2PlESTZ8S111ddkHUVNrJ/s640/Front+Porch+Independence+Day+July+Fourth+Decor+Flags+Red+White+Blue.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">During Autumn</span>:</b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRC9L-F3yGx-7rSwa3BmTygdrokWW0UFPMXOzdEscDPTfZoaVbdMm8Lw-T1eiv-U2KqYA5hlQatMDTBbRLAQjF_2ZEkRT3cjl04zvhwwcWSf2Oi0TWwk2kUZIB2gSYK5TQgl9Up7pZjCju/s477/Porch+Autumn+Decor+Pumpkins+Red+Wagon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRC9L-F3yGx-7rSwa3BmTygdrokWW0UFPMXOzdEscDPTfZoaVbdMm8Lw-T1eiv-U2KqYA5hlQatMDTBbRLAQjF_2ZEkRT3cjl04zvhwwcWSf2Oi0TWwk2kUZIB2gSYK5TQgl9Up7pZjCju/s640/Porch+Autumn+Decor+Pumpkins+Red+Wagon.jpg" width="418" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaN-_8lyEKtB5WHqXPZo_1USGWnAkwAnzZThBUb38sgukBWtOdyu0QmQg10wmB-dB6HVcR8yG0xrPm3mrr5PPjXy60OmnDaJN36P4l3xuCaoJuJU4MLOU_HCkXaO6yMbxTSBfcXxUbQmf4/s480/Porch+Welcome+to+Our+Lake+House+Pillow.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaN-_8lyEKtB5WHqXPZo_1USGWnAkwAnzZThBUb38sgukBWtOdyu0QmQg10wmB-dB6HVcR8yG0xrPm3mrr5PPjXy60OmnDaJN36P4l3xuCaoJuJU4MLOU_HCkXaO6yMbxTSBfcXxUbQmf4/s640/Porch+Welcome+to+Our+Lake+House+Pillow.jpg" width="424" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b>And at Christmas:</b></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline;"></span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgz1ihSKEH-crLeIG7eyEMhnnzJVNaM_a46gbaT91YvtQDKS3HuTGGwnnEAZxNDzq2sfPa_SracPepB6apyUGruQgE22IU49h3__Yrkywxgvzug8Njy7LWwlVJ4WDQmfeSmEDbyyc6JWYUq/s479/Porch+Long+Christmas+Decor.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgz1ihSKEH-crLeIG7eyEMhnnzJVNaM_a46gbaT91YvtQDKS3HuTGGwnnEAZxNDzq2sfPa_SracPepB6apyUGruQgE22IU49h3__Yrkywxgvzug8Njy7LWwlVJ4WDQmfeSmEDbyyc6JWYUq/s640/Porch+Long+Christmas+Decor.jpg" width="475" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">On a personal note, this porch is also my daughters' favorite place on earth, a magical retreat for them when life gets hectic. They perch on the porch on summer evenings, spying fireflies. They feed visiting deer carrots between the porch rails. They spend winter afternoons reading under blankets on the porch swing. They host tea parties with their dolls on the vintage ice cream parlor table. <i>They love it here.</i></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQKzxur2KSuxC2_rVMWNP2Ext8yVs4wqV1MsJqnswxWmPWljtD2zMQ4Up6A1GKoDoXJeN9U7dUVBtgobgU60AKFTkB5UwKNUiv6rtV5rt7CW7k8rxfIgV33BABrkR7tCVo_eXHyR8m7kJn/s720/Porch+Tea+Party+Children.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQKzxur2KSuxC2_rVMWNP2Ext8yVs4wqV1MsJqnswxWmPWljtD2zMQ4Up6A1GKoDoXJeN9U7dUVBtgobgU60AKFTkB5UwKNUiv6rtV5rt7CW7k8rxfIgV33BABrkR7tCVo_eXHyR8m7kJn/s640/Porch+Tea+Party+Children.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">As for me, I can actually feel my blood pressure drop every time I sit on the porch swing, wine glass in hand, lakeviews in sight. The cares of the world melt away. How lucky we are, to have such a place.</span><br />
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Sharing with <a href="http://www.savvysouthernstyle.net/2013/07/wow-us-wednesdays-125.html">Savvy Southern Style</a>, <a href="http://www.betweennapsontheporch.net/">Between Naps on the Porch</a>, <a href="http://www.astrollthrulife.net/2013/07/171st-inspire-me-tuesday.html">A Stroll Thru Life</a>, <a href="http://www.southernlovely.com/">Southern Lovely</a>, <a href="http://www.houseofhepworths.com/">House of Hepworths</a>, <a href="http://www.theshabbycreekcottage.com/">The Shabby Creek Cottage</a>, <a href="http://www.thecharmofhome.blogspot.com/">The Charm of Home</a>, <a href="http://www.serenitynowblog.com/">Serenity Now</a>, <a href="http://www.frenchcountrycottage.blogspot.com/">French Country Cottage</a>, <a href="http://www.fidlersunderoneroof.com/">Fidlers Under One Roof</a>, and <a href="http://diybydesign.blogspot.com/2013/07/sizzle-into-summer-its-party-124.html">DIY By Design</a>.</div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'century gothic'; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span>P.S.: Are you new to <b><a href="http://thecul-de-sac.blogspot.com/" style="color: #79d0c7; text-decoration: none;">the cul-de-sac</a></b>? I blog about <b><a href="http://thecul-de-sac.blogspot.com/search/label/nest" style="color: #79d0c7; text-decoration: none;">nesting</a></b>, <b><a href="http://thecul-de-sac.blogspot.com/search/label/nurture" style="color: #79d0c7; text-decoration: none;">nurturing</a></b>, <b><a href="http://thecul-de-sac.blogspot.com/search/label/read" style="color: #79d0c7; text-decoration: none;">reading</a></b>, <b><a href="http://thecul-de-sac.blogspot.com/search/label/travel" style="color: #79d0c7; text-decoration: none;">traveling</a></b>, and most of all, <b><a href="http://thecul-de-sac.blogspot.com/search/label/celebrate" style="color: #79d0c7; text-decoration: none;">celebrating</a> </b>life with my family! If you like what you see, please consider joining the conversation via BlogLovin', GFC or email. I would love to get to know you! :)</span></div>
the cul-de-sachttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03622419820177151021noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3630440158904105652.post-67719930124046066942013-07-01T15:51:00.001-07:002013-07-05T15:12:13.161-07:00Patriotic Playroom Tree<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Happy July! Isn't summer flying by?</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I previously shared our turquoise, pink, and white "<b><a href="http://www.thecul-de-sac.blogspot.com/2013/04/playroom-in-progress.html">Playroom in Progress</a></b>," but today I want to feature one particular element of our playroom: the <b>Children's Holiday Tree</b>.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">An inexpensive pre-lit white Christmas tree from Hobby Lobby remains in the playroom year-round, for the kids to decorate each season. We keep the tree decor simple, cheap, and kid-friendly, as I still have a destructive toddler in the mix. But my daughters love changing out the tree decor every few months, and I like the whimsy it adds to our playroom space.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Right now, we have a red, white, and blue patriotic tree, for the Fourth of July:</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOm05z516ttD4m3LG_Ptk1XpPRZGMEFFIRq-qRntuuXXipkosoeHtvWpmBfGxS1RXVpcudvQwET2R7EyLI33_q03QPySvNZ9ZvyWrMpCb-X_ZE7ANxK0jLZTcmv3jh9DhsJFJ00vrgavQ4/s1600/Patriotic+Playroom+Tree+Fourth+of+July.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOm05z516ttD4m3LG_Ptk1XpPRZGMEFFIRq-qRntuuXXipkosoeHtvWpmBfGxS1RXVpcudvQwET2R7EyLI33_q03QPySvNZ9ZvyWrMpCb-X_ZE7ANxK0jLZTcmv3jh9DhsJFJ00vrgavQ4/s640/Patriotic+Playroom+Tree+Fourth+of+July.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">As you can see, the red, blue, and silver stars are kid-made from glittery construction paper and inexpensive ribbon. Last December, I cut a rudimentary tree skirt from glittery white fleece that we now use for all seasons. It's not fancy, but my daughters adore it.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">How do your kids incorporate the holidays into their playspaces?</span><br />
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Sharing with <a href="http://www.realcoake.com/">Real Family Fun</a> and <a href="http://www.sunscholars.com/">Sun Scholars</a><br />
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<i>P.S. Just a friendly reminder that Google Reader is no more. Please consider following <b>the cul-de-sac</b> on <b><a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/en/blog/5053829">BlogLovin' </a></b>or another reader of your choice, or subscribing via email. Thanks for reading!</i>the cul-de-sachttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03622419820177151021noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3630440158904105652.post-89627020638006190232013-06-25T04:00:00.000-07:002013-06-26T20:55:48.823-07:00Reading with the Kids: Favorite New Books<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">In our family, summer means more time for reading...at bedtime, on hot summer afternoons, at bookstores and libraries. I never discourage my daughters' literary habits...unless they are reading to stall tooth-brushing or vegetable-eating. ;-)</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">My seven-year-old, a strong independent reader, is currently on a mystery binge. She's already plowed through our vintage Nancy Drew, Hardy Boys, and Trixie Belden collection. She also loves her American Girl doll, Caroline, and especially the accompanying book series. She's eager for more American Girl mysteries like this one:</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">My innately stylish four-year-old was immediately drawn to this Audrey Hepburn picture book, beautifully written by Margaret Cardillo and illustrated by Julie Denos:</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">And my toddler <b><a href="http://thecul-de-sac.blogspot.com/2011/10/reading-with-kids-lovin-babylit.html">continues her obsession</a></b> with <b><a href="http://www.wordmusings.com/">Jennifer Adams</a></b>' BabyLit. We now own the entire collection, including these new favorites:</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">We're super excited for the BabyLit releases of <b><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Anna-Karenina-BabyLit-Fashion-Primer/dp/1423634837/ref=sr_1_11?ie=UTF8&qid=1372095650&sr=8-11&keywords=babylit">Anna Karenina</a></b> and <b><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Sherlock-Holmes-Hound-Baskervilles-BabyLit/dp/142363411X/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1372095650&sr=8-4&keywords=babylit">Sherlock Holmes</a></b> in September!</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">What are your kids reading this summer?</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">(Sharing with <a href="http://www.realcoake.com/">Real Family Fun</a>)</span></div>
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the cul-de-sachttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03622419820177151021noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3630440158904105652.post-48948070407752373192013-06-24T09:34:00.001-07:002013-06-26T20:52:57.834-07:00Pretty Paper Drawer Liners<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">After finishing my <b><a href="http://www.thecul-de-sac.blogspot.com/2013/06/chalk-paint-makeover-from-changing.html">chalk paint transformation</a></b> of a nursery dresser into an office console table, I wanted to ensure the interior would be lovely and functional as well. The drawers are constructed with dovetail joinery and are solid maple; they are beautiful and need to be protected. Plus, I absolutely love using pretty paper any way I can -- see, for example, how I used wrapping paper to cover ugly laminate desk tops in my <a href="http://www.thecul-de-sac.blogspot.com/2013/04/playroom-in-progress.html"><b>girls' playroom</b></a> and a <b><a href="http://www.thecul-de-sac.blogspot.com/2013/04/girls-bedroom-transformation-part-i.html">bedroom</a></b>.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">So, I visited my local <b><a href="http://www.paper-source.com/">Paper Source</a></b> and purchased four sheets of gorgeous handmade paper. Each sheet measured about 20x30 and cost about $4; those four sheets were sufficient to line a total of six drawers and three shelves in both my console table and office desk. I chose colors and patterns that would play well with the <b><a href="http://www.anniesloan.com/acatalog/Aubusson_profile.html">Annie Sloan Aubusson Blue</a></b> I used on the console, as well as the <b><a href="http://www.benjaminmoore.com/en-us/paint-color/stoneharbor">Benjamin Moore Stone Harbor Gray</a></b> on my office walls, and the yellow, gray, and blue fabric in my window treatment.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I then gathered my supplies --- clear contact paper, a paper cutter, a measuring tape, and poster tape --- and got to work. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">After measuring each drawer and shelf, I cut the contact paper to size, sealed it to the decorative paper, and then cut the decorative paper to fit. I then affixed each liner to the drawer with a few pieces of removable poster tape, so that I can safely change the liners without damaging the wood. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">And that's it!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Drawers are now ready to be filled with stationery and office supplies, and my new home office is one step closer to being organized!</span><br />
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<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">New to <b>the cul-de-sac</b>? Please consider subscribing and joining the conversation! :)</span></i><br />
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Sharing with <a href="http://www.betweennapsontheporch.net/">Between Naps on the Porch</a>, <a href="http://www.savvysouthernstyle.net/">Savvy Southern Style</a>, <a href="http://www.houseofhepworths.com/">House of Hepworths</a>, <a href="http://www.homemakeronadime.com/">Homemaker on a Dime</a>, <a href="http://diybydesign.blogspot.com/2013/06/sizzle-into-summer-its-party-123.html">DIY By Design</a>, <a href="http://www.astrollthrulife.net/2013/06/170th-inspire-me-tuesday.html">A Stroll Thru Life</a>, <a href="http://www.theshabbycreekcottage.com/">Shabby Creek Cottage</a>, <a href="http://makingtheworldcuter.com/">Making the World Cuter</a>, and <a href="http://www.iheartnaptime.com/">I Heart Naptime</a><br />
<br />the cul-de-sachttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03622419820177151021noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3630440158904105652.post-56418162539202565582013-06-16T04:00:00.000-07:002013-06-16T09:53:12.550-07:00Chalk Paint Tray Transformation<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Now that I've got the Annie Sloan Chalk Paint bug, I've been surveying my house for other things that need makeovers. The first to catch my eye --- this uninspired wood serving tray that adds function to my living room ottoman:</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Purchased from Pottery Barn on clearance eight years ago, this tray had seen better days, and in my new lighter, brighter living room, the dark wood tone didn't work anymore.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">So, one 25-minute episode of <i>Sofia The First</i> later, the tray was transformed with a single coat of Aubusson Blue and clear wax. With no need to sand or prime, this ASCP project was so quick that the kids didn't even have time to ask for a sippy cup refill. ;) And it was a perfect use of some of the leftover paint from my <b><a href="http://thecul-de-sac.blogspot.com/2013/06/chalk-paint-makeover-from-changing.html">office console project</a></b>.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Most importantly, it adds some subtle color to my living room and mimics the blues in the ottoman fabric and art accents throughout the room.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEize7iCh0JwqZyi3hSjEiB1HupVdjrTYIDjnJMdFQywBW0XBKFs6mtcz3DrT-1KS5D2O7ExmK1cO02ztGpv2J78cYb-1nimBYGm_ejmR6HMOkxytreB4C7g4O8i2dIzuI8hNjM6I2CWGk6g/s1600/Annie+Sloan+Chalk+Paint+Ottoman+Tray+Makeover+Aubusson+Blue+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEize7iCh0JwqZyi3hSjEiB1HupVdjrTYIDjnJMdFQywBW0XBKFs6mtcz3DrT-1KS5D2O7ExmK1cO02ztGpv2J78cYb-1nimBYGm_ejmR6HMOkxytreB4C7g4O8i2dIzuI8hNjM6I2CWGk6g/s640/Annie+Sloan+Chalk+Paint+Ottoman+Tray+Makeover+Aubusson+Blue+2.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">How have you used chalk paint?</span> </div>
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Sharing with <a href="http://www.shabbycreekcottage.com/">Shabby Creek Cottage</a>, <a href="http://www.savvysouthernstyle.net/">Savvy Southern Style</a>, <a href="http://www.houseofhepworths.com/">House of Hepworths</a>, <a href="http://www.diybydesign.blogspot.com/">DIY By Design</a>, <a href="http://www.thecharmofhome.blogspot.com/">The Charm of Home</a>, <a href="http://www.serenitynowblog.com/">Serenity Now</a>, <a href="http://www.frenchcountrycottage.blogspot.com/">French Country Cottage</a>, <a href="http://www.tatertotsandjello.com/">Tatertots and Jello</a>, <a href="http://www.iheartnaptime.com/">I Heart Naptime</a>, <a href="http://www.sixsistersstuff.com/">Six Sisters Stuff</a>, <a href="http://www.bystephanielynn.com/">Under the Table and Dreaming</a>, <a href="http://www.betweennapsontheporch.net/">Between Naps on the Porch</a>, <a href="http://www.homemakeronadime.com/">Homemaker on a Dime</a>, <a href="http://www.makingtheworldcuter.com/">Making the World Cuter</a>, <a href="http://startathome.blogspot.com/2013/06/paint-party-and-giveaway.html">Start at Home</a>, and <a href="http://www.myuncommonsliceofsuburbia.com/">My Uncommon Slice of Suburbia</a>.</div>
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the cul-de-sachttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03622419820177151021noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3630440158904105652.post-88212256276966474992013-06-15T07:10:00.001-07:002013-06-15T07:10:19.477-07:0085 Days of Summer: Writing Prompts for My Daughter<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">So, we're two weeks into summer, and my seven-year-old is already bored. This, despite a fun summer agenda which includes various day camps, playdates, beach and city vacations, overnights at her grandparents, cooking and crafting, trips to the park, to the zoo, to the museums....you get the picture. It's not boring 'round these parts, but you wouldn't know it based on her whining.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Fortunately, the girl loves to write; this may ultimately prove her gift. She can journal all day long, providing she has some inspiration. Thus, my remedy for her unsubstantiated allegations of boredom? <b>Eighty-five writing prompts, one for each day of our summer.</b> Each prompt is typed, printed on pink cardstock, individually cut and folded, and placed into a glass apothecary jar which sits on her bedroom desk. So pretty, so inspirational, so curative of complaining.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Just in case your child is also stricken with "There's nothing to do!" I am sharing our writing topics <a href="https://docs.google.com/file/d/0BygKzfjHEqThRm9DdmhXMm5Lck0/edit?usp=sharing">here</a>. I devised them specifically for my curious seven-year-old girl and her interests, but most would apply to any elementary-aged child. Some prompts are silly; some are serious; some require introspection; others require imagination. I hope you find some or all of them useful!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Happy Summer Parenting!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">(Sharing with <a href="http://www.serenitynowblog.com/">Serenity Now</a>, <a href="http://www.sunscholars.com/">Sun Scholars</a>, and <a href="http://www.realcoake.com/">Real Family Fun</a>)</span>the cul-de-sachttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03622419820177151021noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3630440158904105652.post-28708130051111922602013-06-13T13:57:00.003-07:002013-07-01T17:35:40.383-07:00Chalk Paint Makeover: From Changing Table to Office Console<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">This post should be titled, "If I can do it, anyone can."</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlu8F5Mo8y3GSmR8v57_etX9eSLJKYk3VHw2La8QCi4VPy-FTMGr3Uo1RefqNIGXXFi54m8fDobbJTWH3YLconzTteEZJ3U9x0rTejRJ2e4ZLu9LcCo7FHEgh3ez4SL3CIRLYpHCXvcoVg/s1600/Annie+Sloan+Chalk+Paint+Supplies.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="370" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlu8F5Mo8y3GSmR8v57_etX9eSLJKYk3VHw2La8QCi4VPy-FTMGr3Uo1RefqNIGXXFi54m8fDobbJTWH3YLconzTteEZJ3U9x0rTejRJ2e4ZLu9LcCo7FHEgh3ez4SL3CIRLYpHCXvcoVg/s640/Annie+Sloan+Chalk+Paint+Supplies.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I'm talking about <b><a href="http://www.anniesloan.com/">Annie Sloan Chalk Paint</a></b>. And how, after finally jumping on the bandwagon everyone else joined two years ago, it changed my attitude about painting. Which was previously bad. Really bad. <i>Like covered-head-to-toe-in-paint-and-crying-in-Home-Depot-bad.</i></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I had resigned myself to a life of having to pay other people to paint for me. Or a life of goodwilling or craigslisting furniture in finishes I could no longer use. A life of spending too much money on too little character.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Things have changed. Why? Because my new home office needed more storage. And my babies have grown up and out of their <b><a href="http://www.thecul-de-sac.blogspot.com/2011/09/welcome-to-my-home-vignettes-from.html">nursery</a></b> furniture. And consequently, an unused, beautifully constructed, solid maple dresser and changing table sat in my garage for eleven months. I had paid a pretty penny for it initially and couldn't bear to part with it. It was "good furniture." But it was also finished in a "rubbed ebony" stain that complemented nothing else in my new house. So, it sat and gathered dust.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Finally, inspiration struck, measurements were taken, and I realized that the dresser/changing table would fit perfectly in my new office and provide much needed storage for stationery and office supplies. It just needed new paint.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD4lFhfPZUrDEsBzpKarcL6B-HsHtLNhF8zOvZe77l3vwEoPcSLl1NRDXYDtXV1H1rcGe89IFtLFVt3MRv3t49IJljVEiNEByjTqt-Sc9GUhy8yjXcwPLVltGz1NH7YL3r73GqsLIRyZ2h/s1600/Changing+Table+Dresser+Before+Transformation+to+Office+Console.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD4lFhfPZUrDEsBzpKarcL6B-HsHtLNhF8zOvZe77l3vwEoPcSLl1NRDXYDtXV1H1rcGe89IFtLFVt3MRv3t49IJljVEiNEByjTqt-Sc9GUhy8yjXcwPLVltGz1NH7YL3r73GqsLIRyZ2h/s640/Changing+Table+Dresser+Before+Transformation+to+Office+Console.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">A trip to my local Annie Sloan stockist, <b><a href="https://www.facebook.com/Jamiefigaridesign">Jamie Figari</a></b>, and I was sold. Jamie gave me practical tips and sold me my chosen <b><a href="http://www.anniesloan.com/acatalog/Duck_Egg_Blue_profile.html">Duck Egg Blue</a></b> paint, clear wax, and wax brush. With an additional trip to the hardware store for some Purdy paint brushes, sanding blocks, and a drop cloth, I was ready to begin.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Since my achilles heel is impatience, working with Annie Sloan paint was appealing from the start. After a light sanding and cleaning to remove debris, I got to paint! No priming or prep necessary. And because the paint is low-VOC, I could paint indoors, which is a huge bonus when you are living in Texas in the summer.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">After setting my children up with <strike>ipads</strike> educational puzzles and games, I got to work. By the time I finished the first coat, initial sections had dried and were ready for a second coat. I let the paint dry overnight, and after another light sanding, I applied a thin layer of the clear wax and buffed with a lint-free towel. The result:</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4vTI_pzYGgPicA8Wsu53LlTryGmuLT6hqOU3DuW7RruyRA_ohYFfJ5V90tWUCh4tlvUC4b8MK265a7MS_Cz9N8ofaP6PnUzSU6nI14GKKzlLfBX1S-y6tl3KUAHLK5y1Y0qOn6wLidCrA/s1600/Dresser+in+Annie+Sloan+Duck+Egg+Blue.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4vTI_pzYGgPicA8Wsu53LlTryGmuLT6hqOU3DuW7RruyRA_ohYFfJ5V90tWUCh4tlvUC4b8MK265a7MS_Cz9N8ofaP6PnUzSU6nI14GKKzlLfBX1S-y6tl3KUAHLK5y1Y0qOn6wLidCrA/s640/Dresser+in+Annie+Sloan+Duck+Egg+Blue.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnLyRyhNmxexKwOK8DpaRHoWwCBOUD6NHOHJV-nDz8rrv3T87zqerkCw7hK8BdA0iXO3TYsX1RrdqZhL2fm_R7oX3JwbEnR9XveRUGjE9pdCN9lsgZPESyLgMj81ph0w2Rg3EdDFjThnek/s1600/Dresser+:+Console+in+Annie+Sloan+Chalk+Paint+Duck+Egg+Blue.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnLyRyhNmxexKwOK8DpaRHoWwCBOUD6NHOHJV-nDz8rrv3T87zqerkCw7hK8BdA0iXO3TYsX1RrdqZhL2fm_R7oX3JwbEnR9XveRUGjE9pdCN9lsgZPESyLgMj81ph0w2Rg3EdDFjThnek/s640/Dresser+:+Console+in+Annie+Sloan+Chalk+Paint+Duck+Egg+Blue.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">But alas, although Duck Egg Blue is a lovely color, I wasn't quite sure it worked in my office space, especially with the area rug. It read greener than I wanted and still looked like nursery furniture. So, I stared at the piece for about three weeks before making another trip to the stockist and choosing </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b><a href="http://www.anniesloan.com/acatalog/Aubusson_profile.html">Aubusson Blue</a></b></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">, a deep blue grey, instead.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjdCRbifjsNUqsC2tee2EN8hoJc_s88E9pnB-M2gjvHEpMhZM3I72mzR-7f3muCimGMz2g-OtV8hEgNUrftZrIgrM735ji9_B_Y5jXBWpczjTtGHJ9MWY8McfkYM8ot0pL9NvVMqCARy9x/s1600/Annie+Sloan+Chalk+Paint+Aubusson+Blue.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjdCRbifjsNUqsC2tee2EN8hoJc_s88E9pnB-M2gjvHEpMhZM3I72mzR-7f3muCimGMz2g-OtV8hEgNUrftZrIgrM735ji9_B_Y5jXBWpczjTtGHJ9MWY8McfkYM8ot0pL9NvVMqCARy9x/s640/Annie+Sloan+Chalk+Paint+Aubusson+Blue.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">One short afternoon's work later, this is the final result, with <b><a href="http://www.restorationhardware.com/catalog/product/product.jsp?productId=prod1283013&categoryId=cat1512021">Restoration Hardware's Traditional Clear Glass Knobs</a></b>:</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGzyOMUlVG3aMT4jlKLXxqeZKZkLUgwTPlC48bQnBiSpSmRwarg6Mr1bS_AbvgNMXj4PyCZVyiHgxcSPTufd8DrDHnfGLxWLVb-oJaP9ayZl_dbArdrjDLj2xWj0qs_WN6ML3E2JaTUMcP/s1600/Annie+Sloan+Chalk+Paint+Aubusson+Blue+Dresser+Makeover+Restoration+Hardware+Glass+Knobs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGzyOMUlVG3aMT4jlKLXxqeZKZkLUgwTPlC48bQnBiSpSmRwarg6Mr1bS_AbvgNMXj4PyCZVyiHgxcSPTufd8DrDHnfGLxWLVb-oJaP9ayZl_dbArdrjDLj2xWj0qs_WN6ML3E2JaTUMcP/s640/Annie+Sloan+Chalk+Paint+Aubusson+Blue+Dresser+Makeover+Restoration+Hardware+Glass+Knobs.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8BEm5y9l6FnEGhIlqIzq6v3BQnXHPtV_3xcHU8ovQphbbZ-nwwIYospXoZp-e13rvFtQJG6t1G8Hwb4QY3qmf-4i2t6uA99KWSPOPhvWV7FqM6DwNL77qcq-zboN_jLYkj_8ILW2GKffG/s1600/Annie+Sloan+Chalk+Paint+Aubusson+Blue+Dresser+Makeover+Restoration+Hardware+knobs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8BEm5y9l6FnEGhIlqIzq6v3BQnXHPtV_3xcHU8ovQphbbZ-nwwIYospXoZp-e13rvFtQJG6t1G8Hwb4QY3qmf-4i2t6uA99KWSPOPhvWV7FqM6DwNL77qcq-zboN_jLYkj_8ILW2GKffG/s640/Annie+Sloan+Chalk+Paint+Aubusson+Blue+Dresser+Makeover+Restoration+Hardware+knobs.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I used only one coat of Aubusson Blue and sanded a bit so the distressing shows bits of the Duck Egg Blue underneath. Although it is difficult to tell in the pictures because of the room's current poor lighting, the overall effect is of a peacock blue. And the new hardware is really sparkly! I <b><a href="http://www.thecul-de-sac.blogspot.com/2013/06/pretty-paper-drawer-liners.html">lined the drawers and shelves with beautiful handmade paper</a></b>, and now I'm thrilled with the look. I can't wait to accessorize and start using this essential component of my home office. I look forward to sharing my office reveal soon!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">How have you used ASCP to transform furniture?</span><br />
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Sharing with <a href="http://www.theshabbycreekcottage.com/2013/06/transformation-thursday-no-208.html#more">Shabby Creek Cottage</a>, <a href="http://www.savvysouthernstyle.net/">Savvy Southern Style</a>, <a href="http://www.houseofhepworths.com/">House of Hepworths</a>, <a href="http://www.diybydesign.blogspot.com/">DIY By Design</a>, <a href="http://www.thecharmofhome.blogspot.com/">The Charm of Home</a>, <a href="http://www.serenitynowblog.com/">Serenity Now</a>, <a href="http://www.frenchcountrycottage.blogspot.com/">French Country Cottage</a>, <a href="http://www.tatertotsandjello.com/">Tatertots and Jello</a>, <a href="http://www.iheartnaptime.com/">I Heart Naptime</a>, <a href="http://www.sixsistersstuff.com/">Six Sisters Stuff</a>, <a href="http://www.bystephanielynn.com/">Under the Table and Dreaming</a>, <a href="http://www.betweennapsontheporch.net/">Between Naps on the Porch</a>, <a href="http://www.homemakeronadime.com/">Homemaker on a Dime</a>, <a href="http://www.makingtheworldcuter.com/">Making the World Cuter</a>, <a href="http://startathome.blogspot.com/2013/06/paint-party-and-giveaway.html">Start at Home</a>, and <a href="http://www.myuncommonsliceofsuburbia.com/">My Uncommon Slice of Suburbia</a>.<br />
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the cul-de-sachttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03622419820177151021noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3630440158904105652.post-24283007916559840572013-06-05T17:20:00.002-07:002013-06-09T10:39:44.807-07:00Strawberry Shortcake Birthday Party<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">My middle daughter turned four recently, and her heart's desire was a <b><a href="http://pinterest.com/abstex/strawberry-shortcake-party/">Strawberry Shortcake Birthday Party</a></b>. Because I was also planning her big sister's <b><a href="http://www.thecul-de-sac.blogspot.com/2013/06/aloha-summer-birthday-party.html">Aloha/Summer Splash Party</a></b> for the same weekend, I needed to keep things simple but berry sweet.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYwPtxSiOLXhWCbdNnxqNB3eM0h15Tq7ghj4ixjxRhdo-h5VAisy-9aSNsZ94ZF24nhgFzTGw1gnYUzrEb9cvYsP9ZqQVGItqS8Ia6f87ped5UMmnLvkiOrzozp5dm0BeaH7rPFKtas6Mx/s1600/Strawberry+Shortcake+Birthday+Party+Welcome+Sign.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYwPtxSiOLXhWCbdNnxqNB3eM0h15Tq7ghj4ixjxRhdo-h5VAisy-9aSNsZ94ZF24nhgFzTGw1gnYUzrEb9cvYsP9ZqQVGItqS8Ia6f87ped5UMmnLvkiOrzozp5dm0BeaH7rPFKtas6Mx/s640/Strawberry+Shortcake+Birthday+Party+Welcome+Sign.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">We quickly settled on a kids' cooking party at <b><a href="http://foodie-kids.com/">Foodie Kids</a></b>, one of our regular haunts. The Foodie Kids proprietors are so lovely and personalize every child's experience there. And we were lucky enough to host our party in their new store, which is charming and beautiful:</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigmXggpx5zxLCUhKQCksn1KC6zBohyjgmt3xW4rtgQcYywKmwdsDbbJQ8RATXOKgu_gPWr0vKoNHZQ_DV5cWxMe_zDArDmcXiPwedYl2sYR0D11NeDP_E1HYF5fEIZpOAQeV1F2qDWWWNe/s1600/Strawberry+Shortcake+Birthday+Party+at+Foodie+Kids+Austin+TX.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigmXggpx5zxLCUhKQCksn1KC6zBohyjgmt3xW4rtgQcYywKmwdsDbbJQ8RATXOKgu_gPWr0vKoNHZQ_DV5cWxMe_zDArDmcXiPwedYl2sYR0D11NeDP_E1HYF5fEIZpOAQeV1F2qDWWWNe/s640/Strawberry+Shortcake+Birthday+Party+at+Foodie+Kids+Austin+TX.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">These cute vintage strawberry printable invitations from <b><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/hellolovedesigns">hellolovedesigns</a></b> set the tone for the party:</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmacNw_gDbHRn9ntGjaij3qcFcjh2ymF_v4H0CG8W-UiXGh5YbkoToJQWDuzQmw77JjtjAzr3WoZyv_banbnyzXqb68ZDedqZJM6T7KCRXKw5ReEgFUlgqE0GJvdWbBvO7AWD7pApk7xJc/s1600/Vintage+Strawberry+Shortcake+Birthday+Party+Invitation.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmacNw_gDbHRn9ntGjaij3qcFcjh2ymF_v4H0CG8W-UiXGh5YbkoToJQWDuzQmw77JjtjAzr3WoZyv_banbnyzXqb68ZDedqZJM6T7KCRXKw5ReEgFUlgqE0GJvdWbBvO7AWD7pApk7xJc/s640/Vintage+Strawberry+Shortcake+Birthday+Party+Invitation.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I ordered personalized aprons for each party guest from Lisa at <b><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/TheStitchBoutiqueLLC">The Stitch Boutique</a>. </b>Lisa happens to be a local Austin mama and provided super-fast turnaround and fabulous customer service. The girls loved their aprons!</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhEhdteewAWO948d_yrKFWkkCN_Eqy4XOSTC7BoO5sgFykj1Qtd61TNSmr3YbZvRI6LWJcc74-Vp_meRjmhJp3NXcoiL_U0mlqrs1z7-WnhXvyGUU7_2HMH6ji6-pbYvTdhUkYvjUmkqOF/s1600/Strawberry+Shortcake+Birthday+Park+Personalized+Aprons+with+Pockets.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhEhdteewAWO948d_yrKFWkkCN_Eqy4XOSTC7BoO5sgFykj1Qtd61TNSmr3YbZvRI6LWJcc74-Vp_meRjmhJp3NXcoiL_U0mlqrs1z7-WnhXvyGUU7_2HMH6ji6-pbYvTdhUkYvjUmkqOF/s640/Strawberry+Shortcake+Birthday+Park+Personalized+Aprons+with+Pockets.jpg" style="cursor: move;" width="640" /></a><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I also drew inspiration from the sophisticated Strawberry Shortcake party styled by <b><a href="http://kikis-list.blogspot.com/">Kiki's List</a></b>. Based on her vendor recommendations, I ordered favor boxes from <b><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/simpletastes">Simple Tastes</a></b> and wooden bead strawberry necklaces from <b><a href="http://www.fruugo.us/toc-beadz-girls-painted-wood-strawberry-bead-necklace-bracelet/p-1041586">UK Sparkle</a></b>. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">The birthday girl donned a strawberry print dress from Gymboree and a darling Strawberry Shortcake necklace from </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/QueenyBelleFrills" style="font-weight: bold;">Queeny Belle Frills</a>:</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Little sister wore a strawberry dress, too: </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">The party commenced with each child decorating her own chef's hat.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Each girl then made a strawberry and pink marshmallow wand, strawberry lemonade, a pink pizza, and a cupcake with a Strawberry Shortcake fondant topper.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">After eating, clean-up, and a sweet happy birthday song, the party was done! Sweet, simple, and super easy!</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">(Planning a child's birthday party? Check out our <b><a href="http://www.thecul-de-sac.blogspot.com/2012/09/woodland-fairy-birthday-party.html">Woodland Fairy</a></b>, <b><a href="http://www.thecul-de-sac.blogspot.com/2013/04/in-land-of-sweets-2012-mother-daughter.html">Sugar Plum Fairy</a></b>, <b><a href="http://www.thecul-de-sac.blogspot.com/2013/04/winter-wonderland-birthday-party.html">Winter Wonderland</a></b>, <b><a href="http://www.thecul-de-sac.blogspot.com/2013/06/aloha-summer-birthday-party.html">Luau</a></b>, <b><a href="http://www.thecul-de-sac.blogspot.com/2011/06/my-daughters-joint-birthday-party.html">Silhouettes</a></b>, <b><a href="http://www.thecul-de-sac.blogspot.com/2011/06/butterfly-parties.html">Butterflies</a></b>, and <b><a href="http://www.thecul-de-sac.blogspot.com/2011/07/bubbles-balls-and-balloons-party.html">Bubbles Balls and Balloons</a></b> parties for inspiration and vendor recommendations!)</span><br />
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Sharing with <a href="http://celebrationsathomeblog.com/">Celebrations at Home</a>, <a href="http://www.serenitynowblog.com/">Serenity Now</a>, <a href="http://www.sixsistersstuff.com/">Six Sisters Stuff</a>, <a href="http://www.bystephanielynn.com/">Under the Table and Dreaming</a>, <a href="http://www.tatertotsandjello.com/">Tatertots and Jello</a>, <a href="http://www.iheartnaptime.com/">I Heart Naptime</a>, and <a href="http://www.733blog.com/">Seven Thirty Three</a>.the cul-de-sachttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03622419820177151021noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3630440158904105652.post-47732649118725289272013-06-04T18:43:00.001-07:002013-06-05T17:23:23.543-07:00Aloha ~ A Summer Birthday Party<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">My oldest two daughters share a birthday. For the past three years, they've humored me with joint birthday parties involving <b><a href="http://www.thecul-de-sac.blogspot.com/2011/06/butterfly-parties.html">butterflies</a></b>, <b><a href="http://www.thecul-de-sac.blogspot.com/2011/06/my-daughters-joint-birthday-party.html">silhouettes</a></b>, and <b><a href="http://www.thecul-de-sac.blogspot.com/2012/09/woodland-fairy-birthday-party.html">woodland fairies</a></b>. Not this year. At 7 and 4, they wanted parties to reflect their individual interests. And since May is only my busiest month of the year at work, it seemed totally sane to plan back-to-back birthday parties for the same weekend.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Luckily, they chose simple themes that were fun to execute. My oldest wanted to host her friends at our private neighborhood park on the lake for a <b><a href="http://pinterest.com/abstex/luausummer-splash-party/">Luau / Summer Splash</a></b> extravaganza. We rented an inflatable waterslide and ordered fabulous Aloha printables from Stefanie Richter at <b><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/annaandblue">Anna and Blue Paperie</a></b>. Stefanie happens to live in my city, and I was super happy to support a local mom's business. She's also incredibly talented --- go, check out her <b><a href="http://www.annaandblue.com/">blog</a></b> as soon as you finish reading this post ;) -- and her work provided the basis for our party.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Here is the invitation, which I backed with yellow cardstock and mailed in bright pink envelopes:</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">The birthday girl chose a pink and purple lei to match her swimsuit:</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC5504k2NkRUIfxi1JG1xn-_UtJLchOQoC6W80JpM2L7Ba1UHkOgLQLyBCnklBp9JoFezQHih_BwMgo8Nl0voFZ9-nZVR-63l4pG016pGfec18ZVpVAtPzp8WbntOJAr7JFd_uETecFI4c/s1600/aloha+birthday+party.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC5504k2NkRUIfxi1JG1xn-_UtJLchOQoC6W80JpM2L7Ba1UHkOgLQLyBCnklBp9JoFezQHih_BwMgo8Nl0voFZ9-nZVR-63l4pG016pGfec18ZVpVAtPzp8WbntOJAr7JFd_uETecFI4c/s640/aloha+birthday+party.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">We kept food simple for this mid-afternoon gathering: Hawaiian pizza, a tropical fruit display (including chocolate-dipped pineapple) from <b><a href="http://www.ediblearrangements.com/">Edible Arrangements</a></b>, cupcakes, madeleines, and <b><a href="http://www.kona-ice.com/">Kona Ice</a></b> served in coconut cups with umbrella straws.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">With some inspiration from <a href="http://cookieartbychristina.blogspot.com/"><b>Cookies Are My Canvas</b></a>, my friend Chari at <b><a href="http://www.oneclassycookie.com/">One Classy Cookie</a></b> once again came through with beautiful cookie favors (She also made the cookies for our <b><a href="http://www.thecul-de-sac.blogspot.com/2012/09/woodland-fairy-birthday-party.html">Woodland Fairy</a></b> and <b><a href="http://www.thecul-de-sac.blogspot.com/2013/04/winter-wonderland-birthday-party.html">Winter Wonderland</a></b> parties). Each child also chose a lei to wear and take home.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">In addition to the waterslide, which was a hit, we provided hula hoops and beach balls, and the kids also had full use of our park, including playscapes, tennis, and basketball courts. The girls also crafted shell bracelets. There was plenty of activity, and I think everyone slept well that night!</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Next up, my middle daughter's <b><a href="http://thecul-de-sac.blogspot.com/2013/06/strawberry-shortcake-birthday-party.html">Strawberry Shortcake</a></b> baking party!</span></div>
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(Sharing with <b><a href="http://www.savvysouthernstyle.net/">Savvy Southern Style</a>,</b> <b><a href="http://celebrationsathomeblog.com/">Celebrations at Home</a>, <a href="http://www.realcoake.com/">Real Family Fun</a>, and <a href="http://www.733blog.com/">Seven Thirty Three</a></b>)<br />
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the cul-de-sachttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03622419820177151021noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3630440158904105652.post-63601448047067708922013-05-18T19:29:00.002-07:002013-05-18T19:29:21.825-07:00Happiness Is...the Scent of Confederate Jasmine<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Springtime in Texas is beautiful, y'all. And one of the pleasures of living in a new house this spring is discovering all of the treasures blooming in our garden. Like this <b>Confederate Jasmine</b>, which perfumes my entire yard:</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">It's climbing the brick next to my living room windows, and I don't mind at all. The scent is intoxicating and happiness-inducing.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">What's growing in your garden this spring?</span>the cul-de-sachttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03622419820177151021noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3630440158904105652.post-70802471049065068532013-05-14T21:03:00.000-07:002013-05-14T21:03:23.228-07:00Wedding Flowers<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I was blessed to attend the wedding of a dear friend last weekend; after the ceremony, we celebrated with a beautiful luncheon reception. I snapped a quick photo of one of the gorgeous purple and green floral centerpieces:</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">The arrangements were so spring-like and fresh, thanks to the brightness of the hydrangea. The lavender roses, however, reminded me of the centerpieces from my youngest daughter's <a href="http://www.thecul-de-sac.blogspot.com/2011/10/amethyst-inspired-christening.html" style="font-weight: bold;">amethyst-inspired christening party</a>, which was held in autumn:</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I love how the same rose can be used to evoke both the new beginnings of spring, and the rich jewel tones of fall. Celebration in all, and of all, seasons. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>the cul-de-sachttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03622419820177151021noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3630440158904105652.post-19645585967883334812013-05-10T05:36:00.001-07:002013-05-10T06:20:01.776-07:00Teacher Appreciation Week: Day Four<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">After a week of <b><a href="http://www.thecul-de-sac.blogspot.com/2013/05/teacher-appreciation-week-day-one.html">pretty</a></b>, <b><a href="http://www.thecul-de-sac.blogspot.com/2013/05/teacher-appreciation-week-day-two.html">sweet</a></b>, and <b><a href="http://www.thecul-de-sac.blogspot.com/2013/05/teacher-appreciation-week-day-three.html">healthy</a></b> treats for our teacher, it was time to get practical. Blessed with a generous class gift fund, I created a bouquet of gift cards:</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgm1ribnpDICJqdN1A0a2CCwLdt7ut9lLCZA9jw6kkNtHPg_advSAgDDb8CFqVOHTGs-gQE0khrQA4cs-neJo4315_TFrpK3Mx_PVtnEAt7cCEsQ1L2SwZtWkTdrI636Du6D0Pe1SZLqULf/s1600/Teacher+Appreciation+Week+Gift+Card+Bouquet.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgm1ribnpDICJqdN1A0a2CCwLdt7ut9lLCZA9jw6kkNtHPg_advSAgDDb8CFqVOHTGs-gQE0khrQA4cs-neJo4315_TFrpK3Mx_PVtnEAt7cCEsQ1L2SwZtWkTdrI636Du6D0Pe1SZLqULf/s640/Teacher+Appreciation+Week+Gift+Card+Bouquet.jpg" width="496" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Although I got a chuckle out of <b><a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/133559945171756494/">this</a></b>, I kept it wholesome and purchased gift cards from our teacher's favorite stores. I taped each gift card onto a flower cut-out, attached the flower to a long craft stick, and inserted the stick into floral foam at the bottom of a pail. I covered the floral foam with raffia, wrote "Thank you for helping us grow" and the year on the pail, and that's it! An easy, cute way to present otherwise practical gift cards.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbgl5M4h78waXMn6rZBLUpWB_7Ez7bUlAq4EDmV9eueaqy6Ihupjb7YA6I3pTes8Qlqlt7c6v29LHLzIHSAOYla2YnGCCDVk9p7PLJO2Ax4v3ZPXfzoyBP-C4UUYJ7ECBCXZRqv-GaNoVh/s1600/Teacher+Appreciation+Week+Gift+Card+Bouquet+Thank+you+for+helping+us+grow.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbgl5M4h78waXMn6rZBLUpWB_7Ez7bUlAq4EDmV9eueaqy6Ihupjb7YA6I3pTes8Qlqlt7c6v29LHLzIHSAOYla2YnGCCDVk9p7PLJO2Ax4v3ZPXfzoyBP-C4UUYJ7ECBCXZRqv-GaNoVh/s640/Teacher+Appreciation+Week+Gift+Card+Bouquet+Thank+you+for+helping+us+grow.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">How are you honoring your children's teachers this week?</span><br />
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Sharing with <a href="http://www.ladybirdln.com/">Ladybird Ln</a>the cul-de-sachttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03622419820177151021noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3630440158904105652.post-28126724553207309212013-05-09T03:00:00.000-07:002013-05-10T06:25:01.306-07:00Teacher Appreciation Week: Day Three<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">We had a day off from Teacher Appreciation gifting because our teacher was at a conference, but when she comes back to her classroom today, she'll find this:</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj6FXaHmrJlRSI2BWqelYeczxmN4rNDLRny0OSWXKzo7KA99I3ROeVHJU4gcwRTUlu6pNKg50auEWSGF2E9Cb-0K0YtUcEE7bnXc4SBSGwokzYYXg0ep38xLJQrNnPAGH8zM3JkF4CAwfm/s1600/Teacher+Appreciation+Gift+Basket+of+Apples.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj6FXaHmrJlRSI2BWqelYeczxmN4rNDLRny0OSWXKzo7KA99I3ROeVHJU4gcwRTUlu6pNKg50auEWSGF2E9Cb-0K0YtUcEE7bnXc4SBSGwokzYYXg0ep38xLJQrNnPAGH8zM3JkF4CAwfm/s640/Teacher+Appreciation+Gift+Basket+of+Apples.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">A basket of apples, how cliche. But when each apple is individually tied to an Apple Store gift card?</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5RyS5mHg5jT9RmTM74ZLkVUAL7hoc8Ijv__KaCLeD2aETmNbaXY41jIAkF_52TY38RKBPFeQg626JHvFz95RYKdSADW-WhEPj98fHzhARlX_G1qeoROOr_A-CFecP9NylSi9iXXpt-TPy/s1600/Teacher+Appreciation+Apple+Gift+Basket.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5RyS5mHg5jT9RmTM74ZLkVUAL7hoc8Ijv__KaCLeD2aETmNbaXY41jIAkF_52TY38RKBPFeQg626JHvFz95RYKdSADW-WhEPj98fHzhARlX_G1qeoROOr_A-CFecP9NylSi9iXXpt-TPy/s640/Teacher+Appreciation+Apple+Gift+Basket.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Much more fun! Our school has smart boards in every classroom and issues an ipad to every student; our teachers are thus expected to be up-to-date on all things technology. We're hoping she can use these Apple gift cards to buy apps, music, books, or even hardware of her choice. Our teacher is APP-solutely wonderful, and as one of the homeroom moms, I'm having fun organizing class gifts for her this week!</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXrQZ_6iSm00TIBmVhwQLoQ3XCZiUo5bKhGQKTvqx_tDrvLj_5ZbPw6rgOEUIvMbkHx_eTGfEb5NJP8UZm1ewk8xeJnXZZdT_L-lTb7YBX_IE6oI_eL069CtfNei1HMJNdaxBIsMn5UKr_/s1600/Teacher+Appreciation+Apple+Gift+Card+Basket.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXrQZ_6iSm00TIBmVhwQLoQ3XCZiUo5bKhGQKTvqx_tDrvLj_5ZbPw6rgOEUIvMbkHx_eTGfEb5NJP8UZm1ewk8xeJnXZZdT_L-lTb7YBX_IE6oI_eL069CtfNei1HMJNdaxBIsMn5UKr_/s640/Teacher+Appreciation+Apple+Gift+Card+Basket.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Our Teacher Appreciation Week Plan: Something pretty (<b><a href="http://www.thecul-de-sac.blogspot.com/2013/05/teacher-appreciation-week-day-one.html">sunflowers in a pencil vase</a></b>); something sweet (<b><a href="http://www.thecul-de-sac.blogspot.com/2013/05/teacher-appreciation-week-day-two.html">the bundt cake tower</a></b>); something healthy (the apples); and something practical (tomorrow's <a href="http://thecul-de-sac.blogspot.com/2013/05/teacher-appreciation-week-day-four.html"><b>bouquet of gift cards</b></a>). Each child is also presenting her with a handwritten card or letter on Friday. We're saving the tear-jerker, personalized gifts from the kids for the end-of-year gift presentation in just two weeks. :)</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">How are you honoring your teachers this week?</span><br />
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(Sharing with <a href="http://www.fivedaysfiveways.com/">Five Days...5 Ways</a> and <a href="http://www.sunscholars.com/">Sun Scholars</a>)the cul-de-sachttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03622419820177151021noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3630440158904105652.post-86200211060683431262013-05-08T06:22:00.003-07:002013-05-10T05:36:54.937-07:00Teacher Appreciation Week: Day TwoOur week-long appreciation of our first-grade teacher continues. On Monday, <b><a href="http://www.thecul-de-sac.blogspot.com/2013/05/teacher-appreciation-week-day-one.html">this</a></b>. On Tuesday, a tower of little bundt cakes in our teacher's favorite flavors:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCTHjK88jnLWjJzUO_cMyFAiuTq4ey5eknockma8QQUV9WZ5QalZzzULuU4x8FLqmmfwctzw0SmU-C8CDk3GrqR3K2kbT8DqxRFOrryzL6CZhs_5FhNfTcExezYpICJscyb9-nHE1MvLqB/s1600/Teacher+Appreciation+Gift+Bundt+Cakes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCTHjK88jnLWjJzUO_cMyFAiuTq4ey5eknockma8QQUV9WZ5QalZzzULuU4x8FLqmmfwctzw0SmU-C8CDk3GrqR3K2kbT8DqxRFOrryzL6CZhs_5FhNfTcExezYpICJscyb9-nHE1MvLqB/s640/Teacher+Appreciation+Gift+Bundt+Cakes.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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By the way, if you haven't tried <b><a href="http://www.nothingbundtcakes.com/">Nothing Bundt Cakes</a></b>, you must. They opened shop in my neighborhood last year, and they've become my go-to bakery for holidays and special occasions. So. Amazing. :-)<br />
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How are you honoring your teachers this week?<br />
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<br />the cul-de-sachttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03622419820177151021noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3630440158904105652.post-30743629172505242912013-05-06T09:44:00.004-07:002013-05-10T05:36:54.935-07:00Teacher Appreciation Week: Day One<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I did it:</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhl4B1g8Yh8-vzC3p16FONABgDxkNt_6LqFplwnLkNF4zkGn6HdBvHIUTlckrSQcft4e0r7wxodXZv4qFoDo-uPwIoi84bBtCAbJ7lKlUWzifJnK4HXH0SwK30IQKUGxFHayiI1bQDGouU/s1600/Sunflowers+in+Pencil+Vase+for+Teacher+Appreciation+Week+.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhl4B1g8Yh8-vzC3p16FONABgDxkNt_6LqFplwnLkNF4zkGn6HdBvHIUTlckrSQcft4e0r7wxodXZv4qFoDo-uPwIoi84bBtCAbJ7lKlUWzifJnK4HXH0SwK30IQKUGxFHayiI1bQDGouU/s640/Sunflowers+in+Pencil+Vase+for+Teacher+Appreciation+Week+.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">after I <b><a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/133559945171756463/">pinned it</a>:</b></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZCRt7t-00E3_aifYaFmaTqJ4oglk3pFRlnb9ouU1A_ndJ9pUJPafb9mFDKmvCDtY7PKWScl_1ZNiKjmu1CZD1elajD2oljxkVPGg_-jUb8cTTivVaj0gR8k8GxCwb3TIN6MbFKRtyAqmF/s1600/Sunflowers+and+Pencil+Vase+Teacher+Appreciation.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZCRt7t-00E3_aifYaFmaTqJ4oglk3pFRlnb9ouU1A_ndJ9pUJPafb9mFDKmvCDtY7PKWScl_1ZNiKjmu1CZD1elajD2oljxkVPGg_-jUb8cTTivVaj0gR8k8GxCwb3TIN6MbFKRtyAqmF/s640/Sunflowers+and+Pencil+Vase+Teacher+Appreciation.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">A sweet bouquet of sunflowers, posing in a pencil-wrapped vase, ready to present to our first-grade teacher on the first day of Teacher Appreciation Week. As one of the homeroom moms, I'm responsible for coordinating the Teacher Appreciation effort. And while the week will culminate in a practical presentation of gift cards, we wanted to surprise our beloved teacher with something pretty or fun every day. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b><a href="http://pinterest.com/abstex/teacher-appreciation-ideas/">Pinterest</a></b> to the rescue. For this copycat project, I used a plain glass vase and ribbon I had on hand, exactly 40 pencils at a cost of $1.50, and a $10 bouquet of sunflowers. I simply inserted the pencils between two rubber bands on the vase, and then covered the bands with ribbon. I chose not to glue so that the pencils and vase would be reusable. Total cost, $11.50; total time invested, about 10 minutes. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">How are you celebrating your teachers this week? </span><br />
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(Sharing with <a href="http://www.makingtheworldcuter.com/">Making the World Cuter</a> and <a href="http://www.myuncommonsliceofsuburbia.com/">My Uncommon Slice of Suburbia</a>)the cul-de-sachttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03622419820177151021noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3630440158904105652.post-34928020622333291042013-05-02T04:00:00.000-07:002013-05-10T06:22:46.564-07:00Before and After: Kid's Bathroom <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMWy2ouUE3noDIR11YvpZCsMcl607U-CITVCE6xp-b74JNr4WwNAXHLs8UlJCvcU17o8sh3RhATOJBP3nkKP7GyZ-bWMmkJCtvONuL9wy-DgMbRRHqTeubyIISuhTsyNzSGeSMqcm6m8sa/s1600/Benjamin+Moore+Barely+Teal.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMWy2ouUE3noDIR11YvpZCsMcl607U-CITVCE6xp-b74JNr4WwNAXHLs8UlJCvcU17o8sh3RhATOJBP3nkKP7GyZ-bWMmkJCtvONuL9wy-DgMbRRHqTeubyIISuhTsyNzSGeSMqcm6m8sa/s400/Benjamin+Moore+Barely+Teal.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">As another testament to the miracle of paint, here's a before and after of my middle daughter's jack-and-jill bathroom, which connects <b><a href="http://thecul-de-sac.blogspot.com/2013/04/girls-bedroom-transformation-part-i.html">her new bedroom</a></b> with the </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b><a href="http://thecul-de-sac.blogspot.com/2013/04/playroom-in-progress.html">playroom</a>.</b></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Before: Lots of wallpaper and dingy cabinets.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0eC1QsZm6Fm5XKWOKG_89NDDY5Zw2TBOn-WsPJUL_q2JTdppvBjy33hlFUPuYKHfCRzdV2-PcXc_5rqdLJLaKwp3Vv5pavG02THulPJIBDZupZVl6yQJo5b8YAp3CMfigXEbYv53g8-vc/s1600/old+bathroom+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0eC1QsZm6Fm5XKWOKG_89NDDY5Zw2TBOn-WsPJUL_q2JTdppvBjy33hlFUPuYKHfCRzdV2-PcXc_5rqdLJLaKwp3Vv5pavG02THulPJIBDZupZVl6yQJo5b8YAp3CMfigXEbYv53g8-vc/s640/old+bathroom+1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqFPrt5Z5HRXA_pOSfcAaddpylaCSlbRoWY_cwXC4mh5bBd8jzuX4gztWjAnW99JXxeu-JIIrqzi7XCiIBsuT9ulFscJrU8FrhRaj3BYjmbx__GTWCnh-1ycb55EQKPrdOQU7CaWMuYwv9/s1600/old+bathroom+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqFPrt5Z5HRXA_pOSfcAaddpylaCSlbRoWY_cwXC4mh5bBd8jzuX4gztWjAnW99JXxeu-JIIrqzi7XCiIBsuT9ulFscJrU8FrhRaj3BYjmbx__GTWCnh-1ycb55EQKPrdOQU7CaWMuYwv9/s640/old+bathroom+2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOVJ4TRm2ietKgT4sK-OhsPkIPtnVN8TXm2A-2G5nFZbms-F5tQh3iWMoc-_wN2jt4dFotVLYnu7Z85EaViAxVwBnwGShO6YrSt9jbxyHqZI8ZO2J_L_Tuqtw8NGait9MLSHjqqcZ3ovio/s1600/old+bathroom+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOVJ4TRm2ietKgT4sK-OhsPkIPtnVN8TXm2A-2G5nFZbms-F5tQh3iWMoc-_wN2jt4dFotVLYnu7Z85EaViAxVwBnwGShO6YrSt9jbxyHqZI8ZO2J_L_Tuqtw8NGait9MLSHjqqcZ3ovio/s640/old+bathroom+4.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2D_mYNAtzgsG-RggjIXASNgvDE8giYilz7vjfR9Gy0nTEbN6Ol0bOIQ_Ec6mD08HoDLenw1c2dl6Tq4oojs4TCfVncAfC7Tt4N0xExFOJkFkgVS2hYggYwtUAboyPQpsWVypipyrMi983/s1600/old+bathroom+5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2D_mYNAtzgsG-RggjIXASNgvDE8giYilz7vjfR9Gy0nTEbN6Ol0bOIQ_Ec6mD08HoDLenw1c2dl6Tq4oojs4TCfVncAfC7Tt4N0xExFOJkFkgVS2hYggYwtUAboyPQpsWVypipyrMi983/s640/old+bathroom+5.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">After: Light, bright, and airy, thanks to Benjamin Moore's Barely Teal (which is one shade lighter than the <b><a href="http://thecul-de-sac.blogspot.com/2013/04/playroom-in-progress.html">playroom</a></b>'s Jamaican Aqua) on the walls and Atrium White on the cabinets and trim:</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPkRHiayLhjZPrN1BgqeI-f7jmLuIeJ3Osc6HpOkPuE9Q15CO_Pkeq22XKT3K7Nl7DRQql_JlwNOjDefBD4cI-Iwml-_Sy8Nh_AN8Napbr1UN5KVBIVjOFOLyIqoJb14QsmWLFi9au6mC_/s1600/girl+bathroom+remodel+benjamin+moore+barely+teal.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPkRHiayLhjZPrN1BgqeI-f7jmLuIeJ3Osc6HpOkPuE9Q15CO_Pkeq22XKT3K7Nl7DRQql_JlwNOjDefBD4cI-Iwml-_Sy8Nh_AN8Napbr1UN5KVBIVjOFOLyIqoJb14QsmWLFi9au6mC_/s640/girl+bathroom+remodel+benjamin+moore+barely+teal.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikB4Zfza2XIbqEccRyraMEcO3F2-CKpzAYE6k-sSPmmN0N88h2Rj2rAyUN7gaV_roOIhC71BttB2FkEg7UQu214QSN0n7rvT40IKUNjQr636-pgT0FxbV3-BswD-AlrIyKnkRX8aM-WpHX/s1600/girl+bathroom+remodel+wheatfield+print.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikB4Zfza2XIbqEccRyraMEcO3F2-CKpzAYE6k-sSPmmN0N88h2Rj2rAyUN7gaV_roOIhC71BttB2FkEg7UQu214QSN0n7rvT40IKUNjQr636-pgT0FxbV3-BswD-AlrIyKnkRX8aM-WpHX/s640/girl+bathroom+remodel+wheatfield+print.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Eventually, the countertops and fixtures will need to be updated, but for now, wallpaper removal and fresh paint has brightened the room tremendously. We finished the space with crisp white bath linens, clean white shades on the three windows, and charming prints from <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/thewheatfield" style="font-weight: bold;">thewheatfield</a>.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">From tired to fresh, quite a nice change! </span><br />
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(Are you new to <b><a href="http://thecul-de-sac.blogspot.com/">the cul-de-sac</a></b>? I blog about <b><a href="http://thecul-de-sac.blogspot.com/search/label/nest">nesting</a></b>, <b><a href="http://thecul-de-sac.blogspot.com/search/label/nurture">nurturing</a></b>, <b><a href="http://thecul-de-sac.blogspot.com/search/label/read">reading</a></b>, <b><a href="http://thecul-de-sac.blogspot.com/search/label/travel">traveling</a></b>, and most of all, <b><a href="http://thecul-de-sac.blogspot.com/search/label/celebrate">celebrating</a> </b>life with my family! If you like what you see, please consider joining the conversation via GFC or email. I'm trying to get this blog off the ground and would love to get to know you! :)<br />
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Sharing with <a href="http://www.betweennapsontheporch.net/">Between Naps on the Porch</a>, <a href="http://www.serenitynowblog.com/">Serenity Now</a>, <a href="http://www.theshabbycreekcottage.com/">The Shabby Creek Cottage</a>, <a href="http://www.733blog.com/">Seven Thirty Three</a>, <a href="http://www.southernlovely.com/">Southern Lovely</a>, <a href="http://www.myuncommonsliceofsuburbia.com/">My Uncommon Slice of Suburbia</a>, <a href="http://frenchcountrycottage.blogspot.com/">French Country Cottage</a>, and <a href="http://www.remodelaholic.com/">Remodelaholic</a>the cul-de-sachttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03622419820177151021noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3630440158904105652.post-64619325656054515112013-05-01T04:00:00.000-07:002013-05-01T05:20:09.440-07:00The Amalfi Coast and Capri, Part II<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Yesterday, I shared the <b><a href="http://thecul-de-sac.blogspot.com/2013/04/the-amalfi-coast-and-capri-part-i.html">Highlights #1-5</a></b> from my tenth anniversary trip to Italy's Amalfi Coast and Capri. Today, I share # 6-10.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">6. <b>An Evening at Le Sirenuse</b></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">In Positano, were content with our choice of the quiet<b><a href="http://ilsanpietro.it/"> Il San Pietro</a></b> for accommodations, but it was fun to explore the legendary <b><a href="http://www.sirenuse.it/">Le Sirenuse</a></b> for cocktails and dinner. We spent a leisurely two hours at the Champagne and Oyster Bar, where the coastline views and people-watching are both fabulous. We even met the aforementioned author <b><a href="http://www.my-amalfi-coast.com/my-amalfi-coast">Amanda Tabberer</a></b>, who just happened to be in town and having drinks with friends. What fun to tell her that her book had inspired our trip!</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Later, we dined al fresco at Le Sirenuse's famed restaurant, <a href="http://www.sirenuse.it/en/21/restaurant.aspx"><b>La Sponda</b></a>. This was my husband's favorite meal, and a close second to <b><a href="http://www.palazzoavino.com/en/Dining/Rossellinis">Rossellini's</a></b> for me. Each course was perfectly executed.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">7. <b>The Flowers</b>. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I took exactly 541 pictures of flowers on the Amalfi Coast. Coming from drought-ridden Central Texas, where I struggle to keep anything green alive, I was amazed by the vibrant colors and bountiful blossoms. Beauty is everywhere, and you don't have to spend a penny to enjoy it:</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">8. <b>Anacapri</b></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">After leaving Positano, we stayed at the </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b><a href="http://www.caesar-augustus.com/">Caesar Augustus</a></b></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> in Anacapri. We liked the secluded cliff-top location, and the hotel offers a complimentary shuttle into Capri, or you can take the local bus, which we found very convenient. We hiked Mount Solaro, shopped for handmade linen dresses for our daughters, and ate the best caprese salads ever.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">The Caesar Augustus also encourages languid downtime. Isn't this reading room, with its crisp red and white upholstery, charming?</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I took this picture while swimming in the hotel infinity pool, which seemingly spilled into the sea 1000 feet below:</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">The bartender at the Caesar Augustus claims he makes the best bellinis in Italy. His claim is legit; the peaches were fresh off a nearby tree. With terrace views overlooking the entire Bay of Naples, this was happy hour at its finest:</span></div>
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">9. Capri</span></b></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">The town of Capri is bustling with very high-end retail boutiques, people who like to see and be seen, and dozens of cafes which are perfect for watching such people. It's a busy place, too busy when the cruise ships dock, but full of charm when the sun sets and the day tourists leave. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Capri is also home to the <b>Blue Grotto</b>, which is justifiably famous for its stunning waters. It may be touristy, but it is still a must-do. The water is spectacular in color.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">We also spent an entire day getting happily lost in "the real Capri," away from the crowds. We hiked coastline trails and navigated narrow cobblestone streets. At one point, we stumbled upon an old monastery that still houses an amazing art collection:</span><br />
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">10. Pompeii</span></b></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">We saved a visit to the archaeological site for our last full day in Italy. A quick ferry from Capri to Naples and an efficient taxi ride from Naples to Pompeii brought us to the gates of the old city. We spent hours perusing the ruins and marveling at the sophistication of the people who lived there. It is not a "fun" excursion --- the ghosts of the lost Pompeii souls still linger --- but it is a humbling and important one. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">After our day in Pompeii, we checked into the <b><a href="http://www.vesuvio.it/">Grand Hotel Vesuvio</a></b> in Naples, which had a stunning waterfront location. We ate fabulous pizza nearby, cursorily toured almost a dozen churches and cathedrals, and got a taste of Napoli before turning in to prepare for our early morning flight back to Texas and our kids. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">What a trip. Luxurious. Delicious. Inspiring. Rejuvenating. And forever memorable.</span><br />
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(And once again, many thanks to <b><a href="http://www.moonrings.com/">Moonrings</a></b> for the expert itinerary!)<br />
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the cul-de-sachttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03622419820177151021noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3630440158904105652.post-81169079078193193522013-04-30T04:00:00.000-07:002013-06-21T10:26:25.022-07:00The Amalfi Coast and Capri, Part I<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">For my <b>100th</b> and <b>101st</b> posts, I'm taking a break from kid-related parties, decor, and activities, and writing about a very grown-up trip!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">As an early tenth anniversary present to ourselves, my husband and I traveled to Italy last June, sans kids, for nine days on the <b>Amalfi Coast and Capri</b>. It was our first real vacation (as opposed to "trips" with family) in two years. And we needed it --- time together, to slow down, to relax, to appreciate the world around us.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Miriam at <b><a href="http://www.moonrings.com/">Moonrings</a></b> helped us organize. Her recommendations were spot-on, and we highly recommend Moonrings' services for special occasion travel. (Moonrings planned, and then replanned, our honeymoon ten years ago. We had meticulously arranged two weeks in Bali, but terrorists struck on our wedding day, and we thus spent our wedding night reconfiguring the Bali trip into a safer Hawaiian getaway. Moonrings worked overtime for us then, and we trusted them completely with this trip as well.)</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Our itinerary: Fly into Naples then immediately transfer to Positano for five days. Follow with three days in Capri, a day in Pompeii, and a night in Naples before flying home.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Every minute of the trip was perfect, but here are the first five of our <b>Top Ten Highlights</b>:</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">1. <b><a href="http://ilsanpietro.it/">Il San Pietro</a></b>. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">We stayed at this secluded gem outside Positano for most of the week. If I could design Heaven, it would look and feel exactly like San Pietro. The hotel grounds are magnificently landscaped; the service is exquisite; the mood serene. While there, we met several guests who vacation at Il San Pietro every summer --- one had been coming for more than two decades. It is that magical of a place, to draw repeat visitors, across the globe, year after year.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Here we are, straight off the plane, jetlagged and tired, but still so happy to be at Il San Pietro:</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Every morning I swam. This was my view from the San Pietro pool:</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">After swimming, we'd breakfast on our spacious, bougainvillea-wrapped private terrace and watch the yachts go by:</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">We'd also spend part of the day lounging by the sea:</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">We took a sailing and snorkeling excursion on the hotel boat. Here is a view of the hotel from the water:</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">And sea views of Positano:</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">We spent a glorious afternoon at the Il San Pietro spa. This is the walkway to the spa:</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">And this is the lemon orchard outside the treatment room. After my massage, the therapist picked lemons and made me fresh lemonade:</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">We drank limencello made from those same lemons almost every evening:</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">We also spent a lot of time walking the steep, narrow streets of Positano, admiring the Moorish architecture and beautiful open-air markets.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">2. <b>Lunch at <a href="http://www.daadolfo.com/">Da Adolpho</a></b>. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Anyone planning a trip to the Amalfi Coast must read Amanda Tabberer's gorgeous book:</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">We had purchased the book a few months before our departure and spent hours swooning over the stunning photographs and insider's perspective on Positano. Tabberer lived and worked in Positano for years, marrying into the family which owns and operates Da Adolpho. After reading her nostalgic description of the restaurant, we knew we had to try it. We made our reservation for lunch, the wooden boat with the big red fish picked us up at the San Pietro dock, and within two minutes, we were taxied around the cove to the waterfront restaurant. While there, seated amongst locals, we were delighted to spot some of the "characters" from her book, hosting, cooking, and serving. They were as colorful in person as she described in her text. And the food! Incredibly fresh, simply prepared, and absolutely the best lunch of our week.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">3. <b>Dinner at <a href="http://drpositano.com/">Donna Rosa</a>.</b></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Owned by a mother and two sisters, this hilltop restaurant in Positano serves gorgeous handmade pasta. And the staff are so, so charming. We ate on the terrace, overlooking the lights of Positano, and savored every bite.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Just look at this truffle pasta!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">4. <b>Ravello</b></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">We loved Positano, but for variety, took a half-day and evening sidetrip to Ravello. Perched high above the sea, Ravello is one of the most charming towns on the Amalfi Coast. There is plenty of space to slow down and breathe in Ravello.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Our driver recommended we hike to <b><a href="http://www.villacimbrone.com/">Villa Cimbrone</a></b>. And although the long walk was steep and sweaty and not particularly comfortable in the dress and heels I had worn for dinner, it was totally worth it. The Villa Cimbrone gardens are spectacular. I felt like I was in a fairy tale:</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">After drinking wine in the square, watching the sun set over the mountains and local children play...</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">...we capped the day with a visit to the gorgeous <b><a href="http://www.palazzoavino.com/en">Palazzo Sasso</a></b> and dinner at the exquisite <b><a href="http://www.palazzoavino.com/en/Dining/Rossellinis">Rossellini's</a></b>. Although difficult to choose, Rossellini's may have been my favorite meal of the trip. Just look at this beautiful pasta!</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">A terrace view from our dinner table:</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><b>5. Amalfi Drive</b></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">There is perhaps no better sensory experience than traveling the curvy Amalfi Coast at night, in an expertly chauffeured Mercedes, windows down, wind blowing, Pavarotti blaring on the stereo, intoxicated by the hibiscus perfume. It was pure luxury, and although we certainly don't live like that every day, it sure was fabulous for a week. </span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.dolcemag.com/travel/the-amalfi-coast/8581">via</a></td></tr>
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">It's not time to go back to the real world yet! The journey continues tomorrow with <a href="http://thecul-de-sac.blogspot.com/2013/05/the-amalfi-coast-and-capri-part-ii.html">Amalfi Coast Highlights #6-10</a>! Please join me!</span></b><br />
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(Sharing with <b><a href="http://www.savvysouthernstyle.net/">Savvy Southern Style</a></b>, <b><a href="http://www.memoriesbythemile.com/">Memories by the Mile</a> and <a href="http://www.commonground-do.com/">Common Ground</a></b>)the cul-de-sachttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03622419820177151021noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3630440158904105652.post-2917542756885483322013-04-28T19:15:00.001-07:002013-05-06T13:41:51.917-07:00Girl's Bedroom Transformation, Part I<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">New house, new furnishings. My three-year-old daughter had outgrown the </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b><a href="http://www.thecul-de-sac.blogspot.com/2011/08/welcome-to-my-home-nursery-2.html">colorful nursery</a></b></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> we designed in our old house and wanted a purple "big girl room." Achieving her dream was no easy task, because this is the "before" we started with --- a dark, cabin-like bedroom previously occupied, decorated, and loved by an outdoorsy teenage boy:</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpEeTgcu27Fcm7Hp41YUOd0kPLrqqPFLhn94JouOZuRrYuqiYVS6lW8XpiKaEQRHuFKu8KwnobbXXWNTMthFwtIJ4tSrsbPG6tu24K4hf-dO-hdDW4squclK8mLZT2VuQKS7RVr06nMKVY/s1600/Before+Bedroom+Remodel+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpEeTgcu27Fcm7Hp41YUOd0kPLrqqPFLhn94JouOZuRrYuqiYVS6lW8XpiKaEQRHuFKu8KwnobbXXWNTMthFwtIJ4tSrsbPG6tu24K4hf-dO-hdDW4squclK8mLZT2VuQKS7RVr06nMKVY/s640/Before+Bedroom+Remodel+1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh94xzMYYp_PFTuVulUZ7YKnC3PqCNsYuGt8N9sac7nf6fZjpQnxsaEGNgVwRonrrcK2io3VbIX_qBocCXbyOU96W2fuDW-X1QtCaiIDQAbWv-TnW1CJjjk4sbejBdWQIbuhZ3J3tBD3g9Q/s1600/Before+Bedroom+Remodel+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh94xzMYYp_PFTuVulUZ7YKnC3PqCNsYuGt8N9sac7nf6fZjpQnxsaEGNgVwRonrrcK2io3VbIX_qBocCXbyOU96W2fuDW-X1QtCaiIDQAbWv-TnW1CJjjk4sbejBdWQIbuhZ3J3tBD3g9Q/s640/Before+Bedroom+Remodel+2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmExk2b3UA7QvI49u4pnlOtnyi2wWxj8aJ03RyXLtJTBBAyNFz5JSiIq8FW0Y4EP4ZqNB1Xd9l3ikUW0hvl32bJNTeLLWdTn34hIJwUdmWTzFJsX-DS46MWXMdpWaszQoMJrCZ2Z65KVi4/s1600/Before+Bedroom+Remodel+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmExk2b3UA7QvI49u4pnlOtnyi2wWxj8aJ03RyXLtJTBBAyNFz5JSiIq8FW0Y4EP4ZqNB1Xd9l3ikUW0hvl32bJNTeLLWdTn34hIJwUdmWTzFJsX-DS46MWXMdpWaszQoMJrCZ2Z65KVi4/s640/Before+Bedroom+Remodel+3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">That's a lot of knotty pine, right??? </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">We're still working on accessorizing the space, but I wanted to give you a sneak peek of part of the room to show what a heckuva lot of Benjamin Moore Atrium White paint can do. It's the same color used on the millwork through our new home, and the color I chose for the paneling in the adjacent <b><a href="http://www.thecul-de-sac.blogspot.com/2013/04/playroom-in-progress.html">playroom remodel</a></b>.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZjUuDsnlynNHw0HfOTn86PQYMKb6vLEv-m2TAzyCprE_XVP0_AmwnvvBiWNfRvKweLWzEbGGWz0iftHtDesLz0rwgAXV0rQxwBL_pAsZ__1P2Ct-fQRRsYrAO8GUZ8HacYQoa5ip9cc9K/s1600/Lilac+and+White+Bedroom+Pottery+Barn+Bedding.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZjUuDsnlynNHw0HfOTn86PQYMKb6vLEv-m2TAzyCprE_XVP0_AmwnvvBiWNfRvKweLWzEbGGWz0iftHtDesLz0rwgAXV0rQxwBL_pAsZ__1P2Ct-fQRRsYrAO8GUZ8HacYQoa5ip9cc9K/s640/Lilac+and+White+Bedroom+Pottery+Barn+Bedding.jpg" style="cursor: move;" width="640" /></a></span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">With a new </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b><a href="http://www.potterybarnkids.com/products/catalina-bed-and-trundle">Pottery Barn Kids Catalina</a></b></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> double bed, PBK lilac bedding, a new nightstand we bought raw and painted Atrium White, and a simple PBK bedside lamp, the room now looks fresh, youthful, light, and cheerful, just like my three-year-old:</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8cGFbVk80OT6HnyACt4rWCD6FCrjC-LKoQeCdgkwp4RLMZkXuv7Is8eZYBawlKWFI9qtwZEWwDio27YtUUhCBHWxMsMrI2jTy3MgLnh-qp0Jnl23Y5mJjfWxjbyXKcGgbfdv1cRPuRxli/s1600/Lilac+and+White+Bedroom+Pottery+Barn+Bed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8cGFbVk80OT6HnyACt4rWCD6FCrjC-LKoQeCdgkwp4RLMZkXuv7Is8eZYBawlKWFI9qtwZEWwDio27YtUUhCBHWxMsMrI2jTy3MgLnh-qp0Jnl23Y5mJjfWxjbyXKcGgbfdv1cRPuRxli/s640/Lilac+and+White+Bedroom+Pottery+Barn+Bed.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">The Little Castle black-and-ivory Central Park toile glider in the corner was repurposed from my eldest's old <b><a href="http://www.thecul-de-sac.blogspot.com/2011/09/welcome-to-my-home-vignettes-from.html">nursery</a></b> and accessorized with purple and cream silk throw pillows.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjw1j6HzE32Sp2178XS7pj7qd_Zow8vLWhwimcCXDbKQc7A30CilDNncPtycL_yvIDBIGIrbL7hVl9Sm_6emxDr3K1IEJ6OrNGQ-ws2PU2oB-RePVFjGptla-pP9nc5WasRFKUFfXlZyl_K/s1600/Lilac+Bedroom+Black+and+Cream+Toile+Little+Castle+Glider.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjw1j6HzE32Sp2178XS7pj7qd_Zow8vLWhwimcCXDbKQc7A30CilDNncPtycL_yvIDBIGIrbL7hVl9Sm_6emxDr3K1IEJ6OrNGQ-ws2PU2oB-RePVFjGptla-pP9nc5WasRFKUFfXlZyl_K/s640/Lilac+Bedroom+Black+and+Cream+Toile+Little+Castle+Glider.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">The frame over the bed reminds me of the <b><a href="http://theorganicbloom.com/">Organic Bloom</a></b> frames I used in my youngest daughter's <a href="http://www.thecul-de-sac.blogspot.com/2011/08/sweetness.html"><b>nursery</b></a>, but I actually bought it unfinished from <a href="http://cutitoutalready.com/"><b>Cut It Out</b></a> and painted it lilac. The photograph was taken at my daughters' joint <b><a href="http://www.thecul-de-sac.blogspot.com/2012/09/woodland-fairy-birthday-party.html">Woodland Fairy birthday party</a></b> last summer:</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTGuA3_jYKtSyOtaU7ty-Eo8M0q6pZB0VUDTgkNCSUn729hvW1xdcxZm2cRbRzIc5Fiq1INTGC1pJ2VEAOQnl93YCJ4NW4PN8OCop_8K5rogeAvl1T5FoJzKPgRBQ8p8OtWBIR3V6q7LNL/s1600/Lilac+and+White+Bedroom+Pottery+Barn+Bedding+Painted+Frame+Lamp.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTGuA3_jYKtSyOtaU7ty-Eo8M0q6pZB0VUDTgkNCSUn729hvW1xdcxZm2cRbRzIc5Fiq1INTGC1pJ2VEAOQnl93YCJ4NW4PN8OCop_8K5rogeAvl1T5FoJzKPgRBQ8p8OtWBIR3V6q7LNL/s640/Lilac+and+White+Bedroom+Pottery+Barn+Bedding+Painted+Frame+Lamp.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">The old laminate desktop benefitted from a DIY treatment like I used in the <b><a href="http://www.thecul-de-sac.blogspot.com/2013/04/playroom-in-progress.html">playroom</a></b>: I used thick amethyst wrapping I paper I had leftover from my youngest's <b><a href="http://www.thecul-de-sac.blogspot.com/2011/10/amethyst-inspired-christening.html">christening party</a></b>, under a $35 glass top. Lavender crystal drawer knobs and the lavender-trimmed Napa ruffle chair from PBK complete the look.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM1Bwer9XDhNDUgGkkZ5YwyBlSV7V3ZGr5xSxLvso-CVJFcqp6qaPYnZMwGvpXxvM23Q9_IEeJmi5ZTMn5h914cvCq_5FYF3hhS9fvIvQJgxk1nLglaOx7XVHGk5b91p1QMzCbHUsiahJp/s1600/Lilac+and+White+Bedroom+Desk+and+Hutch+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM1Bwer9XDhNDUgGkkZ5YwyBlSV7V3ZGr5xSxLvso-CVJFcqp6qaPYnZMwGvpXxvM23Q9_IEeJmi5ZTMn5h914cvCq_5FYF3hhS9fvIvQJgxk1nLglaOx7XVHGk5b91p1QMzCbHUsiahJp/s640/Lilac+and+White+Bedroom+Desk+and+Hutch+2.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVlraUZpo1twlNjtXsvoWLDt2vV_zvN63zsKJJfK1IArvar5sXuXLorhjk5Mg4LZSH9U8DLScnDj7KiHtDaLyz23vSxZmyQNiooy-tpTbn5Pz-WkBMpF-DOzffHnf4Y0CjehLVt11dovYa/s1600/Lilac+and+White+Bedroom+Desk+and+Hutch.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVlraUZpo1twlNjtXsvoWLDt2vV_zvN63zsKJJfK1IArvar5sXuXLorhjk5Mg4LZSH9U8DLScnDj7KiHtDaLyz23vSxZmyQNiooy-tpTbn5Pz-WkBMpF-DOzffHnf4Y0CjehLVt11dovYa/s640/Lilac+and+White+Bedroom+Desk+and+Hutch.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">That's it for now. Check back again soon for more pictures and details! Have a great week!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">(Are you new to</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><b><a href="http://thecul-de-sac.blogspot.com/">the cul-de-sac</a></b></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">? I blog about</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><b><a href="http://thecul-de-sac.blogspot.com/search/label/nest">nesting</a></b></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">,</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><b><a href="http://thecul-de-sac.blogspot.com/search/label/nurture">nurturing</a></b></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">,</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><b><a href="http://thecul-de-sac.blogspot.com/search/label/read">reading</a></b></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">,</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><b><a href="http://thecul-de-sac.blogspot.com/search/label/travel">traveling</a></b></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">, and most of all,</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><b><a href="http://thecul-de-sac.blogspot.com/search/label/celebrate">celebrating</a> </b></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">life with my family! If you like what you see, please consider joining the conversation via GFC or email. I'm trying to get this blog off the ground and would love to get to know you! :)</span></span><br />
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Sharing with <b><a href="http://betweennapsontheporch.net/the-morning-room/">Metamorphosis Monday</a></b> at <b><a href="http://betweennapsontheporch.net/">Between Naps on the Porch</a>, <a href="http://www.myuncommonsliceofsuburbia.com/">My Uncommon Slice of Suburbia</a>, <a href="http://www.savvysouthernstyle.net/">Savvy Southern Style</a>, <a href="http://www.serenitynowblog.com/">Serenity Now</a>, <a href="http://www.remodelaholic.com/">Remodelaholic</a>, <a href="http://www.notjustahousewife.net/">Not Just a Housewife</a>, <a href="http://diybydesign.blogspot.com/2013/04/swing-into-spring-its-party-115.html">DIY By Design</a>, <a href="http://www.astrollthrulife.net/">A Stroll Thru Life</a>, <a href="http://www.733blog.com/2013/05/sugar-spice-161.html#more">Seven Thirty Three</a>, <a href="http://www.southernlovely.com/">Southern Lovely</a>, <a href="http://www.houseofhepworths.com/">House of Hepworths</a>, <a href="http://frenchcountrycottage.blogspot.com/2013/05/feathered-nest-friday.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+blogspot%2FQoLtm+%28FRENCH+COUNTRY+COTTAGE%29">French Country Cottage</a>, <a href="http://www.theshabbycreekcottage.com/">Transformation Thursday at The Shabby Creek Cottage</a>, <a href="http://thecharmofhome.blogspot.com/">The Charm of Home</a>, <a href="http://www.tatertotsandjello.com/">Tatertots and Jello</a>, <a href="http://www.sixsistersstuff.com/">Six Sisters Stuff</a>, <a href="http://www.iheartnaptime.net/">I Heart Naptime</a>, <a href="http://www.homemakeronadime.com/2013/05/creative-bloggers-party-hop-110.html">Homemaker on a Dime</a>, <a href="http://www.bystephanielynn.com/">Under the Table and Dreaming</a>, </b>and<b> <a href="http://www.makingtheworldcuter.com/">Making the World Cuter</a></b>. <br />
<br />the cul-de-sachttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03622419820177151021noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3630440158904105652.post-30065426881954165702013-04-24T11:35:00.001-07:002013-06-07T06:42:37.131-07:00Playroom in Progress<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9XEsr_Dkr8-f-SmoQomFF9g_IFeuptFHMBN4m_lViM3qQuaqiUPCP274hvZfwKzAC8EVFE9DPUBcqO-U3ex44gezl96OoY71BuBPZ_qjih3LLmlxEcWnkzC6cJRLD3H4sk1hyphenhyphenBFJMoSI/s1600/IMG_1264.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="396" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9XEsr_Dkr8-f-SmoQomFF9g_IFeuptFHMBN4m_lViM3qQuaqiUPCP274hvZfwKzAC8EVFE9DPUBcqO-U3ex44gezl96OoY71BuBPZ_qjih3LLmlxEcWnkzC6cJRLD3H4sk1hyphenhyphenBFJMoSI/s640/IMG_1264.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Last summer, we moved a few miles down the road to a house more spacious and in a better location than our old one. We were thrilled by the large, shady yard and the generous interior square footage. But every home purchase necessitates compromises, and among ours was this: the new house lacked a playroom. Remember how I <b><a href="http://www.thecul-de-sac.blogspot.com/2011/07/welcome-to-my-home-family-room-reality.html">desperately dreamed</a></b> of a playroom while in my previous home? I had to find a way to create the space that my daughters needed to dream and play, and that I needed to maintain my sanity.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">So we started with this "before," an upstairs spare bedroom, as decorated by the original owners:</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiZY4jHrGzCo_ufKsI3OyJo4UzqfM6o16uZkdGf976w1ccRYlYIZot6KPR5Z95vAOPODnwYaWZNJEwhjo9o107lQltf2DacmWU650mdC29EiasaLzFm8jeWCYHjna-EpN1ZTGV73-z6-I/s1600/Old+Playroom+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiZY4jHrGzCo_ufKsI3OyJo4UzqfM6o16uZkdGf976w1ccRYlYIZot6KPR5Z95vAOPODnwYaWZNJEwhjo9o107lQltf2DacmWU650mdC29EiasaLzFm8jeWCYHjna-EpN1ZTGV73-z6-I/s640/Old+Playroom+1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNhC534B__2Mlo4hm0x_cuTYOHAxjde2qlixTOhTjgLFn_8UAbN46mcHDCKyUcBkjQZndkcriJjwh9kuYyo44YZHyoDUiE4TgK4LWuVW-H1MDHDeSJ77iIthwImH4KtPJs9B4W4hKriok/s1600/Old+Playroom+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNhC534B__2Mlo4hm0x_cuTYOHAxjde2qlixTOhTjgLFn_8UAbN46mcHDCKyUcBkjQZndkcriJjwh9kuYyo44YZHyoDUiE4TgK4LWuVW-H1MDHDeSJ77iIthwImH4KtPJs9B4W4hKriok/s640/Old+Playroom+3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIqVJuTNmo7X4Wm5qf1y7hxyYimSkHoMpQG0GDChTzW0Pw3qcG6mCexEyFnyW62CmlQeOZr_FqWiM4TO1NT_7EQvWWcmoZ4TjYBZImLhGEyx77gNrHmkOpXMljKO9hPJBxSxyZftjVnaQ/s1600/Old+Playroom+5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIqVJuTNmo7X4Wm5qf1y7hxyYimSkHoMpQG0GDChTzW0Pw3qcG6mCexEyFnyW62CmlQeOZr_FqWiM4TO1NT_7EQvWWcmoZ4TjYBZImLhGEyx77gNrHmkOpXMljKO9hPJBxSxyZftjVnaQ/s640/Old+Playroom+5.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">The original blue paint, crazy wallpaper border, and dark wood belied the spaciousness of the room --- about 18 x 13, with an additional 7 x 6 walk-in closet. I knew it would be a lot of work, but with ample northern light and tons of built-in storage, the space had promise of transforming into a light, bright, happy, and practical playroom for my three little girls. We tackled the project in four steps.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b>First: Paint. </b>After seeking<b> <a href="http://pinterest.com/abstex/playroom-ideas/">pinspiration</a>, </b> I decided on a turquoise, pink, and white color scheme.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Every inch of dark wood was painted Benjamin Moore's Atrium White, the milky color of the millwork in the rest of the house. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2bUR0ZRqg4kzgTbqNJysorMHMN3hDrVwCob7eDBoDEiHEBSfJngBJdQly1wFwRUgRjXicNlReyg-DPPawmoWGNmUj_qKCG9mP2d00ri8OI7ZX_vdRnShrXUWjjbflHknfX_WL1q4Ql1Q/s1600/Atrium+White.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2bUR0ZRqg4kzgTbqNJysorMHMN3hDrVwCob7eDBoDEiHEBSfJngBJdQly1wFwRUgRjXicNlReyg-DPPawmoWGNmUj_qKCG9mP2d00ri8OI7ZX_vdRnShrXUWjjbflHknfX_WL1q4Ql1Q/s320/Atrium+White.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">For the walls, I chose Benjamin Moore's Jamaican Aqua, which seemed to be just the right shade of turquoise -- almost a Tiffany blue.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b>Second: Update.</b> We removed the old ceiling fan and installed the airy Ikea Maskros pendant lamp, a bargain at less than $40, and replaced the old Roman shades with inexpensive white blackout shades from Lowe's and no-sew cornice boxes from Jo-Ann's. The fabric on the window treatments is <b><a href="https://www.fabric.com/ProductDetail.aspx?ProductID=d7568c9f-d201-4708-9361-a30d3bf1729b">Premier Prints' Twirly Candy Pink</a></b>. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b>Third: Accessorize</b>.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">The ubiquitous IKEA Expedit serves as toy storage and seating. We ordered the custom bench cushion from <b><a href="http://www.cushionsource.com/">Cushion Source</a></b> and chose hot pink sunbrella fabric, to facilitate cleaning and mitigate fading. Cushion Source offers fabulous customer service, by the way.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPViMP5NJluxTxjBXfY1mpf41WI2ycadBt7k8zZbg-CaGERGksi_3QcM_eKl_uztniZSRxnJI457zQlfFRlFK9gxOmXxrwfpCA6I8873deRi-UOnIeSTsKsTBlw9VXxnPTEZD2rhxle_T2/s1600/Playroom+Storage+Bench+Cushion+Pillows+Canvas+Bins.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPViMP5NJluxTxjBXfY1mpf41WI2ycadBt7k8zZbg-CaGERGksi_3QcM_eKl_uztniZSRxnJI457zQlfFRlFK9gxOmXxrwfpCA6I8873deRi-UOnIeSTsKsTBlw9VXxnPTEZD2rhxle_T2/s640/Playroom+Storage+Bench+Cushion+Pillows+Canvas+Bins.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Target canvas storage bins work for now and are labeled with contents for easy clean-up; I am still looking for pink bins that fit the space more efficiently, though. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">The bare wall above the storage bench is still searching for the right piece of art. I am hoping to focus on that this summer.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Inspired and directed by the fabulous Sada at <b><a href="http://www.sadalewis.com/2011/05/pillow-talk-diy-ruffled-monogram-pillow.html">Casa de Lewis</a></b>, my mother made the fun ruffled monogram pillows which spell out PLAY. Each pillow measures 16 x 16 inches, and the colors mirror the art work on the opposite wall.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">My parents also designed and handmade this beautiful dollhouse for the girls last year. The facade is a replica of their lakehouse, which is perhaps my daughters' favorite place on earth. The dollhouse was a labor of love and gets lots of play. It's bolted to a table on casters, so even the little ones can move it around the room as necessary.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Above the dollhouse hangs this set of 11x14 prints from <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/89880392/you-are-my-sunshine-4-pc-art-print-set?utm_campaign=Share&utm_medium=PageTools&utm_source=Pinterest" style="font-weight: bold;">YassisPlace</a>. "You Are My Sunshine" is the lullaby I sing to the girls every night, and the first song each knew by heart, so I thought it was the perfect sentiment for their playroom:</span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Another etsy find: a bright pink "Oh, the Places You'll Go!" print from<a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/96888991/blue-nursery-decor-girls-room-nursery?utm_campaign=Share&utm_medium=PageTools" style="font-weight: bold;"> fieldtrip</a>, which I hung in the reading corner, over a comfy owl beanbag we bought from Pottery Barn Kids years ago. The girls often sit in that corner, read, and daydream as they watch the deer traverse our backyard.</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL4l-BnlzXHuXoNjSiUcGVhQka7BKrSoJySSgqORO51tCSzDv0F0A7U5aowe-Y0YKDIPqtyct0_Xm5mRWymktzo82fvtRBFBsHB_UWB-QueP4aTitj9ctEnqyUlelMEvmF99KLMMkSRDL8/s1600/Playroom+Window+Reading+Nook.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL4l-BnlzXHuXoNjSiUcGVhQka7BKrSoJySSgqORO51tCSzDv0F0A7U5aowe-Y0YKDIPqtyct0_Xm5mRWymktzo82fvtRBFBsHB_UWB-QueP4aTitj9ctEnqyUlelMEvmF99KLMMkSRDL8/s640/Playroom+Window+Reading+Nook.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">In the center of the room, we re-used a tea table from my oldest's <a href="http://www.thecul-de-sac.blogspot.com/2011/09/welcome-to-my-home-vignettes-from.html"><b>nursery</b></a> and recovered the chairs in the same fabric as we used on the window boxes. I'm still looking for a cute rug to anchor the space. Suggestions are welcome!</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoP0f-MbAUxik-5J0-o224AeIFM9HCI1N2ZFIvUEMm8SyqFwRZJJbLNpB4Q7IcqWAzaq7Mo2DJZTOndU5gYm_U45zBsW-UJ1OiqXf7OweQxu_3D9JERujYsCNGTqYGjf34iYyYT1JcGuxj/s1600/Playroom+Tea+Table+Chairs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoP0f-MbAUxik-5J0-o224AeIFM9HCI1N2ZFIvUEMm8SyqFwRZJJbLNpB4Q7IcqWAzaq7Mo2DJZTOndU5gYm_U45zBsW-UJ1OiqXf7OweQxu_3D9JERujYsCNGTqYGjf34iYyYT1JcGuxj/s640/Playroom+Tea+Table+Chairs.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">The built-in desk and dresser provide plentiful storage for art supplies, puzzles, and board games. I splurged and dressed them up with aqua circus calliope knobs from <b><a href="http://www.poshtots.com/decor/decor-accessories/knobs-finials/aqua-circus-calliope-knob/23/543/1093/12792/poshproductdetail.aspx">Posh Tots</a></b>. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmuNnT3qbDucvBe0gkzDHdMJqpz8d-jGBIxAfJkr-VbI5eM6SpAAJnJaTW-3pYbsCIXcMkfKsrZCiiaf7wX3OQGLU6x7l4WcBH4XQxpjaJ1sDCKwUEebF6G1TfGLhHAa1XfuY6FDwIpW9o/s1600/Playroom+Storage+Dresser+Clock.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmuNnT3qbDucvBe0gkzDHdMJqpz8d-jGBIxAfJkr-VbI5eM6SpAAJnJaTW-3pYbsCIXcMkfKsrZCiiaf7wX3OQGLU6x7l4WcBH4XQxpjaJ1sDCKwUEebF6G1TfGLhHAa1XfuY6FDwIpW9o/s640/Playroom+Storage+Dresser+Clock.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJusrCiNO6eG45HVhmfLSv1srxTLLH3NwpA8rpOkX862jlc_V2E6VA2POkbVMf1ofw77zP5pE1WfKxxgPoMvZv3MXFNySg0Vv0J0oPKoYDwlAhwvsTHAxxbgu1se0CdnPiXIHcHMBv7iMw/s1600/Playroom+Bookshelf+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJusrCiNO6eG45HVhmfLSv1srxTLLH3NwpA8rpOkX862jlc_V2E6VA2POkbVMf1ofw77zP5pE1WfKxxgPoMvZv3MXFNySg0Vv0J0oPKoYDwlAhwvsTHAxxbgu1se0CdnPiXIHcHMBv7iMw/s640/Playroom+Bookshelf+2.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT4YyBdwEozfTqNawE5cx2pNlrtFwzZU9reqkT0Upf7_ODaFBROOzXiyWVEpKRl6y68rvzcHVTlLnrooLtXFC-AXjQ1wZB21vTJU6960v4zlSvhtkluuI3tF3F4tJmvvpTUYKcI5THY9PG/s1600/Playroom+Desk+Art+.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT4YyBdwEozfTqNawE5cx2pNlrtFwzZU9reqkT0Upf7_ODaFBROOzXiyWVEpKRl6y68rvzcHVTlLnrooLtXFC-AXjQ1wZB21vTJU6960v4zlSvhtkluuI3tF3F4tJmvvpTUYKcI5THY9PG/s640/Playroom+Desk+Art+.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">The old forest green laminate desktop had to go, but where? Turns out that replacing that small a piece of laminate is tricky, as most vendors won't take on that small of a job. Painting the laminate seemed burdensome and risky --- the <a href="http://www.diylife.com/2010/01/27/how-to-paint-a-laminate-countertop/">three-week cure time</a> was a major deterrent. So instead I opted for a cheap and quick fix. I covered the laminate top with this whimsical "Princess Playground" gift wrap from <b><a href="http://www.containerstore.com/shop/giftPackaging/giftWrap/juvenile?productId=10032552&N=72453">The Container Store</a></b> that I already had on hand, and hired a discount glass supplier to cut a top to fit. Total cost: $35. And, we can change the look anytime we choose!</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjndNyPBZyXwx76Z_T3qVVDLO9ebu-7JDB2oWY0Al23UulHqWkVTYTVVmASLTe9niGzqz7FF8CQIfRsgqfPJPGNC5k8GH6Im-yzFDpb-ZdVdof9bMO9mS7ytA72Ug-uc4ileTBFcPfHp1e2/s1600/Playroom+Princess+Playground+Gift+Wrap+Desk.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjndNyPBZyXwx76Z_T3qVVDLO9ebu-7JDB2oWY0Al23UulHqWkVTYTVVmASLTe9niGzqz7FF8CQIfRsgqfPJPGNC5k8GH6Im-yzFDpb-ZdVdof9bMO9mS7ytA72Ug-uc4ileTBFcPfHp1e2/s640/Playroom+Princess+Playground+Gift+Wrap+Desk.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">These <b><a href="http://www.aaronbrothers.com/products/kids-keepsake-box">keepsake boxes</a></b> from Aaron Brothers hold up to fifty pieces of artwork and allow the kids to rotate their art displays as often as they choose:</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJE1Fkc7oIFcll7lo0uM9VBDxd898YmVTbeWX4f41hLCpjgNIBDB3jZgFfgkXbRmAURr-OhP52BKRn8RwERHfsG88q3_SN00NOLJwiIOUkKvJeB332n71e0cFYC_yOGQBsXH_bVbRs7JYk/s1600/Playroom+Glass+Top+Desk.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJE1Fkc7oIFcll7lo0uM9VBDxd898YmVTbeWX4f41hLCpjgNIBDB3jZgFfgkXbRmAURr-OhP52BKRn8RwERHfsG88q3_SN00NOLJwiIOUkKvJeB332n71e0cFYC_yOGQBsXH_bVbRs7JYk/s640/Playroom+Glass+Top+Desk.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Above, books from some of our favorite authors are on display, along with stuffed animals to soften the space:</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9Bk_9ONZZ3iBj6tSEG1joiVcxNayLMXoH0MnOsbL6-Ej0qWuMtA3MJQB-GvRpOdXZZoYZllz04U1-a9qFbp9Enymu3LpgdG_D1ck9UxMCNM1_CiRoUx4W9HfId0KJxpkuIc7GMvsWTG7q/s1600/Playroom+Bookshelf+Stuffed+Animals.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9Bk_9ONZZ3iBj6tSEG1joiVcxNayLMXoH0MnOsbL6-Ej0qWuMtA3MJQB-GvRpOdXZZoYZllz04U1-a9qFbp9Enymu3LpgdG_D1ck9UxMCNM1_CiRoUx4W9HfId0KJxpkuIc7GMvsWTG7q/s640/Playroom+Bookshelf+Stuffed+Animals.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYKengtnAPZUkbuiYMCNvyNIP_iQeS_0Sb59MWd2ESCTZBtnVA8ItLxlHBZs8RgEgdD3FHRWcS2msKioTnrxl_X_f39GRznwZZwBm42WMchZz7M43px63VVKGdOLuAbngCcYi1xRcDHJib/s1600/Playroom+Desk+Bookshelf.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYKengtnAPZUkbuiYMCNvyNIP_iQeS_0Sb59MWd2ESCTZBtnVA8ItLxlHBZs8RgEgdD3FHRWcS2msKioTnrxl_X_f39GRznwZZwBm42WMchZz7M43px63VVKGdOLuAbngCcYi1xRcDHJib/s640/Playroom+Desk+Bookshelf.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtKcMQrv2Pn67VKlmu7PlQQOrr1MiyHsWCuWinlOgPHoxsyD5FoDM0JCt074Svd4SHXCp3GANvtNaBlvyxtOt4RBrOwkfs-LQYpadOpLG5OdW4cd5eIpThq95sDdSyNIw09CA5HGBZ2AQz/s1600/Playroom+Desk+Bookshelf+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtKcMQrv2Pn67VKlmu7PlQQOrr1MiyHsWCuWinlOgPHoxsyD5FoDM0JCt074Svd4SHXCp3GANvtNaBlvyxtOt4RBrOwkfs-LQYpadOpLG5OdW4cd5eIpThq95sDdSyNIw09CA5HGBZ2AQz/s640/Playroom+Desk+Bookshelf+2.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">On an adjoining wall, this canvas print from Shutterfly:</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgV7UKKqwIw9sOtwDHFXwbZTnILL02OwxpNfWeXrVUauYB_Dl6VWx4t7e5LWtVZtetqRMFEvVzRur2xADAKYzulnXhHsEKUIISOJD6OOc6wuH4IUrZtBKe0oBXX_9MTYNWOZ-YefMIS9I/s1600/IMG_1268.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgV7UKKqwIw9sOtwDHFXwbZTnILL02OwxpNfWeXrVUauYB_Dl6VWx4t7e5LWtVZtetqRMFEvVzRur2xADAKYzulnXhHsEKUIISOJD6OOc6wuH4IUrZtBKe0oBXX_9MTYNWOZ-YefMIS9I/s640/IMG_1268.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Across the room, the Ella Bella Fairy Pendulum Wall Clock from </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b><a href="http://www.allendesignsstudio.com/index.html">Allen Designs</a></b></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> is both practical and whimsical:</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhii4hvlz575LgnEcmuuExraDQh0jzvuhph-Sxmnt3skzrJs2219pFjTFb3MTtxHL7MR5dmzBkoFFqkjNnQPp9SOq3F60BLQJbYy3IjoHS-q9HKNg_PwXD8Nk7MTNJCyJtZpsuE-2jKXAk/s1600/IMG_1269.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhii4hvlz575LgnEcmuuExraDQh0jzvuhph-Sxmnt3skzrJs2219pFjTFb3MTtxHL7MR5dmzBkoFFqkjNnQPp9SOq3F60BLQJbYy3IjoHS-q9HKNg_PwXD8Nk7MTNJCyJtZpsuE-2jKXAk/s640/IMG_1269.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b>Fourth: Organize the Closet.</b> With 42 square feet, the closet is an integral part of the playspace. The girls call it their clubhouse, as it includes their play kitchen, dress-up wardrobe, their fleet of ride-on toys, and all of their bulky toys and bins of manipulatives. The shelving in the closet helps keep everything visible, organized, and accessible. You'll note that the wood is still the original dark stain; I initially chose not to have it painted out of economy, but I regret that decision now. In the next round of remodeling, we'll have our painters tackle the closet as well. For now, though, it works, and the girls are very happy playing for hours in the closet! </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgimPNAXvaL1hz01Oi63f8VdNrptjtitgcMhvb4DgVHnqQ4F9P6jrShEmVC0Uoh9aXVUlXkQ-lxqdOtcUc48GoFESHT3x-uKMStRS04JmFo4pcIzLaszHqFYWutk7vGhx2G-fW8m1mfuOkn/s1600/Playroom+Closet+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgimPNAXvaL1hz01Oi63f8VdNrptjtitgcMhvb4DgVHnqQ4F9P6jrShEmVC0Uoh9aXVUlXkQ-lxqdOtcUc48GoFESHT3x-uKMStRS04JmFo4pcIzLaszHqFYWutk7vGhx2G-fW8m1mfuOkn/s640/Playroom+Closet+1.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGJRbn7tZPSJXu5gZPAhMpp8MDuXtay1lRlURbwqel74sKdT2mGfKCGk-sg82nkqIippsQuG3b80_X0RIXjQHtZUIS4WxlSNXpda5ufjAxuAUOmoHMPOQLJyiuiqdbRr8MCjjjLVNtnpFC/s1600/Playroom+Closet+Pottery+Barn+Kids+Retro+Red+Kitchen.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGJRbn7tZPSJXu5gZPAhMpp8MDuXtay1lRlURbwqel74sKdT2mGfKCGk-sg82nkqIippsQuG3b80_X0RIXjQHtZUIS4WxlSNXpda5ufjAxuAUOmoHMPOQLJyiuiqdbRr8MCjjjLVNtnpFC/s640/Playroom+Closet+Pottery+Barn+Kids+Retro+Red+Kitchen.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1Z27ELjyXovQI-7x659hf3ZyVlOlau6CrmWuciWN0FwJjZBBKHJ4JD55zbIiWT5nAGL6uO4Yy5MPLoXTiQP0beuUz5LZiJPJXHaRVP_SApnHvgxcTCumzyjqE8_TOgBuMmPmh3pQMycUR/s1600/Playroom+Closet+Storage+Legos+Blocks+Manipulatives+Toys.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1Z27ELjyXovQI-7x659hf3ZyVlOlau6CrmWuciWN0FwJjZBBKHJ4JD55zbIiWT5nAGL6uO4Yy5MPLoXTiQP0beuUz5LZiJPJXHaRVP_SApnHvgxcTCumzyjqE8_TOgBuMmPmh3pQMycUR/s640/Playroom+Closet+Storage+Legos+Blocks+Manipulatives+Toys.jpg" width="428" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqSfeUTi84t3rdnhlMWMuL2Ruj_pI7AjyJaDrh83c0iMsx3PJGCoFwCnBjITxR2I2JF7SYWHbRxnuQ1g0NkuEnb7-k2sMsQ-5bhomWWURwuYC9fFpg7Snk8M-r-pGH6Oekc9G_gBcR-E55/s1600/Playroom+Closet+Storage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqSfeUTi84t3rdnhlMWMuL2Ruj_pI7AjyJaDrh83c0iMsx3PJGCoFwCnBjITxR2I2JF7SYWHbRxnuQ1g0NkuEnb7-k2sMsQ-5bhomWWURwuYC9fFpg7Snk8M-r-pGH6Oekc9G_gBcR-E55/s640/Playroom+Closet+Storage.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbVLn10AHe6fGGrkUtRFAcIlTH3vJUzRQC0y15fMdOFQ6SsDFEDodzBtwnDSMuAT0Qug4_5ihqXzH99gLSfAGbLAIjsy_OWLpYDNGO4GmS9U9MNpg7oc0q_rIB6WCJjO6SyjUAUGxorPtX/s1600/Playroom+Closet+Storage+Dress+up+clothes+accessories.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbVLn10AHe6fGGrkUtRFAcIlTH3vJUzRQC0y15fMdOFQ6SsDFEDodzBtwnDSMuAT0Qug4_5ihqXzH99gLSfAGbLAIjsy_OWLpYDNGO4GmS9U9MNpg7oc0q_rIB6WCJjO6SyjUAUGxorPtX/s640/Playroom+Closet+Storage+Dress+up+clothes+accessories.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><i>The not-quite-final result:</i></span></b><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieud0JSDP8RgwkhSATj9n1-aEqt48a3mFEaj39jiuiTPkEGUXVGJkPX_V7HwvqhsU9NCUbBIDZdLhQuokBDNRfWM9Y8xs21NfZOxbyIdHuWxLUqwmsG80ZUjaT-6fOarFKB4ylFgMavB3t/s1600/Playroom+Blog+Picture+Turquoise+White+Pink.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieud0JSDP8RgwkhSATj9n1-aEqt48a3mFEaj39jiuiTPkEGUXVGJkPX_V7HwvqhsU9NCUbBIDZdLhQuokBDNRfWM9Y8xs21NfZOxbyIdHuWxLUqwmsG80ZUjaT-6fOarFKB4ylFgMavB3t/s640/Playroom+Blog+Picture+Turquoise+White+Pink.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4mDcpgzRg5mDoMbQMpH-NRcTQq2JJ-3SdjLDsxoU93MyldCV-GTAru3yKKDkJ98mjQwAX0tL7KRgh8MVl1aHXXabH0DVIGBEX_O4SsA8qKC3yVzuzDhwyViEoZ0EVg1XJl8tuTFX7mgMm/s1600/Playroom+Storage+Bench+Pillows+Canvas+Bins.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4mDcpgzRg5mDoMbQMpH-NRcTQq2JJ-3SdjLDsxoU93MyldCV-GTAru3yKKDkJ98mjQwAX0tL7KRgh8MVl1aHXXabH0DVIGBEX_O4SsA8qKC3yVzuzDhwyViEoZ0EVg1XJl8tuTFX7mgMm/s640/Playroom+Storage+Bench+Pillows+Canvas+Bins.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">A big improvement from the "before" I think, and thus far, a peaceful and happy playspace for my kiddos. It has made a world of difference in our family dynamic!</span><br />
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(Sharing this week with <b><a href="http://www.remodelaholic.com/">Remodelaholic</a>, <a href="http://involvingcolor.com/">Involving Color</a>, <a href="http://betweennapsontheporch.net/">Metamorphosis Monday</a>, <a href="http://www.savvysouthernstyle.net/">Savvy Southern Style</a>, <a href="http://www.thriftydecorchick.blogspot.com/">Thrifty Decor Chick</a>, <a href="http://www.733blog.com/">Seven Thirty Three</a>, <a href="http://www.theshabbycreekcottage.com/">Transformation Thursday</a>, <a href="http://www.sixsistersstuff.com/">Six Sisters' Stuff</a>, <u><a href="http://www.tatertotsandjello.com/">Tatertots and Jello</a></u>, <a href="http://www.iheartnaptime.com/">I Heart Naptime</a>, <a href="http://diybydesign.blogspot.com/">DIYbyDesign</a>, <a href="http://lilluna.com/lil-luna-link-party-124/">Lil Luna</a>, <a href="http://frenchcountrycottage.blogspot.com/2013/04/feathered-nest-friday_25.html#more">French Country Cottage</a>, <a href="http://thecharmofhome.blogspot.com/2013/04/home-sweet-home-116.html">The Charm of Home</a>, <a href="http://www.commonground-do.com/2013/04/be-inspired-136-charming-dining-room.html">Common Ground</a>, <a href="http://www.ladybirdln.com/2013/04/weekend-show-off-party-4-25.html">Ladybird Lane</a>, <a href="http://www.houseofhepworths.com/2013/04/24/hookin-up-with-hoh-145/#more-13720">House of Hepworths</a>, <a href="http://www.serenitynowblog.com/2013/04/weekend-bloggy-reading-link-up_26.html">Serenity Now</a>, <a href="http://www.fivedaysfiveways.com/">Five Days...5 Ways</a>, <a href="http://www.niftythriftythings.com/2013/04/nifty-thrifty-sunday-106.html">Nifty Thrifty Things</a>, <a href="http://suburbsmama.blogspot.com/">Suburbs Mama</a>, <a href="http://www.bystephanielynn.com/2013/04/the-sunday-showcase-party-no-192.html">Under the Table and Dreaming</a>, <a href="http://www.homemakeronadime.com/">Homemaker on a Dime</a>, <a href="http://www.makingtheworldcuter.com/">Making the World Cuter</a>, <a href="http://www.astrollthrulife.net/2013/04/162nd-inspire-me-tuesday.html">A Stroll Thru Life</a>, <a href="http://www.southernlovely.com/">Southern Lovely</a>, <a href="http://www.ahumblecreation.com/">A Humble Creation</a>, <a href="http://www.realcoake.com/">The Real Thing</a>, <a href="http://www.thegirlcreative.com/">The Girl Creative</a>, <a href="http://www.reasonstoskipthehousework.com/">Reasons to Skip the Housework</a>, <a href="http://www.fidlersunderoneroof.com/">Fidlers Under One Roof</a>, and <a href="http://www.myuncommonsliceofsuburbia.com/">My Uncommon Slice of Suburbia</a></b>)<br />
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the cul-de-sachttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03622419820177151021noreply@blogger.com30tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3630440158904105652.post-6370485743073654552013-04-22T06:00:00.000-07:002013-05-06T18:20:36.123-07:00Book Club...for Toddlers<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Before I was a mother, I participated in a monthly book club. As educated, professional women, we read serious works of literature which featured strong female protagonists. We intensely debated feminism and our roles as women. We cultivated deep friendships. We drank a lot of wine. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">That was pre-mamahood. Now, between working full-time and rearing three young girls, my schedule doesn't allow for a regular book club commitment. But I still love reading books. I still love talking about books. And most importantly, I want my children to love reading and talking about books.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">So I was ecstatic when I read <b><a href="http://www.gorgeousmillie.com/wpress/millies-blog">this</a> </b>blog post on book clubs for kids, and when my youngest's playgroup decided to spin off a "Toddler Book Club." On a Friday morning once a month, our group of 12-15 toddlers and their mothers gathers to play, read, and participate in a hands-on activity related to the book selection. We rotate houses to share hosting duties. We've been going for almost a year now, and both my toddler and I eagerly anticipate each meeting.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">For example, one month we read Chris Raschka's <b><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Ball-Daisy-Chris-Raschka/dp/037585861X/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1366517863&sr=1-1&keywords=a+ball+for+daisy">A Ball for Daisy,</a></b> and the kiddos made "paint ball" art by coating tennis balls with washable paint and throwing them against white paper canvases (outside of course).</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">In the fall, we read Joe Troiano's <b><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Legend-Spookley-Square-Pumpkin/dp/1435120884/ref=sr_1_4?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1366517896&sr=1-4&keywords=spookley+square+pumpkin">The Legend of Spookley the Square Pumpkin</a></b> and painted mini-pumpkins.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">During the winter holidays, we read Ian Falconer's <b><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Olivia-Helps-Christmas-Ian-Falconer/dp/1416907866/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1366517836&sr=1-1&keywords=olivia+helps+with+christmas">Olivia Helps with Christmas</a></b> and constructed Christmas ornaments.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">In the early spring, we read Kevin Henkes' <b><a href="http://www.amazon.com/My-Garden-Kevin-Henkes/dp/0061715174/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1366517814&sr=1-1&keywords=kevin+henkes+my+garden">My Garden</a></b> and planted marigolds. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">In other months, we've read <b><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Blackout-John-Rocco/dp/1423121902/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1366518602&sr=8-1&keywords=Blackout">Blackout</a></b>, <b><a href="http://www.amazon.com/I-Want-My-Hat-Back/dp/0763655988/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1366518629&sr=1-1&keywords=Hat+back">I Want My Hat Back</a></b>, and <b><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Dont-Let-Pigeon-Drive-Book/dp/1423145143/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1366518655&sr=1-1&keywords=pigeon+drive+bus">Don't Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus</a></b>.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">And when I hosted recently, we read Marjorie Priceman's <b><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Make-Apple-World-Dragonfly-Books/dp/0679880836/ref=sr_1_cc_1?s=aps&ie=UTF8&qid=1366517708&sr=1-1-catcorr&keywords=how+to+make+an+apple+pie">How to Make an Apple Pie and See the World</a>:</b> </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgidPcui55SxoaJdE4VrfKmXnGhQNBUnTQLs69ttAtqRG_HfqRe1Mzcwlfy_N9sgX1viSE56aWAibS8oOxZxrI97sGkbB63pztaewld6Q8p9AOXLqC6UtoTnFA40dd7p0BGrIXU_uSIJYs/s1600/2013+Toddler+Book+Club+Apple+Pie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgidPcui55SxoaJdE4VrfKmXnGhQNBUnTQLs69ttAtqRG_HfqRe1Mzcwlfy_N9sgX1viSE56aWAibS8oOxZxrI97sGkbB63pztaewld6Q8p9AOXLqC6UtoTnFA40dd7p0BGrIXU_uSIJYs/s640/2013+Toddler+Book+Club+Apple+Pie.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">The kids snacked on apple cheerios and Sprout's apple, cinnamon, and oatmeal pouches. Each child used fabric markers to decorate her own <b><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0035V1JUQ/ref=oh_details_o04_s00_i01?ie=UTF8&psc=1">apron</a></b> and <b><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004ALYZOM/ref=oh_details_o04_s00_i00?ie=UTF8&psc=1">chef's hat</a></b> (both purchased in bulk from Amazon), and then, after reading the book, we baked miniature apple pies!</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">We used <b><a href="http://www.pillsbury.com/recipes/easy-apple-foldovers-with-apple-glaze/cafa209d-6ef0-4de8-b228-1636ac7e15fe">this Pillsbury recipe</a></b>, minus the nuts. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Given that they were made by two-year-olds, the results weren't Martha-Stewart-pretty...</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF0MUb6Z16JO5U-QMQgyiGTne_Mo8bLJvHIQ8DLcsgrwsBMKgaAPFuOeo_wIJv97uFoD-3AKyvwhNKN2O_IIvKVZtA2mEPJGub0DbZ5aBXO9zVIIhtQjGzkdKGKthhGW7R_wX_z2O2UiQ/s1600/2013+Toddler+Book+Club+Baking+Apple+Pies.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF0MUb6Z16JO5U-QMQgyiGTne_Mo8bLJvHIQ8DLcsgrwsBMKgaAPFuOeo_wIJv97uFoD-3AKyvwhNKN2O_IIvKVZtA2mEPJGub0DbZ5aBXO9zVIIhtQjGzkdKGKthhGW7R_wX_z2O2UiQ/s640/2013+Toddler+Book+Club+Baking+Apple+Pies.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">...but they sure were tasty!</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXva9VSPLN06Chqzu29KbdNPMsMzKFadpGxp0lRb7DdvRyerzd6YWAD86KshGbyws4QwD8QrH325V4oc-AnLMQOFeuI9geONJ1ZR2cZfglmTGY9HCTrdJGvnOLye9R-iyCNCgWqKZbGJU/s1600/2013+Toddler+Book+Club+Eating+Apple+Pie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXva9VSPLN06Chqzu29KbdNPMsMzKFadpGxp0lRb7DdvRyerzd6YWAD86KshGbyws4QwD8QrH325V4oc-AnLMQOFeuI9geONJ1ZR2cZfglmTGY9HCTrdJGvnOLye9R-iyCNCgWqKZbGJU/s640/2013+Toddler+Book+Club+Eating+Apple+Pie.jpg" width="436" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">The keys to a successful toddler book club: (1) Keep it simple. Avoid over-planning or over-complicating the activity. For example, I prepared most of the pie filling in advance so that the children could focus on spooning the filling into their crust and then folding it into their pie shapes. (2) Be patient with short attention spans, and don't expect much "discussion" of the book. The point at this age is not to teach the art of literary criticism but instead to explore, in hands-on way, the themes of the book. (3) Provide healthy snacks. (4) Allow for outdoor playtime whenever possible. Toddlers have lots of energy to burn. :)</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Our toddler book club reflects its members' shared love of reading, culture, and hands-on learning. I feel so lucky that my daughter and I can participate!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">(Sharing with <a href="http://thejennyevolution.com/">The Jenny Evolution</a>, <a href="http://www.sunscholars.com/">Sun Scholars</a>, <b><a href="http://theeducatorsspinonit.blogspot.com/p/love-books.html">The Educator's Spin On It</a></b>, and <a href="http://www.realcoake.com/">The Real Thing</a>)</span>the cul-de-sachttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03622419820177151021noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3630440158904105652.post-36225696944626325932013-04-21T06:30:00.000-07:002013-05-01T10:19:50.155-07:00From Ann Arbor to Austin: Scouting for Fairies<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAgAE8c_qNKblTTW0K0kFLvn68dZEho5Oco2DpFolV0jy6RLq4ZVfxm8M_VUKrsSrlz7dYblSV1FCx-wwyB0O08lKFx_GwTexm4q7yrRMLdQcFC0c5m1M-6MD6w_Ft6DgUeA5v6LyM1Ro/s1600/MI+Ann+Arbor+Arboretum+Fairy+Woods.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAgAE8c_qNKblTTW0K0kFLvn68dZEho5Oco2DpFolV0jy6RLq4ZVfxm8M_VUKrsSrlz7dYblSV1FCx-wwyB0O08lKFx_GwTexm4q7yrRMLdQcFC0c5m1M-6MD6w_Ft6DgUeA5v6LyM1Ro/s640/MI+Ann+Arbor+Arboretum+Fairy+Woods.jpg" width="640" /></a></span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">My young daughters love </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b><a href="http://thecul-de-sac.blogspot.com/2011/11/magic-of-childhood-literary-fairylands.html">fairies</a></b></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> --- from </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b><a href="http://thecul-de-sac.blogspot.com/2012/09/woodland-fairy-birthday-party.html">woodland fairies</a></b></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> to the </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b><a href="http://thecul-de-sac.blogspot.com/2013/04/in-land-of-sweets-2012-mother-daughter.html">Sugar Plum Fairy</a></b></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">. We even have fairies in our own backyard:</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNqltfsAtq6ev8iycBM-QxQWwXs8RL2XeFwj2IBoOUbsDII0xBgwg3xfRgWGeDYQFRJaEZaDUrAFtttO4euaGuVlpTVnp8xdxUQihqYNpQQ3uNGlzK-wt1vtgsNoFtDYCyCVkvOZPaz10/s1600/Fairy+Doors+on+Trees.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNqltfsAtq6ev8iycBM-QxQWwXs8RL2XeFwj2IBoOUbsDII0xBgwg3xfRgWGeDYQFRJaEZaDUrAFtttO4euaGuVlpTVnp8xdxUQihqYNpQQ3uNGlzK-wt1vtgsNoFtDYCyCVkvOZPaz10/s640/Fairy+Doors+on+Trees.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">So wherever we go, we look for clues of other "real life" fairies. Such quests force us to slow down a bit, appreciate our surroundings, and look for magic in the everyday.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Last summer, on a vigilant walk through downtown Ann Arbor, Michigan, we spied tiny fairy doors on the facades of homes, restaurants, retail stores, and office buildings. The fairies apparently moved into town in 1993, thanks to the efforts of <b><a href="http://urban-fairies.com/">Jonathan Wright</a> </b>(whom you can follow on Pinterest <a href="http://pinterest.com/fairyologist/fairy-doors-urban-fairies-of-ann-arbor/">here</a>), and today, their presence delights even the most skeptical of visitors. My girls were thrilled to spot these charming fairy doors, at the steps of which visitors leave tokens and gifts: </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlt_Te34Qx0wH4zTz8xGTu0yg2v7VvwWEZUnPNGDSmX_skBAp7U6_X2Qwkg57T3uZKnnC23EkTH-B-qE-tf9tv2tO8NF1QaVtnefB1OviEnxiio2JDFpUP3kdB7-ir3xYA3yMAwtwAyrY/s1600/MI+Ann+Arbor+Fairy+Door+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlt_Te34Qx0wH4zTz8xGTu0yg2v7VvwWEZUnPNGDSmX_skBAp7U6_X2Qwkg57T3uZKnnC23EkTH-B-qE-tf9tv2tO8NF1QaVtnefB1OviEnxiio2JDFpUP3kdB7-ir3xYA3yMAwtwAyrY/s640/MI+Ann+Arbor+Fairy+Door+2.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">The "Fairy Woods" at the University of Michigan's </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b><a href="http://www.lsa.umich.edu/mbg/default.asp">Nichols Arboretum</a></b></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> was another must-see for our family. Our children were enchanted with the earnestly designed fairy houses, all constructed from natural materials and found objects. We spent </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><i>hours</i></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> under the tall, whispering pines, building and decorating our own fairy homes.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Back home in Austin, we have discovered fairy houses in our local </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b><a href="http://www.zilkergarden.org/">botanical gardens</a>:</b></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">And our favorite:</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Any fairy sightings in your neck of the woods? :-)</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">This post was featured by: </span><br />
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<div align="center"><a href="http://www.memoriesbythemile.com/" title="Memories by the Mile" target="_blank"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh80WgWjRPberkAFpPoiIcgRImsb2wGuG3DqG3fvmlVLMVFht_RoVXPlEUD5xOepW27BshrmoMXyFtRXNjf2nDo90SLOhaf5V7jL26_a0cPRIeolHA-JiRRLk8W0LUTvkSr89lU3JPXDObJ/s240/Untitled-3.png" alt="Memories by the Mile" style="border:none;" /></a></div>
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<br />the cul-de-sachttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03622419820177151021noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3630440158904105652.post-52732131568214630122013-04-18T15:21:00.001-07:002013-05-16T20:37:14.412-07:00Once Upon a Time: Experiencing London with Kids<!--StartFragment-->
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">One of last spring’s highlights was a week-long trip to
London with my husband and my five-year-old daughter.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I was traveling for work, but my daughter’s school
recognized the educational opportunity in her tagging along, so we made a
mini-vacation out of the trip as well.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I have been to London several times; I even lived and worked
there for awhile.</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">London is one of
my very favorite cities, and a place where I feel comfortable and know my way around. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> But it was all new to me this time, as seen through the eyes of my child. For a child who believes deeply in the magic of childhood --- <b><a href="http://www.thecul-de-sac.blogspot.com/2012/09/woodland-fairy-birthday-party.html">fairies</a></b> and castles, princesses and pirates --- London was better (and cheaper) than Disney World. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">We let our daughter's interests lead the way. We didn't feel compelled to tour every museum, cathedral, or historical site on this visit; instead, we focused on those landmarks about which she had previously read or learned. She loved, for example, recognizing the sites from "Madeline in London" and "Paddington Bear." We also refrained from micro-managing her travel experience; we didn't object, for example, when she insisted on wearing her favorite tea party dress <i>five days in a row</i> "just in case" she happened to meet the queen. :)</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">With those guidelines in place, and despite the chilly weather, we had a blast. Here is</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> my daughter's personal <b>Top Ten List of Favorite London Experiences</b>:</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">1. <b>The Princess Diana Memorial Playground at Kensington Gardens</b>. I can't imagine a more fitting tribute to the late princess, who loved children, than this fabulous playground on her palace grounds. With a pirate ship, mermaid grotto, and trees full of fairies, this is the perfect place to run off some energy and fully immerse your imagination.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small; mso-spacerun: yes;"><span style="font-size: large;">2. <b>Tea at The Orangery.</b></span> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">After exhausting yourselves at the playground, stop in for afternoon tea at Kensington Palace. We like The Orangery because it offers charming tea-time formalities (and yummy food) without the pretense or expense of places like the Ritz Carlton.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: xx-small; mso-spacerun: yes;"><span style="font-size: large;">3. <b>Harrod's</b>.</span> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">We could have spent all day at this visual feast. My daughter was fascinated by every hall. She spent hours examining the beautiful flowers, the food delicacies, the gorgeous jewelry, and of course, the toys, toys, toys. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">4. <b>The Natural History Museum</b>. The animated T-Rex is alone worth the visit to this free museum. But my daughter also loved the energy hall and its escalator ride through the core of the earth.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">5. <b>The British Museum</b>. Pack a year's worth of history, science, and art education into one afternoon. With a young child, we hit the highlights: The Rosetta Stone, the Acropolis, and of course, the mummies! While there, we sent real-time video and picture updates to kindergarten classmates back home, so they could learn along with us.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">6. <b> Covent Garden</b>. My daughter loved the street performers, vendors, and the art display of giant painted Easter eggs.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">7. <b>The English National Ballet</b>. We originally contemplated a West End musical, but because our daughter loves ballet, we instead opted for a beautiful production of "My First Sleeping Beauty." Gorgeously costumed and choreographed, and age appropriate for a young audience, this was a hit.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">8. <b>The London Eye</b>. Yes, it's tourist-trappy. But our child was wowed by the bird's eye view of London. Seeing all of the city's landmarks from above also helped orient her when we later walked the city.</span><span style="font-size: xx-small; mso-spacerun: yes;"><br /></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: xx-small; mso-spacerun: yes;">9. <b>A cruise on the Thames</b>. London requires a lot of walking. When those little legs get tired out, purchase inexpensive tickets for a leisurely cruise on the Thames. Your young kids can see The Tower of London, London Bridge, Big Ben, and more in comfort. Save the lengthy, historical, and sometimes expensive tours of those sites for when they are older and have longer attention spans.</span><br />
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</span><span style="font-size: xx-small; mso-spacerun: yes;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">10. <b>The transportation</b>. For a kid from Texas, London's transportation system was like an amusement park -- the tube, the double-decker buses, and the charming taxis were all novel and exciting. She quickly became expert at reading the maps and determining the most efficient routes. </span> </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">And of course, </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> there were many more "favorites" beyond these ten: doing brass rubbings at <b>St. Martin's</b>, the <b>Science Museum</b>, <b>Piccadilly Circus</b>, <b>Paddington Station</b>, the <b>Peter Pan Statue</b> in Kensington Gardens, the fields of flowers in <b>St. James' Park</b>, <b>Buckingham Palace</b>, the <b>Horse Guards</b>, seeing her first-ever telephone booth, visiting some dear friends, and all of that good Indian food.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">From start</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtGl1F_NzBN2Dn3lHYzpFAbaA9HxR9txFJWp_ORqNnFqAnbA5sw7C8phUv3wassKYjPlHOTejENFxufqEbR3rkF_xR9EGGas3J5B5f_1cEhMg0qsObMORbbkBmNjHdjtRAWZU7uVzx3aw/s1600/Airport.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtGl1F_NzBN2Dn3lHYzpFAbaA9HxR9txFJWp_ORqNnFqAnbA5sw7C8phUv3wassKYjPlHOTejENFxufqEbR3rkF_xR9EGGas3J5B5f_1cEhMg0qsObMORbbkBmNjHdjtRAWZU7uVzx3aw/s640/Airport.jpg" width="478" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFlMF2rO9ktcS49InQ1LJSThpM-NYEeweSOIBpQUofvCsgDA4jbdX0w4p12zs8wp0u_7HtEs3CZgElBfYMa27tpFkNnU63OAxpx4dAOwaJTbdL8g13vqw2mG6bOZU81PVMToDIYw5UYX4/s1600/7+London+Train.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFlMF2rO9ktcS49InQ1LJSThpM-NYEeweSOIBpQUofvCsgDA4jbdX0w4p12zs8wp0u_7HtEs3CZgElBfYMa27tpFkNnU63OAxpx4dAOwaJTbdL8g13vqw2mG6bOZU81PVMToDIYw5UYX4/s640/7+London+Train.jpg" width="478" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">taking my daughter to London was one of my most rewarding parenting experiences. I'm already planning the next trip. :)</span><br />
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<a href="http://www.realcoake.blogspot.com/search/label/Real%20Fun%20Features" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Tn1RmNQ_7wo/USFXuUNdFeI/AAAAAAAAGXY/5no0gmnOVyU/s200/Real+Family+Fun+Featured.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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<!--EndFragment-->(Also sharing with <b><a href="http://www.sunscholars.com/2013/04/for-kids-friday-111.html">Sun Scholars</a> and <a href="http://www.memoriesbythemile.com/">Memories by the Mile</a></b>)the cul-de-sachttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03622419820177151021noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3630440158904105652.post-3075212631153764152013-04-16T06:00:00.000-07:002013-05-01T18:41:39.920-07:00Healthy Daisy Scout Snacks<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">We are loving my oldest's Daisy Girl Scouts experience. It helps that we have a fabulously organized and thoughtful troop leader and a happy-go-lucky group of girls. From spending a day at our state flagship university learning about opportunities for women in engineering, to touring the local fire station, to planting flowers and learning how to nurture our environment, to delivering homemade soup to the elderly, to selling those cookies, my daughter and I have enjoyed every minute. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Our troop rotates meeting locations amongst our members' homes. The troop leader executes the meeting agenda, but the hostess mom has a very important job: Snacks. This month, it was my turn to host. Because our girls were earning their "Respect for Myself and Others" petal, I wanted to offer healthy choices that were visually appealing and in keeping with the flower theme.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Pinterest to the rescue. In additon to yogurt, pita chips, cuties, and some Annie's organic pizza snacks, I served a carrot, hummus, and celery flower:</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDMoRa9t6jNtCzb4BOZa1fnUfqzHva2xtkZAudaag7qlWbnRwAZyiTkW9mpncfa6cd7scnGClJ8HCwzZCK8Erw6C5ue_wjGV8p5t_ZUFBa6dOyd1wqzSKrst0OLHFeDclIfEALJY_mdYg/s1600/IMG_1111.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDMoRa9t6jNtCzb4BOZa1fnUfqzHva2xtkZAudaag7qlWbnRwAZyiTkW9mpncfa6cd7scnGClJ8HCwzZCK8Erw6C5ue_wjGV8p5t_ZUFBa6dOyd1wqzSKrst0OLHFeDclIfEALJY_mdYg/s640/IMG_1111.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">A reduced-fat cheddar, grape, and celery sunflower:</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhze8_7eMcnVrduPqyfO7vZ0-Xo0c9aGINRsm9iWclHz81jB562dBYbY858OELGTSLaBCoh3SDqLU_8PvI4BuKzqgv7-YSq_PJnnz3mpKD4Jbntl39SRXyrsBpqvjuEikA83gmUhVYVLk8/s1600/IMG_1117.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhze8_7eMcnVrduPqyfO7vZ0-Xo0c9aGINRsm9iWclHz81jB562dBYbY858OELGTSLaBCoh3SDqLU_8PvI4BuKzqgv7-YSq_PJnnz3mpKD4Jbntl39SRXyrsBpqvjuEikA83gmUhVYVLk8/s640/IMG_1117.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Waffle cones filled with fresh cut melon, as seen on the island:</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijs0mUhL47qJklBYdJqvm7xH0veGT0ICmq0ZWJkWEpS19gzxl-UJgyZuneKHXggc3bdCFwsa9Ua95-tlz4IZoPcL-QN-j9bH8AhMWTt8-_8HFoGH9BQhkUJz6DZsnuTAvArwY6zBXxlsI/s1600/Daisy+Scout+Healthy+Snacks.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijs0mUhL47qJklBYdJqvm7xH0veGT0ICmq0ZWJkWEpS19gzxl-UJgyZuneKHXggc3bdCFwsa9Ua95-tlz4IZoPcL-QN-j9bH8AhMWTt8-_8HFoGH9BQhkUJz6DZsnuTAvArwY6zBXxlsI/s640/Daisy+Scout+Healthy+Snacks.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">And fresh lemonade in mason jars with daisy tops and cute paper straws from <b><a href="http://www.shoptomkat.com/">The TomKat Studio</a></b>:</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNPG1K4KmGsbmtWe8SlHfIDsznlV3B38j3S7P4eLETab_2YzslIzhjFbRmLnVMAha2BX4VVOX2VTwRdLwg9Mt3KX9YimsBWxaZBn39KldYiGt_2naJf3GThZT4G3YsWYgv9Nf5HJuxq5I/s1600/IMG_1121.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNPG1K4KmGsbmtWe8SlHfIDsznlV3B38j3S7P4eLETab_2YzslIzhjFbRmLnVMAha2BX4VVOX2VTwRdLwg9Mt3KX9YimsBWxaZBn39KldYiGt_2naJf3GThZT4G3YsWYgv9Nf5HJuxq5I/s640/IMG_1121.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Simple, easy, and fun!</span><br />
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(Sharing with <b><a href="http://www.somewhatsimple.com/blog-link-party-with-homeright/">Somewhat Simple</a>, <a href="http://www.733blog.com/">Seven Thirty Three</a>, <a href="http://www.makingtheworldcuter.com/">Making the World Cuter</a>, <a href="http://www.realcoake.com/">The Real Thing</a>, </b>and <b><a href="http://www.homemakeronadime.com/2013/04/creative-bloggers-party-hop-108.html">Homemaker on a Dime</a></b>)<br />
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the cul-de-sachttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03622419820177151021noreply@blogger.com3