tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-42020921730022686452024-03-12T19:44:17.156-06:00You Auto KnowA blog about our family. Sometimes I talk about our autobody shop but not if I can help it.Cheryl West-Hickshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15001750891294169740noreply@blogger.comBlogger352125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4202092173002268645.post-11676392365857118772020-01-31T17:35:00.002-07:002020-01-31T17:35:43.055-07:00A Return to Writing<div style="text-align: center;">
I missed this blank page.</div>
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To be honest when I opened Blogger today I wasn't sure if my little blog would still be there.</div>
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But here she is all full of promise and neglect.</div>
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We still have Shield Autobody and there's much development there.</div>
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I have no photos of it, however, and definitely need a full post or 5 to discuss said developments so today I'm more focused on the home life.</div>
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This isn't a life update per se, it's just a little toe dip back into this world I used to love so much.</div>
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As I scrolled through the last few posts and saw Fiona's baby teeth I felt sad that I haven't taken as much time to really observe the way the kids are changing.</div>
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Of course I live this growth but I don't painstakingly choose a photo of them then scrutinize it during editing.</div>
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I mean, just look at those big chompers now.</div>
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And let's not forget Cedric.</div>
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In this photo he still has baby teeth but now sports a pair that are surely not meant for this little face.</div>
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Lake life is still where it's at for us.</div>
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Frozen...</div>
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...or not</div>
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And fall is still when I force the kids to pose (or tolerate their poses) for family photos.</div>
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But sport is also creeping in big time and I am now the only non hockey player in the family.</div>
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I swear Fiona plays too, she apparently just doesn't pose for me on command like that ham.</div>
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Oh and they turned 6...</div>
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...and 8...</div>
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...and 7...</div>
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...and 9!</div>
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Aaaaaand we went to Norway...</div>
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...and Japan!</div>
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But I really need to give those their own posts, so beautiful.</div>
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Ok, maybe it was a slight update. Thanks for sticking with this photo drop.</div>
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Most definitely not my best work but it sure felt good to be back here.</div>
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cwesthickshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06169419308867062245noreply@blogger.com30tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4202092173002268645.post-17176548059519945612017-04-19T09:00:00.000-06:002017-04-19T09:00:11.607-06:00Cedric is 5! {and 4 too}<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I just spent a few hours looking through old posts of my kids growing up.</div>
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Doing so gave me a renewed sense of just how important documenting a few of our moments is.</div>
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I do love sharing but love reflecting even more.</div>
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So here we go, I'm documenting Cedric's 5th birthday.</div>
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Which was at the beginning of March. </div>
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Not too bad, only 1.5 months late.</div>
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{But wait for it.}</div>
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I was determined to dial back with the themed parties.</div>
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Then Cedric asked for a lego birthday and I just couldn't stop.</div>
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The cake was fun to make but the candle holders put it over the top if you ask me.</div>
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Dollar store plates made for good lego blocks and dollar store cups were easily made into lego heads.</div>
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The kids got those lego storage heads for Christmas and they became the perfect snack bowls.</div>
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Ced has long dreamed of an outdoor party which proves challenging with a March birthday in Edmonton.</div>
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We decided, however, to commit to the idea and ended up with a beautiful balmy winter day.</div>
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We loaded up the wheelbarrow and headed down to the creek to roast hotdogs.</div>
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We also took our piñata down.</div>
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We usually buy one at bulk barn but this year had a homemade lego block.</div>
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I made it by gift wrapping a box that I had weakened a little and putting card stock circles on it.</div>
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I was a little worried that we'd end up having to rip it open but on the second round it literally exploded and sent the kids running and screaming to the candy, perfect.</div>
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After lunch, the party was moved to our house for cake and more birthday fun.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlXFGS23DAEDvVZ1U-jSRCjyKgegIL1330bMKuqFJG8QwqiQ-bOnQvgsuligttflUtL6ILfI_O6Z8vT3oBLI-wHocHTnKJ2BNuNdWmN9Sa9wS21JdDdCYM71cePtWwR3BvBKBlcu1eqXA/s1600/IMG_2520e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="404" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlXFGS23DAEDvVZ1U-jSRCjyKgegIL1330bMKuqFJG8QwqiQ-bOnQvgsuligttflUtL6ILfI_O6Z8vT3oBLI-wHocHTnKJ2BNuNdWmN9Sa9wS21JdDdCYM71cePtWwR3BvBKBlcu1eqXA/s640/IMG_2520e.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Cedric stated after that it was the best birthday ever.</div>
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But he said that last year too of course.</div>
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So here's what you've been waiting for, Cedric is 4!</div>
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{And was for a whole year, in which I neglected to share.}</div>
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Last year was hands down a Paw Patrol theme.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzNI3RpzagPjdtA0AD_wq614X6g0j2KE2WZZ-q74JJwY1JibhY_XU3G8Y25GRjca7df2EcZ2HcL61i0sWOqWsr0BZRbn20DN5yirXzjC45T3iyMkJuImmVHrCMoMMzBEZ0AEWzyHENVV4/s1600/IMG_1635e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzNI3RpzagPjdtA0AD_wq614X6g0j2KE2WZZ-q74JJwY1JibhY_XU3G8Y25GRjca7df2EcZ2HcL61i0sWOqWsr0BZRbn20DN5yirXzjC45T3iyMkJuImmVHrCMoMMzBEZ0AEWzyHENVV4/s640/IMG_1635e.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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This one I did keep pretty simple with minimal decor {streamers and balloons not pictured}.</div>
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Dog bowls filled with puppy chow naturally.</div>
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And my kids have somehow decided that it's not a party without a piñata.</div>
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They are a nerve wracking part of each of our parties but who am I to deny this dangerous fun?</div>
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Happy birthday x2 buddy!</div>
cwesthickshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06169419308867062245noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4202092173002268645.post-67924070042409221122017-04-17T09:00:00.000-06:002017-04-17T09:00:17.855-06:00Fiona is 7! {Today!}<div style="text-align: center;">
{Oh but this post is also about her turning 6.}</div>
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I'm feeling super on top of it today.</div>
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I am posting about this amazing girl's birthday in a timely fashion.</div>
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{There is that little matter of needing to share last year as well though.}</div>
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This year there was no doubt that Fiona wanted a fairy birthday.</div>
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We've done the fairy theme before but she has a new-found love for fairies.</div>
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She recently built a fairy house you see, and has been getting occasional visits from her fairy pal named Fliona who leaves messages and a trail of fairy dust behind.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTk6rGuT5aSBMAOws9bYtmvyzc4H7TruQfH4QaDtrQkemwkAaJ-6pOiDOhU4yuHT1hoEfwnexOFWAKkG-9adA3ABg8wXa07OJUxEqnavtp_QisH-jRZT3VgJOW34vL7mz9LVY8JxfZpuA/s1600/IMG_2669e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="496" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTk6rGuT5aSBMAOws9bYtmvyzc4H7TruQfH4QaDtrQkemwkAaJ-6pOiDOhU4yuHT1hoEfwnexOFWAKkG-9adA3ABg8wXa07OJUxEqnavtp_QisH-jRZT3VgJOW34vL7mz9LVY8JxfZpuA/s640/IMG_2669e.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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So of course her cake needed to be a fairy house.</div>
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This baby needed six layers to get the desired shape.</div>
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There was no shortage of cake for this party.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI9cKlrmLkGN-Qv9wD8aVIdxIYP9lSypMrUnqO4E9W3z0svNZLYcYzYlyiFUoj8GIyGrJHb11fJfmiRVh44zaaKHBn6tQl4pLI4W9WM_Ygb6_QxJXyJnLv_EyYHCEvqV08iGUtECpG7hA/s1600/IMG_2663e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="604" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI9cKlrmLkGN-Qv9wD8aVIdxIYP9lSypMrUnqO4E9W3z0svNZLYcYzYlyiFUoj8GIyGrJHb11fJfmiRVh44zaaKHBn6tQl4pLI4W9WM_Ygb6_QxJXyJnLv_EyYHCEvqV08iGUtECpG7hA/s640/IMG_2663e.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Last time we did the fairy theme it was all about floral and vines.</div>
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We even made floral crowns.</div>
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This time we found other ways to make the room whimsical mostly involving twigs, yarn and beads.</div>
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Below is actually Fiona's hundred day project for school and served as our inspiration.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjYv0ykS0GCaAi1mZUMPzF6Vf2sMKjBMXpdxl8UYe8LT4DDap4ZT9Qnpo6cPDItv38URtTe4oNaIaOFWiKE6GuZxn4YYMASViICTCV0aqfCm5hb7V4HaxihVJTQacT9b00hBqMnL50Ahs/s1600/IMG_2685e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjYv0ykS0GCaAi1mZUMPzF6Vf2sMKjBMXpdxl8UYe8LT4DDap4ZT9Qnpo6cPDItv38URtTe4oNaIaOFWiKE6GuZxn4YYMASViICTCV0aqfCm5hb7V4HaxihVJTQacT9b00hBqMnL50Ahs/s640/IMG_2685e.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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This hanging will stick around for a while.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnhHACrY_jp2KTkfw5bU_c5oSWnqr8zc1uvLsOjrYqjeIcgG1mDaROmE0tQoDOtuF5C10clI-ecu_YO32ILzUC4N_qH2rnxli-Qj-PUTGCCtt8nuH_wcf9RI08zDJTNVmNSj99f21Ki9M/s1600/IMG_2692e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnhHACrY_jp2KTkfw5bU_c5oSWnqr8zc1uvLsOjrYqjeIcgG1mDaROmE0tQoDOtuF5C10clI-ecu_YO32ILzUC4N_qH2rnxli-Qj-PUTGCCtt8nuH_wcf9RI08zDJTNVmNSj99f21Ki9M/s640/IMG_2692e.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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For the "craft" the kids made wands/fairy sticks but many ended up making fishing rods.</div>
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I use the word craft loosely since I don't really direct them, just put out supplies and let them at it.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf3WFGrrZgp6t7m-U81WeHtywVBxIsdTKPH0WoX4e2Wvpj4X4ARzvMp1y-wjNgLZXC8v-RG7QkGBkPbd12zMW9PpPOiB3x_5g9bEPwrIPhgw6jj6y3jvfHyb4HH2H4NSb6lhZHJa8AypU/s1600/IMG_2694e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf3WFGrrZgp6t7m-U81WeHtywVBxIsdTKPH0WoX4e2Wvpj4X4ARzvMp1y-wjNgLZXC8v-RG7QkGBkPbd12zMW9PpPOiB3x_5g9bEPwrIPhgw6jj6y3jvfHyb4HH2H4NSb6lhZHJa8AypU/s640/IMG_2694e.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Ok now for catch up time.</div>
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Last year Fiona wanted a woodland theme so we dreamed up a sweet little cake.</div>
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This was take one.</div>
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We ended up cancelling Fiona's party since Daddy was stuck out of town in the hospital.</div>
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He ended up coming home 2 weeks later and missing the actual day.</div>
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In an attempt to keep it special we still had a celebration with family and close friends, all the while knowing we would reschedule once Jeff made it home.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwKmo1QFWof0o8vm3zBqowfns7YIXrU-tW0TGNGke1ZCUvSAPMmgl3PTF8cAPGtHhaLJSu38J0visSyGxbdSDDtFe3rVlNyK7jZlSBK7uROzoQ9yFexVdEN58uyUW8mpr8vu1qSIA4Hwg/s1600/IMG_1802e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwKmo1QFWof0o8vm3zBqowfns7YIXrU-tW0TGNGke1ZCUvSAPMmgl3PTF8cAPGtHhaLJSu38J0visSyGxbdSDDtFe3rVlNyK7jZlSBK7uROzoQ9yFexVdEN58uyUW8mpr8vu1qSIA4Hwg/s640/IMG_1802e.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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So here's the real deal.</div>
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We turned this into a birthday/thank you to all who helped me stay sane while Jeff was gone.</div>
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The weather was fantastic {not like this year's snowstorm} so a BBQ felt just right.</div>
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Happy birthday twice over my sweet babe.</div>
cwesthickshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06169419308867062245noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4202092173002268645.post-17834222210642766352017-04-16T13:42:00.000-06:002017-04-16T13:46:05.646-06:00The Hicks in Istanbul {and a little Germany} Part 3 <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
{Only 2 years late}</div>
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In preparation for another great vacation to come with some of our most fabulous friends I thought I'd grace this space with a photo dump.</div>
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It has been two years since we made the trip to Istanbul and somehow I didn't get around to sharing the rest of these photos.</div>
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Our second last day was a rainy one, perfect for a day {inside} the Grand Bazaar.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgB-qbZb_7Bnrak0zEJO3ArYsl4-bgzJwm8B82kLb0ieBnPEYMVW6k3xF53MaMH3skedWJMiDJp64z1f0YCrr_jR3jbQjWidlZccyKP62_EELnNGYOYZfztPh3iNOBBdX62BcpEVTyPucE/s1600/IMG_9161e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Grand bazaar bowls" border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgB-qbZb_7Bnrak0zEJO3ArYsl4-bgzJwm8B82kLb0ieBnPEYMVW6k3xF53MaMH3skedWJMiDJp64z1f0YCrr_jR3jbQjWidlZccyKP62_EELnNGYOYZfztPh3iNOBBdX62BcpEVTyPucE/s640/IMG_9161e.JPG" title="Grand bazaar bowls" width="640" /></a></div>
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I came pretty close to having one of these beautiful lamps mailed home.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU_0APVIJiAXvSPE6804TTwHFype0Cn1swPjAz380T8P3eaI-rFFUIh8oxmhw4H-Iqorp35Q6UnoG05ydXOm-oBNsDDesODcNgcIUeNohm4DtKdYvZROnBqpQx4xBEAYBtu_NbqidkxXE/s1600/IMG_9168e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Grand Bazaar Lamps" border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU_0APVIJiAXvSPE6804TTwHFype0Cn1swPjAz380T8P3eaI-rFFUIh8oxmhw4H-Iqorp35Q6UnoG05ydXOm-oBNsDDesODcNgcIUeNohm4DtKdYvZROnBqpQx4xBEAYBtu_NbqidkxXE/s640/IMG_9168e.JPG" title="Grand Bazaar Lamps" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK6psJObTGBZJZa8jfdnWBa7jmG1bFlFPvO9K_7LVuHZdEpuWUgQpY86YYmJCh7h6dO09tzbl-SRdk06sYyFlEDDskXVxxiNJQzoJXjfvsdlpFrY2hyphenhyphenbBR1cN7hvWOO8d18gwrI8PEFQQ/s1600/IMG_9176e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Grand Bazaar spices" border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK6psJObTGBZJZa8jfdnWBa7jmG1bFlFPvO9K_7LVuHZdEpuWUgQpY86YYmJCh7h6dO09tzbl-SRdk06sYyFlEDDskXVxxiNJQzoJXjfvsdlpFrY2hyphenhyphenbBR1cN7hvWOO8d18gwrI8PEFQQ/s640/IMG_9176e.JPG" title="Grand Bazaar spices" width="640" /></a></div>
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We managed to exit with only turkish delight for family and friends, a spice grinder and these super fun turkish slippers.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAwVUZIrdbgQ62TbbFE-KZf6YhtI7_A9hb2M6f8eM9gvpiHrxfbElrxWzHnBCbnTObU9ht6oYuRlNYQ9TQyxALgWo5bXpg_phuXmjN7ErNRNNZUolUTxNDUiSYrJzjwjQM30GiOedNV3M/s1600/IMG_9181e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Grand Bazaar slippers" border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAwVUZIrdbgQ62TbbFE-KZf6YhtI7_A9hb2M6f8eM9gvpiHrxfbElrxWzHnBCbnTObU9ht6oYuRlNYQ9TQyxALgWo5bXpg_phuXmjN7ErNRNNZUolUTxNDUiSYrJzjwjQM30GiOedNV3M/s640/IMG_9181e.JPG" title="Grand Bazaar slippers" width="640" /></a></div>
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We had much nicer weather on our final day and decided to spend it on the water.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFijnhOmM7t4f-bRo4CoXV7w0rX8stSHjwwdtXmY9PWUk9wY9PG0ykuD78oQv2TqFriM0Z54tec-fDiFKglfunOtu464ZNkZ9LkJkMZuyBV9N-bRRXPZUrOe0pSuutmoh5V72J6hgvQFg/s1600/IMG_9208e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Istanbul" border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFijnhOmM7t4f-bRo4CoXV7w0rX8stSHjwwdtXmY9PWUk9wY9PG0ykuD78oQv2TqFriM0Z54tec-fDiFKglfunOtu464ZNkZ9LkJkMZuyBV9N-bRRXPZUrOe0pSuutmoh5V72J6hgvQFg/s640/IMG_9208e.JPG" title="Istanbul" width="640" /></a></div>
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These boats are set up to serve the most delicious fresh fish sandwiches.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaRV_IRr45vMbfevDnt0q2nrIcDOH9Gt2Lq3LMljJDqi6LhxFwaJOItn57i5Qk7vssRR49fvAc0TqlLy-zxro0o7rq8JMi2uHVwEzDeVAsYsqxaBOqsoCpUKI-eQpVJdRZRyyRNH8RIWo/s1600/IMG_9213e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Istanbul fish sandwich" border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaRV_IRr45vMbfevDnt0q2nrIcDOH9Gt2Lq3LMljJDqi6LhxFwaJOItn57i5Qk7vssRR49fvAc0TqlLy-zxro0o7rq8JMi2uHVwEzDeVAsYsqxaBOqsoCpUKI-eQpVJdRZRyyRNH8RIWo/s640/IMG_9213e.JPG" title="Istanbul fish sandwich" width="568" /></a></div>
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Next we boarded a ferry to head to Asia.</div>
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Little did I know before this trip that the city of Istanbul spans both Europe and Asia.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1SeUC2z2niIZ2RRIUFSQ2bffslYtnDCIcZoO5Hxk_tWNdTEaco1vqTtOAnKefuFpQZhmqFLJGwKyrjOibj7vUVW8cPZ9G8_jtQ3HemVLQv5s0L2UmZanSPUVAGVCRAcD2wMg6Nkl4OhU/s1600/IMG_9215e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Istanbul ferry" border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1SeUC2z2niIZ2RRIUFSQ2bffslYtnDCIcZoO5Hxk_tWNdTEaco1vqTtOAnKefuFpQZhmqFLJGwKyrjOibj7vUVW8cPZ9G8_jtQ3HemVLQv5s0L2UmZanSPUVAGVCRAcD2wMg6Nkl4OhU/s640/IMG_9215e.JPG" title="Istanbul ferry" width="640" /></a></div>
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We had a chill day on the other side of the water and even had ample park time to keep the littles happy.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdfsbNDEbLIpiRRNN1CShSnS1agFKVmHpqOTSPMoNrWnWZ01wvP8C7dgRVcVGZMOgD29vMQRQ_EgUzaDHdb4ImESrt-O4uGiM_PPXAIC5KEDuqWAM0R13etXR5Q4wUsd9d-MJjVvBrXQs/s1600/IMG_9218e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="kids on swing istanbul" border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdfsbNDEbLIpiRRNN1CShSnS1agFKVmHpqOTSPMoNrWnWZ01wvP8C7dgRVcVGZMOgD29vMQRQ_EgUzaDHdb4ImESrt-O4uGiM_PPXAIC5KEDuqWAM0R13etXR5Q4wUsd9d-MJjVvBrXQs/s640/IMG_9218e.JPG" title="kids on swing istanbul" width="640" /></a></div>
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At the end of the day we just had to capture a set of these beautiful stairs.</div>
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You can see the exhaustion in these babes.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRxcWfoK4LoRxGToZNItEGZJgCwVIxb73ztaEXJ1OkN9pz8F9qSC1zFK_gupoHpl3HgCClmIYzKwNmSbNVXql1xvvWwU_Hbpwlh-vqvz4I1hBfIR74-oaBxPdBWuhTMFSy2deoRXGgy5s/s1600/IMG_9243e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Istanbul rainbow stairs" border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRxcWfoK4LoRxGToZNItEGZJgCwVIxb73ztaEXJ1OkN9pz8F9qSC1zFK_gupoHpl3HgCClmIYzKwNmSbNVXql1xvvWwU_Hbpwlh-vqvz4I1hBfIR74-oaBxPdBWuhTMFSy2deoRXGgy5s/s640/IMG_9243e.JPG" title="Istanbul rainbow stairs" width="338" /></a></div>
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Before heading back to Canada we spent a few more days in Germany.</div>
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I was so happy to see these roadside tulips.</div>
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With spring almost here this photo is inspiring me to beautify our own ugly curb-side patch.</div>
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The bonds these kids made was so fun, we really can't wait to see them again.</div>
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I loved how the big girls insisted again on matching hair.</div>
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Just a little chat by the Rhine pictured here.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ5-VqJRzGydTNoXSorCcEYhp0YS4VMNgtbNzIdY3z4QXbTTJkIPAlEhjpCWWceeKuzwL_ztPvO-u7196TWRsW7iXfl_CgAN7vaOrymLjDpoEblzCWX5-cgzCGeyFN_XeWYXjPNnc437E/s1600/IMG_9275e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Rhine river" border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ5-VqJRzGydTNoXSorCcEYhp0YS4VMNgtbNzIdY3z4QXbTTJkIPAlEhjpCWWceeKuzwL_ztPvO-u7196TWRsW7iXfl_CgAN7vaOrymLjDpoEblzCWX5-cgzCGeyFN_XeWYXjPNnc437E/s640/IMG_9275e.JPG" title="Rhine river" width="640" /></a></div>
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And finally, on our trip home, our layover dreams came true.</div>
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Instead of sitting in the Frankfurt airport for 5 hours we took a train in to the city to see the sights. </div>
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Hooray!</div>
cwesthickshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06169419308867062245noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4202092173002268645.post-14773779285340919102016-01-26T08:14:00.000-07:002016-01-26T08:14:03.179-07:00The Hicks in Istanbul Part 2<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
For our second day in this bustling city we headed back to Sultanahmet square to take in Topkapi Palace.</div>
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The grounds were a breath of fresh air with a large lawn area and towering trees.</div>
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There was detail in everything, even the walkways.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKY0OeGp7qmeMkzxkhivUqND9VpBXE-ItC_CcdZEXvL2J04WhDe44TVOgrvgwqUlsKncuEVD74Raoxd9qreBSOcLMFKiPD-6Ua-wHK8v-fXK-qWt8zRUQF_59DY5h0wwuf3S-ZnwwyHws/s1600/IMG_9032e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="408" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKY0OeGp7qmeMkzxkhivUqND9VpBXE-ItC_CcdZEXvL2J04WhDe44TVOgrvgwqUlsKncuEVD74Raoxd9qreBSOcLMFKiPD-6Ua-wHK8v-fXK-qWt8zRUQF_59DY5h0wwuf3S-ZnwwyHws/s640/IMG_9032e.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Our girls could have played in this meadow of clover for hours.</div>
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We have learned that sometimes travel with kids means taking your time and giving them a chance to run.</div>
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We eventually did convince them that a palace would probably also be pretty fun.</div>
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I came out of this day with hundreds of pictures, there was beauty at every turn. </div>
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Some of it seemed opulent like this ceiling.</div>
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And others felt clean and simple like these mini skylights.</div>
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When going through the pictures I found I was more drawn to the simple, even run down, aspects of this centuries old building.</div>
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I wouldn't say this surprised me as that usually seems to be my taste but at the time I don't know that I realized it.</div>
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I was awed by the intricate designs and over the top marble and tile but now find it falling short so am sharing very little of it.</div>
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I find that many europeans live with less than perfect architecture. </div>
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Coming from a place where building code is strict and homes are built on sweeping expanses of land to fairly unoriginal specs, I find this refreshing.</div>
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It could, however, be that I feel this way to excuse my own home's imperfections.</div>
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Here is a little taste of that marble.</div>
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I wasn't originally going to share this picture since it shows my sweet Fiona mid meltdown.</div>
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"I don't want our picture by the tap, I want it on the stairs!" she cried.</div>
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Living in close quarters can make for a disagreement or two but it quickly resolved.</div>
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And yes Fiona did eventually get that picture on the stairs but it was much less interesting.</div>
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And just look at this handsome boy sucking on his bottom lip.</div>
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This is Cedric's soothing method of choice.</div>
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I see braces in our future.</div>
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In all our travels this is the first time we had the whole gang in a photo.</div>
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Next time maybe we'll get one with the whole gang smiling and looking at the camera.</div>
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From Topkapi we headed to the Blue Mosque, first getting a glimpse of it out the window.</div>
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It broke my heart to hear of the recent attack in this area.</div>
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We felt very safe here and spent some time walking around the area.</div>
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I have been asked since if we would have gone to Istanbul had the attack happened prior to our visit.</div>
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I must say that when in Istanbul I had moments of doubt and my inner fear bubbled up time and again.</div>
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I try to appreciate my fear as a mechanism to keep me alert but wouldn't want it to rob me of such a beautiful experience.</div>
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So in the end the answer is yes, we would absolutely have gone.</div>
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The Blue Mosque was beautiful of course but what sticks out in my mind about it was the glimpse at the Muslim rituals of prayer.</div>
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There were taps lined up outside for the ritual of purification.</div>
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We were also required to remove our shoes due to their retention of impurities.</div>
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We were constantly aware of the 5 prayer times as we heard to call throughout the day.</div>
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The direction of prayer was made obvious since mosques had been built or retrofitted to face Mecca.</div>
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Another ritual we were able to participate in was covering.</div>
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Men are required to cover from their navel to knee so no challenge there.</div>
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Women on the other hand are required to cover all but their face and hands.</div>
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Tourists were held to slightly different standards but were still given a head covering if needed upon entering.</div>
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They also had long wraps for those with short skirts or tight pants.</div>
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Children were excluded from the rule but Fiona was eager to participate.</div>
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I actually found that the kids were excited by the unfamiliar.</div>
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Quite different from at home where if I cut their sandwich at the wrong angle you'd think a fairy died.</div>
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Travel seems to bring out some adventure and a little bit of malleability in them.</div>
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Which begs the question, why have we not booked a trip yet this year?</div>
cwesthickshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06169419308867062245noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4202092173002268645.post-8423943144009793032016-01-03T13:00:00.000-07:002016-01-03T13:00:14.069-07:00The Hicks in Istanbul Part 1<div style="text-align: center;">
It's the time of year when we start to daydream about getting out of town.</div>
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Christmas is such a magical time and we had a great one.</div>
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We feel pretty thankful to have had a white Christmas since most of our friends and family outside of Alberta did not this year.</div>
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Edmonton has some amazing winter attractions going on this year. </div>
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We can't wait to check out the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/EdmontonFreezeway/" target="_blank">Freezeway</a>, <a href="http://icecastles.com/edmonton/" target="_blank">Ice Castle</a> and even just ski and skate right here in our neighbourhood.</div>
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Having said that we still love to have a trip on the horizon, a little escape waiting for us.</div>
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Well, all this has got me thinking of last year's getaway to Istanbul (via Düsseldorf) with the <a href="http://stoneofjoy.blogspot.ca/" target="_blank">Eichelbergers</a> that I have yet to share.</div>
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We got into Istanbul in the evening and walked through the narrow cobblestone streets with four kids, two strollers and all our luggage.</div>
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Good thing we pack light.</div>
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No doubt that it was worth it for our beautiful apartment with this view.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZ2vFm9gjigo2cpHEgzU6zcKECY02zaO031SMBTDO16nx8pMgYvpdLUs_XBQZcAh3Bq_XqJcaEntfYJiF1C703uNs8i1UY5YtmKqEiWzvLpBOHtji99FsN38r3uIru2y5KMArvx15_o30/s1600/IMG_8849e.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZ2vFm9gjigo2cpHEgzU6zcKECY02zaO031SMBTDO16nx8pMgYvpdLUs_XBQZcAh3Bq_XqJcaEntfYJiF1C703uNs8i1UY5YtmKqEiWzvLpBOHtji99FsN38r3uIru2y5KMArvx15_o30/s640/IMG_8849e.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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I just love these guys.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgm9HZEJgEvp8q_S9hVLp64IuVTFfFyM8I59MxiXCgFyCzsxdGwZ_ThvKNlj3REIt6uaru_ilfPzdIWo8qIk7VByJKlpECMOo0Ep8NbxDMFmSJTiXzhzh3LcnAyFX25o7OjgjmY_qqRcNw/s1600/IMG_8834e.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgm9HZEJgEvp8q_S9hVLp64IuVTFfFyM8I59MxiXCgFyCzsxdGwZ_ThvKNlj3REIt6uaru_ilfPzdIWo8qIk7VByJKlpECMOo0Ep8NbxDMFmSJTiXzhzh3LcnAyFX25o7OjgjmY_qqRcNw/s640/IMG_8834e.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Day one started out with our usual graffiti photo shoot.</div>
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New and improved with our fourth member, Adeline.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUaRtTu0MjqIuDxMFqs-TtAJbO_YABHu3qHLuVcB7FO_iy0XxxDAPemRoiO4VwGNniZA_OW0jXTBPSQYRw1-0EAA1Y3iIT9o3iSNNyCZHYI1s9iRc8yhhfL7VWqAiYgPYC2coa-mrmwqI/s1600/IMG_8857e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="text-align: start;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUaRtTu0MjqIuDxMFqs-TtAJbO_YABHu3qHLuVcB7FO_iy0XxxDAPemRoiO4VwGNniZA_OW0jXTBPSQYRw1-0EAA1Y3iIT9o3iSNNyCZHYI1s9iRc8yhhfL7VWqAiYgPYC2coa-mrmwqI/s640/IMG_8857e.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Next time we'll get her in on the action shot too.</div>
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These kids were so happy to see each other and fell right into comfortable play (and, of course, bickering).</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLuz21AHaqKYRD6O1m-2p1dohiHNJetuwkzoGXXVPyDe_uYGSAkC9-RHjA8AYTjcI3jyhNUu7g3O7VRod6kT-HQ_FrHRDrZtOmaE-a-CyARqrPr-JD0DKEWXKwrLkgzuUvaJXpx_xRh7c/s1600/IMG_8870e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="text-align: start;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLuz21AHaqKYRD6O1m-2p1dohiHNJetuwkzoGXXVPyDe_uYGSAkC9-RHjA8AYTjcI3jyhNUu7g3O7VRod6kT-HQ_FrHRDrZtOmaE-a-CyARqrPr-JD0DKEWXKwrLkgzuUvaJXpx_xRh7c/s640/IMG_8870e.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Next we got into the heart of Istanbul and loaded up with our first round of Turkish Delight and baklava.</div>
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We ate more of these beautiful treats than I care to admit.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvI2Xr5I5eC7QTfwgs4n2taFuKlLeD6Q2Wuarm3WkAZCTLvTqUF2-uRmYs0vAU_r2NpG7dMAQd8sVLaNRkO7D9SnHqv6pJGSWuiQn_IiclWjclPWeCeM5gwM8SlOROu1pg4XezG3wIfDY/s1600/IMG_8878e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="text-align: start;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvI2Xr5I5eC7QTfwgs4n2taFuKlLeD6Q2Wuarm3WkAZCTLvTqUF2-uRmYs0vAU_r2NpG7dMAQd8sVLaNRkO7D9SnHqv6pJGSWuiQn_IiclWjclPWeCeM5gwM8SlOROu1pg4XezG3wIfDY/s640/IMG_8878e.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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We knew there were at least 5 main attractions that we wanted to see but with kids we had to have our strategy down.</div>
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Our recipe for success seemed to be a lazy morning, breakfast in, out by 10 or 11, one site/activity, lunch out, second site/activity, back to the apartment, guys go grocery shopping, dinner in, kids to bed, wine.</div>
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Something for everyone right?</div>
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On day one our morning activity was figuring out transport and wandering (you always need a little wandering in a new city).</div>
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So with one site left to see we went to the top of our list and made our way to Hagia Sophia (aka Aya Sofia).</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPgEppFyUdECra0OrfkRfdvxn12UKqDKQ8F2X_Ff79yEITZ0Jduof4UzNbcXZ9yXzHHaGJRC5ULgLdpQ9kLWVj-0OuEADGvW5jO_o3wRqFru6uOXEvMjafVQYrJl8leEhcFTE6LWd-WPk/s1600/IMG_8922e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="text-align: start;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPgEppFyUdECra0OrfkRfdvxn12UKqDKQ8F2X_Ff79yEITZ0Jduof4UzNbcXZ9yXzHHaGJRC5ULgLdpQ9kLWVj-0OuEADGvW5jO_o3wRqFru6uOXEvMjafVQYrJl8leEhcFTE6LWd-WPk/s640/IMG_8922e.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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We had been warned that from the outside this almost 1500 year old structure was underwhelming.</div>
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I disagreed, seeing beauty immediately.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtwuul0DdnKTL3gw-CCl6ziApUF-y9vALux2v5Fc5jtgoOn8pglFLVHPB_LjN5KH6hgJIO-xZQKd2gpXjFLkY6wJXQNUT2A1YZ1u-8JUQaE2pc9TGG4cCgyOAWAjQLKtBLaD2aSSnCeuQ/s1600/IMG_8930e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="text-align: start;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtwuul0DdnKTL3gw-CCl6ziApUF-y9vALux2v5Fc5jtgoOn8pglFLVHPB_LjN5KH6hgJIO-xZQKd2gpXjFLkY6wJXQNUT2A1YZ1u-8JUQaE2pc9TGG4cCgyOAWAjQLKtBLaD2aSSnCeuQ/s640/IMG_8930e.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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I understood the statement though when we did enter.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAhHerV3WxQj2y7ZQmC7r1XS3hhBUkjAGeJSI_R7Tqn0heFYsOuxTKkMxPViXgGMO1wjwvruWyjoezAYHEfqDAIfio4HvQZEespB0nYZoKq7sonKhQhXIf94WAm4vc9R4cupAtfr2BWSI/s1600/IMG_8936e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="text-align: start;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAhHerV3WxQj2y7ZQmC7r1XS3hhBUkjAGeJSI_R7Tqn0heFYsOuxTKkMxPViXgGMO1wjwvruWyjoezAYHEfqDAIfio4HvQZEespB0nYZoKq7sonKhQhXIf94WAm4vc9R4cupAtfr2BWSI/s640/IMG_8936e.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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You had the feeling of walking into a different building.</div>
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There was so much to take in, all of it over the top.</div>
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And then there's these sweeties, a whole other level of beauty.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi10wS3baIDLL65CEaA8EItVxMc30xPnhOf1-Vle7a-BO3Sh5r26RE1gmHsHb_Jukr5lQ1V4kKbd5q54LextUYPmzGxnt0DG7tHb_XqYxnMe4FURcI32qZcDAOTAT1nV5a7pCdg2XyU8ic/s1600/IMG_8959e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="text-align: start;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi10wS3baIDLL65CEaA8EItVxMc30xPnhOf1-Vle7a-BO3Sh5r26RE1gmHsHb_Jukr5lQ1V4kKbd5q54LextUYPmzGxnt0DG7tHb_XqYxnMe4FURcI32qZcDAOTAT1nV5a7pCdg2XyU8ic/s640/IMG_8959e.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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And this handsome boy.</div>
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It was here that we first experienced the fascination that other travellers had with our kids.</div>
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Coming from a country where multiculturalism is taken for granted we were not expecting that their blond heads would attract so much attention.</div>
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For the most part the kids loved it but this first experience was a little startling.</div>
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I mean if a group of 10-20 tourists started furiously snapping pictures of me I would also be taken aback.</div>
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As our trip progressed we were able to embrace this cultural difference. </div>
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I was particularly touched when young men turned to mush and would do anything for a smile and high five from our littles.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiZk300NPLxMDBV7LR2rU2vbGbfmA3a5rFT3ywwOquNJubOdSq4Ng6SIzyk6JIztFvVnvyHLDFyLHfVbW-C4Bg4Qn266-luKLl9gtc3fcM4nj4trhrs3OvaZU2GMLgZif0W1_NC6DwqaI/s1600/IMG_8944e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="text-align: start;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiZk300NPLxMDBV7LR2rU2vbGbfmA3a5rFT3ywwOquNJubOdSq4Ng6SIzyk6JIztFvVnvyHLDFyLHfVbW-C4Bg4Qn266-luKLl9gtc3fcM4nj4trhrs3OvaZU2GMLgZif0W1_NC6DwqaI/s640/IMG_8944e.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Back to Hagia Sophia though.</div>
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I honestly couldn't capture it all, eventually I stopped taking pictures because documenting it all was impossible.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzpoREndh-xrZSSHdhU9c_F1-OXkGnfqrx8Q8aIF4Tx-0NysNlrN48-8yHB5dSBnMi864jr-ZOlwfbav7lU8DSU6FZASHVr52fjcfyDMZrgu9uAfiI88yn-CCa1Z8byVCeHxmSVX8a_Bc/s1600/IMG_8969e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: start;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzpoREndh-xrZSSHdhU9c_F1-OXkGnfqrx8Q8aIF4Tx-0NysNlrN48-8yHB5dSBnMi864jr-ZOlwfbav7lU8DSU6FZASHVr52fjcfyDMZrgu9uAfiI88yn-CCa1Z8byVCeHxmSVX8a_Bc/s640/IMG_8969e.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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There was much restoration work going on as 1500 years tends to take it's toll.</div>
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Hopefully that means this gorgeous structure will be around much longer than it already has.</div>
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I would definitely suggest putting Istanbul on your bucket list if it isn't already there.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDf3WQcERTNayfl4_KDP_2hTRjURA9BobQEaSgHe0TcACjPY8pfL97ev_pE3_pXQBNi35pfIa1iY7dnUgv9iGJLsz9CgyR_7reTD-yWmtmxq4gEQ_YMyB4pT3XwD3QCyhKJJ7onnT66AE/s1600/IMG_8932e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDf3WQcERTNayfl4_KDP_2hTRjURA9BobQEaSgHe0TcACjPY8pfL97ev_pE3_pXQBNi35pfIa1iY7dnUgv9iGJLsz9CgyR_7reTD-yWmtmxq4gEQ_YMyB4pT3XwD3QCyhKJJ7onnT66AE/s640/IMG_8932e.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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As I said this was only day one of five, I will attempt to share the rest in a timely manner.</div>
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Who am I kidding though, we made this trip in March 2015.</div>
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Yep, 10 months ago, nothing timely about that.</div>
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cwesthickshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06169419308867062245noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4202092173002268645.post-52707982356930873202015-10-26T12:25:00.000-06:002015-10-26T12:25:12.408-06:00Welcome Baby Frankie<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I'm home with a pukey Cedric today so have a little unexpected blogging time in between laundry and <a href="http://goop.com/the-illustrated-guide-to-the-kondo-mari-method/" target="_blank">Konmari'ing our dressers</a>.</div>
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It doesn't get much more glamorous than that folks.</div>
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Our dear friends added a fourth to their family in June.</div>
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And she is a doll.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIlhchwUEFVJ-MY0SArhxOTbY4JZsxXypGtbicc6ZdOURHnH-UNzLS3h4SUEn0Qj4Z7xbFKCVJnrTeoiOGZp1nUOSkUkw5zzOP_9Tvxxsi7iAtx754uS2NunOcNrIS3AXikslv6bwM8oA/s1600/IMG_0088e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIlhchwUEFVJ-MY0SArhxOTbY4JZsxXypGtbicc6ZdOURHnH-UNzLS3h4SUEn0Qj4Z7xbFKCVJnrTeoiOGZp1nUOSkUkw5zzOP_9Tvxxsi7iAtx754uS2NunOcNrIS3AXikslv6bwM8oA/s640/IMG_0088e.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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We had a situation with a proud Auntie here from England for a short time period so ended up throwing together this party in 8 short days.</div>
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Thank goodness the kids were in yoga camp.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbOMXUlO-PAMY9doBp-jmBnFmryaWhdBkSJr973aLi3GWJoUvOp-aqvkCQLQPclRvUu8vq3Qt5dtkDajwlZiwMRqzBeMZFznHnbp_rnolaWBn6_Fy8aP8bpsj8WcWlSAEBNtZnFSVVzRA/s1600/IMG_0033e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="594" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbOMXUlO-PAMY9doBp-jmBnFmryaWhdBkSJr973aLi3GWJoUvOp-aqvkCQLQPclRvUu8vq3Qt5dtkDajwlZiwMRqzBeMZFznHnbp_rnolaWBn6_Fy8aP8bpsj8WcWlSAEBNtZnFSVVzRA/s640/IMG_0033e.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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In an hour at Fabricland I acquired most of the decorations.</div>
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These fabric covered balloons hung with fishing line added some whimsy to our plum tree.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJimIQu5S4TZmobaVNUPIvrN0M2WLkw4sZxhUV9OnCWSuYbdt2IMlealyv1tLaV4QBSJVkaoR8lKhOowBhyPLSMKzdAloEyZXWmGAVbnHv_bH7aoWWsNKNtLEq6p9t0LE_Iw6kWbbTtHE/s1600/IMG_0035e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="392" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJimIQu5S4TZmobaVNUPIvrN0M2WLkw4sZxhUV9OnCWSuYbdt2IMlealyv1tLaV4QBSJVkaoR8lKhOowBhyPLSMKzdAloEyZXWmGAVbnHv_bH7aoWWsNKNtLEq6p9t0LE_Iw6kWbbTtHE/s640/IMG_0035e.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Never underestimate the power of ripped fabric strips and twine.</div>
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I also gave my Gram's tea cart a real workout as the drink station.</div>
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We kept it simple with some pink lemonade punch and lemon water.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6x5w4hWKWirlsDHCkaRlOmzIOmZpH4cUfeSKj2ltJBry1MrTASx08yAF_GkLMAVwEeGeJY2IFyjSwb1Pf9wKRhG9aEkfUJhk2kwDhT1KCBf-jF5jLqZhyIoc5IdeIlqm3UZtmKMwRp78/s1600/IMG_0043e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="472" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6x5w4hWKWirlsDHCkaRlOmzIOmZpH4cUfeSKj2ltJBry1MrTASx08yAF_GkLMAVwEeGeJY2IFyjSwb1Pf9wKRhG9aEkfUJhk2kwDhT1KCBf-jF5jLqZhyIoc5IdeIlqm3UZtmKMwRp78/s640/IMG_0043e.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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I can take credit for about 10% of the food.</div>
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My co-host Grandma Shirley was amazing at putting this spread together.</div>
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I did, however, bake that cake for the sole purpose of using that Hello World cake topper from <a href="http://www.confettiandsparklepartyshop.com/" target="_blank">Confetti & Sparkle Shop</a>.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOaK4EStn_j5K4dhCQhOgIfpQEV_9PDKlGlrxme8aeDBGjOINharSmAPBuVxI_dRfLBawsp-avdAM_J3IT9kvjonXBRVMzWfxREgcteM-gfim0K21UnmcMbADjAjZkZLpxjvNj4eliJgI/s1600/IMG_0058e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="340" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOaK4EStn_j5K4dhCQhOgIfpQEV_9PDKlGlrxme8aeDBGjOINharSmAPBuVxI_dRfLBawsp-avdAM_J3IT9kvjonXBRVMzWfxREgcteM-gfim0K21UnmcMbADjAjZkZLpxjvNj4eliJgI/s640/IMG_0058e.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Ribbon and fabric served as drink identifiers but also ended up looking very sweet.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrK5f0QVneRLjp949f0qBDkb6KFMbMT4ntQEmML8fs1Xta4ApaozZuVvO-hvWXG8R6r_ha7WYgxVjCHNQ-mejy-EuPaOczfq8Tt2rCKKQJRqkqmL7sH5dUV5akqyYgwVQi7hBJ_j78hpI/s1600/IMG_0044e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrK5f0QVneRLjp949f0qBDkb6KFMbMT4ntQEmML8fs1Xta4ApaozZuVvO-hvWXG8R6r_ha7WYgxVjCHNQ-mejy-EuPaOczfq8Tt2rCKKQJRqkqmL7sH5dUV5akqyYgwVQi7hBJ_j78hpI/s640/IMG_0044e.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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I have no pictures of Mama and Mom but found this one of Prince Charlie in his shower throne.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5Z5twBCLHGAL805VckrBxgKN_B4kuNeOVIPj9l4i-hKBRPV4WbdxWLv_evko2UIH2tqfiU58Cn-sTnjhIQt9Ur-pw-Sh0jPXYNfvhrP_uIeavISXohj8OguXuSZqKmQt03ik1A-oqS5k/s1600/IMG_0083e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5Z5twBCLHGAL805VckrBxgKN_B4kuNeOVIPj9l4i-hKBRPV4WbdxWLv_evko2UIH2tqfiU58Cn-sTnjhIQt9Ur-pw-Sh0jPXYNfvhrP_uIeavISXohj8OguXuSZqKmQt03ik1A-oqS5k/s640/IMG_0083e.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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We had a second food table with quick grab kids food which gave me an excuse to hang these lace curtains that I purged from the cabin.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNRnDQNqLhZ4vATbznj8dy6V6EFAjK6CZ_e-Se1jB27O_5KGKOetdOthYkC4XOnqqM5mWh1TYpVYKTLsS0jKhwnnD3c_tE536hu_iuYLPNhhGeJc7qmFkohUhppIvntF3fYLXegP7NnzA/s1600/IMG_0050e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="352" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNRnDQNqLhZ4vATbznj8dy6V6EFAjK6CZ_e-Se1jB27O_5KGKOetdOthYkC4XOnqqM5mWh1TYpVYKTLsS0jKhwnnD3c_tE536hu_iuYLPNhhGeJc7qmFkohUhppIvntF3fYLXegP7NnzA/s640/IMG_0050e.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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You always need bike parking right?</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikg7CzfTbNcEvbBjtR_LEe5ELUmkXTH-RfNI02VDhoj4obXccMgvoClyNfDPSHb0yE3Bs6140BKpCBh-c2IDyMdrG9xQetSaTyH9AvpOsETCGv5EVU5dkEdRkvrLSdz-JA0rygvR0Rk_0/s1600/IMG_0055e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="454" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikg7CzfTbNcEvbBjtR_LEe5ELUmkXTH-RfNI02VDhoj4obXccMgvoClyNfDPSHb0yE3Bs6140BKpCBh-c2IDyMdrG9xQetSaTyH9AvpOsETCGv5EVU5dkEdRkvrLSdz-JA0rygvR0Rk_0/s640/IMG_0055e.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Instead of a guest book we had everyone write a message on a strip of fabric (I had ironed a small piece of fusible interfacing on each for this purpose). </div>
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Afterwards we tied them all on a stick and the resulting art piece is now displayed over Frankie's crib.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDe5GpfXetpor3ZpED2XeS2-GAdKu3rJnTsr5qkTfDIwzzijp4-fzawLF7Ij2uCquiEWFx6xZpngmyVr0x7kTLXfAzpNEArY_zpuHYEIwwZdu60nweL9gId8TCUJnuCFm9ibMQrkY9_88/s1600/IMG_0056e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="388" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDe5GpfXetpor3ZpED2XeS2-GAdKu3rJnTsr5qkTfDIwzzijp4-fzawLF7Ij2uCquiEWFx6xZpngmyVr0x7kTLXfAzpNEArY_zpuHYEIwwZdu60nweL9gId8TCUJnuCFm9ibMQrkY9_88/s640/IMG_0056e.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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The guest of honour was the sweetest little thing through the whole party.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiS0TmXapFZlJ3IhJhvF2Oqk_5yX94W759l0WFpcALXr30-xl0WPavehSSWUAnfYoMZvUUl10fML2VVRMVBLdoxXccJjLq86NablRIliSn4ZSWyeAmMZHNx4oouuj36c7G_zx2eX6HO-IQ/s1600/IMG_0079e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiS0TmXapFZlJ3IhJhvF2Oqk_5yX94W759l0WFpcALXr30-xl0WPavehSSWUAnfYoMZvUUl10fML2VVRMVBLdoxXccJjLq86NablRIliSn4ZSWyeAmMZHNx4oouuj36c7G_zx2eX6HO-IQ/s640/IMG_0079e.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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And has been ever since.</div>
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<br />cwesthickshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06169419308867062245noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4202092173002268645.post-8816505646105575282015-08-06T16:51:00.000-06:002015-08-06T16:51:38.939-06:00Life Update<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I have so much to say about these two amazing creatures.</div>
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Of course when I finally have a minute to write, much of it has left my head.</div>
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Worth a try though so here we go.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO8_ZPKhSAUnvKrm0FMfTQwPrM2pipHMhYagjHO-Xzp74z30FgQzVbi2tJeT43b6_AXfyTIFfYsofubb3YNtTxPu87hrXcQrwCeUMUsmccCsFDHQwK7WElK34M48mEzmRrRrhiAOm1poA/s1600/IMG_0099e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO8_ZPKhSAUnvKrm0FMfTQwPrM2pipHMhYagjHO-Xzp74z30FgQzVbi2tJeT43b6_AXfyTIFfYsofubb3YNtTxPu87hrXcQrwCeUMUsmccCsFDHQwK7WElK34M48mEzmRrRrhiAOm1poA/s640/IMG_0099e.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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One thing I will never forget is this conversation.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Me: {Reading an article about a woman who is dying of cancer and has two young children with tears streaming down my face.}</div>
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Fiona: "You ok Mommy?"</div>
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Me: "You know Mommy loves you guys so much right?"</div>
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Fiona: "We know Mommy."</div>
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Me: " And you know that Mommy would do anything for you and your brother right?"</div>
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Fiona:"Yep."</div>
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Me: "If there was anything I could do that would make your lives better I would do it, ok?"</div>
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Fiona: {Pause} "You're doing it Mommy."</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOnHsRno4o_uO-IEa-mQzOtyqYA91U_x0fX8Su7sFaPjM58yYRjVhej596wJXqDhMXFC_o-bvyLn303tAe3CVoqhb9TxbgLOlOXDSMvAuvU83FXJzdECnL6jhod6_XaurJHQQGyzZfN_Y/s1600/IMG_0114e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOnHsRno4o_uO-IEa-mQzOtyqYA91U_x0fX8Su7sFaPjM58yYRjVhej596wJXqDhMXFC_o-bvyLn303tAe3CVoqhb9TxbgLOlOXDSMvAuvU83FXJzdECnL6jhod6_XaurJHQQGyzZfN_Y/s640/IMG_0114e.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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As we prepare <strike>ourselves</strike> Fiona for kindergarten I'm noticing some pretty big bravery.</div>
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The babe that I wasn't sure would be ready I now have no doubts about.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjggpOG68e3jZfpOSf5dGXUmGWwU_ZkwGoTzpQBMm1klGZe0z8Qjd0XveBV5E5_NcbdboiS_8p9Hq9KkS84o3-FTJ_tfQgDeyaxDjEJexBvvExreoIrOnkfamkNThaGoP1kvcy7NAS_We0/s1600/IMG_0237e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjggpOG68e3jZfpOSf5dGXUmGWwU_ZkwGoTzpQBMm1klGZe0z8Qjd0XveBV5E5_NcbdboiS_8p9Hq9KkS84o3-FTJ_tfQgDeyaxDjEJexBvvExreoIrOnkfamkNThaGoP1kvcy7NAS_We0/s640/IMG_0237e.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Cedric on the other hand is a huge personality contained in a tiny {yes still} body.</div>
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He has an obsession with underwear and has been known to change into a pair of his playdate host's undies from time to time.</div>
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He loves singing along to Annie.</div>
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He calls all cranes "Cranky" from Thomas the Train.</div>
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As in "Whoa Mommy look at that big Cranky!"</div>
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He will often approach me and say "Twoo {true} wuv's {love's} kiss" and plant a big smooch.</div>
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Him and Bunbuns are still semi-attached and can usually be found nose to nose.</div>
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He has a wicked sweet tooth.</div>
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He has also had two black teeth from his many falls. </div>
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Did you know teeth can fade back to white? You do now.</div>
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His nicknames are Ced, Cedced, Mr. Ced, Ceds and Super Dave.</div>
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The latter is probably the most fitting.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRyoyYzvTMcseUfiFVT8EZjw7yvoiLUTz0QPG3Yv6PYN1kC4df6embkeCOqMahzuXPdjimBrMbMeKQ7GvkAW5-COFCFdxORV5cnM8LWoeUd3b43G5KQZg7CC5dbYGCFfd5dl24fh38tNs/s1600/IMG_0232e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRyoyYzvTMcseUfiFVT8EZjw7yvoiLUTz0QPG3Yv6PYN1kC4df6embkeCOqMahzuXPdjimBrMbMeKQ7GvkAW5-COFCFdxORV5cnM8LWoeUd3b43G5KQZg7CC5dbYGCFfd5dl24fh38tNs/s640/IMG_0232e.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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The lake has given us some great moments as always.</div>
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Though we wish there could be more of them.</div>
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It seems wrong that the summer is half gone.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgXyIlnCDhI8GQaGyIUwg4HrpiTpLtPNCSp8pfCp7xV-Yt2CzR_ceHejnPgikLxT2G0N7KaVHg7nYXnKimUSxZ9yrEyfxlDOE6FVFbX5cNK1JQhd80zfgbbKorwNgnPlHEenszfNw2YTw/s1600/IMG_0147e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgXyIlnCDhI8GQaGyIUwg4HrpiTpLtPNCSp8pfCp7xV-Yt2CzR_ceHejnPgikLxT2G0N7KaVHg7nYXnKimUSxZ9yrEyfxlDOE6FVFbX5cNK1JQhd80zfgbbKorwNgnPlHEenszfNw2YTw/s640/IMG_0147e.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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We still have the cabin listed as we're hoping to become lake neighbours with our besties.</div>
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This summer we watched them welcome another member to their family {more on that later, no promises on a timeline}.</div>
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Our desire to share those lake memories became even more apparent.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfpQPVkNsKODKKHScwaRobiAz0iCOJ_f5IoRcPz8iyxso2AHIwae8Y-sRLEBTFloTLnyq0uzNM7ktGai9BPyNkgSufdvlYDCoe6W2Hrr1rF1JYAtftk9d0pRkq82EHGzVQvlVQhl0iqRU/s1600/IMG_0169e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfpQPVkNsKODKKHScwaRobiAz0iCOJ_f5IoRcPz8iyxso2AHIwae8Y-sRLEBTFloTLnyq0uzNM7ktGai9BPyNkgSufdvlYDCoe6W2Hrr1rF1JYAtftk9d0pRkq82EHGzVQvlVQhl0iqRU/s640/IMG_0169e.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Our Alberta prairie day trips to see them will have to do the trick for now.</div>
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And they are.</div>
cwesthickshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06169419308867062245noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4202092173002268645.post-12463692225268378392015-06-11T22:00:00.004-06:002015-06-11T22:00:54.427-06:00Last Weekend in Pictures {and some words, but mostly pictures}<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Dress rehearsal for <a href="http://schoolofalbertaballet.com/open-division/edmonton/edmonton-overview.html" target="_blank">The School of Alberta Ballet Edmonton Studios</a>.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvVw53mqgR0_Ag4HbBnVYPctdgCK4lk4nce3Lk4r8_8TnfpduulaWOMK9JfwWDAs5bTTRxuJ5F06i8W_GI37UvwJZxFgTsCTRBFu1zbb5AbV8WCC6NorL-QpdTPAi0HWF1puwVE0cPSgs/s1600/IMG_9751e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="School of Alberta Ballet Edmonton Studios" border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvVw53mqgR0_Ag4HbBnVYPctdgCK4lk4nce3Lk4r8_8TnfpduulaWOMK9JfwWDAs5bTTRxuJ5F06i8W_GI37UvwJZxFgTsCTRBFu1zbb5AbV8WCC6NorL-QpdTPAi0HWF1puwVE0cPSgs/s640/IMG_9751e.JPG" title="School of Alberta Ballet Edmonton Studios" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.edmontonpride.ca/pride_week/parade/" target="_blank">Pride parade</a> with some of my favourite people including this one in the womb (can't wait to meet this one Kerry).</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1i4TskwFMTyp9fCIhRmP76y1virfT9qLdvrkXTnQbCcvP4NHwgvrJmADZtImoZrVG2uszAlgkC5HDfuwfiFnMdiuwauHIlzs5GwRTRfH0xFqOj9MZZ3qXhWV6NrflICQtkgCNf8WWd5s/s1600/IMG_9761e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Pride Edmonton 2015" border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1i4TskwFMTyp9fCIhRmP76y1virfT9qLdvrkXTnQbCcvP4NHwgvrJmADZtImoZrVG2uszAlgkC5HDfuwfiFnMdiuwauHIlzs5GwRTRfH0xFqOj9MZZ3qXhWV6NrflICQtkgCNf8WWd5s/s640/IMG_9761e.JPG" title="Pride Edmonton 2015" width="640" /></a></div>
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We paraded down Whyte Ave into the heart of Old Strathcona.</div>
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I've always loved Pride but pride in our neighbourhood was the icing on that cake.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5qGQTnKIRjMDan3gIUxoIJyEdLQoE1W0Vcwh9PUQR7kuH6tYeJZHYRtQ3iraFNVpPLOp6o7rUarYwDxFDPx5b5I-6vnVmNoiESz4LRdgTnV4Y99UUQTWmnN1u3lARCHNEECGoO95ysZg/s1600/IMG_9776e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Pride Edmonton 2015" border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5qGQTnKIRjMDan3gIUxoIJyEdLQoE1W0Vcwh9PUQR7kuH6tYeJZHYRtQ3iraFNVpPLOp6o7rUarYwDxFDPx5b5I-6vnVmNoiESz4LRdgTnV4Y99UUQTWmnN1u3lARCHNEECGoO95ysZg/s640/IMG_9776e.JPG" title="Pride Edmonton 2015" width="640" /></a></div>
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Please keep these rainbow cross walks Edmonton, they're too good.</div>
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{If you think so too you should <a href="https://www.change.org/p/the-city-of-edmonton-make-the-rainbow-crosswalks-in-strathcona-permanent?recruiter=41300931&amputm_source=share_petition&amputm_medium=facebook&amputm_campaign=autopublish&amputm_term=mob-xs-share_petition-no_msg" target="_blank">sign this petition</a>.}</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfZ1WNvlr3Z6ubaivfUi9DK9T4Yyj5qd4lLGLnVfx0sq2J0L9wzGwsjVEsLeO7sp9_ryJZSyJI4XkhidIgorwqWEwThLS-eG3uRrzE4iYOXEtA11YiYlO-sziCN6TnRoHHK9SN-MzpfeI/s1600/IMG_9777e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Pride Edmonton 2015" border="0" height="484" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfZ1WNvlr3Z6ubaivfUi9DK9T4Yyj5qd4lLGLnVfx0sq2J0L9wzGwsjVEsLeO7sp9_ryJZSyJI4XkhidIgorwqWEwThLS-eG3uRrzE4iYOXEtA11YiYlO-sziCN6TnRoHHK9SN-MzpfeI/s640/IMG_9777e.JPG" title="Pride Edmonton 2015" width="640" /></a></div>
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Immediately after this pic was taken we raced home and got these two off on a road trip with the grandparents.</div>
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After that we had beers with friends then dinner with friends then more beers with friends.</div>
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And even after all those beers we woke up for a great brunch date at <a href="http://bluechair.ca/" target="_blank">Bluechair Cafe</a>.</div>
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If you live in Edmonton and haven't been it's a must.</div>
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The weekend delivered the perfect balance of time to rediscover why we like each other so much and time to miss the kids.</div>
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And of course be reminded why we like them so much.</div>
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<br /></div>
cwesthickshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06169419308867062245noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4202092173002268645.post-49132028889197761302015-04-26T18:06:00.008-06:002015-04-26T18:06:56.577-06:00"Fiona's Five" a Fairy Fête<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It's happened.</div>
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I have a five year old.</div>
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And she's fabulous.</div>
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But you already knew that.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtBFglL4oUdhlwyerLQzsanpOjkPchiuSvEuMjbZd3goHZp8_6KgSBrzT8mAjqsemEtnNNESUJNdBVbhgD19rexLEMSYSIaTp7_TQJD82o3LmlCn0g9gE61No2VU4Iqq4yES-hmysT_7A/s1600/IMG_9480e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Fairy Party" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtBFglL4oUdhlwyerLQzsanpOjkPchiuSvEuMjbZd3goHZp8_6KgSBrzT8mAjqsemEtnNNESUJNdBVbhgD19rexLEMSYSIaTp7_TQJD82o3LmlCn0g9gE61No2VU4Iqq4yES-hmysT_7A/s1600/IMG_9480e.JPG" height="538" title="Fairy Party" width="640" /></a></div>
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Fiona decided on a fairy theme after a heart to heart discussion about too much of a good thing.</div>
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We still love you Frozen but I just can't anymore.</div>
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I may have added a little "woodland" to the fairy mostly so I could grab 90% of the decorations on a cabin nature walk.</div>
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Some ripped fabric added some whimsy to this branch.</div>
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This ended up being one of my favourite decorations and has gained a permanent spot in Fiona's room.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgZBIfQ1KA18oqu_c5KzynpulZeNI1V8mPxO5eCwNTXGYw2TJdyFQHhjrVvpL_GNQI9l9cfivZ7I-GiAe2_b4uZ4WEhxD3y5MtCmwygSjSXKm-7v8rncflAOjCtQukWB-e1fZbXpmSc8o/s1600/IMG_9380e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Fairy Party" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgZBIfQ1KA18oqu_c5KzynpulZeNI1V8mPxO5eCwNTXGYw2TJdyFQHhjrVvpL_GNQI9l9cfivZ7I-GiAe2_b4uZ4WEhxD3y5MtCmwygSjSXKm-7v8rncflAOjCtQukWB-e1fZbXpmSc8o/s1600/IMG_9380e.JPG" height="426" title="Fairy Party" width="640" /></a></div>
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These pre-bud willows will also take up permanent residence in our home.</div>
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{Sans pink flowers.}</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPj8nxZ0Rslc_caEX2W_Hy_Si3zWmE4YTvkz8QvqvJzRpE_b_KmItnOWVXTWuybsA5hg2J0ZNoPK6h_cly4EOnfz9tPfksyH6SPljjCN7Av-xx7x33oWVDOycwzkQgds9O2VA2mdvYzAQ/s1600/IMG_9386e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Fairy Party" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPj8nxZ0Rslc_caEX2W_Hy_Si3zWmE4YTvkz8QvqvJzRpE_b_KmItnOWVXTWuybsA5hg2J0ZNoPK6h_cly4EOnfz9tPfksyH6SPljjCN7Av-xx7x33oWVDOycwzkQgds9O2VA2mdvYzAQ/s1600/IMG_9386e.JPG" height="426" title="Fairy Party" width="640" /></a></div>
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Fiona couldn't even handle this cake garland.</div>
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As I was making it she showered me with positive reinforcement.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhszPNASRjbiYI4ye6vFkRctA6GfXW2xZShN6XD_mmpn7hET6TsboLPkE1-bbV97AECeyRlo1JAjD4Geuv8nuy_7lzmFSp2jonqnO4uh3tY5yoCId9y5AO82NGN6xphU35m9hKG9VAfYsQ/s1600/IMG_9389e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Fairy Party" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhszPNASRjbiYI4ye6vFkRctA6GfXW2xZShN6XD_mmpn7hET6TsboLPkE1-bbV97AECeyRlo1JAjD4Geuv8nuy_7lzmFSp2jonqnO4uh3tY5yoCId9y5AO82NGN6xphU35m9hKG9VAfYsQ/s1600/IMG_9389e.JPG" height="640" title="Fairy Party" width="590" /></a></div>
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We did flower crowns and woodland elf hats.</div>
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I found this foam covered gardening wire at Dollarama and wrapped it around itself to create places to stick flowers.</div>
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The flowers and ribbon were also all Dollarama.</div>
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After the girls were done decorating I went over the ends with flower tape to prevent my-flower-crown-is-falling-apart meltdowns and secure the sharp wire bits.</div>
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They all looked precious and had fun making them but I may have enjoyed it even more.</div>
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This craft will have to make a comeback.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQupuby5yV7345fuE1CCsyxz6gPBAms2hyphenhyphenFVtVXZW0p4AcfDnx3qyGpoakowPUuJlYuUS4RFQu6rnJh8Mgm_DanBHRjeeX3fQPWNSKKGv0IBtIhrRhAk32tDiSiKgWmGsfe3nXfF-pt4Q/s1600/IMG_9399e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Fairy Party" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQupuby5yV7345fuE1CCsyxz6gPBAms2hyphenhyphenFVtVXZW0p4AcfDnx3qyGpoakowPUuJlYuUS4RFQu6rnJh8Mgm_DanBHRjeeX3fQPWNSKKGv0IBtIhrRhAk32tDiSiKgWmGsfe3nXfF-pt4Q/s1600/IMG_9399e.JPG" height="486" title="Fairy Party" width="640" /></a></div>
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Flower garlands...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsuTo6OZkvfWN9pQEzlkWV-0MQVwz-tUS_FsQQ-3mQgMPHuOp-Trpw9VQGzS8qyctWH4laWuzlh1NgQE3DF1-yd5S5-sixmAeB-lAEW8oK_YBSGGmCzXiC33ScBlUdRAOMp2of0ulqbcc/s1600/IMG_9406e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Fairy Party" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsuTo6OZkvfWN9pQEzlkWV-0MQVwz-tUS_FsQQ-3mQgMPHuOp-Trpw9VQGzS8qyctWH4laWuzlh1NgQE3DF1-yd5S5-sixmAeB-lAEW8oK_YBSGGmCzXiC33ScBlUdRAOMp2of0ulqbcc/s1600/IMG_9406e.JPG" height="426" title="Fairy Party" width="640" /></a></div>
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And mossy wood hanging from the light fixture.</div>
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Obviously.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4H9s6cCHZ1TQJkfrpJ2vBFKC-p7OKrA8fzxJFlta8Yw4xk8vYnRZRMm4122sdVtjlaLN_Uq3vWqEb3QGwgoAOgat_t7LXnOI4Z3mCOidKu5Gyg40Hx5CgepXO7cmGCjfoKR1-ic3wEqk/s1600/IMG_9411e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Fairy Party" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4H9s6cCHZ1TQJkfrpJ2vBFKC-p7OKrA8fzxJFlta8Yw4xk8vYnRZRMm4122sdVtjlaLN_Uq3vWqEb3QGwgoAOgat_t7LXnOI4Z3mCOidKu5Gyg40Hx5CgepXO7cmGCjfoKR1-ic3wEqk/s1600/IMG_9411e.JPG" height="404" title="Fairy Party" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Our picture frames were filled with pink and purple fairies.</div>
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I also changed up the chalkboard but neglected to photograph that with the real camera.</div>
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I refer you to Instagram if you just can't handle not seeing it.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhldINXJXIIb4YlNlDI9bxyeuTXvc8IPR88tfOIOAWfMKIzU451sRwKBsPCtg740RXGSoLcVr3bt4Lm4gY1P2tp_elOv8KpQo8e0MTHbj2NxmIhGIRBnNUuaYryOszMSCnOg6xKucuQ5f8/s1600/IMG_9430e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Fairy Party" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhldINXJXIIb4YlNlDI9bxyeuTXvc8IPR88tfOIOAWfMKIzU451sRwKBsPCtg740RXGSoLcVr3bt4Lm4gY1P2tp_elOv8KpQo8e0MTHbj2NxmIhGIRBnNUuaYryOszMSCnOg6xKucuQ5f8/s1600/IMG_9430e.JPG" height="550" title="Fairy Party" width="640" /></a></div>
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Make a wish baby.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6GcLkPxghheIxq5Len2CkCC3-CPonODIQu3k1xKOIX0zsWfS9kU_9n85Ca40bNbZF1DpMYWFSoMcNuz17g7TvMIl7_VJQuaEv0sBuYxT9Sx67zWkETfTHC5eaJw7UZINapzY1OX-NhC0/s1600/IMG_9452e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Fairy Party" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6GcLkPxghheIxq5Len2CkCC3-CPonODIQu3k1xKOIX0zsWfS9kU_9n85Ca40bNbZF1DpMYWFSoMcNuz17g7TvMIl7_VJQuaEv0sBuYxT9Sx67zWkETfTHC5eaJw7UZINapzY1OX-NhC0/s1600/IMG_9452e.JPG" height="462" title="Fairy Party" width="640" /></a></div>
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There are the little hats I mentioned before.</div>
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They took approximately 1 minute each to sew on the machine with little pre-cut felt pieces.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN9ULwbS6ZzeC8C4HM2fa5pJ4aSURT6CYEvGOc9-SHQx6UbeFV8SObGUY7uPBTo9Yn-6JvLDPgX_C0rmBBnup87PUR2Y1PoF6bJYASNUQ5h50Rvlts7S4ezD0DpqzaJEzZuIdE0FHxuE4/s1600/IMG_9484e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Fairy Party" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN9ULwbS6ZzeC8C4HM2fa5pJ4aSURT6CYEvGOc9-SHQx6UbeFV8SObGUY7uPBTo9Yn-6JvLDPgX_C0rmBBnup87PUR2Y1PoF6bJYASNUQ5h50Rvlts7S4ezD0DpqzaJEzZuIdE0FHxuE4/s1600/IMG_9484e.JPG" height="426" title="Fairy Party" width="640" /></a></div>
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As always we had so much fun decorating and preparing but our fabulous friends make the magic.</div>
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Thanks to all who celebrated with us.</div>
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</div>
<br />cwesthickshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06169419308867062245noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4202092173002268645.post-60723111566456953222015-04-02T13:19:00.000-06:002015-04-02T13:19:27.637-06:00Cedric is 3! {And Has Been for Almost a Month}<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
When I asked Cedric what type of birthday he would like he gave his answer without a hint of doubt.</div>
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"Mota-cyco!"</div>
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Motorcyles that is, for those who don't speak Cedric.</div>
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After some thought we expanded a little to motorcycle racing.</div>
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Mostly so I could fill the house with these sweet banners.</div>
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He didn't mind, of course. As long as something was "vrooming" he would be happy.</div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs5cnXnpkoqZ_tz2TaJxGmpJLyLGg51OWcEk02ImElqkh-O_4EPUnjV80PNi4scOZWR2V7m9xVstlHXEsXyKfnuDWWeAtM9qPgGek6b9SpWRaVorKqm9pGswo8GqEyUT17SoH8PcN-uXo/s1600/IMG_8406e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Racing Birthday" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs5cnXnpkoqZ_tz2TaJxGmpJLyLGg51OWcEk02ImElqkh-O_4EPUnjV80PNi4scOZWR2V7m9xVstlHXEsXyKfnuDWWeAtM9qPgGek6b9SpWRaVorKqm9pGswo8GqEyUT17SoH8PcN-uXo/s1600/IMG_8406e.JPG" height="426" title="Racing Birthday" width="640" /></a><br />
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Our new chalkboard wall got it's first workout.</div>
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A calligrapher I am not, but I had some fun with it.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgubM5G0DOLmmmM6BLNNusQ-Kh-tCtN1vk8xjU93IjAnurWQ01I5IyHlH-vhvi-kOY9-kxk-QHMZpQwlZZCpEUVYxbjtLSeLW3zDMgU96zSRslOqv78maQCDdqmQlVlsp6hd8_HCf67r5k/s1600/IMG_8415e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Happy Birthday Cedric chalkboard wall" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgubM5G0DOLmmmM6BLNNusQ-Kh-tCtN1vk8xjU93IjAnurWQ01I5IyHlH-vhvi-kOY9-kxk-QHMZpQwlZZCpEUVYxbjtLSeLW3zDMgU96zSRslOqv78maQCDdqmQlVlsp6hd8_HCf67r5k/s1600/IMG_8415e.JPG" height="640" title="Happy Birthday Cedric chalkboard wall" width="405" /></a></div>
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This balloon and streamer combo is always a hit with the kids.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaYU0oKsvrpDesjiR_7y2_vdCFhNsBf-NPooWnkHEUP_Tv4aXhOrlHo7yEUx9xnIekXmKjlxfGFTwI11Et8Wf6Rx2_3K08WKxn12hv5mKq0JUqMXE13o-QLhWQyWpfoqkpdb1w3TO78YU/s1600/IMG_8412e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Racing Birthday" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaYU0oKsvrpDesjiR_7y2_vdCFhNsBf-NPooWnkHEUP_Tv4aXhOrlHo7yEUx9xnIekXmKjlxfGFTwI11Et8Wf6Rx2_3K08WKxn12hv5mKq0JUqMXE13o-QLhWQyWpfoqkpdb1w3TO78YU/s1600/IMG_8412e.JPG" height="960" title="Racing Birthday" width="640" /></a></div>
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And who needs party games when you have toy cars and tracks.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFffB_vn2AXoSw2zz8U2tmm6umFwr2mAg3h8qdsojTT0tM8W0phE-vxhlHe2eBEBLPGraohiGSd30Haquk60-bFLkeyKGf1t5oCkphM8hMtjc4GCze42-Ra5sZJXCg1fqzlyEo7iqDMeQ/s1600/IMG_8400e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Racing Birthday" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFffB_vn2AXoSw2zz8U2tmm6umFwr2mAg3h8qdsojTT0tM8W0phE-vxhlHe2eBEBLPGraohiGSd30Haquk60-bFLkeyKGf1t5oCkphM8hMtjc4GCze42-Ra5sZJXCg1fqzlyEo7iqDMeQ/s1600/IMG_8400e.JPG" height="454" title="Racing Birthday" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhS4L2C8DNSpVTMNyDZGJtEzwMz41TOLBQGlkk9kU-6ld8KltWrAKvqyDNK2ChE5a8eAfxKlaaFTESYFBq5mgR1Spanz8Qzztjnb4ni_FjHTglwwo_SZTlp6gbXASecS11OEAh2RSZ5Ng/s1600/IMG_8402e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Racing Birthday" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhS4L2C8DNSpVTMNyDZGJtEzwMz41TOLBQGlkk9kU-6ld8KltWrAKvqyDNK2ChE5a8eAfxKlaaFTESYFBq5mgR1Spanz8Qzztjnb4ni_FjHTglwwo_SZTlp6gbXASecS11OEAh2RSZ5Ng/s1600/IMG_8402e.JPG" height="430" title="Racing Birthday" width="640" /></a></div>
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I have been rotating the prints in these frames with free online printables to suit the occasion.</div>
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Freepik.com had plenty of choices.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZrq3Gt-_oVuAQhkqGtXRAudkfuKiu7Cyu-0tOvHrTTptmDvdAotxECfaD0DCJvdZyxoPkTeYjZYiGOpE0Mgc6wU9mwvg5FmgFuajVdP9JaltwGPEIJAIwwQQC3s7oRunKFseXNBvNfxg/s1600/IMG_8407e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Racing Birthday" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZrq3Gt-_oVuAQhkqGtXRAudkfuKiu7Cyu-0tOvHrTTptmDvdAotxECfaD0DCJvdZyxoPkTeYjZYiGOpE0Mgc6wU9mwvg5FmgFuajVdP9JaltwGPEIJAIwwQQC3s7oRunKFseXNBvNfxg/s1600/IMG_8407e.JPG" height="416" title="Racing Birthday" width="640" /></a></div>
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The cake needed to be motorcycle themed of course and after scrapping many a Pinterest idea I copied this graphic from one of the birthday boy's old onesies.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6a7QZqxCaT7zCjliXrTeFGzgryiFVc3Guom1wNw9K4b0qU-DVXCbmHzAZR9dQDNyBrlCnHiCrBqkZ6Vdoz8snhYO_9A9FQfwSIkYGLKueMeX-DLnqibwV-CsB9WVvWvk5MnBpzqWE2ss/s1600/IMG_8450e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Racing Birthday" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6a7QZqxCaT7zCjliXrTeFGzgryiFVc3Guom1wNw9K4b0qU-DVXCbmHzAZR9dQDNyBrlCnHiCrBqkZ6Vdoz8snhYO_9A9FQfwSIkYGLKueMeX-DLnqibwV-CsB9WVvWvk5MnBpzqWE2ss/s1600/IMG_8450e.JPG" height="394" title="Racing Birthday" width="640" /></a></div>
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We had a great turnout of family, friends and neighbourhood kids and Ced definitely felt the love.</div>
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Thanks to everyone who celebrated {on that day or any other} our boy turning 3!</div>
cwesthickshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06169419308867062245noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4202092173002268645.post-59318147948708216912015-02-06T23:01:00.000-07:002015-02-06T23:01:07.721-07:00Fiona the Fabricator<div style="text-align: center;">
Let's call it story-telling.</div>
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Sounds much nicer than what I was originally calling this phase.</div>
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Which was more along the lines of blazing trousers.</div>
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Fine line there, right?</div>
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I have heard other moms talk of how their littles lie so was expecting a few falsehoods.</div>
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Nothing really prepared me for what we are now experiencing though.</div>
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I mean, these are no ordinary lies.</div>
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She's not just "no I didn't write on Cedric with Sharpie."</div>
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Or all "I didn't mean to violently thrust my leg into Cedric's path as he ran by."</div>
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Oh, I've heard those too but what I wasn't expecting were the convoluted tales this girl can weave.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNowUa9jypgOtskHnzWAzxFXF_UIcjnd27jUNURSJcNAzS2m0xFP1cpPzo0gwKPDt_FOeQHVpGEutldXW4IV3LbCcEmwUgPe69pDnW8cOqLTzPSx7FHzCPnBYrnL7QS7zQZMaAHuZbJoM/s1600/IMG_8214e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNowUa9jypgOtskHnzWAzxFXF_UIcjnd27jUNURSJcNAzS2m0xFP1cpPzo0gwKPDt_FOeQHVpGEutldXW4IV3LbCcEmwUgPe69pDnW8cOqLTzPSx7FHzCPnBYrnL7QS7zQZMaAHuZbJoM/s1600/IMG_8214e.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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For example:</div>
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Me: Feefs, how was gymnastics.</div>
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Fiona: Good.</div>
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Me: What did you do?</div>
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Fiona: Well...<pause>...we went to the roof {it was December}, to the roof trampoline, then it opened and we went under it and there was a pool so we went swimming!</div>
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Me: Uhhhhhh...</div>
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Fiona: Really Mommy, really, I'm not even lying.</div>
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Me: That's nice babe but we didn't bring your bathing suit.</div>
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Fiona: Oh...yah...they have some here so I got one and went swimming, really Mommy, really.</div>
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You get the idea.</div>
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But wait, that's only the beginning.</div>
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I don't mind an active imagination aimed at me but it's expanded beyond our household.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0F6aE0M6hPC-CUGs-MmAxrDxD7EMouaE9EsfNv200vAH0AGwK8B25d8M4dux690PHW91aksiey_4FZIIcBlroX__syAgD33FwcTqTnpCxZmSkVTxNJnhGftWAgL1Y4XlpByu4i_SmqCc/s1600/IMG_8264e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0F6aE0M6hPC-CUGs-MmAxrDxD7EMouaE9EsfNv200vAH0AGwK8B25d8M4dux690PHW91aksiey_4FZIIcBlroX__syAgD33FwcTqTnpCxZmSkVTxNJnhGftWAgL1Y4XlpByu4i_SmqCc/s1600/IMG_8264e.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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As I picked Fiona up from a playdate I was asked if I had a friend who was incarcerated.</div>
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Or had we maybe had a break in at our house?</div>
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<br /></div>
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A week ago I arrived to a birthday party that Fiona had been at for a matter of 5 minutes.</div>
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I said hello to the birthday girl's Nana who commented how nice it was that Fiona was learning volleyball.</div>
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Me: <sigh> She isn't.</div>
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Apparently she was boasting how she was learning "bolleyball" from someone who knows everything about "bolleyball".</div>
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<br /></div>
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But friends aren't the only culprits you know.</div>
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I was asked by one of her teachers if she has an older sister.</div>
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She had been raving about "Leasha" all day.</div>
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The cherry on top however was how my Mom was greeted at the school last week after returning from a 2 week vacation.</div>
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It was something along the lines of "Oh, thank goodness! Fiona said you had passed away! I'm so glad to see you!".</div>
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<br /></div>
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So, needless to say, we've opened up a conversation about what type of story is appropriate.</div>
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Having said that I'm not pushing it and hoping that this too shall pass.</div>
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It always does right?</div>
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RIGHT? </div>
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<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
cwesthickshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06169419308867062245noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4202092173002268645.post-24419627294860235702015-01-16T13:05:00.001-07:002015-01-16T13:05:53.954-07:00Our 2014 Christmas Gift<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Now that it is well after Christmas I feel safe in sharing our family Christmas gift.</div>
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I mean, it's January 16th, were you all aware?</div>
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I feel like I was just introduced to January and she's halfway out the door. </div>
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We decided to do a calendar for our family this year.</div>
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I have been enjoying having a DSLR so much and, even though I'm far from a pro, felt like sharing some of my favourite shots from the year.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguF4kqOMfkEoqXmknQBXcQkdRKwg5z8bbU40Uprxw_BlnyPvhJZWuIibNcURJT0UvCHPAYkYc002l4bt8jITCAnN8mYPFZoowS2urCl6lCg-XDyDLXBIVE8aM2zTM5TnWrMfgrgXbI6CU/s1600/IMG_8125e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguF4kqOMfkEoqXmknQBXcQkdRKwg5z8bbU40Uprxw_BlnyPvhJZWuIibNcURJT0UvCHPAYkYc002l4bt8jITCAnN8mYPFZoowS2urCl6lCg-XDyDLXBIVE8aM2zTM5TnWrMfgrgXbI6CU/s1600/IMG_8125e.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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Dusseldorf and Amsterdam were a huge highlight so kicked off the first two months.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiM7ujah_V9OnDWl10Kt1NtxosUdcTZ7egl-XF4VM_12czpH0jiXiXP00ize5DgB7ld9cJmWCbVKou_CfpZZUU5VMXMhCSpT-xViJmuIgOb2QgxqnSq_OjGZ_WI-aCKsW_OqdEuNg4w40/s1600/IMG_8094e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiM7ujah_V9OnDWl10Kt1NtxosUdcTZ7egl-XF4VM_12czpH0jiXiXP00ize5DgB7ld9cJmWCbVKou_CfpZZUU5VMXMhCSpT-xViJmuIgOb2QgxqnSq_OjGZ_WI-aCKsW_OqdEuNg4w40/s1600/IMG_8094e.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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Yes I am aware that the door this is hanging on is "distressed" and has a mystery splatter from a recent food incident on the right hand side.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Just keeping it real you know.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
And who am I kidding, that splatter is probably not recent at all and may or may not still be there.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Moving on.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgERQhgb3pDykP0FtlxZCLG6bg9I9EPdamvrpEyUQ17AFVbaJtuEJ7x202dF5rTHD1RnG2k_HpMcymNEG6zfQpJ7Eul-4ipKw8Vn7zxP-LWAP0Dt80QztzimO6gg0rHQyMhQfyUX3wwTto/s1600/IMG_8095e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgERQhgb3pDykP0FtlxZCLG6bg9I9EPdamvrpEyUQ17AFVbaJtuEJ7x202dF5rTHD1RnG2k_HpMcymNEG6zfQpJ7Eul-4ipKw8Vn7zxP-LWAP0Dt80QztzimO6gg0rHQyMhQfyUX3wwTto/s1600/IMG_8095e.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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The birthday kids were featured for the two months following.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXgXmTDFt7m-cVLdSkIPMjTmYL1l2C1Yv35fl16VPHnmfvmJkzTNb_KThymIitkV5JJ72AGYkiEmi99CmkYIN_wV021zwXnZQv9LA7OtrldLIap8LwfMHCDCSKkkNhK3AYfG4T9p6Zo4s/s1600/IMG_8100e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXgXmTDFt7m-cVLdSkIPMjTmYL1l2C1Yv35fl16VPHnmfvmJkzTNb_KThymIitkV5JJ72AGYkiEmi99CmkYIN_wV021zwXnZQv9LA7OtrldLIap8LwfMHCDCSKkkNhK3AYfG4T9p6Zo4s/s1600/IMG_8100e.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJM07PlVEuMYQg2ofzphjiI2jZXbkhzCI3jrJpp3PE6VP5ru_yrE1528ANjjqKXi_AsWUv1qoKEaP63AOIYBF256zDGzHepmGRFsyxyVpGCwZTglFNxQgJ3YHcOcGcQHVuYP6iBuJNjOY/s1600/IMG_8097e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJM07PlVEuMYQg2ofzphjiI2jZXbkhzCI3jrJpp3PE6VP5ru_yrE1528ANjjqKXi_AsWUv1qoKEaP63AOIYBF256zDGzHepmGRFsyxyVpGCwZTglFNxQgJ3YHcOcGcQHVuYP6iBuJNjOY/s1600/IMG_8097e.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Just a handsome boy in a bow tie.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUQmzcMPFQc4HwcBGksPPI8LxyBb-1OtegA8pyUI2Tz404FjEZcPaV9BNuljVYkgYdXyVd2DCL46_EHrUqfjjquaTZ9DLesGkQ6JPE4qOPMcDL-EY-MHrSgQbzHASxyhS6YG_Rmg9VaNY/s1600/IMG_8099e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUQmzcMPFQc4HwcBGksPPI8LxyBb-1OtegA8pyUI2Tz404FjEZcPaV9BNuljVYkgYdXyVd2DCL46_EHrUqfjjquaTZ9DLesGkQ6JPE4qOPMcDL-EY-MHrSgQbzHASxyhS6YG_Rmg9VaNY/s1600/IMG_8099e.JPG" height="418" width="640" /></a></div>
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And a beauty in the boat.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixLCBNBJ7bwgRomB0veXTyyX_y6EmMnykacuJvzKzBlV34psLqqjlrhMtBB7LfMopHhbn8uhuzrKYh3JJa5ab5y73xpyFln2r5uIWQaN3dXAQoE7TpgCjF_X6FAWA9FOPmdDMJ5ODQHcY/s1600/IMG_8104e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixLCBNBJ7bwgRomB0veXTyyX_y6EmMnykacuJvzKzBlV34psLqqjlrhMtBB7LfMopHhbn8uhuzrKYh3JJa5ab5y73xpyFln2r5uIWQaN3dXAQoE7TpgCjF_X6FAWA9FOPmdDMJ5ODQHcY/s1600/IMG_8104e.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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Post ice cream at the general store.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo45dsF5PDyhr9xMLyoE68oVLHPrJvtfcbYoAxac7mnPFNKR94T2_MxtLSd2GEujG9fq-z1s0dU5enAcaWfniQpNiHXWDWx5ylU5rEObE9sqVbcv1u2QXw7CIR07ytGonxFMsRgun8QDU/s1600/IMG_8106e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo45dsF5PDyhr9xMLyoE68oVLHPrJvtfcbYoAxac7mnPFNKR94T2_MxtLSd2GEujG9fq-z1s0dU5enAcaWfniQpNiHXWDWx5ylU5rEObE9sqVbcv1u2QXw7CIR07ytGonxFMsRgun8QDU/s1600/IMG_8106e.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Raspberry picking.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMKBNvRjJVjA6ESqW458hQQ7wIgIMp7o-LtXXe4-MHn1UrebqC-dnTcofAUbhWooUFSCKgLDt5MCQP7rwZhwua1l3l2-eg_-qXPYfRJ-yHTxyv05JsbvqUVYmHz8U92kVc_tvSJ1f0fok/s1600/IMG_8110e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMKBNvRjJVjA6ESqW458hQQ7wIgIMp7o-LtXXe4-MHn1UrebqC-dnTcofAUbhWooUFSCKgLDt5MCQP7rwZhwua1l3l2-eg_-qXPYfRJ-yHTxyv05JsbvqUVYmHz8U92kVc_tvSJ1f0fok/s1600/IMG_8110e.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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Apple picking with Charlie.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXtmrCnGAeSd1wVHWtg74h5cmgC0G8GYSxobtqlY9v1f6VZBhqNqEipIuMGWtycpcRp3IgSWnK5hBb8DRstyTttoAEOW3qiIR8Sqjvv_4QnzuoOe6CkSwbXJpkrKsslxBs-fcBnnOiUTQ/s1600/IMG_8111e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXtmrCnGAeSd1wVHWtg74h5cmgC0G8GYSxobtqlY9v1f6VZBhqNqEipIuMGWtycpcRp3IgSWnK5hBb8DRstyTttoAEOW3qiIR8Sqjvv_4QnzuoOe6CkSwbXJpkrKsslxBs-fcBnnOiUTQ/s1600/IMG_8111e.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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Elsa and the Lion.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinRdTg7xn9XnUxOPB7lpQWkF-YBcygpWWtwAQYLjEKJo00mq5uT97uqFbMm6pXNdoxn8Dwi9aCmZshQSW1v9Thl5lkbzjSSNxe8uaS_rIay8no7arPktVEzXqqKifde13R2zi8qGNp7YA/s1600/IMG_8113e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinRdTg7xn9XnUxOPB7lpQWkF-YBcygpWWtwAQYLjEKJo00mq5uT97uqFbMm6pXNdoxn8Dwi9aCmZshQSW1v9Thl5lkbzjSSNxe8uaS_rIay8no7arPktVEzXqqKifde13R2zi8qGNp7YA/s1600/IMG_8113e.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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Down by the creek.</div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
And finally, Christmas jammies.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9AcEkld3DAEScMvazcHHxQ-BdQjZvOpZUU_jZmq6TtBKwWgmz1bAaJypTJ6sCb2RcL1OE7ueHwCPBDmL6BsKN9ZFtAjkQu11xniYgLVxt3xWjM04oxrezduEgkHnxF0EXFJq4POiBgcw/s1600/IMG_8117e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9AcEkld3DAEScMvazcHHxQ-BdQjZvOpZUU_jZmq6TtBKwWgmz1bAaJypTJ6sCb2RcL1OE7ueHwCPBDmL6BsKN9ZFtAjkQu11xniYgLVxt3xWjM04oxrezduEgkHnxF0EXFJq4POiBgcw/s1600/IMG_8117e.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I created these on the Apple.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I searched many websites and kept coming back to Apple's simple style and large size.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
They were amazing quality, a decent price and were delivered within a week of ordering.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
We have heard rave reviews from all of the family which I'm sure has nothing to do with the super cute subjects.</div>
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<br /></div>
cwesthickshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06169419308867062245noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4202092173002268645.post-66621658812999966082015-01-04T18:03:00.001-07:002015-01-04T18:03:50.024-07:00Happy New Year 2015<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
There is just no denying that life becomes almost unrecognizable with kids.</div>
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Jeff and I were hyperaware of this fact as we drove past numerous stilettos, mini skirts and pre-drinking partiers on our way to McDougall United Church.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLypDsqbHVTEGMLufDz1qj2jp5THjFP_HFsyIsRsDRnuPNL1h7kIv1vTnaxNr0_PjKftwsg1we5q79DTikksZmznvUYg3q1EVXmRHky0HMZ5bnoxoqcHsUF1pmt8eTVdoPql9J8gSbxjw/s1600/IMG_4337_2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="New Year at McDougall United Church Edmonton" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLypDsqbHVTEGMLufDz1qj2jp5THjFP_HFsyIsRsDRnuPNL1h7kIv1vTnaxNr0_PjKftwsg1we5q79DTikksZmznvUYg3q1EVXmRHky0HMZ5bnoxoqcHsUF1pmt8eTVdoPql9J8gSbxjw/s1600/IMG_4337_2.JPG" height="480" title="New Year at McDougall United Church Edmonton" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
"We spent New Year's Eve at a church "are words that I never imagined saying.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
This is, of course, no ordinary church.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
It is also known in Edmonton as a great concert venue.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
So when we were deciding how to ring in 2015 at about 6pm on Dec 31st and this event showed up on a google search it sounded a little too good to be true.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEismcBye1F_triXtp_VIyS1ifViQGE7kSIkkfMBbA7taAe5kfq7SXDxLTNo3y56cuaxCprYx8ZrvRHBcb8oCqm0eJAAzjUTGodImi1LOOTLf-km3fkhWJwOZl_-ikXqry2RXRiOefW7zbs/s1600/IMG_4371_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="New Year at McDougall United Church Edmonton" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEismcBye1F_triXtp_VIyS1ifViQGE7kSIkkfMBbA7taAe5kfq7SXDxLTNo3y56cuaxCprYx8ZrvRHBcb8oCqm0eJAAzjUTGodImi1LOOTLf-km3fkhWJwOZl_-ikXqry2RXRiOefW7zbs/s1600/IMG_4371_2.jpg" height="640" title="New Year at McDougall United Church Edmonton" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
And it was.</div>
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The admission was a mere donation to the food bank and the line up was non-existent. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Not only was the above set list full of talent, the basement was full of kids activities.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I was so proud of Fiona when she sat down to the colouring table and chatted with a few kids her age.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOHSh4qfxB3ro08iSUWCZJoDiRy_7LJbNtk1h6sR8Tf9oP0p29BAJj2uI4A8Oe-c7bWFZ8BvlvRoRsKKONVsfckSa17vIOEZBQaHOTj5rRmsp5NbLaiNbg2q7oggab_u-XqjNPdB_bjas/s1600/IMG_4364_2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="New Year at McDougall United Church Edmonton" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOHSh4qfxB3ro08iSUWCZJoDiRy_7LJbNtk1h6sR8Tf9oP0p29BAJj2uI4A8Oe-c7bWFZ8BvlvRoRsKKONVsfckSa17vIOEZBQaHOTj5rRmsp5NbLaiNbg2q7oggab_u-XqjNPdB_bjas/s1600/IMG_4364_2.JPG" height="640" title="New Year at McDougall United Church Edmonton" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The face painting was a welcome surprise...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB260LuaQPmZvF2wQBS9YvEKlI28mS0ZA-f1JRdLxseYFiFBJI5Gjz1HqrOzviqmB7QdKe-yDgedKTEuH-oN5lew8V8j9cMXk5_1GTD0J2ATWK0dzyslrkBT7CN8w3mCavlne5lntIOuc/s1600/IMG_4355_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="New Year at McDougall United Church Edmonton" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB260LuaQPmZvF2wQBS9YvEKlI28mS0ZA-f1JRdLxseYFiFBJI5Gjz1HqrOzviqmB7QdKe-yDgedKTEuH-oN5lew8V8j9cMXk5_1GTD0J2ATWK0dzyslrkBT7CN8w3mCavlne5lntIOuc/s1600/IMG_4355_2.jpg" height="640" title="New Year at McDougall United Church Edmonton" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
...as was the toy selection.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
There was also a weaving station, flower pot decorating and a penny toss.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8_EqCAp0oFdU4aW6Mi9O-ouKY7HDB77Y2bdMhDBvANWpR58K043bxHEJF9qsA5FAEXVcMlZaS-8QwUGVGsUWoTICJQlyjRdsi95oCHV2QI70ZA72UUXLP9Q19yU5PJhx7rmw-vx9KKrc/s1600/IMG_4362_2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="New Year at McDougall United Church Edmonton" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8_EqCAp0oFdU4aW6Mi9O-ouKY7HDB77Y2bdMhDBvANWpR58K043bxHEJF9qsA5FAEXVcMlZaS-8QwUGVGsUWoTICJQlyjRdsi95oCHV2QI70ZA72UUXLP9Q19yU5PJhx7rmw-vx9KKrc/s1600/IMG_4362_2.JPG" height="640" title="New Year at McDougall United Church Edmonton" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The kids even participated in a parade led by one of the performers.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Surprisingly, Fiona was stoked to stand up in front of all those people, not a hint of shy in her that night.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Cedric is still talking about his Spiderman face and has now taken to wearing a hand-me-down costume of the same {thanks Tessa}.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4uPYf7CQvmybQd26_Xoyhn97d0MylZYF9y94vVBQccl0up5o4Z35oDZT-asISUeAnHoCLN_HnJkXmRmFrZqvVcHIdPHrsdzGVWC2kl0VJ0dEYPQtsrKxIaYNs7hEHHGo0SbfDvQrzKTo/s1600/IMG_4360.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="New Year at McDougall United Church Edmonton" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4uPYf7CQvmybQd26_Xoyhn97d0MylZYF9y94vVBQccl0up5o4Z35oDZT-asISUeAnHoCLN_HnJkXmRmFrZqvVcHIdPHrsdzGVWC2kl0VJ0dEYPQtsrKxIaYNs7hEHHGo0SbfDvQrzKTo/s1600/IMG_4360.jpg" height="640" title="New Year at McDougall United Church Edmonton" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
We were even able to get the kids to sit for some music.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
{The hot chocolate and cookies didn't hurt that endeavour.}</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDBswXKHL392RyXrTdl6X5P_5rwCFyL_yB42OyQN4YcUje0XgLnyD9TvZuAcsqffWkjjjHRbS6-BzbzUUJdCr6R9IkbyslbkpBs2qbEtrELjEY3RTBzaqWqt0No8OXhnOeeZT7fsMz7_U/s1600/IMG_4372_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="New Year at McDougall United Church Edmonton" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDBswXKHL392RyXrTdl6X5P_5rwCFyL_yB42OyQN4YcUje0XgLnyD9TvZuAcsqffWkjjjHRbS6-BzbzUUJdCr6R9IkbyslbkpBs2qbEtrELjEY3RTBzaqWqt0No8OXhnOeeZT7fsMz7_U/s1600/IMG_4372_2.jpg" height="640" title="New Year at McDougall United Church Edmonton" width="640" /></a></div>
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We didn't make it to the end but caught a few great acts and had a lot of fun.</div>
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The beauty of this place gets me every time as does the comfort.</div>
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I was transported back to my childhood.</div>
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I have fond memories of Southwoods United and though church isn't a part of our lives now it still felt like home.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOdfa2O_Hwfyy-rxvSVKSOA_f-UlBWvq5LByj9uhKDWJE94xKHs01WjsobsMFekPSomGhz8OWM5fEnKNx9ETggwrvm67bvRLXmMtusmCbBmrZAQvxlnTk5fhJfMP7gZOeZaxnhu5Mtyn4/s1600/IMG_4370_2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="New Year at McDougall United Church Edmonton" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOdfa2O_Hwfyy-rxvSVKSOA_f-UlBWvq5LByj9uhKDWJE94xKHs01WjsobsMFekPSomGhz8OWM5fEnKNx9ETggwrvm67bvRLXmMtusmCbBmrZAQvxlnTk5fhJfMP7gZOeZaxnhu5Mtyn4/s1600/IMG_4370_2.JPG" height="478" title="New Year at McDougall United Church Edmonton" width="640" /></a></div>
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To cap off this wild evening I watched fireworks from the comfort of our attic while the kids slept and the husband watched a movie.</div>
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I hope you also had a great night and wishing you all the best in 2015.</div>
cwesthickshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06169419308867062245noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4202092173002268645.post-46363664193582539352014-12-31T23:08:00.001-07:002015-01-01T08:55:07.292-07:00Our 12 Days of Christmas {2014 Edition}<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I have been wanting to share our Christmas festivities but I must have been too busy enjoying them to do so.</div>
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Now here I am, December 31st mere hours to midnight, feeling the need to squeeze all this in before the New Year hits.</div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT0rCpYsr04-aOAVp1Zu5e-P6_NTprnWD5CGygj8siJlIViN2lK5UR2nUePnjY7rEylUWmp-l4T9s4PbUqP0VNYLlxndF37ocPnXcgsbh9DZ8RX2ptKPlcCh0Kb7HFA6wUl8D8YSx_1m4/s1600/IMG_7810e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT0rCpYsr04-aOAVp1Zu5e-P6_NTprnWD5CGygj8siJlIViN2lK5UR2nUePnjY7rEylUWmp-l4T9s4PbUqP0VNYLlxndF37ocPnXcgsbh9DZ8RX2ptKPlcCh0Kb7HFA6wUl8D8YSx_1m4/s1600/IMG_7810e.JPG" height="440" width="640" /></a><br />
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1. Ballet. </div>
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The Christmas recital for Alberta Ballet Edmonton Studios included our BFF Charlie this year.</div>
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Fiona was also more than ready to attend Alberta Ballet's Nutcracker and loved every minute of it.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzDYctky9KAVVC7PF9lGpOmRPlwAZxjrIAwWVNyQv4TSnJA6oAzUOF-JBe6sBkK3fh6Erxh0RJrzvRQi8Qk58a-qMsC5nLxv89T11oXii0zvOBJ-F77Yzd63ixeqCv9Kxg2ilhkpPjYF8/s1600/IMG_7440e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzDYctky9KAVVC7PF9lGpOmRPlwAZxjrIAwWVNyQv4TSnJA6oAzUOF-JBe6sBkK3fh6Erxh0RJrzvRQi8Qk58a-qMsC5nLxv89T11oXii0zvOBJ-F77Yzd63ixeqCv9Kxg2ilhkpPjYF8/s1600/IMG_7440e.JPG" height="466" width="640" /></a></div>
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2. Gingerbread house making at Gram and Grandpa's.</div>
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3. Festival of Lights at the Edmonton Valley Zoo.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_6ImY64O7-FERASUMDVb0mINsHEswnUOhyphenhyphena4aLgAltNt6Cl2iiawCsDbaxIXarkLGzQ_zk94ZkuMiDP-CjPPN-_JoLhTqZ91yH8uNH9e0Ruo-ofSr3g7cLehg0-WuTPA1uxoA0J9pTXk/s1600/IMG_7712e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_6ImY64O7-FERASUMDVb0mINsHEswnUOhyphenhyphena4aLgAltNt6Cl2iiawCsDbaxIXarkLGzQ_zk94ZkuMiDP-CjPPN-_JoLhTqZ91yH8uNH9e0Ruo-ofSr3g7cLehg0-WuTPA1uxoA0J9pTXk/s1600/IMG_7712e.JPG" height="364" width="640" /></a></div>
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4. The Legislature grounds.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWR8eXupVP4xbgHLkLb_GU6dc4KPMe8kddYA01zBAQBy4-TVZsclaWqzUjsYTQAyPJq1zi-osmLeevR3jeJZ840inaIdCqcUm6nRjehaDqxPFU9444KcCBREBe5nGVyaraAhIl8wWUA98/s1600/IMG_7742e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWR8eXupVP4xbgHLkLb_GU6dc4KPMe8kddYA01zBAQBy4-TVZsclaWqzUjsYTQAyPJq1zi-osmLeevR3jeJZ840inaIdCqcUm6nRjehaDqxPFU9444KcCBREBe5nGVyaraAhIl8wWUA98/s1600/IMG_7742e.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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Cedric was focused less on the lights and more on eating snow.</div>
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Fiona was focused less on lights and more on climbing snow.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCi6EsnqaSLQYZozCq8T2msGU3j2oY-N3UNQ8jIyMhNb7Um0nIPxBfMZkdeKw4aWlNI9-YYDvkxtaxraQ2w0S_h9jAQ5IY8p5aUX_LCLSHcC1B-jeiNL6dUmMV1RIPz3-xQdwZoE4Z_9A/s1600/IMG_7728e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCi6EsnqaSLQYZozCq8T2msGU3j2oY-N3UNQ8jIyMhNb7Um0nIPxBfMZkdeKw4aWlNI9-YYDvkxtaxraQ2w0S_h9jAQ5IY8p5aUX_LCLSHcC1B-jeiNL6dUmMV1RIPz3-xQdwZoE4Z_9A/s1600/IMG_7728e.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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5. Candy Cane Lane.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdOzlECo1KUtmVjD-PaAH0dnpG17hHtsrKtV6BatE9M7NoaltAbgOVemfN7rLnnscFGbwfFOk8Hf4Rs4u4IWBeGqxBX56yZs5Fy0ydeePWCLdqNHW2BkN_XeObpBRLEB_zk4e9k20W90E/s1600/IMG_7781e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdOzlECo1KUtmVjD-PaAH0dnpG17hHtsrKtV6BatE9M7NoaltAbgOVemfN7rLnnscFGbwfFOk8Hf4Rs4u4IWBeGqxBX56yZs5Fy0ydeePWCLdqNHW2BkN_XeObpBRLEB_zk4e9k20W90E/s1600/IMG_7781e.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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We always love the lights but were especially taken by the sweet people who decided to give their time to play Santa (on the left in case you weren't sure) handing out candy canes and 3 friends who bought toys to hand out to the kids walking on the lane.</div>
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We were blown away by this generosity.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ6Fd1mFk0LXzyEbKbkRLu648CpDeohlmeLWiIItZ6795i3jt221eHlIO5qB3mf4DRxMo9TQTn7yNxLTQeg8pLRlkjLKzXZ3PU3K_yL7Pc9WsvmRojODNiqRlrZ_3L4n5sq514bujMfUU/s1600/IMG_7769e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ6Fd1mFk0LXzyEbKbkRLu648CpDeohlmeLWiIItZ6795i3jt221eHlIO5qB3mf4DRxMo9TQTn7yNxLTQeg8pLRlkjLKzXZ3PU3K_yL7Pc9WsvmRojODNiqRlrZ_3L4n5sq514bujMfUU/s1600/IMG_7769e.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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6. Visiting Santa.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_4giHAwRnuvOQaZAPYHXI_8sRwQogTL2OMDkAoQeGhqJG7fFLtL9JoIgZgUqcLf3Ky_CndX3mXKPZVM3p1qmicIfC1cIDbpcfYvjYL-NHNx-iFU38dk8KKj5NqXa91Z0QX4XiY1xe9TU/s1600/IMG_7791e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_4giHAwRnuvOQaZAPYHXI_8sRwQogTL2OMDkAoQeGhqJG7fFLtL9JoIgZgUqcLf3Ky_CndX3mXKPZVM3p1qmicIfC1cIDbpcfYvjYL-NHNx-iFU38dk8KKj5NqXa91Z0QX4XiY1xe9TU/s1600/IMG_7791e.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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Love that guy.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikO1O-zNnLVkdkzD1H6kmn0jp-lzhPgh3cC_twcZ683hMOUUF3e-qpV0ee0Fh32KGhM0x6f94rKclRxRalKpDg2hG6NShs6rUFez2ArqGpK7DodXikQMmV4hGEEbZFsVxiEcWp4pJpkXo/s1600/IMG_7816e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikO1O-zNnLVkdkzD1H6kmn0jp-lzhPgh3cC_twcZ683hMOUUF3e-qpV0ee0Fh32KGhM0x6f94rKclRxRalKpDg2hG6NShs6rUFez2ArqGpK7DodXikQMmV4hGEEbZFsVxiEcWp4pJpkXo/s1600/IMG_7816e.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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7. JCI Holiday Hamper.</div>
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This was our first year participating and it was our partner Chloe who organized it.</div>
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It was a humbling and heart warming day and an organization we would support again.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaZLsjJ9NhQNuJbI5QPtfH_uk5IrmHq9-ho2-UTl8MATQAn8bMKRP0KbU6oRL0SLjVMtrGTYRHwbg0zfJ1pycFlYuEdxAvecR-f4nNPGveKC2CHWkHuAO62C5PQk1q_oqX7JTedJPqg7U/s1600/IMG_7829e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaZLsjJ9NhQNuJbI5QPtfH_uk5IrmHq9-ho2-UTl8MATQAn8bMKRP0KbU6oRL0SLjVMtrGTYRHwbg0zfJ1pycFlYuEdxAvecR-f4nNPGveKC2CHWkHuAO62C5PQk1q_oqX7JTedJPqg7U/s1600/IMG_7829e.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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8. Christmas Eve was at our house this year.</div>
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I loved having ample time to set out our cookies and carrots.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFGefjN18a6v3AjTo1pCxPikgJITj5eBfA6qqbAWWGojsopDD68io-Cb3q0ApXX-ERme3sWiMTQSssALn5NNkEfs1c8ofCTmFJQYNpeDMEOlhN4OpNuhAS7z_PSTo0TLnHpfBFDzW5wTg/s1600/IMG_7851e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFGefjN18a6v3AjTo1pCxPikgJITj5eBfA6qqbAWWGojsopDD68io-Cb3q0ApXX-ERme3sWiMTQSssALn5NNkEfs1c8ofCTmFJQYNpeDMEOlhN4OpNuhAS7z_PSTo0TLnHpfBFDzW5wTg/s1600/IMG_7851e.JPG" height="960" width="640" /></a></div>
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9. A month worth of early mornings and late nights with background Christmas lights.</div>
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10. A beautiful, magical and lazy Christmas morning.</div>
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11. A beautiful, magical and exhausting multi location Christmas day.</div>
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We enjoyed 2 turkey dinners and lots of love.</div>
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Small traditions like the angel carousel below gave the day extra magic.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh33DM5TKSdc35J3pBY_CT2ktdmpMvhmXDSJC6CG23M4-3xekR6XJEpSEOcLOn_bJZ0z0dwMs_T-6GQq4RiZndgATVm4YnY-0jOwB-lcuuSO90gty1rztDvy5TxzC-OM8p1ITpFZF4g1QA/s1600/IMG_7935e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh33DM5TKSdc35J3pBY_CT2ktdmpMvhmXDSJC6CG23M4-3xekR6XJEpSEOcLOn_bJZ0z0dwMs_T-6GQq4RiZndgATVm4YnY-0jOwB-lcuuSO90gty1rztDvy5TxzC-OM8p1ITpFZF4g1QA/s1600/IMG_7935e.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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12. Christmas aftermath.</div>
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On boxing day we headed to the lake for some much needed decompressing.</div>
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Just like last year we shovelled a rink on the lake and broke out the skates.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdcuVsExh9mjZrEqZgSJXTB1c6mwBYtRYEwBg-9Y0TyACPjrnlzjHDsNWQETgx5uNE-PZQ-hA-LNMmRNEgB0D_mwIKdVMv7CaGrI6ak8VeqfpGFSSIbfSbIcSHsn5a87q8YScIso1Wceg/s1600/IMG_7988e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdcuVsExh9mjZrEqZgSJXTB1c6mwBYtRYEwBg-9Y0TyACPjrnlzjHDsNWQETgx5uNE-PZQ-hA-LNMmRNEgB0D_mwIKdVMv7CaGrI6ak8VeqfpGFSSIbfSbIcSHsn5a87q8YScIso1Wceg/s1600/IMG_7988e.JPG" height="432" width="640" /></a></div>
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The kids were significantly more confident and begged us to get out again.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEzQq8cUxAJVcvFbAZntn_AG2BKVAHDVcHAhzOQJwfGMk8cZA9RrQpy0D3K5JwgW0imidu1lTi94kwLVz4oVaRyVVCpzXy1wwXv87bFbS1ZwCZ_jVhBIXnmfyfyBha3wS1px6esrRO-1M/s1600/IMG_7994e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEzQq8cUxAJVcvFbAZntn_AG2BKVAHDVcHAhzOQJwfGMk8cZA9RrQpy0D3K5JwgW0imidu1lTi94kwLVz4oVaRyVVCpzXy1wwXv87bFbS1ZwCZ_jVhBIXnmfyfyBha3wS1px6esrRO-1M/s1600/IMG_7994e.JPG" height="412" width="640" /></a></div>
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I brought the tripod out and attempted a family picture.</div>
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One small hitch, 10 seconds is not long to walk over snow from the camera to the shot when you're wearing hockey skates.</div>
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The result is a shot where I'm holding my 4 year old for support and, you know, I love it.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo4fgsGTl1GyZwoNYbPcM5HtUI-ar6REGRCHR_458QwHgJ1qLq2_h4SIEA9P6kbTVm1fTX4JlFJcB51nUCrnihiKA2x_oG7KuXHKUoJnTi3dCkthgd5GhkMJ_9YygQQQPEZ44FEQ3WZSc/s1600/IMG_8005e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo4fgsGTl1GyZwoNYbPcM5HtUI-ar6REGRCHR_458QwHgJ1qLq2_h4SIEA9P6kbTVm1fTX4JlFJcB51nUCrnihiKA2x_oG7KuXHKUoJnTi3dCkthgd5GhkMJ_9YygQQQPEZ44FEQ3WZSc/s1600/IMG_8005e.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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BONUS</div>
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13. A Christmas miracle.</div>
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My sweet boy decided on Dec 22nd that he was done with diapers.</div>
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Not just wants-to-wear-underwear done but meltdown-when-we-tried-to-give-him-a-nightime-diaper done.</div>
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So we obliged {and frantically re-read the "3 Day Potty Training" manual} and never looked back.</div>
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By Christmas Eve he went the day with only one accident and on Christmas morning he woke up dry.</div>
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No you didn't hear wrong, dry!</div>
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I'm not counting my chickens just yet, this isn't my first kick at the can you know.</div>
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We could just as easily go backward but I am so proud of my guy.</div>
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He made this decision completely on his own and with a little help {thanks Gram and Grandma} rocked it.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg72vvYO5gc4orGaqMXA9MmH-xp0K8udSiRV2TWJDlTxJKtS3v2s-oBjuzEfkvtbWlH9VDPT-X6Kg8_ZKiwtBBdl6Kcxfe0FJiiEVjMODjMTy7LYtbwS3vs555Ig4gUb9QwESod98_Afck/s1600/IMG_8043e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg72vvYO5gc4orGaqMXA9MmH-xp0K8udSiRV2TWJDlTxJKtS3v2s-oBjuzEfkvtbWlH9VDPT-X6Kg8_ZKiwtBBdl6Kcxfe0FJiiEVjMODjMTy7LYtbwS3vs555Ig4gUb9QwESod98_Afck/s1600/IMG_8043e.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I hope you had a great Christmas and are having a beautiful New Year celebration.</div>
cwesthickshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06169419308867062245noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4202092173002268645.post-56732592150476223322014-12-12T17:25:00.001-07:002014-12-12T17:33:09.879-07:00CP Holiday Train<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Now this was awesome.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLWawsJgUhx2n5ozNDnN65-ovDk4UUnbEMwUp8xAydVJgaKs_sm8WloT1MqPe14fc8tpuaKR5PGyfx9f3zHes6E7HTB_NuS_4DOhZTzcp7OjmrrxIsn5wn49IKtoaW1a5w7L-X-I44b3M/s1600/IMG_7565e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLWawsJgUhx2n5ozNDnN65-ovDk4UUnbEMwUp8xAydVJgaKs_sm8WloT1MqPe14fc8tpuaKR5PGyfx9f3zHes6E7HTB_NuS_4DOhZTzcp7OjmrrxIsn5wn49IKtoaW1a5w7L-X-I44b3M/s1600/IMG_7565e.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Thanks CP Railway for the <a href="http://www.cpr.ca/en/community/holiday-train/schedule" target="_blank">Holiday Train</a>.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGxM7a79RcwwkRLxr0Z_4IauAeDdTr6eviA5JJSmEKi04HiOwCOVvipVfgIDJryNP53KCyM8QEHO4Lm2CTstV_ajXhLHjv5gEPDcULgasvX7ITJL6i7Ppeti6ykABjH_uprz-4cNlgf88/s1600/IMG_7567e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGxM7a79RcwwkRLxr0Z_4IauAeDdTr6eviA5JJSmEKi04HiOwCOVvipVfgIDJryNP53KCyM8QEHO4Lm2CTstV_ajXhLHjv5gEPDcULgasvX7ITJL6i7Ppeti6ykABjH_uprz-4cNlgf88/s1600/IMG_7567e.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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The show was a little late for us so we ducked out after walking the length of the train but that was perfect.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2-m6EMm8eTdIy4tmDkEtHfK3ReuH5-_JPp38zHuwDb-mTgVFe5-RJs1iAavRSFY6R5TqcXgEBgDKaud__F-gfdwaKKBBvvN7ieByHKIzOK15EBpXeIoSVDKeW0bDJ84kHuhw9WTd-PM8/s1600/IMG_7574e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2-m6EMm8eTdIy4tmDkEtHfK3ReuH5-_JPp38zHuwDb-mTgVFe5-RJs1iAavRSFY6R5TqcXgEBgDKaud__F-gfdwaKKBBvvN7ieByHKIzOK15EBpXeIoSVDKeW0bDJ84kHuhw9WTd-PM8/s1600/IMG_7574e.JPG" height="416" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
This was a great event, can't wait to see it again in 2016.</div>
cwesthickshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06169419308867062245noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4202092173002268645.post-44583815600833544252014-12-11T21:58:00.001-07:002014-12-11T21:58:57.022-07:00Gram's Memorial<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We jump at any chance to head to Ontario where the majority of our family is from.</div>
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This trip was not for the most joyous of occasions but was still welcome.</div>
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There was some talk of my Gram's memorial service being held in the spring since the usual haste to prepare the remains was not an issue.</div>
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She donated her body to education and science at the university, just as my Grandad before her.</div>
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Yet another example of the commitment they felt to their life long careers.</div>
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In the end a closer date was chosen just in time to beat the Christmas rush.</div>
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Christmas had, of course, already rushed all over the place.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDmIElBILUDjEEb0vWLMe3kM83Fj5vBqtJDYxo3uEPTOKbtu0d2875M3FM-dHpNB81m156aZYEoyUhVjUSVMH3we9BVU86TSa7z2OCpA6pd1YU3e7OdptnjpplK29O0lajcqrc6_vkCQw/s1600/IMG_7163e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDmIElBILUDjEEb0vWLMe3kM83Fj5vBqtJDYxo3uEPTOKbtu0d2875M3FM-dHpNB81m156aZYEoyUhVjUSVMH3we9BVU86TSa7z2OCpA6pd1YU3e7OdptnjpplK29O0lajcqrc6_vkCQw/s1600/IMG_7163e.JPG" height="960" width="640" /></a></div>
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The service was held at a hotel since Gram would not have chosen a church for, well, anything.</div>
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The memorabilia revealed a full and accomplished life.</div>
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I even discovered that Gram was the valedictorian of her high school graduating class.</div>
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My cousin read her address which spoke of their responsibility, as the first post-war graduating class, to shape the country.</div>
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Fiona was especially taken with her University scribbler full of perfectly penned lessons on teaching kindergarten.</div>
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A far cry from my own chicken scratch pharmacy notes which would most certainly not look as nice on display.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjut4rY7WLk09D19t5DYrL_15SgDKB4Li3gIcpoCqL8lga8CfCspWqM3tThNijjGQTqh8cF1LZpny_DS8wthpzcwL4_uacNHMwgaWAy-iYCrb6nNd8ZWFE8W0rl3ZBECBsw7LbquTGS-pg/s1600/IMG_7169e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjut4rY7WLk09D19t5DYrL_15SgDKB4Li3gIcpoCqL8lga8CfCspWqM3tThNijjGQTqh8cF1LZpny_DS8wthpzcwL4_uacNHMwgaWAy-iYCrb6nNd8ZWFE8W0rl3ZBECBsw7LbquTGS-pg/s1600/IMG_7169e.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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One of many {I'm sure} cottage journals was also set out.</div>
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Gram was always encouraging us to write in it at each visit to Elizabeth Island.</div>
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What a treasure to have now.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVEjZkyPfkxj_QfGw98bYB7xZmHhKemC7R7Cggd4v-MQ5VTiQszSgIwd9c_vKeAQgKt4_3AMnNU7jOr-c_tbWggxilfntrcO_t-w5-NMLOavQ6WsWz55CWBI1NckC7DrMULmCYwpG198Y/s1600/IMG_7177e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVEjZkyPfkxj_QfGw98bYB7xZmHhKemC7R7Cggd4v-MQ5VTiQszSgIwd9c_vKeAQgKt4_3AMnNU7jOr-c_tbWggxilfntrcO_t-w5-NMLOavQ6WsWz55CWBI1NckC7DrMULmCYwpG198Y/s1600/IMG_7177e.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
So many family members spoke which highlighted the differences {and similarities} in the role Gram played in each of our lives.</div>
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Two of Gram's dear friends also wrote tributes.</div>
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The first was read by my Mom as the writer could not attend.</div>
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She knew her when they were both "freshies" at University and spent their first days sleeping on cots in a tea room while waiting for the girls dorm to be finished.</div>
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She told tales of sock hops, including the dance where my grandparents met.</div>
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<br /></div>
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The second also spoke of the distant past but what stuck with me were her more recent memories.</div>
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To hear her recollect the moment that she knew she "was losing her friend" was heart wrenching but her words were so beautiful and you felt her anguish in that moment.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAtJgKdE_0-IDeE1o6FSacK3cGQYl57NFMED-rdevwGHnl6U0sxd3i1K1IxE1RnEE9gXyGyEvqXStY93hgUHju5Pn37dTYBjimLhp1zRmE3-0ioUWqKB6IEMH9zbPZ7V11v73SNqU8OQQ/s1600/IMG_7181e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAtJgKdE_0-IDeE1o6FSacK3cGQYl57NFMED-rdevwGHnl6U0sxd3i1K1IxE1RnEE9gXyGyEvqXStY93hgUHju5Pn37dTYBjimLhp1zRmE3-0ioUWqKB6IEMH9zbPZ7V11v73SNqU8OQQ/s1600/IMG_7181e.JPG" height="436" width="640" /></a></div>
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The above photo depicts exactly how I remember my Gram.</div>
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Thoughtful, attentive, intelligent, proud and kind.</div>
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The photo below I took from our hotel room since it also evoked memories of Gram.</div>
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The shadows of the trees through the curtains felt like a view I had seen more than once from each of Gram's properties.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrdDnk7Buq_-1ZthUHNuJhC1fZLlcfHq2TTFmxCjmbrpErgYtDy2GCpTwq5LnfOdr5fCrCCPa_3e0_HPfywMe9CoRg-zm8rmHLiCs2-xgySTm_iT6A5D5SmM0zLA9LUZI0fDekXey8YFM/s1600/IMG_7227e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrdDnk7Buq_-1ZthUHNuJhC1fZLlcfHq2TTFmxCjmbrpErgYtDy2GCpTwq5LnfOdr5fCrCCPa_3e0_HPfywMe9CoRg-zm8rmHLiCs2-xgySTm_iT6A5D5SmM0zLA9LUZI0fDekXey8YFM/s1600/IMG_7227e.JPG" height="442" width="640" /></a></div>
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Though the memorial was what took us to Ontario, the highlight was the family.</div>
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I got fewer pictures than I had hoped so am only sharing the one of the newest addition.</div>
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Great to meet you Beau.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiX_Ii_c-xo-wAhCF1VwoSWPc-dIJhrjIqMKCqfH81YIomD9sutr_ae6A62rcNTCmZ-_PaBzMl2e-R-r_Fw-NLKWVnkBWv7usRWlYKchwJPPyx4BxfVWyDLm5OPY9F3PSCfssh89VB6CGs/s1600/IMG_7233e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiX_Ii_c-xo-wAhCF1VwoSWPc-dIJhrjIqMKCqfH81YIomD9sutr_ae6A62rcNTCmZ-_PaBzMl2e-R-r_Fw-NLKWVnkBWv7usRWlYKchwJPPyx4BxfVWyDLm5OPY9F3PSCfssh89VB6CGs/s1600/IMG_7233e.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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During the memorial, about halfway through the speakers, Fiona leaned towards me and said "Mommy, I don't know what I will say about GG."</div>
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My initial reaction was to say "Oh Fiona you don't have to say anything babe."</div>
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However, when my turn came to speak and she followed me up I thought again and kneeled down to ask if she would like to say something.</div>
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She replied no, not surprising given the large crowd, but stayed by my side while I spoke.</div>
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The next day my Dad was entertaining the kids while I visited with my aunts.</div>
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They went exploring and found the memorial room empty save for the seats and podium.</div>
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Fiona took that opportunity to stand up and say how she missed and loved her GG.</div>
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I didn't hear exactly what she said.</div>
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It doesn't matter what she said.</div>
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I was just so happy that she had a chance to say her own goodbye, on her own time.</div>
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We all miss you Gram.</div>
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This will be the first year I don't send a Christmas greeting your way.</div>
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At least not on paper.</div>
cwesthickshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06169419308867062245noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4202092173002268645.post-7589053899235528772014-11-30T22:18:00.000-07:002014-11-30T22:18:27.650-07:00It's Beginning to Look a Lot Like...<div style="text-align: center;">
...Christmas!</div>
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I have a weekend trip to Toronto to share but that task seems a little daunting for a Sunday night.</div>
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Instead I am posting some pictures of the weekend.</div>
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We started it off right with a Friday night swim with our youngest friend Olivia.</div>
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Saturday began with Fiona's ballet dress rehearsal.</div>
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Her third dance recital is taking place next week and they are cute cute cute.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj-HAeUea-0DP_9EcH5Q3-4ySQcUx5qaIU_vzTxH2rhyATXoFzZkF7qRKCXfuI5O1xh1a18GCaMlF0Q4NrfR5_q61HLx3_4Mfh3OsDsgdzRwvSeOJ-csvxHsC6_Oy-F1DGi9k-lx2RSl4/s1600/IMG_7285e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Ballet recital" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj-HAeUea-0DP_9EcH5Q3-4ySQcUx5qaIU_vzTxH2rhyATXoFzZkF7qRKCXfuI5O1xh1a18GCaMlF0Q4NrfR5_q61HLx3_4Mfh3OsDsgdzRwvSeOJ-csvxHsC6_Oy-F1DGi9k-lx2RSl4/s1600/IMG_7285e.JPG" height="426" title="Ballet recital" width="640" /></a></div>
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In the afternoon we took in the <a href="http://www.universityhospitalfoundation.ab.ca/fot/Home_" target="_blank">Festival of <strike>Frozen</strike> Trees</a> with our besties.</div>
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{There may have been a few Elsa, Anna and Olafs.}</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKSqGAriDCXCx63bM24-JtWCnatZOZ55Gdn2Q8SLmHXWVz-ADVrN7GdvdLZpvc45Nc5nlfLyVEchcHkmttqlqgvKBbzx8Cu6ESPOIJT0tdEwF4R7wvO1SF9ebWANXYEOSCtlAq5QpPxZQ/s1600/IMG_7302e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Festival of the Trees Edmonton 2014" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKSqGAriDCXCx63bM24-JtWCnatZOZ55Gdn2Q8SLmHXWVz-ADVrN7GdvdLZpvc45Nc5nlfLyVEchcHkmttqlqgvKBbzx8Cu6ESPOIJT0tdEwF4R7wvO1SF9ebWANXYEOSCtlAq5QpPxZQ/s1600/IMG_7302e.JPG" height="484" title="Festival of the Trees Edmonton 2014" width="640" /></a></div>
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The new story corner was a welcome addition.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh39-WAzeD5uRS4osCw9h9GScZKbBqbjr61O3t1ML9zivBimpMGDhnrt6vyXv8NJZMGis77dFW3tfRx4EFvkHs69odr8JFx6kKUTw55UubGCc0IbRGx8GMS_p_4nedfxb7KQwcbBn-A3OA/s1600/IMG_7309e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Festival of the Trees Edmonton 2014" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh39-WAzeD5uRS4osCw9h9GScZKbBqbjr61O3t1ML9zivBimpMGDhnrt6vyXv8NJZMGis77dFW3tfRx4EFvkHs69odr8JFx6kKUTw55UubGCc0IbRGx8GMS_p_4nedfxb7KQwcbBn-A3OA/s1600/IMG_7309e.JPG" height="408" title="Festival of the Trees Edmonton 2014" width="640" /></a></div>
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And of course cookie decorating is a must.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPWsD6pftiMOlnNe8cU8bbK67-S96fWKM6y7hh38DdRz31QvDka8izIoAydyDF0MYMdE767s4LJtOzmJKVGE4x0Ea8IyQfJscOi-Xft_Y6On2Lpx7KCRQOxkC2E-9J2jRJaHEz4J7uvZs/s1600/IMG_7329e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Festival of the Trees Edmonton 2014" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPWsD6pftiMOlnNe8cU8bbK67-S96fWKM6y7hh38DdRz31QvDka8izIoAydyDF0MYMdE767s4LJtOzmJKVGE4x0Ea8IyQfJscOi-Xft_Y6On2Lpx7KCRQOxkC2E-9J2jRJaHEz4J7uvZs/s1600/IMG_7329e.JPG" height="426" title="Festival of the Trees Edmonton 2014" width="640" /></a></div>
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Cedric needed a little decorating help but had no problem completing the eating portion solo.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiS1qZ3nqAz-lU4MpZ_AXui-7QsQJNQi_zKzGKESnvOI1hb44mvIlO8BmyVle7VqE6NBB-B94AXkSoWXzI2USxc7RuY-epWgpYBkYly3tkf6UXV2yJdbHEM4bnY6nkftwBZKMBQTSxlABA/s1600/IMG_7357e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Festival of the Trees Edmonton 2014" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiS1qZ3nqAz-lU4MpZ_AXui-7QsQJNQi_zKzGKESnvOI1hb44mvIlO8BmyVle7VqE6NBB-B94AXkSoWXzI2USxc7RuY-epWgpYBkYly3tkf6UXV2yJdbHEM4bnY6nkftwBZKMBQTSxlABA/s1600/IMG_7357e.JPG" height="426" title="Festival of the Trees Edmonton 2014" width="640" /></a></div>
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We took in what we could of the decorations while running between children events.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW-xWH-RPClhm2T_yaJXaQxlK6-CSfq6Ch-4gI2pq7NPhHjBZ7ozKbYx2cdFHs80qMqh6OxbII97nxtCRbP0pTR2nNjNBEz_maEOKubYUzqzwd9p2J7QoHTr8FJx-BE6kTAgcI0dYIJnE/s1600/IMG_7358e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Festival of the Trees Edmonton 2014" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW-xWH-RPClhm2T_yaJXaQxlK6-CSfq6Ch-4gI2pq7NPhHjBZ7ozKbYx2cdFHs80qMqh6OxbII97nxtCRbP0pTR2nNjNBEz_maEOKubYUzqzwd9p2J7QoHTr8FJx-BE6kTAgcI0dYIJnE/s1600/IMG_7358e.JPG" height="334" title="Festival of the Trees Edmonton 2014" width="640" /></a></div>
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This was our first year sending Fiona in to the "secret kids only shopping".</div>
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In the whirlwind of figuring out how much money she needed and accidentally letting Cedric slip in behind her we failed to explain that this was her chance to buy Christmas gifts for others.</div>
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That's ok I thought, there are elf helpers in there, they'll explain it to her.</div>
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When she came out with that cheeky smile on her face, however, I just knew she had found some treasures for her own collection.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I know her so well.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
In that moment I felt a mixture of emotions.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
She was so happy and excited so I wanted to share that with her.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
At the same time I felt like I had failed her.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I hadn't equipped her properly, not only for that shopping spree but for life.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Had I created a materialistic, selfish child?</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Hadn't we discussed at length what the true spirit of Christmas was?</div>
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I expressed this to Jeff on our way to dinner. He didn't disagree but kept fairly quiet.</div>
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After a lovely dinner my sweet child, who had behaved so well in the restaurant, said out of the blue "Mommy, I just love you."</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I wanted to cry that I had doubted for even a split second the character of this wonderful little person.</div>
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I had forgotten that she is 4. </div>
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{Four and a HALF she would say.}</div>
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I leaned to Jeff and said that I thought I had been too harsh in my initial reaction.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
He said "no, not at all" of course {smart guy} but chuckled a little and I knew that he knew that I knew he had known that all along {smart guy}.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzc-th1L0fXhIBMdBX-tpsM7JuuIzNGk2wzUz6DTNEvKIlWjQThYH1TyfrNRcG6al0C1WsCoi-hpsFNOJdLQLaEYrPI6gQSD6JPMFpEXOVnOupDz_R5u4rEsEPFSYARn0QccwQozWfDmo/s1600/IMG_7364e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Festival of the Trees Edmonton 2014" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzc-th1L0fXhIBMdBX-tpsM7JuuIzNGk2wzUz6DTNEvKIlWjQThYH1TyfrNRcG6al0C1WsCoi-hpsFNOJdLQLaEYrPI6gQSD6JPMFpEXOVnOupDz_R5u4rEsEPFSYARn0QccwQozWfDmo/s1600/IMG_7364e.JPG" height="424" title="Festival of the Trees Edmonton 2014" width="640" /></a></div>
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This is one of the best shots I could get of Charlie all night.</div>
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The kid just does not stay still!</div>
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<br /></div>
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On Sunday we headed to our favourite tree lot at the U of A to visit those trusty <a href="https://www.ualberta.ca/~uofafs/" target="_blank">Forest Society</a> students.</div>
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We browsed the trees and I thought of picking a pine with those nice long needles or a sparse Charlie-Brown-looking douglas fir but we just kept coming back to our tried and true Balsam.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
And the students approved, saying that it gives off the best smell and lasts the longest.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
They're the experts you know.</div>
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Cedric was a big help carrying the tree.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6sFyZrxGCgBOp0-YJCRTHyBGSSqm2Esg2y0osHMiqe6C83NW8Ll51RSgp6yRK3lg9LO1dNwGu6v7myRPTvvPjbFxfsRXsUH0GogTrsXbISI6Wg_Gwft66nhFYX8idD-cAzyLZYXUTphY/s1600/IMG_7404e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="U of A Foresty Students Tree Lot" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6sFyZrxGCgBOp0-YJCRTHyBGSSqm2Esg2y0osHMiqe6C83NW8Ll51RSgp6yRK3lg9LO1dNwGu6v7myRPTvvPjbFxfsRXsUH0GogTrsXbISI6Wg_Gwft66nhFYX8idD-cAzyLZYXUTphY/s1600/IMG_7404e.JPG" height="426" title="U of A Foresty Students Tree Lot" width="640" /></a></div>
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Fiona helped by cheesing up the lot.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCw_Y9eCnCCEZNE5X1rehCVVXkKKF4g1-s_Qa9SIERLBvZKEhVCRGKVj39epfpVMoK3H6RPyBlCymapP9y9mv_9_EfXOER_1z0fkPTuk6MdZhZO9XckznWMKMET0QmE1NOSRbJquANKmY/s1600/IMG_7405e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="U of A Foresty Students Tree Lot" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCw_Y9eCnCCEZNE5X1rehCVVXkKKF4g1-s_Qa9SIERLBvZKEhVCRGKVj39epfpVMoK3H6RPyBlCymapP9y9mv_9_EfXOER_1z0fkPTuk6MdZhZO9XckznWMKMET0QmE1NOSRbJquANKmY/s1600/IMG_7405e.JPG" height="478" title="U of A Foresty Students Tree Lot" width="640" /></a></div>
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But the real smiles came when the candy canes were busted out.</div>
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I'm telling you, we just love those forestry students.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB89Bm3fmLkdAvoFLhFU5PUEtb3dDDXrqBjsACRpKXQ6dWOafBpdbA0MDvpSgPSBQ3NYoy71X9nzLdOF44DS516YK5F0HDS-1z7WW2LOGtBiP78wUmgngy4DsEoy3k9fmRIsxWvP9yTtc/s1600/IMG_7410e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="U of A Foresty Students Tree Lot" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB89Bm3fmLkdAvoFLhFU5PUEtb3dDDXrqBjsACRpKXQ6dWOafBpdbA0MDvpSgPSBQ3NYoy71X9nzLdOF44DS516YK5F0HDS-1z7WW2LOGtBiP78wUmgngy4DsEoy3k9fmRIsxWvP9yTtc/s1600/IMG_7410e.JPG" height="426" title="U of A Foresty Students Tree Lot" width="640" /></a></div>
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They sawed the bottom and even offered to load it on the car.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZRVSwsCVPKP8zbH0Hge7_Pos3Ppl9vHzIqyQ9JO4gsdMsA55oJe-UwYLeeA09syyM0o9JBp2nc6j6XPwNv6X3DkCFbNn7fXTWRtt81a0lwLtPaigZu_TLuzEO3auA2qCYiz5MwzEcFss/s1600/IMG_7416e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="U of A Foresty Students Tree Lot" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZRVSwsCVPKP8zbH0Hge7_Pos3Ppl9vHzIqyQ9JO4gsdMsA55oJe-UwYLeeA09syyM0o9JBp2nc6j6XPwNv6X3DkCFbNn7fXTWRtt81a0lwLtPaigZu_TLuzEO3auA2qCYiz5MwzEcFss/s1600/IMG_7416e.JPG" height="414" title="U of A Foresty Students Tree Lot" width="640" /></a></div>
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We declined since we were all prepared-like with bungee cords this year.</div>
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Fancy, I know.</div>
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I forgot to get the shot of the tree loaded up at the lot which gave me the perfect excuse to get our lights in the background.</div>
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Christmas is officially in full swing over here.</div>
cwesthickshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06169419308867062245noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4202092173002268645.post-38680053742270666642014-11-08T08:16:00.000-07:002014-11-08T08:16:19.644-07:00Halloween 2014 Recap<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Just wanted to share a few pictures of our Halloween this year.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRMDUelPXWS5YvtOKUNLMHyhPKjLgKTW98h7H-cfmQlGSKrd-saAz2gg58ujBY5MX8D9d3o78EVP3_TgYShQvTwYjj-j7eF-V4AZhF9qzjGN4tVg4bGGSuz3WDlJxPhZfk48Isd8el8og/s1600/IMG_7073e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRMDUelPXWS5YvtOKUNLMHyhPKjLgKTW98h7H-cfmQlGSKrd-saAz2gg58ujBY5MX8D9d3o78EVP3_TgYShQvTwYjj-j7eF-V4AZhF9qzjGN4tVg4bGGSuz3WDlJxPhZfk48Isd8el8og/s1600/IMG_7073e.JPG" height="418" width="640" /></a></div>
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I did some stamping on the kids treat bags...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ8w3ye6uoaOAD0WhVNTyNKXjKVdw4ROA5FOkjwY41oQ7OcoohREnctZCxCKkAD-CBXVbR12ZgBOm5PpXrlLsRW3vj4uG_S-pAe3rHiV9o5Z-jKoreOM5LYQb16OS1uE25_rWwYBe6sM8/s1600/IMG_7031e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ8w3ye6uoaOAD0WhVNTyNKXjKVdw4ROA5FOkjwY41oQ7OcoohREnctZCxCKkAD-CBXVbR12ZgBOm5PpXrlLsRW3vj4uG_S-pAe3rHiV9o5Z-jKoreOM5LYQb16OS1uE25_rWwYBe6sM8/s1600/IMG_7031e.JPG" height="462" width="640" /></a></div>
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...then let them go to town on the other side.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK0_TlDr4PJZcQMK-RnyetlpYUn4HqJTvznuOdNCCwvKutMyo9bZzuZSN2up8wJP0f7lThZbxcpjlPXUP4KgXtq5ztNoDpVuly-swve6wgUbd6TudiB6ZTI_pG88zqzojnEfh3r2bb87k/s1600/IMG_7040e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK0_TlDr4PJZcQMK-RnyetlpYUn4HqJTvznuOdNCCwvKutMyo9bZzuZSN2up8wJP0f7lThZbxcpjlPXUP4KgXtq5ztNoDpVuly-swve6wgUbd6TudiB6ZTI_pG88zqzojnEfh3r2bb87k/s1600/IMG_7040e.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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We also let Fiona go to town on the pumpkin design.</div>
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Just look at that concentration, this is bound to be a masterpiece right?</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinMj9eSTTJeFNaoIvt7iGYufxVeE1EVzZvOJmncXS50-IkrB6pjyY7fsTFxwzTzWxzbuNcsj8OLoDTIqk6D3yzUahndUY4AZGmyqqpHkHOVlItgMvzYR3OJ7OmHVKJHMEIwbuGp-1BB2E/s1600/IMG_7041e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinMj9eSTTJeFNaoIvt7iGYufxVeE1EVzZvOJmncXS50-IkrB6pjyY7fsTFxwzTzWxzbuNcsj8OLoDTIqk6D3yzUahndUY4AZGmyqqpHkHOVlItgMvzYR3OJ7OmHVKJHMEIwbuGp-1BB2E/s1600/IMG_7041e.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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Well, art is subjective.</div>
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Mama, for one, thought it was great but may have taken a little artistic license when doing the carving.</div>
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Cedric was uninterested in the face but thought gutting the pumpkin was too good to be true.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgx7iW2A-LvB5WRrXfMCnhVjyQXWTcWyFQPTUXjQrqzlNOckKHIEFCr9uExhOMUY1hAFqVBRIsdY64rDqqrXB8ipgA_QInxL2m7GdVV8Syuoc5JMrxFArFi23gjwGYC1V7Al6rtMd_Dcys/s1600/IMG_7060e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgx7iW2A-LvB5WRrXfMCnhVjyQXWTcWyFQPTUXjQrqzlNOckKHIEFCr9uExhOMUY1hAFqVBRIsdY64rDqqrXB8ipgA_QInxL2m7GdVV8Syuoc5JMrxFArFi23gjwGYC1V7Al6rtMd_Dcys/s1600/IMG_7060e.JPG" height="474" width="640" /></a></div>
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We lucked out with a temperature of about 5 C.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzPrgmuRg-Rzw4bN49eNQtsY3L3yfVYdtD4Qsjup044Z88Rr4lw6Ad6LZegIW9nErlj3Nl-9cqnK8K0sBeLrzz-SDJYTZ7cQjDM02RzQkHzJlBWmuWOOB2VpvAOJhYkQ9gRROggEothpE/s1600/IMG_7105e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzPrgmuRg-Rzw4bN49eNQtsY3L3yfVYdtD4Qsjup044Z88Rr4lw6Ad6LZegIW9nErlj3Nl-9cqnK8K0sBeLrzz-SDJYTZ7cQjDM02RzQkHzJlBWmuWOOB2VpvAOJhYkQ9gRROggEothpE/s1600/IMG_7105e.JPG" height="478" width="640" /></a></div>
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No snowsuit under the lion this year.</div>
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It was heartwarming to see Cedric wear this handmade costume that I, both my sisters and Fiona wore.</div>
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Good job making that one to last Mom.</div>
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And no coat on this snow princess.</div>
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I raced behind her pestering "Fiona, are you cold? Fiona do you want your jacket?"</div>
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Each time the reply was a firm no.</div>
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The catch phrase of the night became "the cold never bothered her anyway."</div>
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Hope you had a great one too.</div>
cwesthickshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06169419308867062245noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4202092173002268645.post-40947527866948742922014-11-01T17:09:00.000-06:002014-11-01T17:09:30.317-06:00Mary Margaret {Pearson} Horney <div style="text-align: center;">
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<h3>
May 11, 1927 - Oct 30, 2014</h3>
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Dear Gram,</div>
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I spent yesterday surrounded by children full of joy and life.</div>
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As they ran carelessly from door to door I could imagine you smiling and commenting how they were just "full of it".</div>
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It was Halloween, a day I can't recall ever spending with you.</div>
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But in a way it was a great day to remember your beautiful spirit.<br />
My own kids love their GG and they are certainly not the first.</div>
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I saw you only once in your classroom of kindergarteners.<br />
I was Fiona's age and not yet in school but you let me participate with your kids.</div>
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I remember looking at you, my Gram the teacher, with even more awe.</div>
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You were one of the strongest, most confident and most intelligent women I knew.<br />
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And that was before I really knew you.<br />
As a child you enriched my life in ways I couldn't understand and I often took that for granted.<br />
You always wanted the best for us and you were anything but quiet about it.<br />
As an adult I am so grateful to have had such a positive force in my life.<br />
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You were stylish.<br />
I have few memories of you without a fabulous scarf, necklace, earrings or brooch.<br />
But never too much, you were always accessorized to perfection.<br />
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You were sophisticated.<br />
Literature, theatre, music, gardening, travel, you did it all.<br />
We recently started visiting the public library again and the shelves of books make me think of you.<br />
In my 20's I remember reading a book on your recommendation and being shocked at the racy content. <br />
You never ceased to amaze me with your openness to experiences and change.<br />
That Macbook that gave us so many face to face moments is just one of the many examples of how, even in your 80's, no skill was beyond you.<br />
Not if it knew what was good for it.<br />
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I turned the radio to CBC2 to hear some classical music that you loved so.</div>
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The selection was gothic, meant to channel thoughts of the afterworld.</div>
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I laughed through the tears since I was sure that you would find some humour in the irony.<br />
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Thank you for those wonderful lazy days at the cottage, complete only when someone made a blueberry cobbler.<br />
Thank you for those busy days in the city full of culture, falafel and lattes.<br />
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My african violet bloomed a couple of days ago and it prompted me to think of you.<br />
Thank you for leaving us all with so many ways to remember your full and inspirational life.<br />
Lots of love.<br />
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cwesthickshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06169419308867062245noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4202092173002268645.post-7925693588878058072014-10-24T21:16:00.003-06:002014-10-24T21:16:44.271-06:00Elsa Costume {Oh Yes We Did}<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I tried, I really did.</div>
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"Fiona" I said. </div>
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"There will be so many Elsas this year" I said. </div>
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"You don't want to be the same as everyone" I said.</div>
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I was wrong. </div>
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She does in fact want, more than anything, to be Elsa.</div>
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And who am I to argue with this strong willed four and a half year old?</div>
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So I didn't.</div>
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Instead I immediately started planning my very own inexpensive and relatively easy Elsa.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif1BsHz29YS9QOZPjtamLF1y3zDIOzCgPsnqanqI_OMlu5SOgctV4nSio8u5W2ueHQ-por5b-1gGtMWiYsyiJWDQmfRkmbyiwwe8na3MqKECprEYKjs5jDj___7rqqGDT2Y4MsrhSlOfA/s1600/IMG_7014e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Elsa Costume " border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif1BsHz29YS9QOZPjtamLF1y3zDIOzCgPsnqanqI_OMlu5SOgctV4nSio8u5W2ueHQ-por5b-1gGtMWiYsyiJWDQmfRkmbyiwwe8na3MqKECprEYKjs5jDj___7rqqGDT2Y4MsrhSlOfA/s1600/IMG_7014e.JPG" height="426" title="Elsa Costume " width="640" /></a></div>
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Luckily I had 1.7m of blue stretch satin in a grab bag of craft supplies from my MIL so $0 for that.</div>
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I also had an old pair of white(ish, they were worn by a toddler after all) tights, $0 for those.</div>
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I bought:</div>
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1 meter of snowflake organza = $6.</div>
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3 meters of elastic sequins = $9. </div>
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Thread =$1</div>
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18cm closed-end zipper for $1.</div>
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{Gotta love that Fabricland membership.}</div>
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I started by making a little pattern for myself out of some spare fabric but this is not necessary.</div>
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Kid bodies are so easy to sew for since they are mostly curve-less.</div>
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For the bodice I measured Fiona's chest around {CA} and the distance from her underarm line to her high waist {UW}.</div>
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The bodice front was a rectangle w=CA x 0.5 {+3cm for seam allowance} h= UW {+3cm for seam allowance} with a little sweetheart shape freehanded in the top.</div>
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The bodice backs {you need 2 so just fold the fabric in half for this piece before cutting} were also rectangles w=CA x 0.25 (+3cm for seam allowance} h= UW {+3cm for seam allowance}.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCL30-JxxIz39atyyb81zk98gCvLN0eIFPGK-qN0CjBGM2iylFGclNbktk5gleE0VzrcM88rnP6GaSJSdO1L2MNTA87cYu6EKE-NZzgythukvm-NwNZEwWkua-qjGSh3KFkKzVTLLrH6o/s1600/IMG_6848e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCL30-JxxIz39atyyb81zk98gCvLN0eIFPGK-qN0CjBGM2iylFGclNbktk5gleE0VzrcM88rnP6GaSJSdO1L2MNTA87cYu6EKE-NZzgythukvm-NwNZEwWkua-qjGSh3KFkKzVTLLrH6o/s1600/IMG_6848e.JPG" height="384" width="640" /></a></div>
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For the skirt I measured Fiona's high waist around {WA} and the distance from her high waist to the floor {WF}.</div>
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I cut one large piece w= WA x 2 {+3cm for seam allowance} h= WF {+3cm for seam allowance and hem}.</div>
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Then I marked a spot the distance of HW x 0.25 from each end of one side of the width and placed a straight line from the corner on the other end to this point. </div>
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{Hopefully the pic makes that sentence a lot less confusing.}</div>
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The wider end will be the bottom hem and the more narrow end the waist.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3I1NAk2H0fC7AbfgeJh4uDql-EDIP6JZhjNZkFaFpwIVi7vD6O2SrPPr2Lb9AURHkSZu3HEcZ0hLCBq2oJbdsAGFIfX6grqKU4CFHLBT_O6LC7ufIbXKY2fg1dQQlelBqPFU_VI7VrFg/s1600/IMG_6850e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3I1NAk2H0fC7AbfgeJh4uDql-EDIP6JZhjNZkFaFpwIVi7vD6O2SrPPr2Lb9AURHkSZu3HEcZ0hLCBq2oJbdsAGFIfX6grqKU4CFHLBT_O6LC7ufIbXKY2fg1dQQlelBqPFU_VI7VrFg/s1600/IMG_6850e.JPG" height="414" width="640" /></a></div>
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{And yes that's a block in the last shot and I'm not even going back to edit it out.}</div>
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Next I sewed each of the bodice backs to the front {right sides together}.</div>
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Then I pinned the bodice to the waist at each end {yes they are different lengths}.</div>
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To make these pieces fit I folded the whole thing in half and pinned as far as I could to the middle...</div>
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...then flattened it and made a pleat in the middle of the skirt.</div>
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This pleat gives the skirt a bit of walking room in the front, preschoolers in pencil skirts could get ugly.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs8Ajh2H1BH2grZLdFP-Y2JmZw_HNODQNkJr7seNzrvlw2IqS4Ib3qixyHNbCpdlnLCtZVVw3h-OWOEDU_iqgxT8WBGLhxv8-XmHLEmou6-cG2y0FBHXSIbFmab2aqjaxJ34cBhzZ6sS8/s1600/IMG_6861e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs8Ajh2H1BH2grZLdFP-Y2JmZw_HNODQNkJr7seNzrvlw2IqS4Ib3qixyHNbCpdlnLCtZVVw3h-OWOEDU_iqgxT8WBGLhxv8-XmHLEmou6-cG2y0FBHXSIbFmab2aqjaxJ34cBhzZ6sS8/s1600/IMG_6861e.JPG" height="408" width="640" /></a></div>
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The next step was a very lazy zipper installation.</div>
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I folded and ironed back 1.5cm on each side of the dress's back seam then sewed the zipper on one side with the top of the zipper about 1.5cm from top of the bodice.</div>
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I usually just tack the top of the zipper down so I don't have to sew it in when finishing the top.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjz4dmtHSYySRAkmU-BX0DjFthIL39S5SZgOIchaLqqccg9FYkRf0hKI8kEtuKazPvBbkAhqhLU0oBW54l3zVDOtEMzkVCfmc3uf8dsPNezg1paZOx5v8hY6OTeBuIriaW79DP0_eeeWE/s1600/IMG_6864e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjz4dmtHSYySRAkmU-BX0DjFthIL39S5SZgOIchaLqqccg9FYkRf0hKI8kEtuKazPvBbkAhqhLU0oBW54l3zVDOtEMzkVCfmc3uf8dsPNezg1paZOx5v8hY6OTeBuIriaW79DP0_eeeWE/s1600/IMG_6864e.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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Next I pinned the other side of the zipper and sewed it {opening the zipper to sew the second side makes your life much easier}.</div>
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After getting the zipper in I sewed the back of the skirt together right up to the zipper bottom.</div>
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This is also when I finished the bottom hem {folded up twice 3/4cm each time}.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKZAmNJL09iuTL2mf5F4YhS-ZLCX-a3_l7IHOeiiOC-gXiROueHut5dFIm5MS8YN0glfMuOfnNzaZrk0FzwrfOPRWd5jIMZGLb22qPUw_hG_8zigx1iw7wSGgPU_OghYQtWGT1eM1E4sA/s1600/IMG_6865e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKZAmNJL09iuTL2mf5F4YhS-ZLCX-a3_l7IHOeiiOC-gXiROueHut5dFIm5MS8YN0glfMuOfnNzaZrk0FzwrfOPRWd5jIMZGLb22qPUw_hG_8zigx1iw7wSGgPU_OghYQtWGT1eM1E4sA/s1600/IMG_6865e.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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Then I folded the top of the bodice in twice {about 3/4cm each time as well}, ironed and pinned but did not sew yet.</div>
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For the sleeves I cut the end of the feet off of the tights and cut right down the middle seam.</div>
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I attached each end of what was the tights' waistband at about the point where spaghetti straps would go then played with some pleating to fit the rest in.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXSSpK2UmIN19DjCaJlX4TNbVFh95GfSZOWAP6W-A5zxUyLCGBHmhI9mtGXeKaZhyphenhyphen1NW_a6ABfzbUluyYg6wkqfG8Q97BwFvuuzGchSmfSMIyAsbSOQtCe-TAByHSQJQM-gyCEmdxPecQ/s1600/IMG_6870e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXSSpK2UmIN19DjCaJlX4TNbVFh95GfSZOWAP6W-A5zxUyLCGBHmhI9mtGXeKaZhyphenhyphen1NW_a6ABfzbUluyYg6wkqfG8Q97BwFvuuzGchSmfSMIyAsbSOQtCe-TAByHSQJQM-gyCEmdxPecQ/s1600/IMG_6870e.JPG" height="212" width="320" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0TLJ0kj1kH7lB_K5BPlhKyeG3MPQ_d8u5ax2HA9qyU1tZwqsA6GpZreFtogAdy_p7HYqO6S71RUPGHjM7tcO9wcPjBsZge9xHOs6i2ysbc9amc9_2gKRWkss3DeYxp4jaH5mCs91VnLg/s1600/IMG_6867e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0TLJ0kj1kH7lB_K5BPlhKyeG3MPQ_d8u5ax2HA9qyU1tZwqsA6GpZreFtogAdy_p7HYqO6S71RUPGHjM7tcO9wcPjBsZge9xHOs6i2ysbc9amc9_2gKRWkss3DeYxp4jaH5mCs91VnLg/s1600/IMG_6867e.JPG" height="400" width="266" /></a></div>
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A cooperative kid helps to get the placement just right.</div>
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I mean look at this champ, all those pins and still smiling.</div>
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{Hopefully her smile has distracted you enough to not notice the mess in the background.}</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgo-fEKUnndxALiwswmPt0o8MJ-IzkBRfZgGwJfGnXPUDiH3AW609NKe57FgtpKaoY8GxidAWwLHpecyQEhjuRPtFNBIQagu-lkuUyE_sJtznDlZoT4G3vPv34NGScvrOB8-PWk01WATE/s1600/IMG_6869e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgo-fEKUnndxALiwswmPt0o8MJ-IzkBRfZgGwJfGnXPUDiH3AW609NKe57FgtpKaoY8GxidAWwLHpecyQEhjuRPtFNBIQagu-lkuUyE_sJtznDlZoT4G3vPv34NGScvrOB8-PWk01WATE/s1600/IMG_6869e.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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Now don't go sewing that seam just yet, first attach each salvage end of that meter of snowflake organza just outside the sleeve {I just did this one pin at a time so I didn't lose my sleeve pleating}.</div>
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Now you can finally sew all the way around that bodice top and finish the bodice, sleeves and part of the cape in one seam.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixb261HO8DjSm_7vDLySSVBP3p3zAU9xkhQvyCH6adH-vtXpdSfoQ6hXVE0_Ew33Mwtuh9AKaSg1Qci7qJo_ptVhheqAetSjZ8dH7lh_AjfKMkE6QK4m9hkrQrJ2J5pkCV4gA3irb0QWg/s1600/IMG_6871e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixb261HO8DjSm_7vDLySSVBP3p3zAU9xkhQvyCH6adH-vtXpdSfoQ6hXVE0_Ew33Mwtuh9AKaSg1Qci7qJo_ptVhheqAetSjZ8dH7lh_AjfKMkE6QK4m9hkrQrJ2J5pkCV4gA3irb0QWg/s1600/IMG_6871e.JPG" height="474" width="640" /></a></div>
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You will have a big hoop of the cape material at the back which I simply pleated a couple of times and attached a small amount of elastic sequins to hold it together.</div>
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You obviously can't sew it tight since you need to be able to undo the zipper to get Elsa into her dress.</div>
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You can see how our back turned out in the very last picture.</div>
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I may still use a couple hook-and-eyes to bring to cape to the top of the bodice but I actually like the way it looks and the pleats give it a little billowy effect.</div>
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Finally the cape needs to be cut at floor length.</div>
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No matter how great it looked long, trains on preschoolers could also get ugly.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh08wcsVymd8E2hg0-7MylsDTbhAdNR1agRPoApyGK-LYlZoJrH61tDPTUUOLsEBpDxveLrR8pFPfJgPiMJp1LrYHtUpFavQtGRhIdMHMg1cuRR1W4h2ERbOfBEe8IK_jUXOmIbYGrOeTc/s1600/IMG_6995e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh08wcsVymd8E2hg0-7MylsDTbhAdNR1agRPoApyGK-LYlZoJrH61tDPTUUOLsEBpDxveLrR8pFPfJgPiMJp1LrYHtUpFavQtGRhIdMHMg1cuRR1W4h2ERbOfBEe8IK_jUXOmIbYGrOeTc/s1600/IMG_6995e.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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Instead of sewing the bottom I simply saturated the cut edge with fray stop.</div>
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Love that stuff.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVOQlOkvB-0BblLLQ92Px6Uz9Qy-nhcd2GO_Z-d9Fpnev2m9CeektuBMVYBKh3rEt2f-_53qoEuHC94vDZO7Nkzz6uk7NmcA3Y1PhmD-xFmSWhqde5SFcRBBL-NXYngSffGNXa5xiamYM/s1600/IMG_6996e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVOQlOkvB-0BblLLQ92Px6Uz9Qy-nhcd2GO_Z-d9Fpnev2m9CeektuBMVYBKh3rEt2f-_53qoEuHC94vDZO7Nkzz6uk7NmcA3Y1PhmD-xFmSWhqde5SFcRBBL-NXYngSffGNXa5xiamYM/s1600/IMG_6996e.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I decided to sew on my own sequins since I couldn't find sequin material saturated enough for the bodice.</div>
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All I did was cut the elastic sequins in strips the length of the bodice front and sewed them on right next to each other with one line of stitches on the machine each.</div>
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I wanted to add some detail to the sleeves so used some silver fabric paint and a thin paint brush to add the lines Elsa has on her sleeves.</div>
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To paint these on I stuffed the top of the sleeves with potholders and propped them on top of some candles.</div>
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I also ended up gluing some stray sequins to the bottom of the skirt on Fiona's request.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5LIyZvh4eoOzQ3slha2bGCF_8Ts1x8iuGpq2zoL-ZOpOIOPcj3ZqTuFkrZBLtkUX0h0SoI7jCGSLjwp7HI6wrhu2KIHe-DmJV-M9r7ttpEE0YfD2SJtf1SeVvI5Uq9at5TMh1r9Bds_U/s1600/IMG_7005e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5LIyZvh4eoOzQ3slha2bGCF_8Ts1x8iuGpq2zoL-ZOpOIOPcj3ZqTuFkrZBLtkUX0h0SoI7jCGSLjwp7HI6wrhu2KIHe-DmJV-M9r7ttpEE0YfD2SJtf1SeVvI5Uq9at5TMh1r9Bds_U/s1600/IMG_7005e.JPG" height="450" width="640" /></a></div>
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I would say the whole thing took me 2-3 hours and cost $17 {it would have been about $25 if I'd had to buy the stretch satin as well}.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7XKthNEPImQOLHuHQsoqnd31T-hpSgFsxBkheLeIKP06GAXK8TeS5uXzZBQjH-pAadogabKymfp-OvnzB8pAD3n1CZSenAdGQd_537gL-UqXIg5gA-1upNRf9JZmvy9RP42UtkKcqTfY/s1600/IMG_7012e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Elsa Costume " border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7XKthNEPImQOLHuHQsoqnd31T-hpSgFsxBkheLeIKP06GAXK8TeS5uXzZBQjH-pAadogabKymfp-OvnzB8pAD3n1CZSenAdGQd_537gL-UqXIg5gA-1upNRf9JZmvy9RP42UtkKcqTfY/s1600/IMG_7012e.JPG" height="452" title="Elsa Costume " width="640" /></a></div>
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Fiona is thrilled and wears it any chance she gets.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyqQJuPl4PmrIYE06_xbmR7JpfJLi3377S321ONcNkkm0Vfpe13Z3mH0-IoMRNb-7uavcUOQiZavTRJT8eNczhWqaO0mcJ_Jxz27dkhXlVhc4Jj8ZEqExShoPtZOuHMRDkbxFx4b2g_pM/s1600/IMG_7021e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Elsa Costume " border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyqQJuPl4PmrIYE06_xbmR7JpfJLi3377S321ONcNkkm0Vfpe13Z3mH0-IoMRNb-7uavcUOQiZavTRJT8eNczhWqaO0mcJ_Jxz27dkhXlVhc4Jj8ZEqExShoPtZOuHMRDkbxFx4b2g_pM/s1600/IMG_7021e.JPG" height="640" title="Elsa Costume " width="426" /></a></div>
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Now I'm just praying that my construction holds up for another week plus of excessive wear.</div>
cwesthickshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06169419308867062245noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4202092173002268645.post-43812896170832821162014-10-17T12:10:00.001-06:002014-10-17T12:10:26.834-06:00Green Project: Prince Charming Costume<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Still recapping the summer here but this costume post comes just in time for Halloween.</div>
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Fiona's BFF turned 5 in June and after his Mama blew my mind with some beautiful handmade doll bedding {I'll have to share that soon} for Feefs' birthday I knew I also wanted to get crafty for his gift.</div>
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Dress up is big in our house {and occasionally out of the house, like the grocery store, park, walk, etc.} and though Charlie has been a great sport dressing up in some pretty feminine frocks, I wanted to expand his options.</div>
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Presenting: Prince {Charl}ing.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoHbdERyayRpZC5XAxAthwc91cFda6wwkQnRbAZHro6k-kjv0R3iQTVcbKJ22usuBG2JD3-4cZg67zo-4iuEzyf5vZOfeo5A_-ev9zmJdqU0J1U5KX8las7wbPJq8TDtx_MagJJcta1o4/s1600/IMG_5499e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="DIY Prince Charming Costume" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoHbdERyayRpZC5XAxAthwc91cFda6wwkQnRbAZHro6k-kjv0R3iQTVcbKJ22usuBG2JD3-4cZg67zo-4iuEzyf5vZOfeo5A_-ev9zmJdqU0J1U5KX8las7wbPJq8TDtx_MagJJcta1o4/s1600/IMG_5499e.JPG" height="434" title="DIY Prince Charming Costume" width="640" /></a></div>
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I had in my mind something similar to Prince William's wedding wear.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgefNTyrtR36wbVopZj_TMsLaNr3zq2NZDRNHfOsZzjtJFgB2zqp6DHLOY0FYlATAld4_qZOLIiMYVKXSFiZi5RkWBOTTi7xAAw3bLSKfLpwBAgs1BHjVSaoIZtlRP7-xJq-5rsicbEoMY/s1600/Prince-William-and-Kate-Middleton-Wedding-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgefNTyrtR36wbVopZj_TMsLaNr3zq2NZDRNHfOsZzjtJFgB2zqp6DHLOY0FYlATAld4_qZOLIiMYVKXSFiZi5RkWBOTTi7xAAw3bLSKfLpwBAgs1BHjVSaoIZtlRP7-xJq-5rsicbEoMY/s1600/Prince-William-and-Kate-Middleton-Wedding-3.jpg" height="438" width="640" /></a></div>
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I considered starting from scratch but that's not really my style.</div>
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I decided instead to source out an outfit I could repurpose.</div>
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A trip to Value Village delivered this lovely ensemble for the bargain price of $6.98.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiH0BviGbtm9FyoQMXyWA4KKG-6DTaqj31h1bcrLt-vzmUurip6LmPhkPH6KczPS-v_1PclLJCohxEzt3nqmt3N5SEhXMEilWTXFQo46Tirzmknl3wTKw0NTwNskJV-ZJ9ijHS45Dl60w/s1600/IMG_5158e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiH0BviGbtm9FyoQMXyWA4KKG-6DTaqj31h1bcrLt-vzmUurip6LmPhkPH6KczPS-v_1PclLJCohxEzt3nqmt3N5SEhXMEilWTXFQo46Tirzmknl3wTKw0NTwNskJV-ZJ9ijHS45Dl60w/s1600/IMG_5158e.JPG" height="460" width="640" /></a></div>
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Another $12 spent on the trimmings at Fabricland and I was all set.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZCK_4ALg_K1S_TxLlpD12yEquMCRvs02QlqXWS_4qFYXbhjp0_Cc57JGTVaoFy9V91ghvLBT5hWp6kRv1vmv8pghhY8ET4Oib40HQnYWToXk60yEaGJ70ovWnCyrx4PoNPx2vd1OzauY/s1600/IMG_5162e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZCK_4ALg_K1S_TxLlpD12yEquMCRvs02QlqXWS_4qFYXbhjp0_Cc57JGTVaoFy9V91ghvLBT5hWp6kRv1vmv8pghhY8ET4Oib40HQnYWToXk60yEaGJ70ovWnCyrx4PoNPx2vd1OzauY/s1600/IMG_5162e.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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I started by turning the blazer inside out and ripping the side, shoulder and sleeve seams.</div>
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I used a jacket that I knew would fit Charlie and measured the width from collar to shoulder seam then marked that with a pin {remember to add 1.5cm for a seam allowance to each marking} on the blazer.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxIhhIKLT61NgAWgVtC1TO8gef9dINoCjYZodDBJHWK3NBc0r_t6MmuCxaw9EZ7V9_QEEky6es3Y6vdxH59Cmozom0FDsGj1_iomURNKGpOnvTo5rVkn-L6LoXV4LW-zAR_LuH708nPyE/s1600/IMG_5164.CR2" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxIhhIKLT61NgAWgVtC1TO8gef9dINoCjYZodDBJHWK3NBc0r_t6MmuCxaw9EZ7V9_QEEky6es3Y6vdxH59Cmozom0FDsGj1_iomURNKGpOnvTo5rVkn-L6LoXV4LW-zAR_LuH708nPyE/s1600/IMG_5164.CR2" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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I then marked the midline and measuring the width of the torso on my model jacket to mark the side seam.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbWbwLiJspuNVHOHI6DJG93dIaXHuaXJjxwt9NaZKoIY6N_YSGlwWXcZJcTx6DSWfcWi0zgkJ7OZHocVzga6FMTFIJhBDOJcnmge6d0fHPXTbQ5_WfqFqyvwfNLnwo0-mV8d6PMaSI3Sc/s1600/IMG_5165.CR2" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbWbwLiJspuNVHOHI6DJG93dIaXHuaXJjxwt9NaZKoIY6N_YSGlwWXcZJcTx6DSWfcWi0zgkJ7OZHocVzga6FMTFIJhBDOJcnmge6d0fHPXTbQ5_WfqFqyvwfNLnwo0-mV8d6PMaSI3Sc/s1600/IMG_5165.CR2" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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After cutting off all the extra by following the above pins on one side...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEgzv-9CgCBeatK3QVVPCLpB6E5tnETzBem-WrJeSkRr-5aoSvdBrT2nR7E5G-f4pAkaEomu4kMJCwqJcwlYwQ-78vwRfO4VXnEx1gZ3x5fEf7Qyb07RvOH-dLx96MuphfIjit-aUL9ts/s1600/IMG_5166.CR2" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEgzv-9CgCBeatK3QVVPCLpB6E5tnETzBem-WrJeSkRr-5aoSvdBrT2nR7E5G-f4pAkaEomu4kMJCwqJcwlYwQ-78vwRfO4VXnEx1gZ3x5fEf7Qyb07RvOH-dLx96MuphfIjit-aUL9ts/s1600/IMG_5166.CR2" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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...I just folded the jacket in half on the midline that was already marked above and cut the second side to match.</div>
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To finish the torso I just sewed the side seams back together.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3Iecrls9ocCxuB75r4HSdD8SQljwpMxh2PccoSF2cgnQQJ8eQ1YsvcYdmW3VkTNgvDnIBs-RVYVRL19PyarSC84eatwhth7wOz-PBgAzm9vlr1h4y349QlS0-dMlpTEKozDzHABD2AbA/s1600/IMG_5167.CR2" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3Iecrls9ocCxuB75r4HSdD8SQljwpMxh2PccoSF2cgnQQJ8eQ1YsvcYdmW3VkTNgvDnIBs-RVYVRL19PyarSC84eatwhth7wOz-PBgAzm9vlr1h4y349QlS0-dMlpTEKozDzHABD2AbA/s1600/IMG_5167.CR2" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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Now it was time to fit the sleeves.</div>
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Again, I grabbed the model jacket and measured the width of the sleeve at the top and bottom and pinned {with seam allowance} as well as the length.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6V_P04hWlengiDxCXiQpMyPXFHYCoR4wheOP2ek_j4NgpGXOwRle7or5Z6aA8QLtHqMDedF1rqy1bXwK1fuvbzsrubG5wFNhPcszjLcMvJlfiKTeomzwCuiRTI1jlYlB9ZvWIYd9XvRI/s1600/IMG_5170.CR2" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6V_P04hWlengiDxCXiQpMyPXFHYCoR4wheOP2ek_j4NgpGXOwRle7or5Z6aA8QLtHqMDedF1rqy1bXwK1fuvbzsrubG5wFNhPcszjLcMvJlfiKTeomzwCuiRTI1jlYlB9ZvWIYd9XvRI/s1600/IMG_5170.CR2" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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After sewing the length of the sleeve and turning it right side out I fit it into the arm hole {you may have to work on this for a few minutes} and sew this seam.</div>
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A simple hem on the ends of the sleeves finishes them off.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNGgh9v2VeykxIoJe-LXLMlTzdXhI5JkxPhHLtrM42ghlpL3f_2GLbkzt7Z9ruw2rO8UJKJupQXQuLuXKOzi-qmTwzYMKTReHcaEKe9RlTUeK6m7r27ElUYXuGxLBNTgF-qNX9E-7UmsA/s1600/IMG_5171.CR2" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNGgh9v2VeykxIoJe-LXLMlTzdXhI5JkxPhHLtrM42ghlpL3f_2GLbkzt7Z9ruw2rO8UJKJupQXQuLuXKOzi-qmTwzYMKTReHcaEKe9RlTUeK6m7r27ElUYXuGxLBNTgF-qNX9E-7UmsA/s1600/IMG_5171.CR2" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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I left the length as is since I wanted it a little long for the look but also so it would fit for a while.</div>
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I also left some extra length on the sleeves for the same reason.</div>
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The collar was an easy fix since lifting it up then folding it in on itself once made it quite princely.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnUE-GUo2YxeL1f98X7dr8XAwkEShY6EjiWAg9e8uRv1crslwiTuPnNTyOf5ms8qJP3TgvwKGohyphenhyphenfI4dofSQhkdgaLCBKC7kzVhigeoN6F6ThGShoMlcw8Ji4zZcc_wXIzVYdN3wUV98A/s1600/IMG_5173.CR2" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnUE-GUo2YxeL1f98X7dr8XAwkEShY6EjiWAg9e8uRv1crslwiTuPnNTyOf5ms8qJP3TgvwKGohyphenhyphenfI4dofSQhkdgaLCBKC7kzVhigeoN6F6ThGShoMlcw8Ji4zZcc_wXIzVYdN3wUV98A/s1600/IMG_5173.CR2" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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I pinned some gold trim around the neck line before sewing the collar down to finish it off.</div>
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I started on the side with the buttons so that I could continue all the way down the front just inside the button holes.</div>
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After this I also replaced the buttons with some flashy gold ones.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZT10b5rYvCiu6hWmZ9BHDlWx-teDmIhkYJnpLemVsiOQDkmaUcttI8CEorfizOU6PVOmkecS5m_3TiE5E-fQY0CUIHKYAE7qiHKQPWkq2YZNeAWNqmmO67xdDPOytaRiw0hRe5POx5Lg/s1600/IMG_5174.CR2" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZT10b5rYvCiu6hWmZ9BHDlWx-teDmIhkYJnpLemVsiOQDkmaUcttI8CEorfizOU6PVOmkecS5m_3TiE5E-fQY0CUIHKYAE7qiHKQPWkq2YZNeAWNqmmO67xdDPOytaRiw0hRe5POx5Lg/s1600/IMG_5174.CR2" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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The last detail on the jacket was to create some epaulettes. </div>
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Some simple fringe folded in half and sewn down the middle did the trick.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVTFDdtYr2Ky02RJQdfDyAjOrIkUaQkRQ9TlK-tUeootkPAyNOcIIwS-F16D0jAL-Si2JT_hwzXhoavXM6yxtDhkmNROX2IphyphenhyphenpHyZ7E3_T6eKB4fUcdrCilR0m02Lop5Dug28RwiOxkU/s1600/IMG_5175.CR2" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVTFDdtYr2Ky02RJQdfDyAjOrIkUaQkRQ9TlK-tUeootkPAyNOcIIwS-F16D0jAL-Si2JT_hwzXhoavXM6yxtDhkmNROX2IphyphenhyphenpHyZ7E3_T6eKB4fUcdrCilR0m02Lop5Dug28RwiOxkU/s1600/IMG_5175.CR2" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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Before I fastened one shoulder's epaulette I wanted to attach a sash, this is where the bright red blouse came in.</div>
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I was lucky to find one with a little embellishment but one without could also work.</div>
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I cut the button down part from top to bottom, sewed the bottoms together then used the top button to secure the bottom of the sash after putting it on.</div>
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I slipped the whole thing under one epaulette then sewed it in place since we all know accessories tend to go missing on kid costumes if they're not attached.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXEcjx0YUuRWfTWd0UvWlGaeq84nmn23HuBvx-dNRB8I9Rz74sURaNsoqR_9n7zQFP8qwL-if2_ZisneTurNx9KrsWt5qv6M4dlJMWtZDykgdEv7vNAZTedgIOs5XhaX1b7_95UiNsuuY/s1600/IMG_5177.CR2" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXEcjx0YUuRWfTWd0UvWlGaeq84nmn23HuBvx-dNRB8I9Rz74sURaNsoqR_9n7zQFP8qwL-if2_ZisneTurNx9KrsWt5qv6M4dlJMWtZDykgdEv7vNAZTedgIOs5XhaX1b7_95UiNsuuY/s1600/IMG_5177.CR2" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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And what kind of prince would he be without a crown right?</div>
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I actually don't know if I've ever seen Prince William sporting a crown but it still felt necessary.</div>
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I took a piece of gold lamé measured and cut to the diameter of Charlie's head {with an extra 3cm for seam allowance} then folded it in half and pinned it approximately every 3 inches.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH9EFynxaX5RCRz33n3txwQEB48bU7-sO3x6A7yawWf2kwlIegjMQ5_-95Imy6W0lx0XxpMnLG_NGUQA3loybN8zbU-5Y9ELkrMwHqZ4fDG7hEzQW-iSaJ3QDqIOgiNfHpJEi8N4U6XrY/s1600/IMG_5182.CR2" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH9EFynxaX5RCRz33n3txwQEB48bU7-sO3x6A7yawWf2kwlIegjMQ5_-95Imy6W0lx0XxpMnLG_NGUQA3loybN8zbU-5Y9ELkrMwHqZ4fDG7hEzQW-iSaJ3QDqIOgiNfHpJEi8N4U6XrY/s1600/IMG_5182.CR2" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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I used the pins to guide the points of my cut but otherwise just winged it. </div>
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The crown could be made any shape or height here but I liked this simple look best.</div>
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Cedric was so excited about the crown {depicted below} that I was glad when my first attempt ended up a little small and could be kept for him.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir4X-boXKji9ZIsKvCXa8wDwXjcbxOdSwigyen5xmVB61sIM557D4iAHacez4Yxezfx3Bz-AXZGMAED26ddI_MZF8WTE4Hn3JvKNZfJaqSE5ZWGV8_185VtKzjM7mAVK_JaegfjhB1t4w/s1600/IMG_5186e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir4X-boXKji9ZIsKvCXa8wDwXjcbxOdSwigyen5xmVB61sIM557D4iAHacez4Yxezfx3Bz-AXZGMAED26ddI_MZF8WTE4Hn3JvKNZfJaqSE5ZWGV8_185VtKzjM7mAVK_JaegfjhB1t4w/s1600/IMG_5186e.JPG" height="468" width="640" /></a></div>
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To give the crown some standing power I cut some fusible batting the same size as my folded lamé then ironed it on.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhiT6W-9sbE829kKgZ2VQxXsh0omrk4TUWAqS1Z1Ob8ZdUdvzNxG9hbMqHDAzOVxLc4x3GlZz-RZr7DADcQG8vi2PlHEN3Aq2kriF7HwVCQHCslh1mUGrvlPe9Tqf7ZvCYtt3DYNSUBig/s1600/IMG_5188.CR2" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhiT6W-9sbE829kKgZ2VQxXsh0omrk4TUWAqS1Z1Ob8ZdUdvzNxG9hbMqHDAzOVxLc4x3GlZz-RZr7DADcQG8vi2PlHEN3Aq2kriF7HwVCQHCslh1mUGrvlPe9Tqf7ZvCYtt3DYNSUBig/s1600/IMG_5188.CR2" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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I stitched along the top {with the batting facing out}, cut the edge a couple mm from the stitch {an important step otherwise you won't get a nice shape at the top} then turned it right side out.</div>
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Once you turn it you need to work the points out which I usually do by hooking a straight pin into the fabric and pulling from the outside.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNvuAEKxUnhLjwd7cTm9Nb3QOg_19OKbXr2USoI1g8yU8t0E83Gor4snyg3sAGvBjV1XGnQFl9ocHWBKuN3aEo3BPmUaRo9hBKNHZ21RX6lPmNbbyS1AIigarDIruMJaiUCQlBbCT3UBE/s1600/IMG_5191.CR2" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNvuAEKxUnhLjwd7cTm9Nb3QOg_19OKbXr2USoI1g8yU8t0E83Gor4snyg3sAGvBjV1XGnQFl9ocHWBKuN3aEo3BPmUaRo9hBKNHZ21RX6lPmNbbyS1AIigarDIruMJaiUCQlBbCT3UBE/s1600/IMG_5191.CR2" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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To finish it off simply fold the ends of one side in, insert the other end into it and stitch on the outside {see below}.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuw9Oz-30Ywe594MhRSuDYVHXjjEJmG2elDoTrI1GK0lfPkW8V-lVN_LczdfxXIFmakX8q8JaQTrSt77YvKTe7w1m1F408Qh35xO2qV_whH8jka2vGI3FgqFldA6CKoqSULZt5ZwMBGvU/s1600/IMG_5506e.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img alt="DIY Prince Charming Costume" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuw9Oz-30Ywe594MhRSuDYVHXjjEJmG2elDoTrI1GK0lfPkW8V-lVN_LczdfxXIFmakX8q8JaQTrSt77YvKTe7w1m1F408Qh35xO2qV_whH8jka2vGI3FgqFldA6CKoqSULZt5ZwMBGvU/s1600/IMG_5506e.JPG" height="486" title="DIY Prince Charming Costume" width="640" /></a></div>
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I also bought some black pants and used the extra fabric from the blazer to sew a tuxedo stripe down the side but this is purely optional since plain black pants look just great.</div>
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Now we have a legitimate prince costume to match the many princess dresses.</div>
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Not to say this guy doesn't still rock the feminine garbs from time to time.</div>
cwesthickshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06169419308867062245noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4202092173002268645.post-3042796166729896652014-10-13T18:40:00.002-06:002014-10-13T18:40:22.786-06:00Happy Thanksgiving 2014<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
So thankful for a beautiful daughter who knows how to make me laugh {and cry} and reminds me constantly that the world is a fascinating place.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6BcDBPm6FrJhRe4Srje6IgZme__BBiP1tODhTzOHHl0pmj28hCI0NZwQKUWsqG1JqKq5k14dCD4Fgu7xsEvYKkGvdfr8r5i8G2H-wPbbYKfxsaevjKMla89wvsXkXonjEqllhW-L28B0/s1600/IMG_6964e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Girl walking in grass" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6BcDBPm6FrJhRe4Srje6IgZme__BBiP1tODhTzOHHl0pmj28hCI0NZwQKUWsqG1JqKq5k14dCD4Fgu7xsEvYKkGvdfr8r5i8G2H-wPbbYKfxsaevjKMla89wvsXkXonjEqllhW-L28B0/s1600/IMG_6964e.JPG" height="426" title="Girl walking in grass" width="640" /></a></div>
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So thankful for a son who has managed to teach me more about love when I didn't think there was anything left to know, that trust goes both ways and the importance of growing through mistakes.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3_p9GZ-U3DWBAa0VNH5csJFF1olnfhyphenhyphenTgaKNe2SmkyeOBLS0FR8IRPC9Si3OQcbL1OsPMfImk3ERCYWDhOH_h4sov_q79UyPy7PeHxE435DFVxRjWfPWuLFLpX5SydV9zz5pg4JlPJMY/s1600/IMG_6941e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Boy climbing rocks" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3_p9GZ-U3DWBAa0VNH5csJFF1olnfhyphenhyphenTgaKNe2SmkyeOBLS0FR8IRPC9Si3OQcbL1OsPMfImk3ERCYWDhOH_h4sov_q79UyPy7PeHxE435DFVxRjWfPWuLFLpX5SydV9zz5pg4JlPJMY/s1600/IMG_6941e.JPG" height="426" title="Boy climbing rocks" width="640" /></a></div>
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So thankful for friends who are without a doubt family.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDI5UUT7BZOZUKOB3xI5wbp-vB5s3397gofPhPNadom54Wqr1HpOwGjxiuCqG7_UUpQdRxHBdogGaLMsCe9EGClF4NYBqdBevtIS5vAUWIBdgKVJ9ATmT2_4miGHYLs64-BidGZm-g8Dc/s1600/IMG_6883e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Turkey napkin holder" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDI5UUT7BZOZUKOB3xI5wbp-vB5s3397gofPhPNadom54Wqr1HpOwGjxiuCqG7_UUpQdRxHBdogGaLMsCe9EGClF4NYBqdBevtIS5vAUWIBdgKVJ9ATmT2_4miGHYLs64-BidGZm-g8Dc/s1600/IMG_6883e.JPG" height="442" title="Turkey napkin holder" width="640" /></a></div>
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So thankful for family who are without a doubt friends.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBoxHNZAID5NpuzUaxAEoxndbE0rk9aoywQgXjDnshTYBf1beO8EKWjw-FeqpdDFv9C_bsoSkfeDzJN54r_SpF9NZZi7jb9PDqrMJlQJqEgRMFjiFamiXQ8G8rW3GJKGCTrziHFMiX7PA/s1600/IMG_6977e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Turkey place decoration" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBoxHNZAID5NpuzUaxAEoxndbE0rk9aoywQgXjDnshTYBf1beO8EKWjw-FeqpdDFv9C_bsoSkfeDzJN54r_SpF9NZZi7jb9PDqrMJlQJqEgRMFjiFamiXQ8G8rW3GJKGCTrziHFMiX7PA/s1600/IMG_6977e.JPG" height="388" title="Turkey place decoration" width="640" /></a></div>
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And, who could forget, thankful for toddler-made-Grandma-initiated turkey crafts on our Thanksgiving tables.</div>
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<br />cwesthickshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06169419308867062245noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4202092173002268645.post-86025987790931684672014-10-05T22:27:00.000-06:002014-10-05T22:27:18.321-06:00Summer Recap 5: Festival City<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Two months!</div>
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It took me two months to get this post done.</div>
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I'm not sorry though since going through these pictures again took me right back to these spectacular summer days.</div>
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The last time we went to Folk Fest, Fiona was 4 months old.</div>
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We went for one evening, Ben Harper was headlining and was incredible.</div>
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Fiona was also incredible but we felt alright ducking out a little early knowing that we'd see him again at the Gorge when he opened for Dave Matthews Band.</div>
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{Yes, Fiona attended two Ben Harper gigs and as many DMB gigs by the tender age of 5 months.}</div>
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Anyways, Ben was back at <a href="http://www.edmontonfolkfest.org/" target="_blank">The Edmonton Folk Music Festival</a> so it felt right to return.</div>
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On Thursday we had only a single ticket so Fiona and I made it a date.</div>
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{If you're under 12 you're free, is that amazing or what?}</div>
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Fiona requested that we please match for our concert date.</div>
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This girl loves matching so I did the best I could with the limited purple in my wardrobe.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBQK_GbPEenWjD_YNkUPUsftQmY0MQbQXct75H_EGoVGiA0IPugChihbbUC_hdgW4SaInbmm1CVPl5Z1Tq7ENtSrZjnmg7IgxrzoqzPd1CuG3mPMR5nCAR3K7VJd4yTIJmwsAxcH8zO3I/s1600/IMG_6222e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBQK_GbPEenWjD_YNkUPUsftQmY0MQbQXct75H_EGoVGiA0IPugChihbbUC_hdgW4SaInbmm1CVPl5Z1Tq7ENtSrZjnmg7IgxrzoqzPd1CuG3mPMR5nCAR3K7VJd4yTIJmwsAxcH8zO3I/s1600/IMG_6222e.JPG" height="464" width="640" /></a></div>
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We were so happy to spend the weekend with these sweeties.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDdtJPzWLr36jbiPZeQaTjXX4T375IVLi_2xe5lr-oClMY6swQj13J8UyxTd4sQP1nPyrsQQaCW_h3gA32i4N57B8uLRhsIMfeQf3XFBlAYQhiVy6AVDmyZp5ssWow1fkXqOfY63SuKI0/s1600/IMG_3527.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Edmonton Folk Music Festival" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDdtJPzWLr36jbiPZeQaTjXX4T375IVLi_2xe5lr-oClMY6swQj13J8UyxTd4sQP1nPyrsQQaCW_h3gA32i4N57B8uLRhsIMfeQf3XFBlAYQhiVy6AVDmyZp5ssWow1fkXqOfY63SuKI0/s1600/IMG_3527.JPG" height="464" title="Edmonton Folk Music Festival" width="640" /></a></div>
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They danced like no one was watching.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5VaQTX0zy3frXawQ6l7RKIf-xf-tQaLMRAM1WMhDO_wl6rw8_F-0pQXjhDR1orLtK6-QD81S0lYY3fOK3Qa720kD_hh6umK39C1F6mdDUib9yjo5mqsnX6zRaCJ-wev4H6P6HAlKTsUw/s1600/IMG_3530.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Edmonton Folk Music Festival" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5VaQTX0zy3frXawQ6l7RKIf-xf-tQaLMRAM1WMhDO_wl6rw8_F-0pQXjhDR1orLtK6-QD81S0lYY3fOK3Qa720kD_hh6umK39C1F6mdDUib9yjo5mqsnX6zRaCJ-wev4H6P6HAlKTsUw/s1600/IMG_3530.JPG" height="640" title="Edmonton Folk Music Festival" width="604" /></a></div>
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They also begged for some candles.</div>
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After Fiona stared at hers for a few seconds, having just heard the "be careful" spiel, she turned to me and said "Mommy I don't think I can handle this."</div>
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I had to backtrack and edit my warnings so as to give her a little more confidence.</div>
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She could indeed handle it.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFODLYpkemabiNWIKz2o9bZmOPWjzH24CtihocGaskgFYEOb0xGwJSBRutTp46f3hXLtlllxDz4ocyFclitHlZw0mLFHzUc_yrJfi7itHfwB4U8ZWR4vKWlRKsVhr8ZtwYImHN46hUOA8/s1600/IMG_3547.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Edmonton Folk Music Festival" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFODLYpkemabiNWIKz2o9bZmOPWjzH24CtihocGaskgFYEOb0xGwJSBRutTp46f3hXLtlllxDz4ocyFclitHlZw0mLFHzUc_yrJfi7itHfwB4U8ZWR4vKWlRKsVhr8ZtwYImHN46hUOA8/s1600/IMG_3547.JPG" height="480" title="Edmonton Folk Music Festival" width="640" /></a></div>
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Nothing beats the view at EFMF.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgd7rmbFXRhq9tRU_Og56yxQiPeZtbd1k9GHSaYPkIfj9xRxn2a0JZnG1E7MTjB5_JtPbDBvzx-lJRmfu_qprjSi_w1X_sIhME-65Ce_9omi4qj7clG98DKqzuTizVRQ-A5xSO_dfSrz2k/s1600/IMG_3554.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Edmonton Folk Music Festival" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgd7rmbFXRhq9tRU_Og56yxQiPeZtbd1k9GHSaYPkIfj9xRxn2a0JZnG1E7MTjB5_JtPbDBvzx-lJRmfu_qprjSi_w1X_sIhME-65Ce_9omi4qj7clG98DKqzuTizVRQ-A5xSO_dfSrz2k/s1600/IMG_3554.JPG" height="352" title="Edmonton Folk Music Festival" width="640" /></a></div>
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I popped down on my own Friday night to take in James Vincent McMorrow.<br />
Him and Gregory Alan Isakov were two of my favourite artists of the weekend.<br />
I also was happy to catch a little Vance Joy, Ben Howard, Holly Williams and discover a local band called 100 Mile House.<br />
There were, of course, many more great acts, too many to mention them all.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsPsAIgPyiEfXrkPEkbVftYxNjKrROA_1qQSGifcE8IgPksCEd_iwEBor0IxfAV8v59SkkhuHKkVo5i9y06bVdN9bh1L3i0nHZSVYmeL0L81fMJuWW9M1vYoysfRxSEWaS26ziKzASH7I/s1600/IMG_3562.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Edmonton Folk Music Festival" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsPsAIgPyiEfXrkPEkbVftYxNjKrROA_1qQSGifcE8IgPksCEd_iwEBor0IxfAV8v59SkkhuHKkVo5i9y06bVdN9bh1L3i0nHZSVYmeL0L81fMJuWW9M1vYoysfRxSEWaS26ziKzASH7I/s1600/IMG_3562.JPG" height="518" title="Edmonton Folk Music Festival" width="640" /></a></div>
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Saturday was a long day but the kids did well.</div>
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Cedric passed out in the backpack after a popsicle meltdown, don't ask.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9hfS7yA9nd75z79XEu_XfZ86WEnBnStdV_8fUr2wofyc-NyOF6UtFvpTh55JWYUm0XjjBPRsumJ0xd27vosrxB2Y-AbLg4YmL2E6q8cUUK0BwzHqIh0_wiTnYQ5nJ4zW0i6ZhGa_i8ww/s1600/IMG_3571.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Edmonton Folk Music Festival" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9hfS7yA9nd75z79XEu_XfZ86WEnBnStdV_8fUr2wofyc-NyOF6UtFvpTh55JWYUm0XjjBPRsumJ0xd27vosrxB2Y-AbLg4YmL2E6q8cUUK0BwzHqIh0_wiTnYQ5nJ4zW0i6ZhGa_i8ww/s1600/IMG_3571.JPG" height="434" title="Edmonton Folk Music Festival" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8KMPnf2eTIdTCRTVjPlfNjGVpaB5rauDkm0BzTi52cCF_He333-BU_x-DG7O1LOYvIzuOv0JgLAZneqHGV3Sdy3MN9PhYwxRvVLtqDfHHzAh6-4s9jzfRaDJQbXe4q3V5JcC1CHaRBno/s1600/IMG_3577.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Edmonton Folk Music Festival" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8KMPnf2eTIdTCRTVjPlfNjGVpaB5rauDkm0BzTi52cCF_He333-BU_x-DG7O1LOYvIzuOv0JgLAZneqHGV3Sdy3MN9PhYwxRvVLtqDfHHzAh6-4s9jzfRaDJQbXe4q3V5JcC1CHaRBno/s1600/IMG_3577.JPG" height="480" title="Edmonton Folk Music Festival" width="640" /></a></div>
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We were able to break up the days with fun at the park, face painting and bouncy castles.</div>
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The kids enjoyed the music but in short installments only.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjiRcuECYDZAxGosOGhAu-M8W3Iaj4EBXmJQQLoW6Pm2hOhncCAGKjohVCQ0pM2P9WEpfIhTZlZka8Su09k7cHhzuf73PxvbNagvq-3fSk26Z5XelxOuukraNSnzoi3Bizxdz6A4bMPUw/s1600/IMG_3604.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Edmonton Folk Music Festival" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjiRcuECYDZAxGosOGhAu-M8W3Iaj4EBXmJQQLoW6Pm2hOhncCAGKjohVCQ0pM2P9WEpfIhTZlZka8Su09k7cHhzuf73PxvbNagvq-3fSk26Z5XelxOuukraNSnzoi3Bizxdz6A4bMPUw/s1600/IMG_3604.JPG" height="480" title="Edmonton Folk Music Festival" width="640" /></a></div>
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It was by far my best experience at EFMF and I hope it only gets better as the kids get older.</div>
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Next up in August was the <a href="https://www.fringetheatre.ca/festival.php" target="_blank">Fringe Festival</a>.</div>
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We didn't make it to any shows this year but spent an evening taking in street performers and a little street food.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTeM2VBvoXgnk7OuXuEvnkNamE4OFSsCEyGpMhQ7LYfZj_B5u9dZrZanBbE7V7KK5gF5Ui6fyocs0-gltKKqTCOfhyphenhyphen-GbtjZn3vODpn50Vhg_8SNhnLI2iusaXciTfquDV0zBLeyVeqNA/s1600/IMG_6314e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Edmonton Fringe Festival" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTeM2VBvoXgnk7OuXuEvnkNamE4OFSsCEyGpMhQ7LYfZj_B5u9dZrZanBbE7V7KK5gF5Ui6fyocs0-gltKKqTCOfhyphenhyphen-GbtjZn3vODpn50Vhg_8SNhnLI2iusaXciTfquDV0zBLeyVeqNA/s1600/IMG_6314e.JPG" height="494" title="Edmonton Fringe Festival" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtCFTCnR4H6tQSaVEf19-1cPomHy4WeNcp3GbKrIaQ3k7EHyqR2ivtnD_Q-9-Q5WZBekqbEjad8uiGPC9mOnQpXaoXgDQMVuHBgE_JkXjU8chJRaId3Vq-0fu5FfnUgK5iHt3XsZ40BfQ/s1600/IMG_6321e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Edmonton Fringe Festival" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtCFTCnR4H6tQSaVEf19-1cPomHy4WeNcp3GbKrIaQ3k7EHyqR2ivtnD_Q-9-Q5WZBekqbEjad8uiGPC9mOnQpXaoXgDQMVuHBgE_JkXjU8chJRaId3Vq-0fu5FfnUgK5iHt3XsZ40BfQ/s1600/IMG_6321e.JPG" height="426" title="Edmonton Fringe Festival" width="640" /></a></div>
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And what would a visit to the Fringe be without a trip across the highlevel on the street car.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh094oc2Eu0mJs6Cw5uesw9wE31oh4-iyWCGHuw_r2ldU66azRLsXeB78PoS6iMwfCo6BiYFkwWEZmRvodRnLSppuOl0HKupG7bXrW6QtVkcBh5uxEGffZCilrwqZEu4uIsOgfdi3lgm1o/s1600/IMG_6328e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Highlevel Streetcar" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh094oc2Eu0mJs6Cw5uesw9wE31oh4-iyWCGHuw_r2ldU66azRLsXeB78PoS6iMwfCo6BiYFkwWEZmRvodRnLSppuOl0HKupG7bXrW6QtVkcBh5uxEGffZCilrwqZEu4uIsOgfdi3lgm1o/s1600/IMG_6328e.JPG" height="478" title="Highlevel Streetcar" width="640" /></a></div>
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We met our festival partners in crime for this one.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOhSxYOdM2yKB8R3idDhyphenhyphen7HzieiUYwhfFGiJFevqOb-3TyW0TKIO1rBHHPPEVpTXjfvNpsdiVmoCNPELN9ab8QghyphenhyphenQvu7hxzLV3qYSLd2w_1iIchNEU_BVksVX66MqvsXTRS9gT_B6NX4/s1600/IMG_6335e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Highlevel Streetcar" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOhSxYOdM2yKB8R3idDhyphenhyphen7HzieiUYwhfFGiJFevqOb-3TyW0TKIO1rBHHPPEVpTXjfvNpsdiVmoCNPELN9ab8QghyphenhyphenQvu7hxzLV3qYSLd2w_1iIchNEU_BVksVX66MqvsXTRS9gT_B6NX4/s1600/IMG_6335e.JPG" height="410" title="Highlevel Streetcar" width="640" /></a></div>
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Any type of train is always a hit with this little man.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidB4Rz8TSy653VIS3KYqskp7C7dBPVUmbQD8QzBz7lOwxBT8ZVkmY5cu3a3zjsn_9-flJdCjPUfBW7unGvRZ0RmLCjyQPhHHdKt-0Q7ZdF5o9ginZzNx627OvMQU5PGsi3bNzlUcWxxds/s1600/IMG_6350e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Highlevel Streetcar" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidB4Rz8TSy653VIS3KYqskp7C7dBPVUmbQD8QzBz7lOwxBT8ZVkmY5cu3a3zjsn_9-flJdCjPUfBW7unGvRZ0RmLCjyQPhHHdKt-0Q7ZdF5o9ginZzNx627OvMQU5PGsi3bNzlUcWxxds/s1600/IMG_6350e.JPG" height="426" title="Highlevel Streetcar" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf1JbA5VskfYhIilDF4r4eHtqK3LfkN_jUPciWhLX5DTl8qViIrsj_jCsllrDXRIxqWhn13RDIZRszHgKslW5qHN-yO5jgnv3L0dBmrXBkB7hxBQh_CT_qfnYf7b86AqgQyQIQFFeJgsc/s1600/IMG_6349e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Highlevel Streetcar" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf1JbA5VskfYhIilDF4r4eHtqK3LfkN_jUPciWhLX5DTl8qViIrsj_jCsllrDXRIxqWhn13RDIZRszHgKslW5qHN-yO5jgnv3L0dBmrXBkB7hxBQh_CT_qfnYf7b86AqgQyQIQFFeJgsc/s1600/IMG_6349e.JPG" height="450" title="Highlevel Streetcar" width="640" /></a></div>
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And these three little gals giggled like teenagers the whole way.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVmFTSQpCzNM-n8zfu_C7cfE_wlesG9WLCt2zb-GSQmn9Y2sc7KsTTb5joMIWw4nNsAp6cLIWuFjZmkqH7DBjKE6IrKp1vgtOBL6cpOC41bwupK-2E9Uq8eH5V6FvbE9c3mTd14hlVCTk/s1600/IMG_6355e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Highlevel Streetcar" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVmFTSQpCzNM-n8zfu_C7cfE_wlesG9WLCt2zb-GSQmn9Y2sc7KsTTb5joMIWw4nNsAp6cLIWuFjZmkqH7DBjKE6IrKp1vgtOBL6cpOC41bwupK-2E9Uq8eH5V6FvbE9c3mTd14hlVCTk/s1600/IMG_6355e.JPG" height="426" title="Highlevel Streetcar" width="640" /></a></div>
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I love Edmonton at all times of the year and am digging all the winter celebrations lately.</div>
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But, if I'm being honest, August kicks butt in the festival department.</div>
cwesthickshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06169419308867062245noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4202092173002268645.post-32988418067200615582014-10-01T22:04:00.002-06:002014-10-01T22:04:14.503-06:00Melissa's Road Race 2014<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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This has become one of my favourite traditions.</div>
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A weekend in the mountains with a little {albeit slightly painful} run, delightful right?</div>
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Yep, it doesn't get much more beautiful than this.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT2qFCSCi_DeGJ35RQrDv5qrB72oWwMeB33uYx1-9VMvobNdmknzMW-Htu4bSzzBUPnv0DSwZoFB8v2XW_2KGBx6k2KzhyLGKQDxkZ2NvxTmLkQyRpf9nbc5TmpVUQEFjHNmzXmPHzQwE/s1600/IMG_6684e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Canmore" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT2qFCSCi_DeGJ35RQrDv5qrB72oWwMeB33uYx1-9VMvobNdmknzMW-Htu4bSzzBUPnv0DSwZoFB8v2XW_2KGBx6k2KzhyLGKQDxkZ2NvxTmLkQyRpf9nbc5TmpVUQEFjHNmzXmPHzQwE/s1600/IMG_6684e.JPG" height="424" title="Canmore" width="640" /></a></div>
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Except maybe this.</div>
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We had the privilege of sharing a condo with this beautiful girl and her parents.</div>
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{Summer Recap 4 1/2: Welcome Olivia!}</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihDKLZwZB72u4WGjlZdh3p5dR5ghC63VB2bUC42ldPxlcx5To_MyN6SM6evrZYw3lMG2cdKP9AHPkIcRl55vYxnXgZNjsBbfoC837XcFyNPw5ikdx7PIk3LOgYo7SOPKzcu80cQaBDMdo/s1600/IMG_6668e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihDKLZwZB72u4WGjlZdh3p5dR5ghC63VB2bUC42ldPxlcx5To_MyN6SM6evrZYw3lMG2cdKP9AHPkIcRl55vYxnXgZNjsBbfoC837XcFyNPw5ikdx7PIk3LOgYo7SOPKzcu80cQaBDMdo/s1600/IMG_6668e.JPG" height="470" width="640" /></a></div>
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Our group was a little smaller this year.</div>
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Life events and such.</div>
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{Jenna was 2 1/2 months postpartum so definitely deserved a pass.}</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv86Gj42AjWd6B7hW8UyW6Ajox4cYurZ56YmsHauQcPgsYZS0Rzwf1Y22xcjvVNxDZHftxlLQyV1OxYWbP1V7fm9X_rcpbLEKKBPUu74eGz00_2kFKUHjAlKjlJmD7gtFHvqdXv4f1rXU/s1600/IMG_6686e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Melissa's Road Race 2014" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv86Gj42AjWd6B7hW8UyW6Ajox4cYurZ56YmsHauQcPgsYZS0Rzwf1Y22xcjvVNxDZHftxlLQyV1OxYWbP1V7fm9X_rcpbLEKKBPUu74eGz00_2kFKUHjAlKjlJmD7gtFHvqdXv4f1rXU/s1600/IMG_6686e.JPG" height="452" title="Melissa's Road Race 2014" width="640" /></a></div>
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We ran into my friend Elena at the end of the race and I introduced her to my Dad.</div>
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She asked if he is the reason I run and, you know, I hadn't really thought much about it.</div>
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But of course he is.</div>
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I had immediate flashbacks in that moment to being 10 and jogging with Dad.</div>
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I hated it of course {I think that was right around the beginning of my sloth phase} and remember him being much more fit than I.</div>
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I am thankful now that he set that example for me since it obviously stuck.</div>
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I hope that each time the kids cheer us on it's sticking with them too.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlCG5csmX6ldYPGpWuUjEpvlOj2oQhmGVWNMxypFU86PnMTt6SetjNOLCNs7-iSbaoax6dMBu7uI7LtsXd8jizg5AOEU7thJSfKOxVQoK-zsPhobgJ11PtkzH-4fxJqd7xosvsCMIV99Q/s1600/IMG_6692e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Melissa's Road Race 2014" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlCG5csmX6ldYPGpWuUjEpvlOj2oQhmGVWNMxypFU86PnMTt6SetjNOLCNs7-iSbaoax6dMBu7uI7LtsXd8jizg5AOEU7thJSfKOxVQoK-zsPhobgJ11PtkzH-4fxJqd7xosvsCMIV99Q/s1600/IMG_6692e.JPG" height="442" title="Melissa's Road Race 2014" width="640" /></a></div>
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We finished off the day with a lot of relaxing, hydrating, eating and just a little booze.</div>
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{We've learned our lesson and do not overindulge after the race anymore.}</div>
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The next morning we were treated to a gang of elk just outside our Canmore condo.</div>
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{I know, I thought it was a herd too but nope, the correct term for a group of elk is a gang. There we go learning again right?}</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZEFhdIAT0x2QS94SQavOghjlmh0yF3BQGrfFJyzPYaEJWfFVrT-xMrpZ2IULfRZ9NKfSzix9T7XW9vcyfI7aYmwfgg913R2jTXM2DHUMditU9aa1E73yCYKSbH0TflwKRBXzHZ8_wtvY/s1600/IMG_6731e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Canmore" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZEFhdIAT0x2QS94SQavOghjlmh0yF3BQGrfFJyzPYaEJWfFVrT-xMrpZ2IULfRZ9NKfSzix9T7XW9vcyfI7aYmwfgg913R2jTXM2DHUMditU9aa1E73yCYKSbH0TflwKRBXzHZ8_wtvY/s1600/IMG_6731e.JPG" height="426" title="Canmore" width="640" /></a></div>
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Then after a lazy morning with our own gang {see what I did there?} we headed out to the streets of Canmore.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMTP4HYt26BMjIAd7Q7CfXwWEM5DdzYG7-JVvtqITrwH77kEovCo7uupTQrl43QkdXgc1tMGAo2YB3MTAOfS5Fm-g6WY7Nyu01zgD6rX1O6FQMufveKrDR6qZfpDCVitn3SahRW5p0PQE/s1600/IMG_6756e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Canmore" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMTP4HYt26BMjIAd7Q7CfXwWEM5DdzYG7-JVvtqITrwH77kEovCo7uupTQrl43QkdXgc1tMGAo2YB3MTAOfS5Fm-g6WY7Nyu01zgD6rX1O6FQMufveKrDR6qZfpDCVitn3SahRW5p0PQE/s1600/IMG_6756e.JPG" height="564" title="Canmore" width="640" /></a></div>
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Managed to stop in one bookstore.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip9YokFEtO_gSGEbHtRrAqVPnL_BXwxnzHnVA8ciCXyAosOlS_nDd8A1-V6YQLtuyXeXMnfHfYqkEtHe3Dn1EbGg9Jd8UJqwJCbMrdfVZQuhY6eKarm9fxVqqsxxdDKUiKPc_ZyfOU-RM/s1600/IMG_6750e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Canmore" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip9YokFEtO_gSGEbHtRrAqVPnL_BXwxnzHnVA8ciCXyAosOlS_nDd8A1-V6YQLtuyXeXMnfHfYqkEtHe3Dn1EbGg9Jd8UJqwJCbMrdfVZQuhY6eKarm9fxVqqsxxdDKUiKPc_ZyfOU-RM/s1600/IMG_6750e.JPG" height="426" title="Canmore" width="640" /></a></div>
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Then it hit Jeff, we're not quite sure what but he was in no state to be out and about.</div>
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I'm glad we didn't push it because he was in bad shape by the time we got home.</div>
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In lieu of our little walk about town I took a bit of a scenic route home and let the family sleep while I stopped for pictures now and again.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin2C6ZuzmN7Lcxs7NBmh04787CT8-u3qp1C_AzzgFvTBurj5KDR_WlJGPwBUmmQxMmpURGzH0ccoDYu3P7wecevyUeosoK7OQlKdPql__jMWLBSCvBpdbU23t9D_yWUUGLaBS-dEZjjyg/s1600/IMG_6771e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img alt="Rocky Mountains" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin2C6ZuzmN7Lcxs7NBmh04787CT8-u3qp1C_AzzgFvTBurj5KDR_WlJGPwBUmmQxMmpURGzH0ccoDYu3P7wecevyUeosoK7OQlKdPql__jMWLBSCvBpdbU23t9D_yWUUGLaBS-dEZjjyg/s1600/IMG_6771e.JPG" height="426" title="Rocky Mountains" width="640" /></a><br />
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I just love this time of year and in the mountains it's something else.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaRDxfriVm_I5xkOZ3SoQm13X5HfxjwhIKA8RG1cQdhUjMwpEMGOfifngAq3njDQ6xrazlUvNQ_DbubbT_QiLehEjpngQqAqgeUzL0kLJZK8dMFtJ5k7xrzfzleu25p6RSO4LStH9QvAo/s1600/IMG_6783e.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Rocky Mountains" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaRDxfriVm_I5xkOZ3SoQm13X5HfxjwhIKA8RG1cQdhUjMwpEMGOfifngAq3njDQ6xrazlUvNQ_DbubbT_QiLehEjpngQqAqgeUzL0kLJZK8dMFtJ5k7xrzfzleu25p6RSO4LStH9QvAo/s1600/IMG_6783e.JPG" height="426" title="Rocky Mountains" width="640" /></a></div>
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I'm already looking forward to next year.</div>
cwesthickshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06169419308867062245noreply@blogger.com0