tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-64813439714670195182024-03-13T22:13:16.686-05:00this blessed girl<center>I am a right-brained, travel-loving wife, mother, and amateur photographer. Welcome to my mind.</center>
Whitney Dupuishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08634372712660476935noreply@blogger.comBlogger283125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6481343971467019518.post-42949556299988704392017-07-25T21:27:00.003-05:002017-07-25T21:27:23.680-05:00Boy Talk : Soccer 2015 Season<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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So, I don't know if you know this but...I have this kid. He's the greatest. Bar none. He is smart and funny and so stinkin' cute I can't stand it sometimes. He's also a pretty good little soccer player. And what's more? He L-O-V-E-S it. And man, it is so fun to watch him out on the pitch. </div>
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I, of course, have my camera on hand to document his spectacular abilities for the sole purpose of highlight reels later in life. Obviously, he will have a ton of shots to show off, but right now I have to be careful not to add other children to this blog. I haven't asked their moms' permission yet and we all know about getting the mom's permission to do anything. If you don't have it, you're dead meat. So to save my own hide, it was actually kind of difficult to find pictures for this blog. </div>
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Never fear, dear <strike>dad</strike> reader. I found a few. Check out some highlights from 2015.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaOLdAipKrYhwIhXb80EWwj0D5L-hJKDqIgFtXwC_FP4w4rq9r7VlPjhdE9dcN0AW39aQrwYu8L8LSSbxJzc1yhy9IXcuOm-J5HstbnHrBstcfyplR530397NcX_EfaP_oLidG-nu4XtU/s1600/IMG_4494.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1068" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaOLdAipKrYhwIhXb80EWwj0D5L-hJKDqIgFtXwC_FP4w4rq9r7VlPjhdE9dcN0AW39aQrwYu8L8LSSbxJzc1yhy9IXcuOm-J5HstbnHrBstcfyplR530397NcX_EfaP_oLidG-nu4XtU/s640/IMG_4494.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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See the foot-on-ball placement? Professional in the making. Mark my words.<br />
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After every practice and game, he has to practice more. He never wants to leave the fields.<br />
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Yeah, he thinks he's hot stuff. We're STILL trying to learn humility here.<br />
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My parents happened to be in town for Canon's very first tournament {total coincidence, I'm sure}. Apparently, his bag was so weighed down with supplies for the day that he needed help carrying it, but instead of taking the whole bag, my dad just lifted it off of his back. For the entire half-mile trek to the field.<br />
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And it was COLD in the shade. I actually still remember just how badly I was shivering. It was pretty difficult to take pictures.<br />
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His team did so - well - horribly in this tournament {lost two games and tied one} that I'm not sure why they got medals. I guess the whole "everyone gets a medal for participating" thing - total crap, but whatever. He was excited so there's that.<br />
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Even though his team didn't do well, Canon did get 2 goals in the second game and 1 in the third. He was so proud!<br />
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2015 actually proved to be a fantastic start to some great seasons of soccer for Canon. He ended up with a great coach that really helped him learn and grow as a player. He was on this coach's team through the first half of 2016 also {which means you'll see him later, I'm sure} and we wish he was still our coach now! In the two seasons of 2015 {17 games, which included 3 tournament games}, he scored a total of 55 goals and 12 assists. Yes, I am that mom that took score. Come at me, bro! Also, yes, I know that's a lot, but here's the thing. They were 5 years old. And most of them didn't even care to be out there. Canon loved it so he was hustling and running circles around the other kids. Trust me, it evens out in the years to come.<br />
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I know this is a Pulitzer-prize winning post *eye roll of the century totally expected*, but I am happy that I get to document my boy's climb to greatness. And since you're along for the ride, you're welcome.<br />
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<br />Whitney Dupuishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08634372712660476935noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6481343971467019518.post-47754687362619999982017-06-19T12:54:00.000-05:002017-06-19T12:54:20.628-05:00Fireworks are my favorite<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
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So I know it's hard to believe this, but I am going to have to ask you to trust me on this one. </div>
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I L-O-V-E take photos of fireworks. </div>
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Shocking, I know, but true. I literally look forward to July 4th fireworks displays every year so that I can see what I capture with my camera. The Day of Independence is obviously WAY more important for other reasons, but this is a tradition that I get excited about. You know have no idea. </div>
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Case in point : this year, I am pretty bummed that I will be at a soccer game {you'll find out more about that later} and I'm not sure I will be able to take my tripod - if they even have a fireworks show at all. Ok, more so ticked than bummed if I'm being quite honest.</div>
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Anyway, back to the post at hand. July 4, 2015 we were in Fairhope, AL as is tradition. We parked our behinds on the pier and watched the light bursts over Mobile Bay, which really just can't be beat.</div>
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I'm not positive, but I'm pretty sure that Nikola Tesla was trying to communicate with us here.</div>
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I love the different shapes that the pyros shoot. They are, after all. Pyros, I mean. They are brilliant. And brave. And so stinking creative.<br />
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One flower stands alone.<br />
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I love happy accidents. Exhibit A : this photo. There is absolutely no way that I could have planned this capture. Kind of reminds me of a dancer. Love it.<br />
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This looks like some kind of sea creature to me. Or maybe I just need some coffee. Scratch that. Of course I need coffee. Hold please. Nope, still looks like a creature of the deep.<br />
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I'll admit that it's kind of hard to get excited about these when I already have 2016 fireworks photos too, but I'm trying. For your sake. You're welcome.<br />
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<br />Whitney Dupuishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08634372712660476935noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6481343971467019518.post-51107838203916724092017-06-14T13:33:00.004-05:002017-06-14T13:33:44.705-05:00A Mountain Weekend Getaway<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
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I know it's going to come as a shock to everyone, but I don't remember a thing about this trip to Blue Ridge other than the fact that we hopped up there for a weekend visit in May of 2015 so that Craig could help his dad with some manly chores. You know, chopping down trees, making fires, drinking beer. Wait, that last thing isn't manly. It's smart. I mean...uh. You know what I mean.</div>
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Since it wasn't a "visiting family" or "holiday" jaunt, I spent my time documenting everything around me. I know, I know - I always do that. Just look at the photos and don't mind me.</div>
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Fibonacci, what?!<br />
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Don't these just send you back to your childhood days and make you hungry for summer outside?<br />
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While I was flitting around from plant to plant like a little butterfly {um, what?! I promise I am of sound mind. Usually.}, the boys were hard at work. Canon was breaking sticks...<br />
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...while the men took down this huge limb. It has since been used to make some pretty tasty s'mores. <i>#thanksnature</i><br />
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I promise not all of my posts will be this lacking of stories and words, but sometimes it just works out that way. Also, I just legitimately don't remember this weekend. So...<br />
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However, standing before you today, I do solemnly swear to draft up a ton of posts each weekend and will dig into the very depths of my soul to bring you joy! tears! laughter! with my entries in the future. My life's purpose is, of course, to make you happy, dear readers. I shall strive to live up to my potential.<br />
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<br />Whitney Dupuishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08634372712660476935noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6481343971467019518.post-30767587372050672952017-06-12T17:05:00.003-05:002017-06-12T17:05:58.773-05:00Wonderful Weekend : Asheville, NC - Homeward Bound<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Forgive me, Internet, for I have sinned. It has been two years since my last <strike>confession</strike> blog post. I wish I could tell you that it was because of some life-changing event like having a baby or winning the lottery. Alas, it is because I got overwhelmed. Busy. Lazy. Take your pick. Life happened. I still documented and you will still see the results of said documentation. You'll just be a little late to the party. Better late than never, amiright?!</div>
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In any case, if you're reading this, you're most likely my dad, so "Hi Dad!". If you somehow stumbled into my corner of the internet and aren't mon pere, welcome! I hope you enjoy our time together and come back for more.</div>
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Since a lot posts in the near future are going to be catching up on life, I am probably going to be fuzzy on some details. My bad, Dog. Welcome to my brain {and photo} dump.</div>
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So when we last spoke, I was telling you about our trip to Asheville, NC and recounted our adventures in the city {<a href="http://www.thisblessedgirl.com/2015/06/wonderful-weekend-asheville-nc-part-one.html">1</a>, <a href="http://www.thisblessedgirl.com/2015/06/wonderful-weekend-asheville-nc-part-two.html">2</a>, <a href="http://www.thisblessedgirl.com/2015/06/wonderful-weekend-asheville-nc-part.html">3</a>, <a href="http://www.thisblessedgirl.com/2015/06/wonderful-weekend-asheville-nc.html">4</a>} and at Biltmore {<a href="http://www.thisblessedgirl.com/2015/06/wonderful-weekend-asheville-nc-biltmore.html">1</a>, <a href="http://www.thisblessedgirl.com/2015/06/wonderful-weekend-asheville-nc-biltmore_11.html">2</a>, <a href="http://www.thisblessedgirl.com/2015/06/wonderful-weekend-asheville-nc-biltmore_15.html">3</a>, <a href="http://www.thisblessedgirl.com/2015/06/wonderful-weekend-asheville-nc-biltmore_16.html">4</a>}. Go refresh your memory. I'll wait.</div>
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Ok, remember now? Well after leaving Asheville, we were headed back to Blue Ridge to pick up Canon {thanks, Grandma and Grandpa!} so we took the scenic route - aka the only way to get from Asheville to Blue Ridge. At one point during our drive, we came upon this bridge. There were a couple of places to pull off the side of the two-lane road so we took advantage so I could get some pictures. Naturally.</div>
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*Ahem : the following should be read a la <a href="https://youtu.be/s_cAS-mvV20">Chris Farley</a>. May he rest in peace.*<br />
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I'm not really what you would call a "daredevil". I don't "like heights". I'm not a "risky person". Thus, the death grip on the sides of bridge.<br />
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Such a pretty view to be so freaking scary to walk on. I'm talking death-defying. I'm so proud of myself for facing my fears and not screaming at the toddler who shook the planks while I was standing two steps from the end. That took all of my self-control.<br />
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But that wasn't enough of a photo fix, obviously, so when I spotted these beauties on the side of the road I decided I had to immerse myself for a while. On the side of the interstate. Literally, up to my elbows in flowers wet with rain. I'll let you picture that in your mind for a while.<br />
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And yet another example of a need for a macro lens. I would think that you would be tired of hearing this, reader, except that it's been two years so I feel the need to reiterate.<br />
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There's just something about the not-quite-perfect in nature that calls to me. The lines, the details, all of those characteristics that help a plant become what it's meant to be. Perhaps, Freud would say I identify. That I see all of my imperfections and am drawn to things that are imperfect to help me feel better about myself. Or some such nonsense. What does he know, anyway?<br />
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So once again I obsessed over plants, but I have no idea what they are. I'd love to hear their name, though I can't guarantee I will remember next time. Care to help a sister out?<br />
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This officially ends the Asheville trip photos. It only took two years. I can see why you'd be sick of them. I will try to bring something new and exciting next time.<br />
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I'm glad to be back. I am well aware that my writing is a little meh right now. Never fear. I will find my groove again.<br />
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Come back again now, ya hear?<br />
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<br />Whitney Dupuishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08634372712660476935noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6481343971467019518.post-12289879502594749412015-06-16T20:05:00.001-05:002015-06-16T20:05:43.551-05:00Wonderful Weekend : Asheville, NC - Biltmore Part Four<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I know you are probably tired of hearing about the Biltmore Estate so I swear this is the last post dedicated to it. Scouts honor.</div>
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In addition to the mansion, the gardens, the "pondlake", and the extensive trails and forested land, there is also a section of the Biltmore Estate that contains things like a winery, stables, woodworking shop, blacksmith, and a museum. No seriously.</div>
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Our tickets to tour the estate included lunch vouchers at one of the restaurants on property, Deerpark Restaurant.</div>
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This place used to house the cows for the dairy farming, but they have since retrofitted the building to be a really cool dining facility. Check it.<br />
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And the food was absolutely incredible! It was a buffet style, which I'll admit, I was a little disappointed to see...until I took my first bite and then decided they could have my second born. <i>{I'm a little attached to Canon and I probably won't have a second child so it seemed like an easy trade.}</i><br />
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I was really excited to tour the winery, which included a complimentary wine tasting. Not gonna lie, I was a little disappointed with the tasting because it seemed so...clinical. There were a ton of people standing around tall bar areas with probably 20 bartenders and you had to strain to hear what your bartender was telling you. Not nearly as fancy or even cozy as I was hoping for, but at least I got some wine.<br />
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Oh look, more flower pictures. Sorry about that guys, I just can't help myself.<br />
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We hit up the stables next and found this guy staring at us. Just a little disturbing, really.<br />
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We found the blacksmith in his work station doing what he does best - putting on a show. Don't let that fool you, though. He is an honest-to-goodness blacksmith who does all of the metal work for the estate. Very entertaining, though. He even made a leaf out of the metal rod while we stood watching. Really talented guy, this one.<br />
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Before leaving, we had to take one last look at the house. We actually went back to view a statue that we had failed to see on the first go-round, but found that a wedding was being held at that location so we roamed around until we found the perfect viewing area of the mansion without crashing the marital party.<br />
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We really had a lovely time touring this magnificent work of art. The entire estate almost literally took our breath away at every turn, and I would return again just to find details that I missed during our first run. Plus, apparently they host a race every year that Craig is really itching to run. If he twists my arm, I may even run/walk with him.<br />
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Hahahahahahahaha!<br />
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I crack myself up.<br />
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<br />Whitney Dupuishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08634372712660476935noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6481343971467019518.post-27234008725867592732015-06-15T21:06:00.000-05:002015-06-15T21:06:44.343-05:00Wonderful Weekend : Asheville, NC - Biltmore Part Three<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Did I mention that there is a butt-load of acreage on the Biltmore Estate? Did I? Yes. Yes, I did. Here I am to show you more. Get ready, people. There is plenty to see.</div>
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Apparently, when people have more money than sense, they can create magical wonderlands simply for pleasure's sake. Case in point? This amazing, yet completely unnecessary, arched tunnel.</div>
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It connects one side of the walking trail to the other because...tunnel.<br />
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Though it seems like the flowers and plants grow somewhat randomly throughout the property, we learned that everything was planted in a specific place purposefully. The landscape architect, Frederick Law Olstead, actually planned the placement of all of the plants to envoke specific feelings depending on the location along the walking path. Let me tell you...he was really good. If you are into that sort of thing. Which I am.<br />
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Ooooh, look at my handsome hubby striking a pose.<br />
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Along with the walking trails and forested land, there is a lake {They called it a pond. It definitely isn't.} that you can stroll by and sit along the benches provided to enjoy the stillness of it all. We stayed here for quite a while.<br />
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I was so fascinated by this bridge. I mean, how much time, energy, and money did it take to mold bricks into a rounded formation for this top?<br />
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Although we specifically placed a rule against hiking on this particular trip as it was supposed to be nothing but relaxing, we found ourselves taking a wooded trail from the lake back to the house. My ballet flats weren't necessarily ideal for the trek, but the vegetation left nothing to be desired.<br />
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This is like Crouching Tiger, Hidden Craig.<br />
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Last but not least, I will leave you with my favorite flower of the trip. I don't know what it is, but I want to be friends with it. I think I might be in love.<br />
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Check in tomorrow to see what else I have to share. Don't worry. If you aren't in to nature photos, there will be something in it for you too.<br />
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<br />Whitney Dupuishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08634372712660476935noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6481343971467019518.post-65495100862495313292015-06-11T19:56:00.000-05:002015-06-11T19:56:00.094-05:00Wonderful Weekend : Asheville, NC - Biltmore Part Two<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Aside from having a ridiculous mansion, the Biltmore Estate is known for its immaculate garden and grounds. I'm talking thousands of acres of amazing flora and fauna to feast your eyes upon. If you could walk that much...which you can't. At least in a day. In any case, for a girl that loves taking nature photography, I was in heaven during this part of our tour.</div>
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Along with paths and trails to walk the grounds with strategically placed plants, there was a more formal garden, complete with conservatory. Talk about breathtaking blooms!<br />
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The rose garden alone boasts over 1400 roses. Normally I don't love roses, but some of these were so beautiful I just couldn't stand it.<br />
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Of course, no trip to a legit garden and conservatory is complete without a facebook picture update. Right, babe?<br />
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The conservatory had sections of plants types, from tropical to arid and everything in between.<br />
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Check out this lovely lady. I mean, seriously, how creative is that?!<br />
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Although there was a sign indicating this type of plant, I don't remember what it was. I do, however, remember how I stood staring at it for a while because I thought it was so interesting. You would think for someone that loves taking photos of plants and flowers so much that I would know more about them. Nope, I can't identify them and I certainly can't keep them alive. I just like to shoot them and leave them. I'm a black {thumb} widow, baby.<br />
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For those of you that enjoy photos of nature as much as I do, please join me next week for more views of our wanderings of the Biltmore Estate grounds. For those of you that don't like them...well, get over it and come back anyway. Please.<br />
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<br />Whitney Dupuishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08634372712660476935noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6481343971467019518.post-1147039135630416662015-06-09T20:07:00.001-05:002015-06-09T20:07:08.506-05:00Wonderful Weekend : Asheville, NC - Biltmore Part One<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Along with our brewery tour, the only other definite event that we wanted to schedule in our mini vacation was a day trip to the Biltmore Estate. Because of course you can't go to Asheville without a stop at the ridiculous mansion built by a Vanderbilt 120 years ago.</div>
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Seriously, this house is such an amazing piece of architecture with all of the wood, tile, and plaster details that it took my breath away. Just check out this herringbone tile ceiling in the entryway of the home.<br />
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Vanderbilt had a winter garden put in so that he could enjoy flowers and greenery all year round. It makes a huge impact - doubly so since it is the first thing you see when you walk in the door.<br />
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Right after leaving the winter garden, I was informed that I couldn't take pictures inside the house. What the what?! After Craig revived me from my near-death state, I soldiered on and loved it but found so many details that I would have killed to capture. Like the staircase. Oh, the staircase! Darn you, Vanderbilts, for not allowing photography. Ugh!<br />
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So, of course the first chance I got to go outside to a sitting area I whipped out my camera and got happy again. Temporarily, at least.<br />
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On the way down to the basement I did sneak a quick pic of the cellar walls. Talk about a safe place to go during storms! These walls are 4 foot thick stone. Seriously beefy.<br />
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Right off of the library which housed around, oh 10,000 books, there was a covered porch. Check out the trees that were the base for some gorgeous canopied greenery.<br />
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Vanderbilt seems like he was nice enough guy, but you know he had more money than sense when he built himself a "pond" that is the size of Lake freakin' Pontchartrain. Ok, maybe not quite that big, but you get the idea. It is fully stocked, too, with fish that apparently have no natural predator. Pretty lucky fish since I bet no one fishes in there anymore.<br />
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The Biltmore is like America's castle. A modernized one, complete with indoor plumbing, an indoor pool, gymnasium, and bowling alley. And about a thousand bedrooms to suit any decorative fancy.<br />
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We also toured the gardens and the surrounding winery, which I will bring to you next so stay tuned!<br />
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<br />Whitney Dupuishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08634372712660476935noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6481343971467019518.post-36168576279069772342015-06-08T20:19:00.000-05:002015-06-08T20:19:10.665-05:00Wonderful Weekend : Asheville, NC - Asheville Brewery Tour<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
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Our main goal for our mini vacation was relaxation. We did have two different activities that we definitely wanted to experience. One of those was a brewery tour. Asheville has a ridiculous craft brewery scene, and some pretty ingenious companies decided to capitalize on that fact. Thus, the brewery tours were born. There are a couple of different options : the company will take you around in a van to multiple breweries for you to taste the creations or you can take a walking tour. Of course, we chose the walking tour because how else are you going to take in the sites of the city too?!</div>
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We began our tour at Green Man Brewery, which had a very eclectic style, complete with Yoda and Kermie overseeing the pours.</div>
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Our tour guide, Melissa, was extremely knowledgeable about the brewing process and, of course, each beer that we were to taste. She asked us specifically what types of beers we preferred and tried to accommodate each of us at every stop. She even gave us the rundown on the history - and things to come - when it came to the craft brew scene in the city. She was pretty rockin' as a person too so that was definitely a bonus.<br />
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We hit up Catawba Brewing Company next, which is housed in a really cool loft-type building. Very industrial meets rustic. I was totally digging the vibe. Our tour group consisted of Craig, me, Melissa, and one other really laid back couple. It was nice having a small group to hang with rather than missing out on the human interactions with a large group of strangers.<br />
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Next up - Twin Leaf Brewery, where we sat at long picnic style tables and laughed together. The beer may or may not have started to buzz us a little by then. Also, we were getting to know each other and the comfort level was definitely increasing. This brewery, as well as all of the others, was housed in a converted maintenance garage. Melissa told us that this was purposely done because brewing beer is not the cleanest process. Things are going to spill and it is much easier to take a building that already has the drainage system needed in the floors instead of trying to add all of the equipment and piping, which would be a major construction job.<br />
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We ended the tour at Hi-Wire Brewing. Given the name, it should be no surprise that it had an almost carnivale feel to it, but it was understated and cool. A place you could just hang out for hours, playing pool and talking with friends.<br />
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If you find yourself in Asheville, I highly recommend taking a tour with Melissa from <a href="http://ashevillebrewerytours.com/#_=_">Asheville Brewery Tours</a>. Totally worth your time. We thoroughly enjoyed ourselves. And no, I can't choose my favorite brewery or beer. There were definitely a couple of beers that we tasted that I didn't care for, but it was because I am not really into IPA's. They don't really do it for me. Overall though, the craft brewing scene in this cool little city is legit and I am so glad we took the time to explore it.<br />
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<br />Whitney Dupuishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08634372712660476935noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6481343971467019518.post-22750948545492867082015-06-05T09:48:00.000-05:002015-06-05T09:48:03.196-05:00Wonderful Weekend : Asheville, NC - Part Three<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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One of my favorite pastimes is walking through a place and forcing myself to find something interesting in the "mundane". So when we decided to go to Asheville, I was determined to take some time to do just that. To discover the little gems that others may or may not notice.</div>
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For instance, this mask was on the wall of a brewery and I loved the colors that were picked up because of the wall color. This particular bar had stuff everywhere. I mean, there were magnets, signs, and other random paraphernalia in every square inch of display space. This lovely lady just happened to have her own tiny space and she beckoned me.<br />
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I loved the grid of this building and the way the sun hit the "copper" panels just so.<br />
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This city had so many different architectural styles that it seemed like there was something different to look at around every corner.<br />
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Why yes, that is a mobile bar. Patrons would pedal as they drank, though I am certain that wasn't necessary. I do think that is a good idea though, as it would work off the calories of that beer as you consumed it. Genius!<br />
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Looking at things from a different perspective is, I think, a healthy way to view the world.<br />
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Next week I will bring you more of our adventures from our trip. I hope you are up for it!<br />
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<br />Whitney Dupuishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08634372712660476935noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6481343971467019518.post-52241235702628526202015-06-02T20:44:00.000-05:002015-06-02T20:44:04.298-05:00Wonderful Weekend : Asheville, NC - Part Two<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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As promised, I am here to once again regale you with stories of our romantic weekend getaway to Asheville. Don't worry, it won't get mushy. It is quite the flourishing town, with plenty of gathering spots and green spaces for people to interact with each other. In hind sight, I didn't see <i>everyone</i> on their cell phones and in their own worlds ,as is the case in most places. Instead, I saw a ton of face-to-face communication, laughter, and friendliness among strangers. What a concept?!</div>
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There was one side street where the light posts and bollards were yarn bombed. At first, I thought it was the handiwork of some random knitter. You know you are in a hip town when you find a place that has been yarn bombed. <i>#hipstercentral</i><br />
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I later realized, with a little disappointment, that there was in fact a yarn shop on this street which better explains the yarn art. <i>Whatever Asheville, you're still hip to me.</i><br />
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The Grove Arcade is a building in the middle of town that was finished in 1929, with the sole purpose of housing offices and businesses alike. It was to be the epicenter of downtown and proved to be just that until it was taken over by the federal government in an effort to win World War II. They felt that the building's size and safe location would be an ideal place to hole up and do government-y things to defeat the Nazis. Or something like that. All of the candy shops, barbers, and restaurateurs had less than a month to vacate the premises so they could "get down to business". The city of Asheville finally got it back in 1997 and it has once again been returned to its original state, housing everything from clothing boutiques to salons. The architecture of this building, though, is the real gem. Check it.<br />
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See what I mean?<br />
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Moving along. We found a really cool courtyard that didn't look particularly inviting to those of us not in the know, but that didn't stop me from taking a shot.<br />
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Before we left for this trip, we checked out some of the restaurants that we wanted to try while in town. One of my "must-do's" was Dobra Tea. I really wanted to try an authentic tea room experience, but by the time we got there we decided that it was too warm for hot tea and instead opted to continue our explorations with an iced tea. We both got the Forest Dragon, though for the life of me I can't remember why exactly it called to both of us. When it was presented to us in clear "to-go" cups and was very, very green, we were a little hesitant. Never one to shy away from trying things at least once, we dove in. I LOVED it!!! So refreshing and different, it had a full-bodied taste to it. I don't really know how else to describe it. Craig would probably describe it as...disgusting. Yeah, he didn't like it. Eh, to each his own.<br />
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It seems that art of all forms is taken very seriously in this hip city. Everything from intricate sculptures in front of government buildings and banks...<br />
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...to handwoven baskets hanging outside of shops along the street.<br />
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Still haven't had your fill of all that Asheville has to offer? Oh just wait, there's more. See you here in a couple of days.<br />
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<br />Whitney Dupuishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08634372712660476935noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6481343971467019518.post-40462306955332289882015-06-01T21:23:00.004-05:002015-06-01T21:23:56.719-05:00Wonderful Weekend : Asheville, NC - Part One<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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If you have ever read this blog you know how obsessed I am with my kid. He is the coolest little dude on the planet. No, seriously. I am not biased. I speak only truth.</div>
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However, he is not the only boy in my life that has stolen my heart. You see, ten years ago there was this other boy. He sauntered into my world and turned it upside down. He loved me in spite of myself - and God bless him - he still puts up with me to this day. </div>
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The thing about marriage is that you have to work at it. You have to carve out time to spend together, working on each other. It is so easy to get caught up in life, in the day-to-day, in the jobs or the kids. I know this first hand because I lost myself in my child for years. Over the last year though, Craig and I have vowed to reclaim our relationship. To ensure that we come first to each other. One of the ways that we have decided to accomplish this goal is to spend more time together - just the two of us. Of course that means the occasional date night, but it also means entire weekends spent away from the hustle and bustle that we experience every day. </div>
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In other words, we are taking every excuse for a mini vacation we can get. This time, we headed to Asheville, NC. The first intent was to visit the Biltmore Estate, but we soon realized that the downtown area of this city boasted some pretty amazing stuff. We spent several days exploring, eating, and just talking. Soaking up the time together. It was glorious.</div>
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Asheville is definitely an up-and-coming epicenter for a boho and worldy culture, complete with just about any type of cuisine you could desire, street performers, and handmade art dotting each street. We were enraptured from moment one. I mean, just check out the architecture of this parking garage. A public parking garage, people. Seriously?!</div>
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Craig has a hard time getting into "vacation mode" usually. In fact, it generally takes him at least a day and a half to relax enough to enjoy himself. When you only have four days, that isn't a good idea so I decided to start our vacation with a full body massage. It was just what the doctor ordered - for both of us - but of course after that we were mush. So much so that I accidentally left my camera in the room when we went out for an early dinner. Yeah, the massage was<i> that good. </i><br />
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We took the time to sample a ton of food and beverages that lined the streets of downtown. They had everything from Indian street food to Himalayan cuisine and everything in between. Even better? Not one chain restaurant was to be seen. Oh happy day.<br />
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And yes, I took a completely inappropriate picture of Craig and the sign behind him. Don't worry, Mom and Dad, I won't post it for the world to see.<br />
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We stayed just minutes from downtown and had to travel through this tunnel each time we made the drive.<br />
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One of the best meals of the trip was at this restaurant called Carmel's. Oh my gosh, seriously, the food. Just wow. We sat outside and watched the people passing by. It is an extremely walk-able city and so dog-friendly that it is impossible not to enjoy yourself just taking it all in.<br />
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The Basilica de St. Lawrence sits just on the edge of downtown and a breathtakingly beautiful church. We did step inside, but I felt that it would take away from the reverence of the place by taking photographs, as there were people inside praying and a service was about to begin. However, I can tell you that there were herringbone tiles adorning the ceiling, arched rafters, stained glass windows, and amazing depictions of Jesus and the Virgin Mary in corridors lining the main sanctuary. Truly a sight to behold.<br />
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The architecture of the outside was beautiful in and of itself. The brickwork alone must have taken years to perfect and construct.</div>
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We stumbled upon what may be one of my favorite shops of all time, called The Spce & Tea Exchange. I love herbal teas so I bee-lined for this place when I saw it from across the street. When we walked in, though, it was like Heaven itself opened up and the angels sang in grateful chorus.<br />
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This place mixes it own teas, seasonings, salts, peppers, and herbs. No seriously, just check it out.</div>
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It smelled divine. I should know because I opened every.single.tea. and wanted to bath in each one.<br />
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Ah, lavender. I smelled this one and immediately wanted to curl up on a pallet and fall asleep. It was that good.<br />
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Such an amazing store. We may or may not have left with several baggies of teas, spices, and seasonings to try at home. Ok, we totally did.<br />
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Want to see more? No worries, I have plenty more to share. This city became a favorite of mine pretty quickly and I just couldn't get enough of it. I am betting you won't be able to either.<br />
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<br />Whitney Dupuishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08634372712660476935noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6481343971467019518.post-79883994616687850062015-05-19T20:35:00.002-05:002015-05-19T20:35:41.135-05:00A Perfect Equation<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
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There is this really awesome formula that I have discovered and I thought I would share it with the world. I don't think you're ready for this jelly...but I'm gonna tell you anyway.</div>
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Nap Time * (Beautiful Weather + Spring Flowers) = Camera Time</div>
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Mind blown, amiright?! Yeah, you're welcome.</div>
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I am all about making an efficient use of time <i>{stop laughing, all of you who know me in real life!}</i> so when both of my boys and my grandmother went down to rest during our visit, I took the opportunity to wander. I know her property like the back of my hand, but it is amazing the new discoveries I make every single time I go exploring. This excursion was all about the flowers. They are out in full force and just begging for their portraits to be taken. I was happy to oblige.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAInCp03fy1QCGi7JNsGkgInQF19PPZ6bgeSLsi9W3vNgRv33HW1QtyjFdqbM9eIIu3SKprZ57R3iA9whNOSvpkoOAtaf87L8bZ_sqTXBax_j-EqzROnRI0dAjksCDF6UCupYfaJ4jgnk/s1600/IMG_4107.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAInCp03fy1QCGi7JNsGkgInQF19PPZ6bgeSLsi9W3vNgRv33HW1QtyjFdqbM9eIIu3SKprZ57R3iA9whNOSvpkoOAtaf87L8bZ_sqTXBax_j-EqzROnRI0dAjksCDF6UCupYfaJ4jgnk/s640/IMG_4107.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
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I don't know about you, but this is just about the coolest onion I have ever seen.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPeOYo_xlVkP_MBaY5YUfu9Z-f_1ZnqfWQxezogQ2hyFSZvF6xTSyKiWzvJ3woR_O9TvvofBlt1uFXgDSKJeRsNtZaHyIRzMQHL2Pdq1E6egUPnsdJb7sEDI3vKCuj9Tc9IBUOmuyGM0o/s1600/IMG_4120.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPeOYo_xlVkP_MBaY5YUfu9Z-f_1ZnqfWQxezogQ2hyFSZvF6xTSyKiWzvJ3woR_O9TvvofBlt1uFXgDSKJeRsNtZaHyIRzMQHL2Pdq1E6egUPnsdJb7sEDI3vKCuj9Tc9IBUOmuyGM0o/s640/IMG_4120.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
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Again, the bloomin' onion. <i>Hey look, ma! I made a funny!</i><br />
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My grandmother loves her plants and flowers, but there are some that seem to pop out of nowhere that she hasn't even had the opportunity to enjoy since they are in the field above. That is a little far to walk and generally isn't a trek made by her. So I decided to take some shots so that hopefully she can enjoy them even without the hike.</div>
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There are quite a few blooms surrounding her house that have been there for years and return every spring to greet us when we visit. Some are intentional. Most are not. I love them all equally.<br />
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Somebody was hungry.<br />
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A yummy snack is always in order on a warm spring day.<br />
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This lean-to shed houses some of my grandfather's {and great grandfather's} farming tools. It has been around since a teenaged Methuselah built it but I have never explored it for fear of snakes and spiders...and tetanus. So I decided that this was the time to brave the place. Alone. Because I'm brilliant.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ3FzaqehmElXlFpBdUxRZ4yqlTaGqPaZtTG-h7YTauLhDdFYr-P0PriM9vIdZwPAY4n74GqVvMOpQqzz6oQUaW2cTtzD4BOzdDov49bzaXO6MJT5PwD2sBdSFZESyEKJTg0Db1qWkAVE/s1600/IMG_4339.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ3FzaqehmElXlFpBdUxRZ4yqlTaGqPaZtTG-h7YTauLhDdFYr-P0PriM9vIdZwPAY4n74GqVvMOpQqzz6oQUaW2cTtzD4BOzdDov49bzaXO6MJT5PwD2sBdSFZESyEKJTg0Db1qWkAVE/s640/IMG_4339.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
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I am going to go ahead and proclaim my love for this shot - not because I actually love it, but because this is the reason that I risked my life in the shed. I could have died in there and <strike>this is all I have to show for it</strike> this is the reason why. Oy!<br />
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This place seriously never disappoints in blooms. You can't walk five steps before spotting something beautiful to feast your eyes upon. I am so thankful that we get to experience it first hand whenever we want.<br />
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Neiner, neiner.<br />
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<br />Whitney Dupuishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08634372712660476935noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6481343971467019518.post-7338714486794503702015-05-18T21:40:00.001-05:002015-05-18T21:40:49.190-05:00Reform: A Day in the Life<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="text-align: left;">Oh, hello. Fancy meeting you here. I just thought I would drop by to see how things are going and, oh I don't know, blog about something. I mean, why not? No one else is writing here.</span></div>
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We took our monthly retreat to the country a few weeks ago and I figured "now's an appropriate time to share." <i>{50 million cool points for whomever can name that quote.}</i></div>
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So a few memories that I wanted to preserve are as follows. I hope you enjoy the stories that go along with these images, for they are the most important part.</div>
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Grandmama inherited a cat, named Beau, when my cousins moved to the next town and couldn't taken him with them. He lives mostly outdoors, but does come in every once in a while for some food and snuggles. He has grown fond of us, and we of him, and on this particular day that relationship came through loud and clear. Literally. You see, I began hearing a ton of noise come from the living room and went to investigate. Canon and Beau were staring at each other through the screen door and communicating...via meows. No, I am not kidding. The meowing went back and forth for about 5 minutes until Canon was allowed to go outside and hang out with his feline friend.</div>
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In fact, we all decided to go outside together. Canon and Grandmama fed the birds. We sat in the porch-style swing while the boy ran around in the yard, and then Canon got twisted up on the tree swing.<br />
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When we finally came back inside, it was time for breakfast and coffee. I couldn't resist a shot of this lovely lady.<br />
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Next up were the ever-important car races. Funny how Canon's car won every single time. Me thinks <i>someone</i> let him win.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha9AmRiiMwZylKroWHLIf69y5io8OSfwhyphenhyphen0-kDBDIAXNwkq2EXbCJis9ATgLKWcmwaCmnpVAgZ9HPWmHvw5kuay2nuZB45rX-oh95FmviERZxrMd3F4pcM7VYp3Jqbw7KUzJAl3yVk93o/s1600/IMG_4209.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha9AmRiiMwZylKroWHLIf69y5io8OSfwhyphenhyphen0-kDBDIAXNwkq2EXbCJis9ATgLKWcmwaCmnpVAgZ9HPWmHvw5kuay2nuZB45rX-oh95FmviERZxrMd3F4pcM7VYp3Jqbw7KUzJAl3yVk93o/s640/IMG_4209.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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This area is such a small, close-knit community. Case in point: the family fun day held in order to raise money for the volunteer first responders for the next town over from us. Canon got to sit in a real life helicopter and firetruck.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjryljxNeFDFRqV6iKTErblvq96mZJYfgJD7UTcr2_od8JIEATQ9aRPnNrLMhal3KM9IfJ0hXyvYUkiuK6URUaMxiVdo09R-A4Ac_D254lN77LUb01fehZcYTNP-8O5eyz39_h6-1jCl1w/s1600/IMG_4230.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjryljxNeFDFRqV6iKTErblvq96mZJYfgJD7UTcr2_od8JIEATQ9aRPnNrLMhal3KM9IfJ0hXyvYUkiuK6URUaMxiVdo09R-A4Ac_D254lN77LUb01fehZcYTNP-8O5eyz39_h6-1jCl1w/s640/IMG_4230.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZruonGcc3XfdpBCWBubwvFwcOdJSi1aFKgJ95953ZCsZ71wo-A9bKNdXc44btk4pcvQw8G7DNcFiqLMfKwXHswLel46uas4A1Mcwj7I3boG1gtyEncMMhFygYpgh-O2QtwNtvIKCangc/s1600/IMG_4232.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZruonGcc3XfdpBCWBubwvFwcOdJSi1aFKgJ95953ZCsZ71wo-A9bKNdXc44btk4pcvQw8G7DNcFiqLMfKwXHswLel46uas4A1Mcwj7I3boG1gtyEncMMhFygYpgh-O2QtwNtvIKCangc/s640/IMG_4232.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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He took a couple of carriage rides, pulled by miniature horses. They are owned by our cousin so she always gives Canon extra time.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ_CXsKy6EmzKyhyphenhyphenhj1Y4Xi8M8SfHyzHCkK0BURSE5ZbC7_JRkKJ2vcRx6CMNkNmwTHOykvproNAoZyUjXWFCB0MtC7nWsmmKeVay2CmYEys2akCHjLYC9Mj2Pqwl8c0IG22fCNbIf1uI/s1600/IMG_4256.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ_CXsKy6EmzKyhyphenhyphenhj1Y4Xi8M8SfHyzHCkK0BURSE5ZbC7_JRkKJ2vcRx6CMNkNmwTHOykvproNAoZyUjXWFCB0MtC7nWsmmKeVay2CmYEys2akCHjLYC9Mj2Pqwl8c0IG22fCNbIf1uI/s640/IMG_4256.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC7pS1j6TTID9-SxWx_maaxuhDKJCrSw7F4707gpBxCreMQ4pP85pAy3JkEfws3t5O-Og982eBNH_zVDDBv_vOaO4JUPe3B7pr5Hhyphenhyphenlt_EOKBQ6YDLCRJxwBReboyNZD41BXFkQ00ntUk/s1600/IMG_4275.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC7pS1j6TTID9-SxWx_maaxuhDKJCrSw7F4707gpBxCreMQ4pP85pAy3JkEfws3t5O-Og982eBNH_zVDDBv_vOaO4JUPe3B7pr5Hhyphenhyphenlt_EOKBQ6YDLCRJxwBReboyNZD41BXFkQ00ntUk/s640/IMG_4275.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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This woman right here. My heart. The matriarch of the family. I am so blessed to call her my grandmother. We are sitting in a building that was once the agricultural building of her high school. In fact, I found a picture of the graduating class that contained her and my grandfather on the wall here, along with the graduation photo of her youngest sister, my great aunt. I love seeing those little preservations of history that are so precious to us.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0HVuQY6ZsMQa2oVO0_2OXFf2GBVwYrflE_xFkOtJndfiu5P-SvwHa-zKV8CTB8OjMViq7GO0ngnLJXK_UugQGGbuFJ4iJD8DAYmJwvtnDRyGknyW2kErVBHKh10Q6ObaUaQNvdLluxOo/s1600/IMG_4284.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0HVuQY6ZsMQa2oVO0_2OXFf2GBVwYrflE_xFkOtJndfiu5P-SvwHa-zKV8CTB8OjMViq7GO0ngnLJXK_UugQGGbuFJ4iJD8DAYmJwvtnDRyGknyW2kErVBHKh10Q6ObaUaQNvdLluxOo/s640/IMG_4284.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
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We packed a lot of "activities" into one day since we had to get back home for soccer games the following day, but during nap time for everyone else I managed to slip away to enjoy some gorgeous scenery. I will share my finds with you tomorrow.<br />
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<br />Whitney Dupuishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08634372712660476935noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6481343971467019518.post-42511426556945475212015-05-07T21:02:00.001-05:002015-05-07T21:02:31.199-05:00There's no trouble in your bubble...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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...when you're floatin' along! If you know where that comes from, then you too suffer from what I like to call "Mickey Mouse Clubhouse SingSong Syndrom". It is serious. Once it is in your body, it never really leaves. You could find yourself singing the tunes from the show at any time, however inopportune the moment. Years after your child grows out of the show, you may even find yourself quoting lyrics in a blog post that you write, which admittedly has nothing to do with The Mouse at all. Very worrisome indeed.</div>
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Anyway, back to the bubbles. My mom found these really cool bubbles that said that they stacked on top of each other so we were anxious to try them out. I am very well aware of the fact that she brought them for Canon, but we had to test them first. Only so that Canon could chase them, naturally.</div>
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The bubbles were very colorful and thick and seemed to float forever.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9Bwg6QThg_JP7NZgPn9EsxBY5Ur3BjMncYZhnhoqdrl68JpDLdCDI3ki0Shc-rD-jVJZbvHN1nJR_smqgUVsQrVoDAUGlZxdIYDU_PsQziKql7Da-23AZa8wkdcjYfrb3-vnfUiJMyDQ/s1600/IMG_3829.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9Bwg6QThg_JP7NZgPn9EsxBY5Ur3BjMncYZhnhoqdrl68JpDLdCDI3ki0Shc-rD-jVJZbvHN1nJR_smqgUVsQrVoDAUGlZxdIYDU_PsQziKql7Da-23AZa8wkdcjYfrb3-vnfUiJMyDQ/s1600/IMG_3829.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Eventually, they would land on leaves and flowers without popping. The ground was covered with them.<br />
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You know what they didn't do, though? Stack. We even tried them during Canon's bath time that night and I actively tried to catch them so that they would stack on top of each other. Would.not.do.it. Marketing liars.<br />
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This guy loved them though. He spent the entire time outside chasing the bubbles and having a blast.<br />
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And that's what really matters. I guess.<br />
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<br />Whitney Dupuishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08634372712660476935noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6481343971467019518.post-13793193466904692172015-05-05T21:16:00.002-05:002015-05-05T21:16:47.405-05:00Atlanta Dogwood Festival<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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A few weekends ago, we heard that the Atlanta Dogwood Festival was being held in a part of the city that we hadn't yet explored. A free day in the park during a break in the rain? Yes, please.</div>
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The boys took full advantage of the wide open space to run around and stretch their legs, while I stretched my...lens. Yeah, that was taking things a little too far.<br />
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Canon has this thing. You see, anytime he sees flowers he wants to give them to me. A bouquet in the grocery store? <i>"I want to buy them for you. May I have some money?"</i> A planter in front of his school? <i>"No, Canon, you may not pick the flowers from someone else's garden."</i> A field of <strike>weeds</strike> wild flowers in the middle of a public park? Now, that is perfect.<br />
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In addition to an arts-and-crafts show, they had a kids section with carnival rides and every bouncy house/obstacle course known to man. When it came to the inflatables, he did every.single.one. I don't know why. I mean, once you have slammed into the wall of one dragon's mouth, you've slammed into them all. Amiright?!<br />
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I could not get over the beautiful buildings that stood just on the other side of the park.<br />
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Canon was not too happy with me when I told him he had to stand there so I could take a picture of him instead of going to play soccer. To be fair, those were intramural teams for adults and it wouldn't have been fair for him to beat the pants off of them. You know, being five and all.<br />
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My dear, sweet husband made me hand him the camera and take a picture with my son. I don't have many of those so I cherish the ones I do.<br />
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Remember when I told you he was angry for having to take photos? Well, he got over it pretty quickly when he started hearing music. My baby likes to get down with his bad self.<br />
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Ok, we are not health nuts by any stretch of the imagination, but we tend to steer clear of things like sodas and a ton of processed foods as much as possible because we like to eat well-rounded and healthy meals. On some occasions though, your kid just really wants a corndog. So we got him one. And then he proceeded to tell us that it was the best corndog he had ever eaten. And man, he loves corndogs. And he wished he could eat corndogs everyday. And...let's just say I am glad that we got him this crap-on-a-stick because he was one happy little dude.<br />
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After we had walked through the arts section of the festival, we stopped at the playground for a bit of kiddo fun.<br />
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There were so many kids that I hesitated to take too many photos. I didn't want any parents thinking that I was stalking their child. Or thinking that I was searching for the next top model. Or spying for the Irish government. <i>What? I look Irish.</i><br />
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<i>"Hey Mom, take my picture in front of this huge tree! It is even bigger than a monster truck!"</i><br />
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Turns out this Atlanta Dogwood Festival has a lot to see: an arts-and-crafts show, a dog show, carnival rides, and easy access to a playground. You know what it didn't have? Dogwoods. Not one dogwood tree did we see. I mean, who names a festival after a tree that isn't even there?!<br />
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Atlanta, that's who.<br />
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<br />Whitney Dupuishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08634372712660476935noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6481343971467019518.post-86298853716358718872015-05-04T20:32:00.000-05:002015-05-04T20:32:34.220-05:00Whirlwind Weekend<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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The same weekend that <a href="http://www.thisblessedgirl.com/2015/04/crescent-city-classic-2015.html">Craig ran the Crescent City Classic</a>, we stayed in <a href="http://www.thisblessedgirl.com/2015/04/the-roosevelt-hotel.html">that fancy hotel</a>, and took in the <a href="http://www.thisblessedgirl.com/2015/04/nola-my-way.html">sights of New Orleans</a>, we also squeezed in a little time with my family to celebrate our April birthdays and Easter Sunday. </div>
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Although there are four April birthdays in our immediate family, the only one that we really went all out for was my niece Anderson. She turned 3 this year and we had so much fun showering her with gifts and attention. And apparently, phallic balloons.</div>
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My sister-in-law, Morgan, made this super cute bunny cake. You can say it was for Easter-slash-birthday, but really it is because Anderson is obsessed with bunnies. Like, OBSESSED. See that stuffed animal in the picture above? That is Bummy and she doesn't go anywhere without <strike>him</strike>. <strike>Her</strike>. <strike>It</strike>. Whatever.<br />
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It's ok, Wread, let your crazy out.<br />
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This right here? This happened about 15 times because she just wanted to blow out the candle. Over and over. And over again. Let's just say no one wanted the bow and ear section of this cake when she was done.<br />
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Impromptu family group photos aren't the best quality, but they bring out the best smiles! Or lovey-dovey eyes for cakes. I'm looking at you, Welles and Evan.<br />
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Yes, she has a ton of cake on her plate. No, it doesn't matter. She is the birthday girl so she can eat directly from the cake if she wants to.<br />
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After cake and presents, we decided to dye Easter eggs.<br />
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Morgan got these cute egg decorating kits that included stickers and stands for the eggs.<br />
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It didn't take long for Anderson to get tired of the egg thing and move on to bigger and better things...like binoculars.<br />
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Look, it's EVE, from Wall-E!<br />
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Come Easter morning, Evan was so hungry that he couldn't wait for breakfast. He proceeded to devour this teddy bear. RIP.<br />
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An egg hunt came next, of course. They are so fun at this age because they just keep going and going... Once all of the eggs are found, you start taking them out of the baskets {stealthily, of course} and hiding them again.<br />
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Evan was totally into it.<br />
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E.B. was quite clever this year. Or at least smart. Ok, at least one body part was smart anyway.<br />
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Every new baby has gotten a picture in an Easter basket, but Evan did not want to cooperate. I mean, fuggidaboudit!<br />
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After the egg hunt, we tried to sit the kids down for a nice photo shoot. I probably took 25 pictures of them. Not one picture had them all looking at the camera. Not one.<br />
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Hey good lookin'!<br />
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What you don't see is what happened next. Evan popped his head back and hit the brick because...of course he did. He was done after that, and the others followed suit soon after.<br />
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I can't even begin to tell you how tired we were after that weekend, but man did we have fun. We had so much fun that Craig and I left Canon to hang with family for his Spring Break week and we went home alone. To sleep. Can I get an 'AMEN'?!<br />
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<br />Whitney Dupuishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08634372712660476935noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6481343971467019518.post-68149941846270276322015-04-30T21:56:00.004-05:002015-04-30T21:56:50.619-05:00Blue Ridge is Budding<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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My father-in-law and his girlfriend bought a cabin in Blue Ridge, GA. <a href="http://www.thisblessedgirl.com/2015/03/the-cabin-in-woods.html">You remember that, right</a>? Of course, you do. Well, since it is so close to us we can take quick trips whenever it suits us. One weekend, Grandpa was up here to supervise the building of a new deck on the house so we decided to join him for some woodsy R&R.</div>
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When he began looking for a cabin in the woods, Grandpa decided it was totally appropriate to buy camouflage pants. Presumably to blend in with the scenery so that birds and small animals would land on him and he could sing songs. You know, like Snow White. Or maybe just so he fit in perfectly in the area. Canon, thanks to a super nice lady who works with my mother, inherited a pair of camouflage pants that he wears when he is "roughing it" outside. Ken doesn't come to Georgia without his camouflage pants, so we packed Canon's look-a-like trousers. For a photo-op, naturally. <i>#twinsies</i></div>
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It really is a shame that no one likes this kid.<br />
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So far, we have only seen this property in the winter months, so we were unsure what to expect with everything in bloom. Though it was still early during this trip to witness the magic, we found that there are a ton of dogwood trees, maple trees, and countless other beautiful buds that cover the land. I am so stoked to see all of the color next time.<br />
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I saw this and thought <i><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Planet-Earth-The-Complete-Series/dp/B000MR9D5E">Planet Earth</a></i>! If you haven't seen the series, go watch it. Now. Seriously, go.<br />
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While we were out wandering peacefully through the foliage, there were guys hard at work, building a gorgeous deck that my talented husband designed. Aren't the wood shavings cool?!<br />
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It looks like the flower in the middle is ready to take flight.<br />
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There was one - count them, one - leaf that looked like this. It looked like it was still fighting the good fight, trying to hold on to fall...two seasons later.<br />
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I don't know what you are, little one, but you're special.<br />
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As usual, we headed to downtown Blue Ridge, which is a happening place as you can tell from the crowds. Just as we like it.<br />
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Also, as you can tell, I have a thing for bradford pear trees. Talk about a love affair. The boys literally had to drag me away from these lovelies.<br />
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Once again, Blue Ridge has proven to me that she is a place worthy of our time - and lots of it. I can't wait to see her in all of her colorful glory when the flowers really come out to play.<br />
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<br />Whitney Dupuishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08634372712660476935noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6481343971467019518.post-767066743501239802015-04-28T20:44:00.002-05:002015-04-28T20:44:18.697-05:00NOLA - My Way<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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New Orleans - The Big Easy - welcomes people from all over the world to experience the non-stop party that it has to offer, but if you look past all of that you will actually witness an amazing culture, completely unique to this area. The music, the food, and the people set this city apart from all others. Now, everyone knows that NOLA can be a dreadfully dirty place, but there really is so much beauty in the atmosphere and the architecture that deserves to be admired. So let's, shall we?</div>
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The street notifications are really quite wonderful. Sure, there are regular road signs, but why pay them any attention when you can feast your eyes on a beauty like this?<br />
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Heeeellllloooooo color!<br />
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Even the neighborhood Walgreens has its own flavor going on.<br />
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In all of our wanderings, we actually did have a purpose. All of the runners in the race had to pick up their race packets and bibs, which of course meant that I had to take pictures while they were all together. And not sweaty.<br />
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From left to right, you will see my dear husband, my sister-in-law's (Megan) boyfriend Jonathan, Megan, my father-in-law Layne, and his son Jason. I and my mother-in-law are noticeably absent from this shot for a reason. We don't run unless someone is chasing us.<br />
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Then it was back to business as usual. I just can't help it.<br />
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Don't you just love the juxtaposition of the new <i>{above}</i> and the old<i> {below} </i>together?<br />
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No trip to New Orleans is complete without a cafe au lait and beignets from Cafe du Monde. Just a word of advice : don't ever wear black here. Trust me on this one.<br />
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On our way out of town, we stopped for gas about 20 minutes up the road from the city. The difference is night and day. From a place bustling with noises and people 24 hours a day to absolute calm at the water's edge. Truly amazing.<br />
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We have already decided that for next year's race we will go a day earlier so that we can spend more time just relaxing and enjoying ourselves. We aren't big on the night life, but we love the city and all of the other gems that it has to offer.<br />
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<br />Whitney Dupuishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08634372712660476935noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6481343971467019518.post-56924142773479825072015-04-27T21:10:00.000-05:002015-04-27T21:10:48.628-05:00The Roosevelt Hotel<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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While in New Orleans for the <a href="http://www.thisblessedgirl.com/2015/04/crescent-city-classic-2015.html">Crescent City Classic</a>, we had the amazing fortune to stay at The Roosevelt Hotel. Not normally on our radar, we were given the opportunity to stay with family and definitely relished in the beauty of this place. Just check out the details for yourself.</div>
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You see this? This is the <i>"wearefinallyinahotelroomalonewithoutafiveyearoldsogetoverhere" </i>look. Obviously, I am taking pictures instead of joining him because...? </div>
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Oh, yep. There I am.<br />
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Our hotel had a fantastic rooftop lounge area, complete with giant chess board. We didn't have a chance to spend any time out there, but next time...<br />
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I am not normally a wallpaper girl, but the design in the hallways was very subtle and lovely.<br />
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You've got mail? Send it the slow way...through the walls.</div>
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I spent a while sitting in the lobby, where there was something to see at every angle.<br />
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Does this look like the symbol of the third reich to anyone else?! This was only a little disturbing to us. Yes, we know it isn't exactly the same, but still - with the straight wings and all - oy. </div>
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The chandeliers that lined the lobby were the crowning glory of this place. I couldn't get enough.<br />
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Simply put, this was the absolutely fanciest hotel in which we have ever stayed. Yep, I said fanciest, but we are so classy that I am not even going to bring Iggy Azalea into this.<br />
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<br />Whitney Dupuishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08634372712660476935noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6481343971467019518.post-40791852615386928392015-04-23T21:11:00.000-05:002015-04-23T21:11:08.253-05:00Crescent City Classic 2015<br />
My husband. The runner. Man, I am so proud of him and all of the dedication that he has in training for races. He sets goals and then does what he has to in order to hit them. This year, one of his goals was to run the Crescent City Classic and beat his time from last year in the same race.<br />
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His stepfather, stepbrother, sister and her boyfriend all joined in on the running fun. I was also able to attend this year and I was so excited to be able to capture the craziness that New Orleans has to offer during this particular festivity.<br />
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I had always heard that NOLA really brings out the characters for this race, but I wasn't quite sure to what extent until I watched them literally run by. I knew you wouldn't believe me when I told you who - or what - I saw, so I brought my camera along. Just for you.<br />
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This brings a whole new meaning to the age-old joke of why the chicken crossed the road. Also, it answers the question of which came first since I never saw an egg pass by. Gonna have to go with chicken on that one.<br />
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Look, it's The Stay Puft Marshmallow Man!<br />
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Of course, crawfish were hanging out here.<br />
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And the Blue Brothers even made an appearance!<br />
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Hello Mario! And Luigi!<br />
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This baby head was actually super creepy in real life.<br />
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The race was held before Hilary's announcement was made, which makes this photo extra funny.<br />
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No, cast of characters is complete without surfing Santa.<br />
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There were a ton more, like Peeps, superheros, guys in thongs, and so much more. And then there were these guys. Craig's stepdad, Layne, and sister, Megan, passed us in style...<br />
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...and then Layne turned to us and told us to meet him at the finish line so we could pick him up off of the road and drag him to the beer. Because of course, NOLA.<br />
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As you can see, I didn't actually see Craig, Jason {his stepbrother}, or Jonathan {Megan's boyfriend} in time to capture them crossing the finish line. That's right. I missed my husband crossing the line and beating his previous time by ten minutes!!! I was totally bummed that I didn't see him, but I was so proud of his time!<br />
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In true New Orleans fashion, we ate some jambalaya as an after-race snack. 'Cause nothing says stay healthy like rice and sausage. Oh wait.<br />
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We actually spent a couple of days enjoying the Crescent City itself and I will be back next week with photos from the rest of our time there.<br />
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So yes, I missed one of the biggest reasons for making this trip with Craig. Yes, I spent nearly an hour and a half scanning the crowds of runners just to catch a glimpse of him...only to miss him completely. Yes, I am still kicking myself for it. But oh yeah, I am completely in awe of all that he has accomplished in just one year. Shaving ten whole minutes off of your race time?! That's huge!!! Way to go, babe.<br />
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<br />Whitney Dupuishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08634372712660476935noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6481343971467019518.post-17268094272576710342015-04-21T21:22:00.001-05:002015-04-21T21:22:27.517-05:00Date Day with my little Dude<br />
A few weekends ago, Canon and I had a date day because Craig was working the weekend. It was a beautiful day - one of the first of spring - so we decided to make the best of the weather and spent the day with a bunch of wild animals. 'Cause nothing says "I love you" like a little zoo.<br />
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The pathway from the parking area to the zoo's entrance was lined with gorgeous blooms, so of course I had to stop and <strike>smell the roses</strike> take some pictures.<br />
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We spent about 45 minutes standing in line, just waiting to buy tickets. I have all of this technology at my fingertips and I didn't think to order tickets online before we went. Seriously, Whitney?! Whatever. Sun flare!<br />
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Once we finally made it in the gate, it was animal action everywhere. Not <i>that</i> kind. Get yo' mind out tha gutta!<br />
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First stop - flamingos! Canon couldn't figure out why they wore bracelets on their legs. Duh. Fashion.<br />
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Our frequent visits to the Gulf Breeze Zoo in Florida proved to be a little hairy in the budgie feeding area for Canon. Ok fine I'll say it. They scared him. Not the birds themselves - at least not until they flew at him<i> {at the food that he held right up to his face.}</i> With that memory still fresh, he opted simply to walk through the budgie exhibit sans grub and it proved to be a pleasant and uneventful stroll.<br />
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Though judging from this shot, I think he may have hurt their feelings by not bringing an edible gift.<br />
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I don't think he noticed though because he made a nest for himself and decided to stay a while.<br />
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And I thought I had a double chin...<br />
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Zoo Atlanta is home to several pandas, and most recently a set of twin cubs were born there! They were so cute and so popular that I had to push Canon to the front to check them out while I stood in the back - so short that I barely got a glimpse. <i>Oh, the things I do for this kid.</i><br />
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Evidence of spring time was everywhere from the blooms to the babies. <i>Oh mama, I know how you feel.</i><br />
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This guy, though, made a huge impression on my boy. And not just because he was quite large. This komodo dragon is a baby at 5 feet long and will grow to at least 10 feet long by adulthood. In the wild, these guys will stand up on their tails to fight one another. I'm gonna let that mental picture sink in for a moment. Yeah...<br />
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Of course, Canon didn't necessarily care about the "facts". All you had to say was <i>dragon</i> and he thought it was the coolest thing in the world. He wasn't entirely wrong.<br />
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The boy veered off the beaten path a few times to get away from the crowds and just run for a minute. Believe it or not, he actually asked to have his picture taken and positioned himself in this bamboo. Ok, fine, I'll take the shot.<br />
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Canon thought this rhino playing with a stick like a puppy was the funniest thing he had seen all day. He sat there, watching and giggling, for a solid 5 minutes before we had to move and give other people a turn to ogle.<br />
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He may have thought that the rhino was funny, but I found this sunbathing turtle to be downright hilarious. Check out his hind legs!<br />
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When purchasing our tickets, we got the unlimited ride pass that allowed us to take the train as many times as we wished. I have to say that the train at this zoo wasn't nearly as cool as the Gulf Breeze Zoo's train, but we rode it twice anyway...because it was a train.<br />
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On the way home, we had to walk back down the path of amazing flowers and found a downed tree, which was just pleading with me to take pictures. I couldn't say no. That would have been rude.<br />
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He definitely knows the way to my heart. He picked these flowers just for me. Yeah the flowers are great, but just check out those freckles! Aren't they to die for?!<br />
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This was definitely one of our better Mommy/Canon dates. We had so much fun just running and playing and spending good, quality, one-on-one time together. Bonus points for seeing a real-life dragon too. Beat that date, Daddy! ;)<br />
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<br />Whitney Dupuishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08634372712660476935noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6481343971467019518.post-31952081490956636922015-04-20T21:02:00.001-05:002015-04-20T21:02:53.180-05:00Go Monsters!<br />
If there is one sport out there that Canon loves, it is soccer. Now, I know it stems from my brothers all having played and so our family is a "soccer family", but the feelings are real. We signed him up for a spring team this year and were so excited to have such amazing weather for his first game.<br />
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Being five years old means that he is as fierce as his uncles - who are all now 20, 22, and {almost} 31. Scratch that. Even more fierce. Duh.<br />
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I called ahead to the soccer association and requested that they have blue shirts to match Canon's eyes this year. Because...pictures.<br />
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While some other kids like to play on the field with everything except the soccer ball, Canon is all business, all the time.<br />
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At this age, they actually hold practice for 30 minutes and then host a game for the next 30 minutes. Everything they learn in practice is fresh on their brain so it seems to help. Plus, we only have to go one afternoon a week. <i>#winning</i><br />
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Kick it in the goal, baby! Yep, that's my blur.<br />
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I was so proud to see that he was being such a good sport. "Hey, high five because I just made a goal!" Oh wait. We have some teaching points ahead of us, I see.<br />
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Goal numero dos.<br />
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Halftime contemplation on how to improve his game. It's a thing.<br />
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In all, Canon got a hat trick - that's 3 goals scored in one game - and his team won which made him even more excited for the next game.<br />
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Now if we could just get him to teach his uncles how to play. They really need some help.<br />
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<br />Whitney Dupuishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08634372712660476935noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6481343971467019518.post-90153461539078491732015-04-14T20:47:00.003-05:002015-04-14T20:47:54.297-05:00Wanna know where we went?! Tellus!<br />
<i>*Collective groan for the stupid title. Ok, enough groaning. Don't be rude.*</i><br />
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Along with all of the nature-y stuff that we want to expose Canon to, we want to introduce him all of the cultural wonders that this world offers. Ok, so that may be using a little too much drama to say that we took him a science museum a few weeks ago. <i>Womp, womp.</i><br />
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Whatever, man, all three of us loved it.<br />
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We took him to the <a href="http://tellusmuseum.org/">Tellus Northwest Georgia Science Museum</a>, located way out in B.F.E. We couldn't figure out why in the world it was placed in the middle of nowhere until we discovered that they host star parties at their observatory. How freakin' cool is that?!<br />
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The Tellus is divided into several different sections : the mineral gallery, fossil gallery, science in motion, a planetarium, a solar house, and a kids' hands-on experiments exhibit called My Big Back Yard.<br />
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Of course, Canon didn't care about anything once he saw the dinosaur. "Yay, we are going to a museum. Oh wait, is that a DINOSAUR?! THIS IS MY FAVORITE PLACE EVER!!!" Ptractically verbatim.<br />
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Our little budding geologist also thought all of the rocks and crystals were cool too.<br />
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The periodic table of elements - each element was represented by either a picture of the scientist that discovered it or an example of the element and how it is used - was a favorite of mine.<br />
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"These rocks are glowing in the dark! I want one!"<br />
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The creme de la creme though? Definitely the T-Rex. Dude was so excited to see it that the moment he spotted it his jaw literally dropped and he didn't move for a good 20 seconds. That may as well have been an eternity. This alone was worth the price of admission. Twice.<br />
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They had quite a few prehistoric skeletons on display - none of which rivaled ol' Rexie from above - but I thought they were pretty great.<br />
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The picture doesn't do this guy any justice. This sea turtle's shell was at least 6 feet across. He was seriously huge. <i>See honey, yet another reason I need a wide angle lens. I couldn't even get his flipper-span!</i><br />
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They had, on display, cars and motorbikes, airplanes and space travel. To see the transitions between the first car to the newest space shuttle - and realizing how little time actually passed between the two - is seriously awe-inspiring. Kind of makes you feel a little dumb too. I mean, what the heck have I ever thought of that was as cool as either of those two things. <i>A big fat nothing. That's what.</i><br />
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Along with all of the real vehicles, there were some really incredible models for viewing. The level of detail in each of them was so astounding that I wonder if their creator ever had time to eat or sleep.<br />
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We took in a show at the planetarium that took us on a tour of each of the planets. We even got to see little Pluto, poor guy. This was probably my favorite part of the entire museum because space completely fascinates me. I wasn't allowed to take pictures during the show, but snapped a couple of the domed screen as we were leaving.<br />
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There were a couple of activities to get your hands dirty such as mining for gem stones, which we kept...<br />
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...and digging for dinosaur bones. Of course, Canon found one. Because he is brilliant. He left it for other kids to find later. And also because it was stuck to the ground. But mostly for the other children. Bless him.<br />
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Want to observe the Earth's rotation for yourself? Yep, you can do that here too.<br />
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After spending several hours pouring over every exhibit inside, we took on the beautiful weather to check out the solar house. It is a structure, complete with furnishings and appliances, that runs solely on solar power.<br />
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These pipes took in rain water for use inside the house.<br />
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Apparently I didn't take any photos inside the house {aside from those Seussical flowers} but trust me when I tell you it was cool and I could totally live like that.<br />
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Aside from the dinosaus, this monstrosity was definitely Canon's favorite "exhibit". Behold, the gargantuan beast of a dump truck that was parked outside of the museum.<br />
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It is so huge that it had to be disassembled and transported on multiple flatbed trucks in pieces just to reassemble it here for motor-heads like my son to enjoy. It was about three times the size of a normal dump truck.<br />
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We had so much fun at this museum and were all fascinated by different exhibits, which simply confirmed what we already knew. We love science. We aren't nerds at all. #goscience<br />
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<br />Whitney Dupuishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08634372712660476935noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6481343971467019518.post-6015711344238261592015-04-13T20:58:00.000-05:002015-04-13T20:58:20.459-05:00A Sort of Family Reunion<br />
As per usual, we headed to the country in February for a little R&R. Craig wasn't able to go on this visit {thanks work *sad face*}, but my parents and some of my siblings did come along so it was a bit of a family reunion. With a few missing faces.<br />
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We packed in a ton of activities while we were there. One of Grandmama's favorite things to do is cook. Coincidentally, Canon LOVES to help her cook, so they got right down to business on that first morning making pigs in blankets.<br />
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Of course, Anderson, who was still 90% asleep wanted to help.<br />
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Heck, even Evan joined in on the fun! Let's face it - he did most of the work too.<br />
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After breakfast, we took time to chill out and hang with everyone. Canon is still completely enamored with Evan and took it upon himself to lie down and talk to him and teach him about <i>whoknowswhat</i>.<br />
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Now for a little real life : whilst Canon was "taking care of Evan", Big Sister Anderson was busy wishing she was playing outside. She didn't even give the boys a second glance.<br />
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We took a {crappy} kite with us because we knew that Grandmama's huge field was the prime spot for some kite flying fun. Papa John put it together...<br />
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...and charged Uncle Walker with piloting it.<br />
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This is as high as it ever got. There was absolutely no wind that day. He ran so hard and for so long that even Canon lost interest and walked away. Ha!<br />
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One of my dad's little brothers came down the road with his tractor {no, I don't know what kind of tractor it is} because he was helping their big brother clear some land for his son. Did you follow that familial trail?! I barely did and I know exactly who I am talking about! Anyway, my dad and sister decided to tackle said tractor and show it who was boss.<br />
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Of course, since our family is a little vertically challenged we like to take advantage of situations when they present themselves to us.<br />
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In addition to playing around outside, my dad and brother actually did work quite a bit burning trash and underbrush to clean up Grandmama's yard.<br />
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I helped them quite a bit...<br />
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...by taking lots of photos of everything but them working.<br />
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Having these sweet babies in Reform meant that we simply could not pass up the opportunity for a photo op with their great grandmother. These three were having so much fun taking photos that we decided to do it again the next morning.<br />
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As you can see, it wasn't nearly as much fun the second time around. Nevermind that though. The picture is still priceless in my book.<br />
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As always, we had a fantastic time just being together. Next time, Craig better be there though. It's just not the same without him.<br />
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<br />Whitney Dupuishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08634372712660476935noreply@blogger.com0