tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4309686957910374122024-03-12T18:05:58.055-07:00hawthorn placehawthornplacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01152240747259282549noreply@blogger.comBlogger16125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-430968695791037412.post-84174849955667652013-11-09T18:50:00.002-08:002013-11-10T13:18:09.297-08:00From Day 1On March 21, 2012, I was introduced to a shy, southern boy with a deep southern accent in Destin, Florida. It was the night before I left to head home from my spring break trip with my Phi Mu sisters. My Phi Mu sister had invited some friends over for dessert. One of these friends was a boy whom I had never met. This boy was invited to go crabbing on the beach by my Phi Mu sister. I was laid back with all of my girlfriends and, as usual, wiped out after a day in the sun. However, I had such an urge to go walking on the beach and to go crabbing with these new friends.<br />
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Needless to say, I asked him to be my facebook friend the day after.<br />
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Less then a month later, my friends decided to plan a trip to a Braves game in ATL. When deciding what group to go with, I had one specific boy that I wanted to be invited. That southern boy I met in Destin. Thanks to mutual friends of both myself and the shy boy I went crabbing with, we were both invited to tag along. The closer the trip got, the more excited I become. Riding in the car back from a trip home to Tennessee, I texted one of my girlfriends going on the ATL trip suggesting our group to hang out before ATL.... Although, no one else did, I knew what I was doing :)<br />
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I ran into this Destin boy one time on campus. We made eye contact and he looked away and walked right on by. Something very out of nature happened. I yelled out, "Hey!" He looked back at me and came to sit beside me on the Samford fountain. We shared a quick conversation about the Braves weekend, neither one knowing of our double date plans for the upcoming Friday. </div>
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Later that week I was "set up" on a double date with part of the group for the upcoming ATL trip. My date just so happened to be the Destin boy. After taking pictures of outfits and sending them to my mom and sister, I was ready to see the Titanic in 3D. </div>
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The night ended and I immediately called my mom saying that I had met the nicest boy and if nothing else happened between us, then I really just wanted to be his friend. </div>
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The ATL weekend was full of flirting and laugher! However, when we returned home, that shy boy gave me a side hug and we went our separate ways. </div>
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I texted my best friends and consulted my future brother-in-law, Elizabeth's prince, at the Samford Caf about how this boy did not even ask for my number.<br />
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Then something happened that I wouldn't normally do. I got on Facebook and gave this boy my number. How desperate can I get?<br />
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To my surprise, I got a text the next day from my mysterious Braves crush inviting me to attend an intramural game with the couple from our double date.<br />
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That is when I turned my switch to "hard to get". I said that I had so much homework, but I would try my best. Little did he know, I cancelled an Education meeting I was supposed to be a part of, and left my group work early to make it to the game.<br />
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Fast forward to October 25, 2013.<br />
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I had loved dating my not-so-shy anymore, best friend and was excited for our future together. However, he was off to law school and we were letting him really focus on his first semester.<br />
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The weekend of October 25th was a random weekend that we both had free, so we decided just a couple of weeks before to meet at my home. Elizabeth's husband was gone for the weekend so she decided to ride home with me at the last minute. As we are driving home, I get calls and texts that are right on schedule for class breaks and times to be hitting the road from my, still to this day, biggest crush.<br />
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Elizabeth brings up marriage and we decide that Thanksgiving could be the first date that I could really foresee a proposal. Boy, was I surprised.<br />
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We pull in the neighborhood and down Hawthorn Place. I see my crush, who should still be on the road for several hours, jump off the front porch. "Wah" is all I can get out to Elizabeth. I begin crying and she tells me to park and get out of the car. Still crying and now shaking, I get out of the car and freeze. My crush tells me to walk to him on the front porch, which has hay bells, pumpkins, and fall flowers strategically placed. I was asked the question that I dreamed about as a little girl. I was given a Bible with my future name and T-shirts that represent one of our first memories of a Braves and Red's game.<br />
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My parents came out of hiding at the neighbors house, with binoculars and all. One of my best girlfriends came from the bushes and we all celebrated with a Champagne toast. I was filled in on the chaos of carving pumpkins and finding hay in our hometown just hours before I arrived. I also discovered that my dad gave permission the weekend before when my now future husband Ben drove a total of 8 hours just to take my dad to lunch.<br />
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Since October 25th, we have been shown so much love and have truly been blessed with such supportive families. I am so thankful I decided to go on my random night adventure crabbing with Ben, the boy with whom I will grow old with.<br />
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Ben said he was "not looking for a girlfriend" ...little did he know, he was walking away with a wife :)<br />
<br />hawthornplacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01152240747259282549noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-430968695791037412.post-16421572902740087002013-11-01T06:24:00.000-07:002013-11-01T06:24:15.948-07:00All Hallows' EveLast night, I threw a costume party for Halloween. The rule was you had to come dressed in a costume from your closet, no store bought costumes allowed. It was also Amy's 26th birthday so it made the occasion extra special. For dinner, we had burgers with fun toppings like pimento cheese and guacamole. A huge dish of mac&cheese was served along with a healthy salad to balance the meal! Dessert included vanilla cupcakes, apple crisp, and heath cookies. Sally made a signature fall cocktail with apple cider and fireball whiskey. I wanted to share some of the costumes from yesterday with all of you!<br />
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I dressed up as Ariel for work. All of the Marketing girls were modern Disney princesses. At the last minute, H showed up and surprised me as Eric, my prince :)</div>
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Here was our group picture from work. From the left, we have Mulan, Pocahontas, Snow White, Belle, Ariel, and Jasmine. </div>
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E.T. and Elliott.</div>
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Paul Bunyan (yes that's the birthday girl) and Rip Van Winkle. </div>
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Vulcan.</div>
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Danny and Sandy.</div>
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Rosie the Riveter.</div>
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Katie was dressed as her husband, Chris. Chris was the Bounty paper towel man.</div>
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High cloud. </div>
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I was very impressed what people got from their closets. It was a fun and cheap way to throw a costume party, Happy Halloween! <strong>LFT</strong></div>
hawthornplacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01152240747259282549noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-430968695791037412.post-1644574522244126182013-10-12T07:57:00.000-07:002013-10-12T07:59:14.933-07:00An Indian Affair What a beautiful Saturday morning here in Seaside, Florida! It is a great wedding day for our close friend, Courteney Davis!<br />
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The wedding festivities began on Thursday night with a Beach Party. Unfortunately, Elizabeth and I were driving, driving, driving from Birmingham and were not able to make this. We were able to begin our festivities with the bridesmaid luncheon Friday afternoon! However, we almost missed this party due to the boys leaving to go play golf with ALL of the keys to the cars! Elizabeth quickly found a solution and had the "beach express" waiting for us as we walked outside!</div>
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We made it! Let me just say, WOW! What a location. This was hosted at a beach house right in the midst of Seaside, and right on the water! The home was not only a 3 story breath-taking home, but it screamed "pinterest." Needless to say, I was obsessed. Here are just two of the pictures taken outside of the home. </div>
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One of the most fun parts of this beautiful afternoon was the game that was played at the luncheon. Each bridesmaid and, of course, the bride pulled a string that was baked into a cake. Attached to the string was a charm. As each girl pulled her charm, there was a fortune that corresponded; like the next to get engaged, or the first to have a baby (which the bride pulled). It was such a cute and funny game to get to know the bridal party as they stood up and shared their charm and how they knew Courtney!</div>
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Later that afternoon, we dressed in our Indian Saris and headed to meet the shuttle to take us to Destin for the Sangeet! When we arrived, we were given bangles as a favor and headed to the patio to check out the venue! What a fun venue right on a golf course! Within the first 20 minutes, a golf ball came crashing onto the house and landed right in the pool! Thankfully, that was the first and last golf ball for the night!</div>
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Needless to say, the Sangeet was full of curry and Indian food! There was also a henna artist there to give out hand tattoos! Such a cool tradition! It took maybe 5 minutes and each person was getting such beautiful, detailed designs. I was amazed! It has now sank into my hand and will stay for a couple of days! </div>
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Later came speeches, a slideshow of the couple, and, of course, dancing! The bride and her bridesmaids performed and then the floor was open to Indian songs like gangnam style! Overall, it was such a special day to be able to celebrate such a good family friend! We look forward to the wedding in the downtown chapel and dinner and dancing in the beautiful town of Seaside!</div>
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<b>CCI</b></div>
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hawthornplacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01152240747259282549noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-430968695791037412.post-53411793115941507682013-10-02T12:42:00.001-07:002013-10-02T12:58:29.882-07:00Tis the Season to Get Married<div xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">
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<a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=8189556&.svc=blogger&id=89080145" rel="nofollow">Leifsdottir dress</a> / <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=8189556&.svc=blogger&id=87301937" rel="nofollow">J.Crew pumps</a> / <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=8189556&.svc=blogger&id=91755324" rel="nofollow">Kate Spade wallet</a> / Chanel <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=8189556&.svc=blogger&id=92983946" rel="nofollow"> necklace</a> / Kate Spade <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=8189556&.svc=blogger&id=90860506" rel="nofollow"> bracelet</a></div>
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With all of the weddings coming up in the fall and winter, it is good to find a staple dress that you can wear to multiple events and just change the accessories so it alters the feel of the outfit. I love this sweet lace dress from Anthropologie (missing the days I worked there and got the discount). I've never been much of a red girl but pairing black with gold and red is so glamorous to me. This Kate Spade clutch is too cute for the upcomping holiday season. Another way to pair this dress would be with a beautiful strand of pearls and some great black pumps! <strong>LFT</strong></div>
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hawthornplacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01152240747259282549noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-430968695791037412.post-75884649727867637702013-09-30T09:58:00.000-07:002013-09-30T10:00:03.313-07:00Pumpkin Spice Muffins<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt=""I'm so glad I live in a world where there are Octobers." -Anne of Green Gables" class="pinImage" height="320" src="http://media-cache-ec0.pinimg.com/736x/93/57/0b/93570b416df35c4b3868275f63677af5.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto; padding: 40px 0px;" width="264" /></div>
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The cooler mornings and evenings are here. The grocery stores are FINALLY carrying cans of pumpkin. Time to whip up a batch of these guys:</div>
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Pumpkin Spice Muffins:</div>
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2 cups whole wheat flour</div>
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1 1/4 cup brown sugar</div>
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1 tsp baking soda</div>
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1/2 tsp baking powder</div>
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1 tsp cinnamon</div>
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3/4 tsp salt</div>
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1/4 tsp nutmeg</div>
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1/4 ground cloves</div>
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2 eggs</div>
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1/2 cup canola oil</div>
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3/4 can of pumpkin puree</div>
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1/3 cupwarm water</div>
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Topping:</div>
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1/2 cups oats</div>
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1/2 cup brown sugar</div>
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1/4 cup flour</div>
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1/4 tsp cinnamon</div>
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3 tbsp unsalted butter</div>
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Directions:</div>
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Preheat oven to 375. Spray a muffin tin with nonstick cooking spray.</div>
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Mix together flour, baking soda, salt, spices, and baking powder in a bowl. In a separate bowl, mix together eggs, brown sugar, pumpkin puree, water, and canola oil. Combine wet and dry ingredients together. </div>
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Fill the muffin tins till they are about 3/4 of the way full. </div>
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For the topping: mix the ingredients together. Top each muffin with the a handful of the mixture. </div>
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Bake muffins for about 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KrpQhSRy0xM/UkmtPHVLZQI/AAAAAAAAALw/5nml8Dacm6c/s1600/photo+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KrpQhSRy0xM/UkmtPHVLZQI/AAAAAAAAALw/5nml8Dacm6c/s1600/photo+2.JPG" /></a></div>
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Best when they are warm with a cold glass of milk.</div>
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Enjoy! <strong>LFT</strong></div>
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hawthornplacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01152240747259282549noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-430968695791037412.post-90174239549080031632013-09-03T11:28:00.001-07:002013-09-03T11:54:00.506-07:00Horsing around<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.polyvore.com/horsing_around/set?.embedder=8189556&.svc=blogger&id=96257030" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Horsing around" border="0" force="1" height="347" src="http://cfc.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-set/.sig/4qCxsLA7Ry5moyFmrHfQ/cid/96257030/id/S5C6Lp51Q-iL6IXVs4MKYw/size/c600x521.jpg" title="Horsing around" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=8189556&.svc=blogger&id=91141168" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><img force="1" height="50" hspace="4" src="http://ak2.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-thing/size/s/tid/91141168.jpg" title="J Crew sweatshirt" vspace="4" width="50" /></a><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=8189556&.svc=blogger&id=67560007" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><img force="1" height="50" hspace="4" src="http://ak2.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-thing/size/s/tid/67560007.jpg" title="Stretch straight leg jeans" vspace="4" width="50" /></a><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=8189556&.svc=blogger&id=81321320" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><img force="1" height="50" hspace="4" src="http://ak1.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-thing/size/s/tid/81321320.jpg" title="Frye tall boots" vspace="4" width="50" /></a><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=8189556&.svc=blogger&id=90867497" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><img force="1" height="50" hspace="4" src="http://ak1.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-thing/size/s/tid/90867497.jpg" title="Red satchel bag" vspace="4" width="50" /></a><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=8189556&.svc=blogger&id=90901445" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><img force="1" height="50" hspace="4" src="http://ak1.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-thing/size/s/tid/90901445.jpg" title="Ann Taylor pendant necklace" vspace="4" width="50" /></a><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=8189556&.svc=blogger&id=87293056" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><img force="1" height="50" hspace="4" src="http://ak1.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-thing/size/s/tid/87293056.jpg" title="Gold jewelry" vspace="4" width="50" /></a><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=8189556&.svc=blogger&id=88494226" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><img force="1" height="50" hspace="4" src="http://ak2.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-thing/size/s/tid/88494226.jpg" title="Porridge tech accessory" vspace="4" width="50" /></a><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=8189556&.svc=blogger&id=91758093" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><img force="1" height="50" hspace="4" src="http://ak1.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-thing/size/s/tid/91758093.jpg" title="BeckSöndergaard scarve" vspace="4" width="50" /></a><br />
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I never grew up around horses but have always dreamed of owning my own horse. I love to ride any chance I get and just enjoy being around them. It makes me so happy that horse prints are everywhere this fall! I'm in love with this sweater from J Crew and the simplicity of the horseshoe ring would go with any outfit.<br />
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Last year, H took me to a ranch for my birthday and we had the whole place to ourselves. There were probably 30 horses there and we could ride anytime we wanted. They put me on the fast horse and it hated walking, it wanted to run the whole time! We rode horses on our honeymoon and it is always such a fun treat for me! <strong>LFT</strong></div>
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hawthornplacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01152240747259282549noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-430968695791037412.post-80145172696203976592013-08-28T11:36:00.000-07:002013-08-28T11:36:29.741-07:00Old Windowpanes<br />
So, my favorite project this summer was definitely sprucing up some old windowpanes! Similar to mason jars, I love everything and anything with old windows. I ran across some very cheap windowpanes at an old factory warehouse. Ben graciously went to pick them up for me and he informed me the warehouse was like a DIY Heaven! Old windows, doors, shelves, tubs, and anything else you could ever want were for sale for cheap! I will definitely be making a visit there the next chance I have for a project! So, here are the panes in the warehouse!<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--lQ0nAcOkLM/Uh5AsAbQsDI/AAAAAAAAAK4/PrEC9LuMeHc/s1600/IMG_4180.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--lQ0nAcOkLM/Uh5AsAbQsDI/AAAAAAAAAK4/PrEC9LuMeHc/s320/IMG_4180.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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Ben brought me home 3 windows. 2 were 6 paned and 1 was 12 pained. I was not anticipating how heavy they were and was concerned what I would actually do with them once I got them! However, I knew my color scheme for my apartment so I just decided to go ahead and clean and paint them all! </div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pGb93Hww_cE/Uh5AwQ8kOcI/AAAAAAAAALA/A3MnAiV2zdw/s1600/IMG_1818.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pGb93Hww_cE/Uh5AwQ8kOcI/AAAAAAAAALA/A3MnAiV2zdw/s320/IMG_1818.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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I ended up duck taping a chevron patterned fabric to the back of them with pictures taped on! I was about to glue them when I rememebered that I would probably want to change the pictures out. So glad I didn't!</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Y-ISp57eShk/Uh5A07jZjOI/AAAAAAAAALI/jstg2L4NtEE/s1600/IMG_7342.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Y-ISp57eShk/Uh5A07jZjOI/AAAAAAAAALI/jstg2L4NtEE/s320/IMG_7342.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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This is how all 3 turned out! I was pretty happy!</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5CGxGzVZGAo/Uh5A5BuxyxI/AAAAAAAAALQ/ojOFOjkCksc/s1600/IMG_5179.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5CGxGzVZGAo/Uh5A5BuxyxI/AAAAAAAAALQ/ojOFOjkCksc/s320/IMG_5179.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Here are the smaller 2 on my walls and part of my new home! Thanks to my dads several trips around town to find stuff to hold these heavy windows!</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-c8aKGyhGhzM/Uh5A-V4k3uI/AAAAAAAAALY/HsVOEG7MwwQ/s1600/IMG_5493.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="292" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-c8aKGyhGhzM/Uh5A-V4k3uI/AAAAAAAAALY/HsVOEG7MwwQ/s400/IMG_5493.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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And finally, here is my big ole windowpane that I just propped on a desk I painted years ago (you're welcome dad)! I use it as a white board to write lists/memos/Bible verse/etc.</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yIsh9XIProY/Uh5BDrKJUyI/AAAAAAAAALg/IyNIUNbU_KY/s1600/IMG_5524.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yIsh9XIProY/Uh5BDrKJUyI/AAAAAAAAALg/IyNIUNbU_KY/s320/IMG_5524.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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This project was...</div>
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1. cheap</div>
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2. easy</div>
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3. flexible (no directions, woo!)</div>
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4. quick</div>
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I would say it was a success! :)</div>
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<b>-CCI</b></div>
hawthornplacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01152240747259282549noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-430968695791037412.post-87294968034548109532013-08-26T08:51:00.004-07:002013-08-26T08:51:45.265-07:00Sally's BruschettaMy friend Sally brought this bruschetta for a group potluck dinner a few weeks back and I think I dreamed about it that night. Sally lived in Italy for a few months and picked up some good cooking skills while she was there. Enjoy!<br />
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Ingredients<br />
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Olive oil<br />
French baguette (I used white but would prefer to use wheat if they have it at the store)<br />
Carton of roma tomatoes, chopped<br />
1/2 of a red onion, diced<br />
Basil, chopped<br />
Goat cheese<br />
Salt&Pepper<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cast of ingredients<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-I1k11s99xi4/Uht3WiuUMtI/AAAAAAAAAJw/92bbVBMZdhk/s1600/pic+7.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-I1k11s99xi4/Uht3WiuUMtI/AAAAAAAAAJw/92bbVBMZdhk/s320/pic+7.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
The first step is key (and the secret, Sally said). Toast your bread slices in olive oil. Trust me.<br />
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Trust me.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SvT9cPNRm4Y/Uht3nksh57I/AAAAAAAAAKA/WhKpqAEnKT4/s1600/pic+5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="230" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SvT9cPNRm4Y/Uht3nksh57I/AAAAAAAAAKA/WhKpqAEnKT4/s320/pic+5.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Slice up the tomatoes (the time consuming part).<br />
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Dice up the onion. I think I'm unusually sensitive to chopping onions. I need to get goggles because I typically have to leave the room 3 times to go rinse my eyes out.<br />
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Combine tomatoes and red onions.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NovGuimWuHY/Uht4RBMtU7I/AAAAAAAAAKY/FJ9u6JxWB58/s1600/pic+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NovGuimWuHY/Uht4RBMtU7I/AAAAAAAAAKY/FJ9u6JxWB58/s320/pic+2.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Add your chopped basil.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mQfgXZUI2HU/Uht4cbu5eQI/AAAAAAAAAKg/j2LU1q5s_6o/s1600/pic.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mQfgXZUI2HU/Uht4cbu5eQI/AAAAAAAAAKg/j2LU1q5s_6o/s320/pic.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Now just spread the goat cheese and tomato mixture on top! <br />
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If you are just making this for yourself, put most of the tomato mixture in the refrigerator until you are ready to eat. Then, toast the baguette piece and cover with cheese and tomatoes. If you are making for a group, go ahead and spread it all and get ready for compliments! <strong>LFT</strong><br />
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hawthornplacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01152240747259282549noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-430968695791037412.post-4224476839220446062013-08-21T08:10:00.001-07:002013-08-21T12:21:37.277-07:00Fall Fashion<div xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">
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<a href="http://www.polyvore.com/fall/set?.embedder=8189556&.svc=blogger&id=94686372" target="_blank"><img alt="Fall" border="0" force="1" height="392" src="http://cfc.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-set/.sig/C5l8sYSMsyr2oX8ileEjfw/cid/94686372/id/kQQhO3JUTgmQRYVBKiM3OQ/size/c600x588.jpg" title="Fall" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=8189556&.svc=blogger&id=89003576" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><img force="1" height="50" hspace="4" src="http://ak1.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-thing/size/s/tid/89003576.jpg" title="H M white knit sweater" vspace="4" width="50" /></a><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=8189556&.svc=blogger&id=61425580" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><img force="1" height="50" hspace="4" src="http://ak2.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-thing/size/s/tid/61425580.jpg" title="J Crew military inspired jacket" vspace="4" width="50" /></a><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=8189556&.svc=blogger&id=87957358" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><img force="1" height="50" hspace="4" src="http://ak1.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-thing/size/s/tid/87957358.jpg" title="Tory Burch dark wash skinny jeans" vspace="4" width="50" /></a><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=8189556&.svc=blogger&id=45535297" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><img force="1" height="50" hspace="4" src="http://ak1.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-thing/size/s/tid/45535297.jpg" title="Frye knee high leather boots" vspace="4" width="50" /></a><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=8189556&.svc=blogger&id=75737057" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><img force="1" height="50" hspace="4" src="http://ak2.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-thing/size/s/tid/75737057.jpg" title="Tory Burch genuine leather handbag" vspace="4" width="50" /></a><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=8189556&.svc=blogger&id=87992872" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><img force="1" height="50" hspace="4" src="http://ak1.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-thing/size/s/tid/87992872.jpg" title="Forever New chain link bracelet" vspace="4" width="50" /></a><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=8189556&.svc=blogger&id=54813501" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><img force="1" height="50" hspace="4" src="http://ak2.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-thing/size/s/tid/54813501.jpg" title="Kendra Scott cabochon jewelry" vspace="4" width="50" /></a><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=8189556&.svc=blogger&id=90789529" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><img force="1" height="50" hspace="4" src="http://ak2.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-thing/size/s/tid/90789529.jpg" title="Blue scarve" vspace="4" width="50" /></a><br />
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Is fall here yet? As much as I love summer, I can't wait for the leaves to start changing. This Alabama humidity doesn't mess around and it will be nice to be able to breathe outside again. Can't wait for boots, scarves, and lots and lots of pumpkins! <strong>LFT</strong></div>
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hawthornplacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01152240747259282549noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-430968695791037412.post-70590748970111726932013-08-19T16:24:00.000-07:002013-08-19T16:24:00.570-07:00winner, winner<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
So this is how everything in my family is decided. Whether it is who buys who a Christmas present or betting over a Braves game or the Masters, this is our system. To begin, all of our followers went into this bowl. Gin-Momma makes her first appearance, aaannndd....</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4wcNyOXVhTc/UhKnTHPEekI/AAAAAAAAAJQ/glwMaC-oPLY/s1600/IMG_9599.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4wcNyOXVhTc/UhKnTHPEekI/AAAAAAAAAJQ/glwMaC-oPLY/s320/IMG_9599.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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We have a winner! Shelby Kelly!</div>
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She also has a wonderful <a href="http://staycraftymyfriends.blogspot.com/">blog</a>! Go check it out! </div>
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Shelby, I will contact you soon! </div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-I3ATJy2WpOM/UhKoGLT5epI/AAAAAAAAAJY/Vn5flQ7_NNU/s1600/IMG_5453.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-I3ATJy2WpOM/UhKoGLT5epI/AAAAAAAAAJY/Vn5flQ7_NNU/s320/IMG_5453.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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gotta love Gin-momma</div>
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<b>CCI</b></div>
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hawthornplacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01152240747259282549noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-430968695791037412.post-56023824014263251932013-08-18T18:25:00.002-07:002013-08-18T18:36:15.313-07:00mason jar DIYI am in love with everything mason jar! My pinterest is full of DIY projects for mason jars and I have had two smaller jars just laying around the house waiting for me to decide what to do with them. Well, I finally decided! I have seen some of the cutest soap canisters out of mason jars like the ones below and decided that is what I would tackle!<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4yO5RMMHEGc/UhF0_29NMYI/AAAAAAAAAJA/jcnYRpHetDg/s1600/fd619c6d25b37b36c08a6d0c2e206974.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="163" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4yO5RMMHEGc/UhF0_29NMYI/AAAAAAAAAJA/jcnYRpHetDg/s320/fd619c6d25b37b36c08a6d0c2e206974.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Even though I should have learned my lesson from not following directions for my 4th of July cake, I decided I didn't need any help! It looked easy enough... (sounds familiar right?)<br />
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So here we go!<br />
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I began with my two jars. </div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cSlOqZqBUsA/UhFxjmaxo9I/AAAAAAAAAIM/m0f50nWfJlk/s1600/IMG_2400.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cSlOqZqBUsA/UhFxjmaxo9I/AAAAAAAAAIM/m0f50nWfJlk/s320/IMG_2400.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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I found two old soap bottles, took the dispensers out and cleaned them the best I could.</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QPwDVFM6zqw/UhFx4EnQ9EI/AAAAAAAAAIU/BsHbU9nkJ6M/s1600/IMG_4739.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QPwDVFM6zqw/UhFx4EnQ9EI/AAAAAAAAAIU/BsHbU9nkJ6M/s320/IMG_4739.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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I read many ways to best cut this hole into the top of the lids, but I have no power tools and neither does our dad! (not surprising) I found two essentials; hammer and a nail. Nonetheless, I created a big enough hole to put the dispensers through!</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AS6Ej_SoPXI/UhFyRO2PbpI/AAAAAAAAAIc/cT3oMqogTsY/s1600/IMG_5355.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AS6Ej_SoPXI/UhFyRO2PbpI/AAAAAAAAAIc/cT3oMqogTsY/s320/IMG_5355.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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This is how the holes ending up looking! Hmm... probably could have looked better if I had followed some instructions, but that is not my style! Essentially, the job was done!</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FMbZJxXxo1I/UhFyv-V0RtI/AAAAAAAAAIk/spVqgohUlQk/s1600/IMG_7425.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FMbZJxXxo1I/UhFyv-V0RtI/AAAAAAAAAIk/spVqgohUlQk/s320/IMG_7425.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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Add some chevron and burlap and you can cover any mistakes! :) </div>
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I just cut a square and then punched a hole in the fabric and, wah-la, punch the dispensers through!</div>
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You now have two soap dispensers!</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-H8p2vBT47n0/UhFzCe-s6CI/AAAAAAAAAIs/8PiDxC4-VJY/s1600/IMG_6388.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-H8p2vBT47n0/UhFzCe-s6CI/AAAAAAAAAIs/8PiDxC4-VJY/s320/IMG_6388.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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I designated one jar for soap and one for some lotion. </div>
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Here is my jar once the lotion was poured in!</div>
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<b>CCI</b></div>
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<b>massage winner announced tomorrow :)</b></div>
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<br />hawthornplacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01152240747259282549noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-430968695791037412.post-68755559127637098452013-08-14T08:54:00.003-07:002013-08-14T08:56:52.517-07:00Summer ReadingSummer reading is much better when you get to choose your own books. I've always loved to read and wish I had more time to spend curled up with stacks of novels. I've read some great books this summer (and a couple of duds). Here is my summer reading summary:<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XvRSvEAXJw0/UguhHralgwI/AAAAAAAAAHA/PfL13V5IQfw/s1600/and-the-mountains-echoed%5B1%5D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XvRSvEAXJw0/UguhHralgwI/AAAAAAAAAHA/PfL13V5IQfw/s320/and-the-mountains-echoed%5B1%5D.jpg" width="209" /></a></div>
Khaled Hosseini is one of my favorite authors. He wrote "The Kite Runner" and "A Thousand Splendid Suns". I love that he was a doctor and just decided to start writing and all 3 of his books have turned into bestsellers. He likens his medical profession as being a sort of "arranged marriage" for him so I'm glad he's had so much success with his books! Of the three, "A Thousand Splendid Suns" is my favorite of his. But the first chapter of "And the Mountain Echoed" made me cry, it is such a beautiful story. Read all 3 of his books!<br />
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I've read other novels by Gillian Flynn and most of the time, she is too dark and twisted for me. But I loved this book. A man's wife disappears and the reader doesn't know who or what to believe. Suspenseful and unpredictable for sure!<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gWrpsuFDuwM/UgulAa4kh9I/AAAAAAAAAHc/I9gKimcpVPg/s1600/A-Book-Mrs-Kennedy-and-Me%5B1%5D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gWrpsuFDuwM/UgulAa4kh9I/AAAAAAAAAHc/I9gKimcpVPg/s320/A-Book-Mrs-Kennedy-and-Me%5B1%5D.jpg" width="216" /></a></div>
My favorite book of the summer by far. Such a sweet memior from Jackie Kennedy's secret service agent. A great glimpse into the private Kennedy world. Hard to read knowing how sad it will all end.<br />
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This novel spans the 20th century in rural Texas. An epic story of 3 families and how their tragic choices affect each other. Mary Toliver inherits the Toliver land and plantation and has to choose between the land she loves and the man she can't live without :) (I've read it 3 times).<br />
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Disappointing. I didn't care about any of the characters and didn't feel like much was resolved in the end. Makes me want to move to Maine but that's about it.<br />
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Have to say this one wasn't impressive either. I can't believe it was a national bestseller. I think the author tried to do too much with too many characters. In the end, I was exhausted and didn't care how it ended, just wanted to be done.<br />
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Can't wait to transition from reading by the pool to reading under a blanket by the fire. Fall is almost here! <strong>LFT</strong>hawthornplacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01152240747259282549noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-430968695791037412.post-35629547344486974312013-08-13T05:32:00.001-07:002013-08-13T06:20:04.374-07:00Peppermint DelightI had this dessert at a bridesmaid luncheon and fell in love. My husband and his twin always request this if I'm making something sweet. The only trick is finding peppermint ice cream year round! Most stores only carry it around the holidays but I got lucky recently at the Piggly Wiggly.<br />
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Recipe:<br />
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1/2 box crushed vanilla wafers<br />
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2 unsweetened chocolate baking squares<br />
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2/3 cup of softened butter<br />
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2 cup of confectioners sugar<br />
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1 cup crushed pecans<br />
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1 t. vanilla<br />
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2 eggs<br />
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1/4 gallon softened peppermint ice cream<br />
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Chocolate syrup<br />
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Pour the crushed vanilla wafers in bottom of ungreased 9x13 inch pan. Set aside. Melt 2 squares unsweetened chocolate and 2/3 cup butter over low heat. Stir in: 2 cup confectioners sugar, 2 egg yolks, 1 cup pecans, and 1 t. vanilla. Fold in two stiffly beaten egg whites. Pour over crumbs in pan and chill until firm. Top with 1/4 gallon softened peppermint ice cream. Sprinkle top with a few chopped pecans and drizzle with chocolate syrup. Wrap in aluminum foil and freeze. To serve, cut in squares. Makes about 12 serving. <br />
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Cast of Ingredients<br />
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Pour vanilla wafers in ungreased pan</div>
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Melt butter and chocolate (my favorite part)</div>
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Add sugar, egg yolks, pecans, and vanilla</div>
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Pour over vanilla wafers, chill until firm</div>
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Spread ice cream on top</div>
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Cut into squares, enjoy! <strong>LFT</strong>hawthornplacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01152240747259282549noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-430968695791037412.post-81981780921179500342013-08-12T13:37:00.001-07:002013-08-12T14:50:38.796-07:00Pinterest FailWhen I came home for the summer to nanny, I made a list of all the different DIY projects and recipes I would like to try! One of the items on my list was called the "American Flag" cake. When I was invited to visit my boyfriend, Ben's, family for the 4th of July holiday, I knew I had to take something that was really impressive! Well, this is the picture I came across on my pinterest account and thought it looked easy enough. Right? WRONG!<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-H0nk-jtzxLQ/UglIWKfiPMI/AAAAAAAAAFQ/TVRd7RPoywI/s1600/cake.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-H0nk-jtzxLQ/UglIWKfiPMI/AAAAAAAAAFQ/TVRd7RPoywI/s320/cake.jpg" width="250" /></a></div>
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To find the directions of what you are <i>supposed</i> to do <a href="http://sugarturntable.com/?p=221">click here</a>. </div>
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Here was my plan, which I <i>thought</i> would be so much easier...</div>
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*Create 3 levels instead of 5 (bottom: red, middle: white, top: blue outside & red inside) </div>
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So I began.. </div>
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Now, mistake one, the recipe calls for 3 different kinds of cake mixtures. However, I began with 2 white cake mixes from the store. I opened 1 cake mix and split the batter into 2 different mixes. I left the first half of the batter white and put red food coloring in the second half of the batter. I then cooked these 2 cakes and was ready to tackle the third layer.</div>
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For the third level, I began by mixing the second batch of cake mix into 2 bowls. I mixed in red food coloring into 1 and blue into the other. I baked both cakes and when those were finished, I had 4 cakes all the same size. </div>
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I then took a circular cut out from a cereal box and placed it on top of the red cake. I took a knife and cut around the circle to create my inside, smaller layer. Next, I did the same for the blue but kept the outside of the circle! </div>
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Here comes the hard part.. stacking the layers. The first red and second white layers went just fine! Then came the third layer of trouble! I plopped my smaller red layer on perfectly centered. Then, I thought the blue would fit so easily around it. Hmmm.. </div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-65aK-XAawbo/UglT8r_IlcI/AAAAAAAAAFo/3e9wWf6dlXQ/s1600/IMG_4878.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-65aK-XAawbo/UglT8r_IlcI/AAAAAAAAAFo/3e9wWf6dlXQ/s320/IMG_4878.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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At this point, I was at 2.5 hours into this cake, 3 trips to the grocery store, and completely out of the 2 bottles of icing I used as my glue to hold the crumbled mess together!! Although, it did <i>NOT</i> look like the picture <i>OR AN AMERICAN FLAG</i>.. I added the 3rd cup of icing and indeed, it was a cake! </div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xghEK_SY5q8/UglT4dyOt4I/AAAAAAAAAFg/2BjT4j59Z4M/s1600/IMG_2616.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xghEK_SY5q8/UglT4dyOt4I/AAAAAAAAAFg/2BjT4j59Z4M/s320/IMG_2616.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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Success!!! I even let Ben add the finishing touches for sticking with me for 3 hours of baking! Can't you see the beautiful fireworks?</div>
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<b>BUT WAIT</b>.... Gin Momma decides to transfer the cake onto a new platter! How helpful! I walk into the kitchen and half of my cake was on the platter and half was in mid air plopping on the counter... no more cake. </div>
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<i>Things to know when making an American Flag cake:</i></div>
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<i>1. Follow all directions :)</i></div>
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<i>2. Cool all layers before stacking</i></div>
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<i>3. Flatten all the surfaces of the layers so they are completely even on top</i></div>
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<i>4. Use different sized pans for the top layer</i></div>
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<i>5. Buy more icing then you think you will need</i></div>
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Good luck! </div>
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I would love to hear of some American Flag cake success stories! <b>CCI</b></div>
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<i>Don't forget to follow, <b>or leave a comment</b>, for a chance to win a free massage!</i></div>
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hawthornplacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01152240747259282549noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-430968695791037412.post-69426834730006313672013-08-09T05:49:00.002-07:002013-08-12T14:46:17.530-07:00Sweet Corn DipI got this recipe from my friend Sally at the beginning of the summer and have probably made it 7 times already. It is perfect for a weekend trip. So easy, here's the recipe.<br />
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<span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">1
can black beans (drained)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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3 can shoepeg corn (drained)</span></div>
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<span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">bunch
of green onions chopped<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">1/4
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<span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">1/4
cup apple cider vinegar<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">1/4
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<span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">1
box crumbled feta cheese<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Combine
and it's usually best to refrigerate it for at least a few hours before serving. We love eating it with blue corn chips. Enjoy!</span></div>
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Cast of Ingredients</div>
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Drain the corn, how good is corn?</div>
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Drain the beans</div>
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Combine and add the feta</div>
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<span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p> Add the green onions, mix the sugar, oil, and vinegar in</o:p></span></div>
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<span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p> So easy and so good! </o:p></span></div>
<span style="mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p> I'm off to the lake this weekend, taking this dip with me of course! <b> LFT</b></o:p></span><br />
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hawthornplacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01152240747259282549noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-430968695791037412.post-50589006160878684832013-08-06T06:51:00.003-07:002013-08-08T07:33:02.027-07:00welcome home<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Hello bloggers! </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">My sister, Liz, and I have thrown around the idea of beginning a blog for some time now and we are ready to make the leap! We are excited about our little space on the web. First, I will tell you a little about myself. I'm Caroline, a Samford U student in Birmingham. I am studying Elementary Ed and will begin student teaching this spring! Part of this blog will probably include some of my crazy stories in the classroom! People aways say that I have a very creative mind, however, I don't always have the best execution! I will share some of my successful and unsuccessful projects (pinterest fails) that I have attempted lately in upcoming blogs as well as how to save easy money while online shopping! </span><b style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">CCI</b><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Watch out world!</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We may be a little cheesy but I think you will love us for it. I'm Liz, wife to Hunter and mother to Ernest (he has paws). Living and working in Birmingham, loving the hot Alabama heat. Can't wait to share my newlywed cooking stories (sorry you already missed my first grease fire) and seeing where this blog goes! <b>LFT</b></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">A little behind the name and design. We were raised on Hawthorn Place. For me, Caroline, this is the only street I've called home. The five birds represent our family. Mom (Gin-momma, as she will be referred to on this blog.), Dad, older brother Alex (sorry girls, he is taken!), Liz, and Caroline.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Congratulations!</b> You made it to the end of our first blog! If you are as excited as we are to begin this journey, then please <i>follow us </i>by "joining this site" on the right toolbar<i> </i>and we will <i>randomly </i>choose ONE WINNER of a <b>30 MINUTE MASSAGE</b> at the Rain Tree Salon in Murfreesboro, Tn. We will announce the winner within the upcoming week. </span><br />
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